Page not found – Homo Society https://www.homosociety.com Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:29:46 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.25 Capital of Afghanistan https://www.homosociety.com/capital-of-afghanistan.html Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:29:46 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1842 The capital of Afghanistan is Kabul, a city with a rich history, diverse culture, and complex political landscape. Situated in the eastern part of the country, Kabul serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of Afghanistan, as well as its largest city.

Historical Significance:

According to animalerts, Kabul’s history dates back over 3,500 years, making it one of the oldest cities in the world. It has served as a strategic crossroads for trade and conquests, linking Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. The city’s location along the ancient Silk Road facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between civilizations.

Throughout its history, Kabul has been ruled by various empires, including the Achaemenids, Mauryans, Kushans, and Sasanians. In the 7th century, Kabul became part of the Islamic Caliphate following the Arab conquests, leading to the spread of Islam in the region. The city later served as the capital of the Ghaznavid Empire, the Ghorid Empire, and the Durrani Empire, playing a central role in shaping Afghanistan’s political and cultural identity.

Cultural Heritage:

Kabul is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, reflected in its architecture, art, literature, and traditions. The city’s historic landmarks include the Kabul Citadel (Bala Hissar), an ancient fortress overlooking the Kabul River; Babur’s Gardens (Bagh-e Babur), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the final resting place of Emperor Babur, founder of the Mughal Empire; and the National Museum of Afghanistan, which houses a collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years of Afghan history.

Kabul’s cultural vibrancy is also evident in its bustling bazaars, where merchants sell a variety of goods, from spices and textiles to handicrafts and jewelry. The city’s diverse population, comprised of Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras, Uzbeks, and other ethnic groups, contributes to its multicultural character, with each community preserving its own traditions and customs.

Modern-Day Challenges:

Despite its historical significance and cultural richness, Kabul faces numerous challenges in the 21st century, ranging from political instability and insecurity to economic hardship and social issues.

  1. Security Concerns: Kabul has been a frequent target of terrorist attacks, insurgency, and violence, resulting in civilian casualties and widespread fear. The presence of armed groups such as the Taliban and ISIS-K poses a constant threat to the city’s stability and undermines efforts to promote peace and reconciliation.
  2. Political Instability: Afghanistan’s political landscape is marked by factionalism, corruption, and governance challenges, which have contributed to instability and uncertainty in Kabul. The country’s transition to democracy following the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001 has been fraught with political tensions, electoral disputes, and power struggles among competing factions.
  3. Economic Hardship: Kabul’s economy is heavily dependent on foreign aid, trade, and remittances, with limited opportunities for sustainable growth and development. High unemployment rates, widespread poverty, and income inequality contribute to social discontent and economic vulnerability, particularly among marginalized communities.
  4. Infrastructure Deficiencies: Kabul’s infrastructure is inadequate to meet the needs of its rapidly growing population, leading to congestion, pollution, and poor service delivery. Basic amenities such as electricity, water, and sanitation are unreliable, exacerbating living conditions and hindering economic productivity.
  5. Social Challenges: Kabul faces social issues such as illiteracy, gender inequality, and access to healthcare, which impact the well-being and quality of life of its residents. Women and girls, in particular, face barriers to education, employment, and participation in public life, despite efforts to promote gender equality and women’s rights.

Prospects for the Future:

Despite its challenges, Kabul holds promise for the future as Afghanistan strives to overcome its legacy of conflict and build a more peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive society.

  1. Peace and Reconciliation: Efforts to negotiate a political settlement with the Taliban and other armed groups offer hope for a peaceful resolution to Afghanistan’s long-standing conflict. A durable peace agreement could pave the way for stability, security, and national reconciliation in Kabul and across the country.
  2. Economic Development: Investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and renewable energy have the potential to stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities in Kabul. Initiatives to promote private sector development, entrepreneurship, and trade could diversify the city’s economy and reduce dependence on foreign aid.
  3. Social Progress: Investments in education, healthcare, and social services are essential for improving the well-being and livelihoods of Kabul’s residents. Initiatives to enhance access to quality education, vocational training, and healthcare services could empower individuals and communities to thrive and contribute to Kabul’s development.
  4. Cultural Preservation: Preserving Kabul’s cultural heritage and promoting cultural exchange are vital for fostering social cohesion and national identity. Efforts to safeguard historic landmarks, promote traditional arts and crafts, and celebrate cultural festivals can enrich Kabul’s cultural landscape and enhance its attractiveness as a tourist destination.
  5. Good Governance: Strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, and combating corruption are critical for ensuring effective governance and public service delivery in Kabul. Citizen engagement, civil society participation, and accountability mechanisms can help build trust and legitimacy in government institutions and promote civic pride in Kabul’s future.

In conclusion, Kabul stands at a crossroads of history, facing both challenges and opportunities as Afghanistan navigates its path toward peace, stability, and prosperity. By addressing security concerns, fostering economic development, promoting social progress, preserving cultural heritage, and strengthening governance, Kabul can realize its potential as a vibrant and resilient capital city that reflects the aspirations and resilience of its people.

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Alabania History Facts https://www.homosociety.com/alabania-history-facts.html Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:28:54 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1839 Lcoated in the heart of the Balkans, Albania boasts a rich and diverse history that spans millennia. From its ancient civilizations and classical empires to its more recent struggles for independence and modernization, Albania’s history is a tapestry of cultural, political, and social influences.

  1. Ancient Civilizations:
    • According to topb2bwebsites, Albania’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Paleolithic era.
    • The Illyrians, an ancient Indo-European people, were the earliest known inhabitants of the region, establishing powerful kingdoms and city-states throughout present-day Albania.
    • Illyrian culture flourished from the Bronze Age to the Roman period, with notable Illyrian rulers such as King Agron and Queen Teuta gaining prominence in ancient Mediterranean history.
    • The Illyrians were known for their skilled craftsmanship, fortified hilltop settlements, and fierce resistance against foreign invaders, including the Greeks and Romans.
  2. Classical Period:
    • During the classical period, Albania was part of the Roman Empire, with the region known as Illyricum and later as Epirus Nova.
    • Roman rule brought significant infrastructure development, urbanization, and cultural assimilation to Albania, with cities such as Dyrrhachium (modern-day Durrës) and Apollonia becoming important centers of trade, education, and administration.
    • Christianity spread throughout Albania during the Roman period, with early Christian communities established by apostles such as Saint Paul and Saint Andrew.
    • Following the division of the Roman Empire, Albania became part of the Byzantine Empire, which exerted influence over the region for centuries.
  3. Medieval Period:
    • The medieval period in Albania was characterized by a series of invasions, migrations, and conflicts among various ethnic groups and empires.
    • In the 7th century, Albania was conquered by the Slavic tribes, leading to the gradual assimilation of Slavic culture and language in the region.
    • The arrival of the Byzantines in the 11th century brought Albania under Byzantine control, with the establishment of Byzantine provinces and the spread of Orthodox Christianity.
    • The 13th century saw the rise of the Albanian principality of Arbanon, led by the Progon dynasty, which asserted independence from Byzantine rule and laid the foundations for Albanian statehood.
  4. Ottoman Rule:
    • The most significant period in Albania’s history was the Ottoman conquest in the 15th century, which brought Albania under Ottoman rule for nearly five centuries.
    • The Ottoman Empire exerted control over Albania through a system of local governors, known as pashas, who governed semi-autonomously and collected taxes on behalf of the sultan.
    • Despite Ottoman rule, Albanian culture, language, and identity persisted, with Albanians maintaining their distinct ethnic and religious traditions.
    • The Albanian resistance against Ottoman rule, led by figures such as Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, became legendary, with Skanderbeg leading successful campaigns against the Ottomans and preserving Albania’s independence for over two decades.
  5. National Awakening:
    • The 19th century marked a period of national awakening and cultural revival in Albania, as intellectuals, scholars, and activists sought to assert Albania’s identity and autonomy.
    • The Albanian National Awakening, known as the Rilindja Kombëtare, promoted Albanian language, literature, and education, fostering a sense of national consciousness and unity among Albanians.
    • Figures such as Naim Frashëri, Naim bey Frashëri, and Sami Frashëri played pivotal roles in the Albanian cultural renaissance, advocating for Albanian independence and modernization.
    • The League of Prizren, founded in 1878, became a symbol of Albanian resistance against foreign domination, calling for the preservation of Albanian territories and the recognition of Albanian national rights.
  6. Independence and Modernization:
    • Albania declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire on November 28, 1912, following the Balkan Wars and the collapse of Ottoman rule in the region.
    • The newly independent Albanian state faced numerous challenges, including territorial disputes, internal divisions, and foreign intervention.
    • During World War I, Albania was occupied by various foreign powers, including Italy, Austria-Hungary, and Greece, leading to a period of political instability and conflict.
    • In 1920, Albania was recognized as an independent state by the international community, with the signing of the Treaty of Trianon, which affirmed Albania’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
    • The interwar period saw efforts to modernize Albania’s economy, infrastructure, and institutions, with King Zog I leading initiatives to promote industrialization, education, and social welfare.
  7. World War II and Communist Era:
    • During World War II, Albania was occupied by Italian and German forces, with the country becoming a battleground between Axis and Allied powers.
    • The Albanian resistance movement, led by the Communist Party of Albania and its leader Enver Hoxha, played a key role in the liberation of Albania from fascist occupation.
    • After the war, Albania became a communist state under the leadership of Enver Hoxha, who established a one-party dictatorship and implemented strict measures to control society and suppress dissent.
    • The Hoxha regime pursued a policy of isolationism and self-reliance, cutting ties with the Soviet Union and China and implementing collectivization, industrialization, and cultural revolution campaigns.
    • Despite economic and political challenges, Albania made strides in education, healthcare, and infrastructure development during the communist era, with significant improvements in literacy rates and life expectancy.
  8. Transition to Democracy:
    • The fall of communism in Eastern Europe in the late 1980s and early 1990s triggered a wave of political change in Albania, leading to mass protests and demands for democratic reforms.
    • In 1991, Albania held its first multiparty elections, marking the beginning of the country’s transition to democracy and a market economy.
    • The post-communist period was marked by political instability, economic turmoil, and social upheaval, as Albania struggled to adapt to the challenges of democratization and transition.
  9. Recent Developments:
    • Since the early 2000s, Albania has made significant strides in democratic governance, economic development, and European integration.
    • Albania joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 2009 and has pursued membership in the European Union (EU), undertaking reforms to meet EU standards and criteria.
    • The tourism industry has emerged as a key driver of Albania’s economy, with the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and affordable prices attracting increasing numbers of visitors from around the world.
    • Despite progress, Albania continues to face challenges such as corruption, organized crime, and socio-economic disparities, requiring sustained efforts to address and overcome these issues.
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Zambia Location on the Globe https://www.homosociety.com/zambia-location-on-the-globe.html Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:58:49 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1838 Zambia, officially known as the Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country located in southern Africa. Describing Zambia’s location on the globe provides an opportunity to explore its geographical features, historical context, cultural diversity, and economic significance. Zambia is bordered by eight countries: the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Tanzania to the northeast, Malawi to the east, Mozambique to the southeast, Zimbabwe to the south, Botswana to the southwest, Namibia to the west, and Angola to the northwest. This comprehensive overview will delve into Zambia’s position on the globe and its impact on various aspects of its identity and development.

Geographically, Zambia occupies a central position on the African continent, with coordinates approximately between latitudes 8° and 18° S and longitudes 22° and 34° E. The country covers an area of approximately 752,614 square kilometers (290,586 square miles), making it slightly larger than the state of Texas in the United States.

According to Baglib, the landscape of Zambia is characterized by diverse geographical features, including vast savannas, rolling plains, dense forests, and the majestic Zambezi River, which forms part of Zambia’s southern border with Zimbabwe. The Zambezi River is one of Africa’s longest rivers and is known for its spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the world.

In addition to the Zambezi River, Zambia is also home to several other major rivers, including the Luangwa, Kafue, and Luapula rivers, which play a crucial role in the country’s ecosystem, agriculture, and hydroelectric power generation. Zambia’s abundant water resources support diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and hippos, making it a popular destination for safari tourism.

The climate of Zambia varies from tropical in the north to subtropical in the south, with distinct wet and dry seasons influenced by the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and the annual migration of the Intertropical Convergence Zone. The northern and eastern regions of Zambia experience heavy rainfall from November to April, while the southern and western regions receive less rainfall and are prone to droughts and dry spells.

From a historical perspective, Zambia has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation and cultural development dating back to the Stone Age. The region that is now Zambia was inhabited by various indigenous peoples, including the Bantu-speaking tribes such as the Bemba, Tonga, Lozi, and Ngoni, who migrated to the area from other parts of Africa.

In the 19th century, Zambia was home to powerful kingdoms and chiefdoms, including the Lunda and Kazembe kingdoms in the north, the Lozi kingdom in the west, and the Chewa kingdom in the east. These kingdoms were known for their centralized authority, sophisticated political systems, and vibrant cultural traditions.

The colonial era in Zambia began in the late 19th century when European explorers and traders began to venture into the region in search of ivory, minerals, and slaves. The British South Africa Company, led by Cecil Rhodes, established control over the territory that is now Zambia, which was then known as Northern Rhodesia, in the late 19th century.

Northern Rhodesia remained under British colonial rule until 1964 when it gained independence and became the Republic of Zambia under the leadership of President Kenneth Kaunda. Zambia was one of the first countries in Africa to gain independence from colonial rule, and Kaunda played a key role in leading the country through the transition to independence and establishing a new democratic government.

Since gaining independence, Zambia has faced numerous challenges, including political instability, economic development, and social transformation. The country’s transition to democracy has been marked by periodic elections, peaceful transfers of power, and the establishment of a multi-party political system.

Economically, Zambia is rich in natural resources, including copper, cobalt, zinc, lead, and precious metals, which have played a central role in the country’s economy and development. Copper mining is the backbone of Zambia’s economy, accounting for a significant portion of the country’s GDP and export earnings.

However, Zambia’s economy has been heavily dependent on copper mining, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices and market demand. The country has struggled to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on copper, leading to persistent poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

In recent years, Zambia has experienced rapid urbanization and industrialization, with the growth of cities such as Lusaka, Ndola, Kitwe, and Livingstone. The expansion of infrastructure, education, and healthcare services has improved living standards and access to basic amenities for many Zambians, although challenges remain in rural areas and remote communities.

Zambia’s cultural landscape is characterized by its diverse ethnic makeup, with over 70 different ethnic groups speaking various languages and dialects. The Bemba, Tonga, Lozi, and Nyanja are among the largest ethnic groups in Zambia, each with its own distinct culture, traditions, and customs.

Zambian culture is rich and vibrant, with music, dance, art, and storytelling playing a central role in everyday life. Traditional ceremonies and festivals, such as the Kuomboka ceremony of the Lozi people and the Ncwala ceremony of the Ngoni people, celebrate the country’s cultural heritage and ancestral traditions.

Zambian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, reflecting the country’s multicultural heritage and agricultural abundance. Staple foods include maize, millet, cassava, and rice, which are often served with meat, fish, vegetables, and spicy sauces. Nshima, a thick porridge made from maize meal, is a staple dish enjoyed by many Zambians and is typically served with relishes such as beef, chicken, or fish.

In conclusion, Zambia’s location on the globe places it at the heart of Africa, with a rich and diverse history, culture, and natural environment. Despite its challenges, Zambia remains a land of opportunity and resilience, with a proud and enduring legacy that continues to shape its identity and development. Through sustainable development, inclusive growth, and good governance, Zambia has the potential to realize its vision of becoming a prosperous and thriving nation in the heart of southern Africa.

 

 

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United States as an OECD Country https://www.homosociety.com/united-states-as-an-oecd-country.html Mon, 18 Mar 2024 04:31:55 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1837 The United States: A Leading OECD Country

As one of the world’s largest and most influential economies, the United States holds a prominent position within the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). With its diverse population, innovative industries, and dynamic economic landscape, the U.S. plays a pivotal role in shaping global policies and driving international cooperation. In this essay, we will explore the United States’ relationship with the OECD, its key economic indicators, social challenges, and its role in shaping the future of the global economy.

The United States and the OECD

According to shoefrantics, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is an international organization comprising 38 member countries committed to promoting policies that improve economic and social well-being around the world. Founded in 1961, the OECD serves as a forum for member countries to discuss and coordinate policies on a wide range of issues, including economic growth, trade, education, and environmental sustainability.

As one of the founding members of the OECD, the United States has played a central role in shaping the organization’s agenda and priorities. The U.S. government actively participates in OECD committees, working groups, and forums to exchange best practices, analyze economic trends, and develop policy recommendations.

The United States’ engagement with the OECD reflects its commitment to international cooperation and multilateralism in addressing global challenges. By collaborating with other member countries, the U.S. seeks to promote economic stability, foster innovation, and advance shared goals of prosperity and inclusivity.

Key Economic Indicators

The United States boasts the world’s largest economy, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) exceeding $21 trillion USD. Its economy is characterized by a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, technology, finance, healthcare, and entertainment. The U.S. is home to some of the world’s largest companies, innovative startups, and leading research institutions.

Unemployment rates in the United States fluctuate over time but have generally trended downwards in recent years, reaching historic lows prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the pandemic-induced economic downturn led to a spike in unemployment rates, highlighting the vulnerability of the labor market to external shocks.

Income inequality remains a significant challenge in the United States, with substantial disparities in wealth distribution across different demographic groups. While the U.S. has a high average income per capita, this wealth is not evenly distributed, leading to social tensions and economic disparities.

The United States is also grappling with issues such as rising healthcare costs, inadequate infrastructure investment, and a growing national debt. These challenges pose long-term risks to the country’s economic stability and competitiveness on the global stage.

Social Challenges

Despite its economic prosperity, the United States faces numerous social challenges that impact the well-being of its citizens. Access to affordable healthcare remains a pressing issue, with millions of Americans lacking adequate insurance coverage or facing high out-of-pocket costs for medical care.

Education is another area of concern, with disparities in educational attainment and quality across different regions and socioeconomic groups. While the U.S. boasts world-renowned universities and research institutions, access to quality education is not equitable for all students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Racial inequality and systemic discrimination continue to be significant challenges in the United States, with disparities in income, employment, education, and criminal justice outcomes persisting along racial lines. Addressing these structural inequities requires comprehensive reforms and concerted efforts to promote social justice and equality.

The United States also faces environmental challenges, including climate change, pollution, and natural resource depletion. As one of the world’s largest carbon emitters, the U.S. has a critical role to play in addressing climate change and transitioning to a more sustainable and resilient economy.

The U.S. in the Global Economy

As a leading OECD country, the United States wields considerable influence in shaping the global economy and international trade. Its policies on trade, investment, and monetary affairs have far-reaching implications for other countries and regions around the world.

The U.S. is a major player in international trade, with extensive trade relationships with countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Its trade policies, including tariffs, sanctions, and trade agreements, have significant implications for global supply chains, economic growth, and geopolitical dynamics.

The United States is also a hub for innovation and technological advancement, with Silicon Valley serving as a global epicenter for the tech industry. American companies such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft are at the forefront of technological innovation, driving productivity gains and economic growth worldwide.

However, the United States also faces challenges in maintaining its competitive edge in an increasingly globalized and digital economy. Issues such as intellectual property rights, cybersecurity, and data privacy are becoming increasingly important in shaping the future of international trade and economic relations.

Conclusion

The United States occupies a central position within the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the global economy. As the world’s largest economy, the U.S. plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth, innovation, and international cooperation.

However, the United States also faces significant challenges, including income inequality, social disparities, environmental degradation, and geopolitical tensions. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive policies, investment in human capital and infrastructure, and a commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

As a leading OECD country, the United States has a responsibility to work with other member countries to promote policies that advance shared goals of prosperity, stability, and well-being for all. By leveraging its economic strength, innovation capacity, and global influence, the U.S. can contribute to building a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous world for future generations.

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Geography of Goodhue County, Minnesota https://www.homosociety.com/geography-of-goodhue-county-minnesota.html Thu, 14 Mar 2024 16:11:12 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1835 Goodhue County, located in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Minnesota, is a region known for its diverse geography, rich history, and vibrant communities. Encompassing an area of approximately 780 square miles, Goodhue County is situated along the Mississippi River and is characterized by its mix of rolling hills, fertile valleys, and scenic waterways. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll explore the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other significant features of Goodhue County. Check homethodology to learn more about the state of Minnesota.

Geography:

Goodhue County is bordered by the Mississippi River to the west, Wabasha County to the south, Olmsted County to the southwest, Dakota County to the northwest, and Pierce County in Wisconsin to the east. The county’s geography is varied, with gently rolling hills, fertile river valleys, and several lakes and streams. The county seat is the city of Red Wing.

Climate:

The climate of Goodhue County is classified as humid continental, with four distinct seasons characterized by warm summers, cold winters, and moderate precipitation throughout the year. The region experiences a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions, influenced by its inland location and proximity to the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River.

Summers in Goodhue County are typically warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the 70s°F to 80s°F range and occasional heatwaves bringing temperatures above 90°F. Winters are cold, with average low temperatures in the single digits to teens°F range and occasional snowfall. Spring and fall are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures and variable weather patterns.

Rivers:

Goodhue County is intersected by several rivers and streams that flow through its landscape, providing habitat for wildlife and opportunities for outdoor recreation. These rivers and streams also play a vital role in the region’s economy, providing water for agriculture, industry, and municipal use. Some of the notable rivers in Goodhue County include:

  1. Mississippi River: The Mississippi River forms the western boundary of Goodhue County, separating it from Pierce County in Wisconsin. The river is one of the longest and most important waterways in North America, providing habitat for fish and wildlife and opportunities for boating, fishing, and birdwatching.
  2. Cannon River: The Cannon River flows through the central part of Goodhue County, originating in Steele County and flowing northeastward to the Mississippi River. The river is popular for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing, as well as fishing for trout and smallmouth bass.
  3. Zumbro River: The Zumbro River forms part of the southern boundary of Goodhue County, separating it from Wabasha County. The river is known for its scenic beauty and provides opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and hiking along its banks.

Lakes:

While Goodhue County is primarily known for its rivers and streams, there are also several lakes and reservoirs within the county that offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure. These lakes vary in size and depth and provide habitat for fish and other wildlife. Some of the notable lakes in Goodhue County include:

  1. Lake Pepin: Lake Pepin is a natural widening of the Mississippi River located along the western boundary of Goodhue County. The lake is popular for boating, sailing, and fishing, as well as birdwatching and picnicking along its scenic shores.
  2. Cannon Lake: Cannon Lake is a natural lake located near the city of Faribault, in the eastern part of Goodhue County. The lake is popular for fishing, swimming, and boating, as well as camping and picnicking at nearby parks and campgrounds.

Parks and Natural Areas:

Goodhue County is home to several parks, natural areas, and recreational facilities that showcase the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity. These parks offer opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities, as well as wildlife viewing and nature education. Some of the notable parks in Goodhue County include:

  1. Frontenac State Park: Frontenac State Park is located along the Mississippi River bluffs in the southern part of Goodhue County. The park features hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and camping facilities, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
  2. Welch Village: Welch Village is a ski resort located in the northern part of Goodhue County, near the city of Red Wing. The resort offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in the winter months, as well as hiking and mountain biking trails in the summer.

Agriculture:

Agriculture plays a significant role in the economy of Goodhue County, with a focus on crop cultivation, dairy farming, and livestock production. The county’s fertile soil, moderate climate, and abundant water supply make it ideal for farming, and agriculture has been a traditional way of life for many families in the region. The county also has a strong agricultural heritage, with several farmers markets, fairs, and festivals celebrating local food and farming traditions.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Goodhue County, Minnesota, is a region of diverse geography, rich history, and vibrant communities. From its rivers and lakes to its parks and natural areas, the county offers a variety of landscapes and ecosystems to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re boating on Lake Pepin, hiking in Frontenac State Park, or visiting a local farmers market, Goodhue County has something for everyone to experience and appreciate in the great outdoors.

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Geography of Faribault County, Minnesota https://www.homosociety.com/geography-of-faribault-county-minnesota.html Thu, 14 Mar 2024 06:17:13 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1834 Faribault County, located in the southern part of Minnesota, is a region characterized by its diverse geography, fertile farmland, and scenic waterways. From its rolling prairies and expansive lakes to its winding rivers and rich cultural heritage, Faribault County offers a wealth of geographical features to explore. In this comprehensive overview, we will delve into the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other notable aspects of Faribault County, Minnesota. Check bittranslators to learn more about the state of Minnesota.

Geography:

Location: Faribault County is situated in the southern part of Minnesota, bordered by Blue Earth County to the north, Freeborn County to the east, Martin County to the south, and Watonwan County to the west. It is part of the Southern Minnesota region and lies within the Upper Midwest physiographic province.

Topography: The topography of Faribault County is characterized by rolling prairies, fertile farmland, and scattered woodlands. The county is situated within the Driftless Area, a region of the Midwest that was spared from glacial activity during the last Ice Age, resulting in unique geological features and landscapes.

Minnesota River Valley: The Minnesota River Valley runs through the western part of Faribault County, providing fertile soils, abundant water resources, and important transportation routes for the region. The valley is home to numerous towns and communities, as well as agricultural lands, recreational areas, and wildlife habitats.

Riverside Bluffs: The eastern part of Faribault County is characterized by scenic bluffs and river valleys, particularly along the Blue Earth River and its tributaries. The riverside bluffs offer panoramic views, hiking trails, and recreational opportunities for visitors, as well as serving as important habitat for wildlife.

Climate:

Humid Continental Climate: Faribault County experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers, with moderate precipitation throughout the year.

Temperature: Average temperatures in Faribault County range from 10°F to 80°F (-12°C to 27°C) throughout the year, with the coldest months occurring from December to February and the warmest months from June to August.

Precipitation: Faribault County receives an average of 30 to 35 inches (760 to 890 mm) of precipitation annually, with rainfall distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. Snowfall is common in winter, with average snowfall ranging from 40 to 50 inches (1,015 to 1,270 mm) per year.

Severe Weather: Faribault County is susceptible to severe weather events such as thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and occasional tornadoes. Severe weather can pose risks to residents and property, necessitating preparedness and safety measures.

Rivers and Lakes:

Blue Earth River: The Blue Earth River is the most significant waterway in Faribault County, flowing eastward through the center of the region. The river provides important habitat for aquatic life, as well as opportunities for boating, fishing, paddling, and scenic beauty along its banks.

Maple River: The Maple River is a tributary of the Blue Earth River that flows through the northeastern part of Faribault County. The river provides important water resources for the region, as well as opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Lakes and Ponds: While natural lakes are relatively scarce in Faribault County, there are several man-made lakes and reservoirs in the region. These bodies of water provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking, as well as serving as important water sources for local communities.

Historic Sites and Landmarks:

City of Blue Earth: The city of Blue Earth, located in Faribault County, is the county seat and largest city in the region. Blue Earth is known for its historic downtown district, which features well-preserved buildings dating back to the 19th century, as well as landmarks such as the Faribault County Courthouse and Jolly Green Giant Statue.

Pioneer Heritage: Faribault County has a rich pioneer heritage, with numerous historic sites and landmarks that reflect the region’s early settlement and agricultural history. Visitors can explore local museums, historic homes, and heritage sites, as well as learn about the challenges and triumphs of early settlers in the area.

Natural Areas: Faribault County is home to several natural areas and parks that offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation. These include Rice Lake State Park, Gomsrud Park, and the Faribault County Wildlife Management Area, which provide scenic trails, campgrounds, and recreational facilities for visitors of all ages.

Outdoor Recreation:

Hiking and Camping: Faribault County offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, and nature walks. The region is home to several parks, forests, and nature preserves that provide scenic trails, campgrounds, and recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy.

Fishing and Boating: With its abundance of rivers, lakes, and ponds, Faribault County is an ideal destination for fishing and boating enthusiasts. The waterways offer opportunities to catch a variety of freshwater fish, including bass, walleye, and panfish, as well as opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing.

Hunting and Wildlife Viewing: Faribault County is a popular destination for hunting and wildlife viewing, with abundant populations of deer, pheasant, waterfowl, and other game species. The region’s forests, wetlands, and prairies provide excellent habitat for wildlife, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.

Conclusion:

Faribault County, Minnesota, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and outdoor recreation opportunities. From its rolling prairies and scenic river valleys to its historic towns and landmarks, the county provides a diverse array of landscapes and attractions to explore. Whether you’re hiking along the Blue Earth River, exploring historic downtown Blue Earth, or fishing on a tranquil lake, Faribault County has something for everyone to discover and enjoy.

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Geography of Hennepin County, Minnesota https://www.homosociety.com/geography-of-hennepin-county-minnesota.html Wed, 13 Mar 2024 17:32:32 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1833 Geography of Hennepin County, Minnesota

Hennepin County, situated in the southeastern part of the state of Minnesota, encompasses the bustling metropolitan area of Minneapolis and its surrounding suburbs. It is the most populous county in Minnesota and is known for its vibrant urban landscape, numerous lakes, and diverse cultural attractions. This article will delve into the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other notable features that define Hennepin County. Check allunitconverters to learn more about the state of Minnesota.

Physical Features:

  • Mississippi River: The Mississippi River flows through the eastern portion of Hennepin County, serving as a vital waterway and scenic feature of the region. The river plays a significant role in the county’s history, economy, and recreation. The Mississippi Riverfront in Minneapolis is lined with parks, trails, and cultural attractions, providing residents and visitors with opportunities for outdoor activities such as biking, walking, and boating.
  • Chain of Lakes: Hennepin County is home to a chain of lakes, including Lake Calhoun, Lake Harriet, Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, and Brownie Lake, among others. These interconnected lakes form a popular recreational area known as the Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Regional Park. Residents and visitors enjoy activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking along the shores of these urban lakes.
  • Minnesota River Valley: The Minnesota River Valley forms the southern boundary of Hennepin County, offering scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The river valley is characterized by rolling hills, bluffs, and river bottoms, providing habitat for wildlife and opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. Fort Snelling State Park, located at the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers, offers trails, historic sites, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Climate:

Hennepin County experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers.

  • Winter: Winters in Hennepin County are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and snowfall occurring frequently. Average snowfall ranges from 50 to 60 inches annually, providing ample opportunities for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. Cold snaps can occur, bringing temperatures well below zero degrees Fahrenheit, but milder periods with temperatures in the 20s and 30s°F are also common.
  • Summer: Summers in Hennepin County are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging in the 70s to 80s°F (21-27°C) during the day. Heatwaves are not uncommon, with temperatures occasionally reaching into the 90s°F (32°C) or higher. Thunderstorms are frequent in the summer months, bringing heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds. Despite the heat, summer is a popular time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and attending festivals and events.
  • Spring and Fall: Spring and fall are transitional seasons in Hennepin County, characterized by fluctuating temperatures and changing weather patterns. Spring brings melting snow, budding trees, and the return of migratory birds, while fall brings colorful foliage, cooler temperatures, and preparations for winter. Both seasons offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Rivers and Lakes:

  • Mississippi River: The Mississippi River flows through the eastern part of Hennepin County, providing a scenic backdrop and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The river is navigable for boating and paddling, with several marinas and boat launches along its banks. Fishing is also popular, with a variety of fish species including walleye, bass, and northern pike.
  • Chain of Lakes: The chain of lakes in Hennepin County offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking. Lake Calhoun, the largest lake in Minneapolis, is a popular destination for water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Lake Harriet features a beach, bandshell, and rose garden, while Lake of the Isles offers scenic walking and biking trails around its perimeter.
  • Minnehaha Creek: Minnehaha Creek is a tributary of the Mississippi River that flows through Hennepin County, originating in Lake Minnetonka and emptying into the Mississippi River near Minnehaha Falls. The creek is known for its scenic beauty, with wooded banks, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife habitat. The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District works to protect and preserve the creek and its surrounding ecosystem, ensuring clean water, healthy habitats, and recreational opportunities for future generations.

Human Impact:

  • Urban Development: Hennepin County is home to the city of Minneapolis, the largest city in Minnesota and the cultural and economic hub of the region. Minneapolis is known for its vibrant downtown area, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving arts and culinary scenes. The city’s skyline is dominated by skyscrapers, including the iconic IDS Center and the Foshay Tower, while its street-level landscape features parks, lakes, and historic landmarks such as the Stone Arch Bridge and the Walker Art Center.
  • Cultural Attractions: Hennepin County is home to numerous cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and performing arts venues. The Minneapolis Institute of Art houses a vast collection of artwork from around the world, while the Guthrie Theater is renowned for its innovative productions of classic and contemporary plays. The Hennepin Theatre District in downtown Minneapolis offers a variety of live performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and dance performances.
  • Economic Growth: Hennepin County is a major center of commerce and industry, with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and technology sectors. The county’s proximity to the Mississippi River and its network of highways, railroads, and airports make it a strategic location for transportation and logistics operations. Major employers in the county include Fortune 500 companies such as Target, UnitedHealth Group, and 3M, as well as numerous small businesses and startups.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Hennepin County, Minnesota, offers a diverse mix of urban and natural landscapes, recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions. From its bustling city streets to its tranquil lakes and rivers, the county provides residents and visitors with a vibrant and dynamic environment to live, work, and play. Despite the challenges posed by its harsh climate and rapid urbanization, Hennepin County remains a resilient and thriving community with a strong sense of identity and pride. Through conservation, urban planning, and economic development initiatives, the county is poised to continue thriving for generations to come.

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Geography of New Haven County, Connecticut https://www.homosociety.com/geography-of-new-haven-county-connecticut.html Mon, 11 Mar 2024 17:46:48 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1831 New Haven County, located in the southern part of Connecticut, is a region known for its diverse geography, historical significance, and cultural vibrancy. The county encompasses a mix of urban and suburban areas, coastal landscapes, and inland communities. Understanding the geography of New Haven County involves exploring its climate, topography, water bodies, and the various elements that contribute to its unique character. Check ehuacom to learn more about the state of Connecticut.

Climate: New Haven County experiences a humid subtropical climate, influenced by its proximity to Long Island Sound. The climate is characterized by four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. Average high temperatures in the summer months range from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (24 to 28 degrees Celsius), while winter temperatures can drop to the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit (-6 to 4 degrees Celsius). The county receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with snowfall in the winter months.

Topography: The topography of New Haven County is varied, encompassing coastal areas, rolling hills, and river valleys. The county is part of the New England Upland region, characterized by hilly terrain and rocky outcroppings. The coastline along Long Island Sound provides picturesque views and contributes to the county’s maritime identity. Inland areas feature wooded hills and agricultural landscapes, adding to the overall diversity of the region.

Long Island Sound: The southern border of New Haven County is defined by Long Island Sound, a tidal estuary of the Atlantic Ocean. The Sound plays a crucial role in shaping the climate and coastal environment of the region. It provides recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and beach activities. The coastal communities along the Sound have historically been centers of trade, transportation, and maritime industries.

Rivers: Several rivers flow through New Haven County, contributing to its hydrological network and influencing the landscape. The Quinnipiac River, originating in the northern part of the county, flows southward and empties into New Haven Harbor. The Housatonic River forms the western boundary of the county, creating a scenic watercourse that has played a significant role in the historical development of the region.

Lakes and Reservoirs: While New Haven County is not known for large natural lakes, it features various reservoirs and smaller bodies of water. Lake Saltonstall, situated in the town of Branford, is a reservoir that serves as a water supply source for the region. Additionally, the Farm River Reservoir and Lake Chamberlain are examples of bodies of water that contribute to the county’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Sleeping Giant State Park: One notable topographical feature in New Haven County is the Sleeping Giant, a mountainous ridge located in Hamden. Sleeping Giant State Park offers hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The ridge, resembling a reclining giant when viewed from a distance, adds to the county’s recreational offerings and natural attractions.

Urban and Suburban Areas: New Haven County is home to a mix of urban centers and suburban communities. The city of New Haven, the county seat, is a cultural and educational hub with a rich history. Yale University, one of the Ivy League institutions, is located in New Haven, contributing to the city’s intellectual and cultural vibrancy. Surrounding suburban areas feature a mix of residential neighborhoods, parks, and commercial districts.

Agriculture: While urbanization has transformed parts of the county, there are still agricultural areas contributing to its economic diversity. The northern and western parts of the county feature farms and orchards that produce a variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Local farmers’ markets and agricultural fairs showcase the bounty of the region and provide a connection between urban and rural communities.

Economic Activities: New Haven County’s economy is diverse, encompassing sectors such as healthcare, education, finance, and manufacturing. The presence of Yale University and Yale-New Haven Hospital contributes significantly to the county’s educational and healthcare sectors. The city of New Haven historically played a role in manufacturing, with industries ranging from firearms to clock-making. The economic landscape has evolved, and the county now hosts a mix of traditional and modern industries.

Historical and Cultural Sites: New Haven County is rich in history and cultural heritage. The city of New Haven boasts numerous historic sites, including the New Haven Green, a central square that has served as a gathering place since the city’s founding in 1638. The Yale University campus features iconic architecture, museums, and libraries that contribute to the county’s cultural identity. Additionally, sites like the Henry Whitfield State Museum in Guilford and the Eli Whitney Museum in Hamden offer insights into the region’s colonial and industrial history.

East Rock and West Rock: East Rock and West Rock are two prominent traprock ridges that flank the city of New Haven. East Rock offers hiking trails and panoramic views of the city and Long Island Sound. West Rock, part of the Metacomet Ridge, is known for its geological features and is also a popular destination for outdoor activities.

Connecticut Wine Trail: Inland areas of New Haven County contribute to the Connecticut Wine Trail. Several vineyards and wineries in towns like Wallingford and North Branford offer wine tastings and scenic views. The wine trail adds a rural and agricultural dimension to the county’s recreational and cultural offerings.

Challenges and Conservation Efforts: New Haven County faces challenges related to urbanization, transportation, and environmental conservation. The balance between development and preserving natural spaces is a consideration for the county’s planners and residents. Conservation efforts aim to protect water quality, preserve open spaces, and maintain the ecological health of the region, including Long Island Sound.

In conclusion, the geography of New Haven County, Connecticut, is marked by a blend of urban centers, suburban communities, coastal landscapes, and inland natural areas. The county’s climate, topography, and water features contribute to its diverse character and offer a range of recreational, cultural, and economic opportunities. As the region continues to evolve, thoughtful urban planning and conservation efforts will be essential for ensuring the sustainability and well-being of New Haven County and its communities.

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Geography of Africa https://www.homosociety.com/geography-of-africa.html Fri, 08 Mar 2024 04:21:32 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1827 Africa is a vast and diverse continent known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and varied geography. The continent, the second-largest in the world, spans the equator and is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Indian Ocean to the east, and the Red Sea to the northeast. Africa’s geography is characterized by a mix of deserts, savannas, rainforests, mountains, and plateaus, contributing to its unique and complex ecosystem.

Physical Features:

  • Deserts: According to bestcraftblog, Africa is home to some of the world’s largest and most well-known deserts. The Sahara, in the northern part of the continent, is the largest hot desert globally, covering approximately 9.2 million square kilometers. It is a vast expanse of sand dunes and rocky plateaus, posing significant challenges to those who traverse it. The Kalahari Desert, located in the southwestern part of Africa, is another prominent desert known for its red sand and sparse vegetation.
  • Savannas: Extending across the central part of the continent, savannas are characterized by grasslands dotted with scattered trees. These regions are crucial for agriculture and support a variety of wildlife. The Serengeti in East Africa is a famous example of a savanna known for its annual migration of wildebeests and other herbivores.
  • Rainforests: The Congo Basin, located in central Africa, houses the second-largest rainforest in the world after the Amazon. This lush and biodiverse region is home to a wide array of plant and animal species, including gorillas, chimpanzees, and various tropical birds. The rainforest plays a vital role in regulating the global climate and is often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth.”
  • Mountains and Plateaus: Africa boasts several prominent mountain ranges and plateaus. The East African Rift, a tectonic plate boundary, has given rise to highlands and mountains such as Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya. The Ethiopian Highlands in the northeast are characterized by rugged terrain and deep valleys. The Atlas Mountains in North Africa separate the Mediterranean coastline from the Sahara Desert. These diverse topographical features contribute to the continent’s varied climate and ecosystems.

Rivers:

  • Nile River: The Nile, the longest river in the world, flows northward through northeastern Africa. It is a lifeline for the region, supporting ancient civilizations like Egypt. The Nile Delta, where the river meets the Mediterranean Sea, is a fertile area crucial for agriculture.
  • Congo River: The Congo River, located in central Africa, is the second-longest river on the continent. Its basin contains the Congo rainforest and is known for its exceptional biodiversity. The river plays a crucial role in transportation and sustains the livelihoods of millions of people.
  • Niger River: Flowing through West Africa, the Niger River is another major watercourse. It provides water for agriculture and is vital for the economies of the countries through which it passes.

Climate:

Africa experiences a wide range of climates, from arid deserts to tropical rainforests, influenced by factors such as latitude, altitude, and proximity to large bodies of water.

  • Desert Climates: The northern part of Africa, including the Sahara Desert, experiences arid and hot desert climates. Temperatures can soar to extreme levels during the day, while nights may be considerably cooler.
  • Savanna Climates: Central Africa is characterized by savanna climates, featuring distinct wet and dry seasons. The amount of rainfall varies, influencing the types of vegetation and wildlife that thrive in these regions.
  • Tropical Rainforest Climates: The equatorial regions, particularly the Congo Basin, have a tropical rainforest climate. High temperatures, abundant rainfall, and consistent humidity create a habitat for diverse plant and animal species.
  • Mediterranean and Subtropical Climates: The northern and southern coastal areas, including the Mediterranean coast and parts of South Africa, experience Mediterranean and subtropical climates. These regions have distinct seasons with moderate temperatures and varying precipitation levels.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

Africa’s geography has played a crucial role in shaping its history and culture. The continent is home to a rich tapestry of ethnicities, languages, and traditions.

  • Ancient Civilizations: The Nile River Valley, with its fertile soil, supported the growth of ancient civilizations such as Egypt. The pyramids of Giza and other archaeological wonders stand as testament to the advanced societies that thrived in the region.
  • Trade Routes: Africa’s diverse landscapes facilitated the development of trade routes, connecting different regions. The Trans-Saharan trade routes linked North Africa with sub-Saharan Africa, fostering economic and cultural exchange.
  • Colonialism: The scramble for Africa during the late 19th and early 20th centuries resulted in the colonization of much of the continent by European powers. The arbitrary drawing of borders often disregarded ethnic and cultural divisions, contributing to challenges that many African nations face today.
  • Independence Movements: In the mid-20th century, African nations began gaining independence from colonial rule. The geography of the continent influenced the strategies employed by independence movements, and newly formed nations grappled with the legacy of artificial borders.
  • Biodiversity and Conservation: Africa’s varied ecosystems support a vast array of plant and animal species. Conservation efforts are crucial to preserving this biodiversity, especially in the face of challenges such as deforestation, poaching, and climate change.

Challenges and Opportunities:

Africa’s geography presents both challenges and opportunities for its nations and people.

  • Infrastructure and Accessibility: The diverse landscapes of Africa can pose challenges to transportation and infrastructure development. While some regions may be difficult to access, others offer opportunities for the expansion of trade and economic development.
  • Water Scarcity: Despite having major rivers, some areas of Africa face water scarcity issues. Droughts, coupled with a growing population, pose significant challenges to water availability and agricultural productivity.
  • Natural Resources: Africa is rich in natural resources, including minerals, oil, and gas. However, the exploitation of these resources has often led to environmental degradation and economic inequality.
  • Climate Change: Africa is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, with rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events. This poses a threat to agriculture, water resources, and the overall well-being of the population.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Africa’s geography is a complex mosaic of deserts, savannas, rainforests, mountains, and rivers, contributing to the continent’s unique identity and challenges. The diverse climates and landscapes have shaped the development of civilizations, influenced trade routes, and played a role in the historical and cultural tapestry of the continent. As Africa continues to face both opportunities and challenges, an understanding of its geography is crucial for addressing issues such as sustainable development, conservation, and climate resilience.

 

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Geography of Kent County, Rhode Island https://www.homosociety.com/geography-of-kent-county-rhode-island.html Tue, 05 Mar 2024 06:45:20 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1826 Kent County, located in the state of Rhode Island, is characterized by its coastal geography, diverse ecosystems, and historical significance. The county’s climate, water features, and cultural landmarks contribute to its unique identity. Understanding the geography of Kent County involves exploring these elements that shape the region’s landscapes and lifestyle.

Geography:

Topography and Landforms: According to Internetsailors, Kent County is part of the larger New England physiographic region, known for its rolling hills, low plateaus, and coastal plains. The county’s topography is relatively gentle, featuring undulating landscapes and low elevations. The topography reflects the influence of glacial activity during the last ice age.

While the interior areas are characterized by woodlands and agricultural fields, the coastal regions include salt marshes, estuaries, and sandy beaches.

Climate:

Kent County experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. The climate is influenced by its coastal location, with milder temperatures compared to inland areas. Winters are generally cool, and summers are warm, with the moderating effect of the Atlantic Ocean.

Average temperatures range from the low 30s Fahrenheit in winter to the high 70s Fahrenheit in summer. The coastal climate contributes to the county’s appeal as a destination for outdoor activities and tourism.

Rivers and Waterways: The Pawtuxet River, the longest river in Rhode Island, flows through Kent County, providing a significant watercourse. The river, originating in the western part of the state, meanders through the county, shaping the landscape and supporting local ecosystems. The Pawtuxet River is known for its historical significance and recreational opportunities.

Several smaller rivers and creeks, including the Queen River and Matteson Brook, contribute to the county’s water resources, creating a network of waterways that enhance the local environment.

Bays and Inlets: Narragansett Bay, one of the defining features of Rhode Island, borders Kent County to the east. The bay is a large estuary that provides habitats for diverse marine life and supports various recreational activities. The coastline along Narragansett Bay features coves, inlets, and saltwater marshes.

Greenwich Bay, a smaller inlet within Narragansett Bay, borders the western part of Kent County. These coastal features contribute to the county’s maritime character and recreational appeal.

Beaches and Coastline: Kent County’s coastline is characterized by sandy beaches, rocky shores, and tidal marshes. Goddard Memorial State Park, located along the coast, features a public beach, offering residents and visitors a place to enjoy the waterfront. The coastal areas provide opportunities for beachcombing, birdwatching, and water sports.

The diverse coastline contributes to the county’s natural beauty and serves as a focal point for outdoor recreation.

Islands: Conimicut Point, an area in Warwick situated on Narragansett Bay, is known for its islands and peninsulas. Patience Island, Prudence Island, and others contribute to the region’s island geography. These islands offer unique ecosystems, bird habitats, and natural environments.

The presence of islands adds to the county’s scenic charm and provides additional spaces for exploration and outdoor activities.

Flora and Fauna:

Kent County’s ecosystems support a variety of flora and fauna. Salt-tolerant vegetation, including beach grass and salt marsh plants, thrives along the coastline. Woodlands in the interior areas feature hardwood trees such as oak and maple.

The county’s diverse habitats attract bird species, including migratory birds that utilize the coastal areas for breeding and feeding. Conservation efforts focus on protecting these natural environments and preserving biodiversity.

Agriculture:

Agriculture plays a modest role in Kent County’s economy, with the fertile soils in some areas supporting local farming. The county’s agricultural activities include the cultivation of crops such as vegetables, fruits, and ornamental plants. While urbanization has transformed much of the landscape, pockets of farmland contribute to the county’s rural character.

Local farmers’ markets and agricultural events provide opportunities for residents to access fresh, locally grown produce.

Urban and Suburban Environments:

Kent County features a mix of urban and suburban environments. Warwick, the largest city and the county seat, is a hub of economic activity with commercial centers, residential neighborhoods, and cultural amenities. Other towns, including East Greenwich and West Warwick, offer a blend of suburban living and historical charm.

The urban and suburban areas provide residents with a range of services, educational institutions, and recreational facilities.

Cultural and Historical Sites:

Kent County has several cultural and historical landmarks that highlight its rich history. Warwick’s historic district, with its colonial-era architecture, reflects the county’s role in early American history. Goddard Mansion, located within Goddard Memorial State Park, is a historic structure dating back to the 18th century.

The Kent County Courthouse, an iconic building in East Greenwich, adds to the county’s historical character. These sites showcase the region’s contributions to Rhode Island’s heritage.

Outdoor Recreation:

The diverse geography of Kent County provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Goddard Memorial State Park, with its expansive grounds, offers spaces for picnics, sports, and water activities. The East Bay Bike Path, a scenic trail that extends along Narragansett Bay, attracts cyclists, joggers, and walkers.

Colt State Park, situated along the bay in Bristol, is a popular destination for its walking paths, waterfront views, and recreational facilities.

Economic Activities and Tourism:

Kent County’s economy is diversified, with sectors such as healthcare, education, and tourism contributing to its vibrancy. The county’s coastal location, historic sites, and outdoor attractions make it a destination for tourists seeking a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty.

Warwick’s T.F. Green Airport serves as a transportation hub, providing air travel options for residents and visitors.

Transportation and Connectivity:

Kent County is well-connected by a network of highways, including Interstate 95 and state routes. The county’s road infrastructure facilitates transportation within the region and links it to neighboring areas. Warwick’s T.F. Green Airport provides convenient air travel options, connecting the county to national and international destinations.

The presence of Narragansett Bay also supports maritime transportation and adds to the county’s connectivity.

Conclusion:

Kent County, Rhode Island, with its coastal landscapes, historical landmarks, and diverse ecosystems, stands as a region shaped by its natural attributes and cultural heritage. Narragansett Bay, the Pawtuxet River, and the balance between urban development and natural beauty contribute to the county’s identity, offering a mix of economic activities, outdoor recreation, and historical charm. As residents and visitors explore the diverse landscapes, engage in outdoor pursuits, and learn about the county’s history, they become part of the dynamic tapestry that defines the unique geography and heritage of Kent County.

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Geography of Allegan County, Michigan https://www.homosociety.com/geography-of-allegan-county-michigan.html Mon, 04 Mar 2024 04:17:27 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1825 Geography of Allegan County, Michigan

Allegan County, nestled in the southwestern part of Michigan, is a region of diverse landscapes, natural beauty, and rich history. Encompassing approximately 1,830 square miles, the county is known for its picturesque lakes, rolling farmland, scenic rivers, and vibrant communities. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the intricate details of Allegan County’s geography, including its climate, rivers, lakes, and notable landmarks.

Geographical Features:

According to hyperrestaurant, Allegan County’s landscape is characterized by its varied topography, which includes flat agricultural plains, wooded hillsides, and sandy beaches along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The county is situated within the Western Corn Belt Plains region of Michigan, which is known for its fertile soil and productive agricultural land.

The eastern part of Allegan County is dominated by the Grand River Valley, which features fertile river bottoms and rolling hillsides. The western part of the county is characterized by the sandy dunes and beaches of Lake Michigan, which offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside.

Climate:

Allegan County experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons characterized by warm summers and cold winters. The region’s climate is influenced by its proximity to Lake Michigan, which moderates temperatures and brings moisture-laden air masses that can result in significant precipitation.

Summer temperatures in Allegan County can be warm, with highs averaging in the 70s°F to 80s°F (21-27°C), while winter temperatures are cold, with highs averaging in the 20s°F to 30s°F (-6 to -1°C) and lows often dropping below freezing. The county receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts in the spring and fall.

Rivers and Waterways:

Allegan County is intersected by several rivers and waterways that flow through its scenic landscapes, providing vital habitats for wildlife and offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and recreational activities. The Kalamazoo River, one of the county’s major waterways, meanders through the central part of the region, providing access to Lake Michigan and the surrounding wetlands.

In addition to the Kalamazoo River, Allegan County is home to several other notable rivers and streams, including the Rabbit River, the Black River, and the Pine River. These waterways not only support local ecosystems but also play a vital role in agriculture, recreation, and the region’s economy.

Lakes and Reservoirs:

Allegan County is dotted with numerous lakes and reservoirs, which offer scenic beauty and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Gun Lake, located in the northern part of the county, is one of the largest lakes in the region and a popular destination for fishing, boating, and water sports.

In addition to Gun Lake, Allegan County is home to several other picturesque lakes and reservoirs, including Lake Michigan, Lake Allegan, and Gull Lake. These water bodies provide tranquil settings for swimming, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, surrounded by the county’s natural beauty and scenic landscapes.

Notable Landmarks:

Beyond its natural features, Allegan County boasts several notable landmarks and attractions that showcase its rich history and cultural heritage. The city of Saugatuck is home to the Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Society, which preserves and interprets the region’s history through exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials.

Another iconic landmark in Allegan County is the Allegan County Fair, held annually in the city of Allegan. The fair, one of the oldest in Michigan, features agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, carnival rides, and live entertainment, attracting visitors from across the region.

In conclusion, Allegan County, Michigan, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural heritage. From its scenic lakes and rivers to its historic landmarks and vibrant communities, the county’s geography reflects the timeless allure of the Great Lakes region. Whether exploring its picturesque landscapes, enjoying its recreational opportunities, or learning about its rich history, Allegan County invites visitors to experience the charm and beauty of southwestern Michigan.

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Casablanca, Morocco https://www.homosociety.com/casablanca-morocco.html Fri, 10 Feb 2023 07:23:48 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1482 Despite its location in the very Arab state with Muslim traditions, today Casablanca is a business center with skyscrapers, the economic capital of Morocco. This is a city of avant-garde and new technologies, similar in lifestyle and appearance to southern European cities: people hurrying about their business, women with open faces, miniskirts, high heels, sunglasses.

In addition, Casablanca has the largest international airport named after Mohammed V in Morocco. Both businessmen on business, and tourists who want to “excursion”, and just lovers of sunbathing and swimming come here.

You can swim on the city beach of Casablanca, but Agadir is better suited for a beach holiday. See citypopulationreview.com for weather information.

As in all of Morocco, French is more widely spoken in Casablanca than English. Of course, there is a chance to “stumble” on an English speaker, but it is better to prepare a couple of introductory phrases in French.

How to get there

Flights arrive at Mohammed V Int’l Airport from major cities in Europe, the USA and Africa. From the airport to the city center can be reached by taxi, bus or train to Casa Voyageurs station. More details – here.

In addition, there are trains to Casablanca from Marrakech, Fez, Tangier and Meknes, while trains from Rabat arrive at Casa Port station. Buses also run between cities, they are slightly cheaper than trains.

Transportation

As for intracity transport, Casablanca has a fairly developed network of buses and taxis. The same law applies here as throughout the world: the farther from the main highways and attractions, the lower the cost of a taxi. In some places, the difference between quarters can be twofold.

Not so long ago, a network of trams was also opened in the city – a very convenient and inexpensive way to travel around the center.

4 things to do in Casablanca

  1. Watch “like a huge ball of fire” descend into the Atlantic Ocean from the Corniche.
  2. Kiss in the popular Casablanca bar – alas, not with Humphrey Bogart…
  3. Admire the splendor of the huge mosque of Hassan II – however, only from the outside.
  4. Get lost in the Old Town of Casablanca and sit down to relax in a traditional coffee shop.
  • Center Casablanca

Hotel Casablanca

Hyatt, Novotel and Sheraton chain establishments are deservedly considered the best hotels in Casablanca. A more economical option is Ibis Moussafir Casablanca. When choosing a hotel, pay attention to its beach, more precisely, to what entrance it has into the water. Just in case, give preference to those hotels that have a heated pool.

Shopping

In Casablanca, you can find all the usual range of Moroccan markets, but the prices here are more inflated than in other tourist cities in the country. When planning to move around the country, it is better to postpone the purchase of souvenirs in another city; if you are going to spend all your time in Casablanca, there is only one piece of advice – to bargain aggressively.

Entertainment and attractions of Casablanca

The most interesting place in Casablanca for tourists focused on the excursion program is the Old Town, the so-called. Medina. The medina is remarkable primarily for its atmospheric integrity and color: eastern – crooked and narrow – streets, the absence of any transport except donkeys, souvenir shops located on the sides of the road, old white stone buildings (translated from Spanish “Casablanca” means “City of White Houses”).

The majestic building of Mahacma do Pax once served as the residence of the pasha of Casablanca, but now it houses the administration of one of the seven prefectures of the city. The palace was built in the Spanish-Moorish style, more than 60 halls and courtyards are richly decorated with carvings. Entrance to the palace is free, but it is difficult to call it “free” – you need to agree with one of the locals about escort.

The medina is remarkable primarily for its atmospheric integrity and color: eastern – crooked and narrow – streets, the absence of any transport except donkeys, souvenir shops located on the sides of the road, old white stone buildings…

Hassan II Mosque

One of the main attractions of Casablanca is the second largest mosque in the Islamic world after the Meccan mosque – the mosque of Hassan II. The project of the French architect Michel Pinsot and the technologies of the late 20th century made it possible to create an engineering miracle – a mosque with a retractable roof that can turn the prayer hall into an open terrace for several minutes, and the highest minaret in the world – about 200 m. Richly decorated in all techniques, what Moroccan masters own – this is mosaic, and stucco, and painting, and woodcarving – the main hall of the mosque can accommodate 25,000 believers, and another 80,000 can be accommodated in adjacent areas. The mosque is not only a religious, but also a cultural center: the building houses a madrasah, a library and a national museum.

Casablanca at the movies

Casablanca is the setting for the famous black-and-white film of the same name directed by Michael Curtitz. It is interesting that initially the main role in it should not be played by Humphrey Bogart, but by the young actor Ronald Reagan – you know about his future career. The popular Casablanca bar, located in one of the city’s chic hotels, recreates the spirit of this cult movie of the 40s.

Entertainment

The center of Casablanca’s nightlife is the Corniche area. Here you can leisurely stroll along the sea, sit in open restaurants, visit bars, nightclubs and discos.

Especially for those who like to bargain in the eastern market, a whole quarter is set aside – Khabbus. The narrow streets flow into each other olive market, confectionery and pottery with traditional Moroccan ceramics – tajine.

Casablanca, Morocco

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Iquique, La Serena and Portillo, Chile https://www.homosociety.com/iquique-la-serena-and-portillo-chile.html Fri, 03 Feb 2023 07:40:53 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1479 Iquique

Iquique is the capital of the Chilean region of Tarapaca, the main fishing port of the country, as well as a free economic zone where you can save on purchases. Tourists also feel comfortable here, to whose services the picturesque beaches of Playa Waikique, Playa Blanca and Playa de Brava. The water here is clean and warm – from +16 to +20 °C, the sea breeze is refreshing and invigorating. According to petwithsupplies, Portillo is one of the largest cities in Chile.

How to get there

In Iquique, Lan Chile airlines fly daily from Santiago, the journey takes 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Attractions and attractions in Iquique

The main attraction of the guests is Baquedano Street, which is still the main promenade of Iquique. The houses framing the promenade attract attention with ornate verandas, balustrades, carved window casings, and lancet columns.

The pearl of the city is the air palace of Astoreca, which now houses the museum of the era and the department of Arturo Prata University.

Shopping

It’s hard to resist the temptation to take a peek into South America’s largest free trade zone, covering 240 hectares of warehouse space in the northern part of Iquique City. The Sofri free trade zone is located in the large shopping center “Sona Franca de Iquique”, and goods here are cheaper by 19%. True, there is a restriction on purchases: one person can spend no more than 1000 USD.

Museums

In addition to natural beauties, guests of the city will be able to supplement their travel program with trips to the museums of Iquique, which store in their halls details of the historical development of the mining industry in Chile. For example, the Regional Museum in the former courthouse presents an exposition of the traditional Altiplano village, alcoholized baby animals at different stages of development, Chinchorro mummies covered with death masks, and elongated skulls. The building houses the Maritime Museum.

2 things to do in Iquique:

  1. Rush into the Atacama Desert on mountain bikes or on foot. The tour will cost 80 USD.
  2. Visit the gigantic Humberstone and Santa Laura saltpeter factories in the Tarapaca region of northern Chile. They are located 48 km east of Iquique. Now production is on them, and monumental buildings have become national monuments and are open to tourism.

La Serena

La Serena is a small old town on the Pacific coast. In the 19th century copper and silver were actively mined here, which made it one of the richest cities in Chile, and today it lives and still thrives quite well due to tourism and agriculture – first of all, winemaking.

The city is famous for its chic beaches, large and small private wineries, colonial architecture that has been preserved in the old city, and the largest Tololo observatory in the southern hemisphere is located here.

Entertainment and attractions of La Serena

The main historical and cultural attractions of La Serena are concentrated in the Old Center, where many buildings of the colonial era have been preserved. Many of them were destroyed during the earthquake of 1730, but some managed to survive.

The most famous landmark of the Old Town is the building of the ancient mint. Today there is a museum dedicated to the history of minting silver coins in the country. There are 29 churches in the city, the most famous of them is the Cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese, built in neoclassical style in 1856 and declared a national treasure in 1981.

The symbol of La Serena is the Faro lighthouse, which still remembers the attacks of the pirate Francis Drake. Today, from there you can observe gorgeous views of the bay.

On the outskirts of the city there is a long 8-kilometer beach, where Chileans themselves from all over the country come to relax during the summer holidays. which during the holiday season in January and February is filled with Chileans from all over the country. There is another remarkable place on the coast – the port of Coquimbo. This is the main city port, but today only fishing boats come here.

There are several museums in La Serena: the Museum of Archeology, the Museum of Religious Art, the Museum of Mineralogy of Ignacio Domeiko, and from the unusual – the Museum of Ufology.

The sky in this region is considered the cleanest on the planet, so not far from the city is the largest observatory in the Southern Hemisphere Mamaluk with 18 powerful telescopes.

Portillo

Portillo is a resort for true lovers of snow and a relaxing holiday, one of the most famous ski resorts in the world, where major international competitions are often held. The resort is located at an altitude of 2880 meters above sea level at the foot of the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere – Mt. Aconcagua (7.266 m) – in the center of the Andes mountain system. There is only one hotel for 600 guests, while the staff is 450 people. This is an old ski center in Chile, whose history began in the early 20th century.

The resort is located on the shores of a picturesque lake, 150 km from Santiago. The ski season lasts here from mid-June to mid-October. During the whole period the tracks are covered with good snow. During the season – 80% of sunny days.

Pistes of Portillo

There are excellent conditions for skiing: 12 lifts and several “black” slopes (Roca de Jack, “Jack Rock” are the coolest), while more than half of the slopes are suitable for beginner skiers. Trails start right at the door of the hotel.

The resort has two lifts Va et Vient – specially designed for those slopes where there is a risk of avalanches.

Attractions and attractions Portillo

An outdoor swimming pool and many sports and entertainment facilities have been built: a restaurant, a discotheque, a bar, a cinema hall, shops, a clinic. And also: a sauna, an ice skating track, a gym, a massage room, a rental and repair of ski equipment, a ski school, a children’s room.

Portillo, Chile

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Koggala, Sri Lanka https://www.homosociety.com/koggala-sri-lanka.html Fri, 30 Dec 2022 03:22:34 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1476 Koggala is a small but already very popular resort located south of Colombo. Its main attraction is a luxurious five-kilometer beach that attracts tourists of all stripes. Families with children and party-goers, newlyweds stunned with love, fans of active water sports and just typical beach couch potatoes love to swim and relax here.

In addition, diving centers with experienced instructors operate on the coast (open from October to March), which attract tourists with trendy PADI certificates.

Note: according to allcitypopulation, the population of Sri Lanka is 22.16 million (2021).

Koggala is also interesting for its lake, which stretches along the beach line for many kilometers.

How to get there

Koggala is located just 12 km from Galle, an ancient beautiful city that has excellent communication with the capital and other major transport hubs of Sri Lanka. You can get there both by taxi and by bus (it is better to check the schedule on the spot). It is 130 km to Colombo, to get to the airport it is worth renting a car, at worst – a bus through Galle, but this is not very comfortable.

It is said that Koggala was born only thanks to the popular local writer Martin Wickramasingha.

Koggala Hotels

On the coast of the amazing beach of Koggala there are several nice hotels, for example, Koggala Beach or one of the best hotels in Sri Lanka, The Fortress 5 * with a well-known spa throughout the country. But you can easily find a cozy boarding house or guesthouse on the spot.

Entertainment and attractions in Koggala

In Koggala there is an interesting Museum of Folk Art and Culture with an extensive and very rare collection of cultural and household items from different regions of the island. The exposition is divided into 25 parts: handicrafts, music, art, architecture, medicine, clothing, religion, etc.

It is said that Koggala was born only thanks to the popular local writer Martin Wickramasingha. His most famous novel, Madol Duwa, mentions a tiny island near the resort, which brought popularity to this place.

Of course, the “resort” lake of the same name is also interesting, the shores of which are loved by birds of all colors and stripes. This is not just a very picturesque place with rich flora and fauna, but also a popular resort among fans of eco-tourism. The lake is also famous for its hermitages, which are located on islands scattered throughout the water surface. These are the sanctuaries of the first Buddhists of Sri Lanka, so it is no wonder that many pilgrims from all over the island strive to visit here. Tourists can repeat their path using sightseeing catamarans.

In addition, it is worth stopping by a couple of Sinhalese villages that are located around Lake Koggala. In order to get acquainted with the exotic local life and take some unforgettable photos.

Excursions

From Koggala, excursions to Galle (12 km and no more than 20 minutes drive) are popular, where you can look at the old fort, the church inherited from the Danes, as well as several museums. Nearby is a Buddhist island near Rathgama Lake – a place of indescribable beauty and tranquility. Other popular excursions include a trip to the turtle farms, the spice garden, the Kalutara temple, and Weligama, where you can master the surfboard.

Mount Lavinia

Mount Lavinia resort is located 12 km south of Colombo. Its beaches are the most famous in Sri Lanka since the time of the English colony. For the most part, due to the proximity to the capital. Those wishing to spend a quiet day on the beach in relative seclusion (compared to Colombo) will definitely like it here.

The Governor’s House, built by Sir Thomas Maitland in 1805 for his mistress Lovinia (hence the place’s name), has now been converted into the famous Mount Lavinia Hotel (100 Hotel Road, Colombo 094). On the beach, hawkers sell fresh pineapple and coconut juices, as well as local souvenirs and colorful shells.

The current near the beach is sometimes quite strong and often changes its direction, so you should carefully follow the announcements of the rescue service.

Attractions and attractions in Mount Lavinia

Not far from Mount Lavinia are the National Zoological Gardens in Dehiwela (Dehiwela, better known as the Dehiwela Zoo) – one of the largest in Southeast Asia. The best time to visit is early in the morning, right from the opening (opening hours: 8:00-18:00). At this time, the animals in the zoo, of which there are over 360 species, are more active: they wake up, wash and have breakfast. In addition, in some parts of the zoo, an “open space concept” was used, when animals and people can walk side by side (for example, the islands of lions and gibbons). There is also an elephant show.

A few kilometers from the resort is a huge lake Bolgoda (Bolgoda Lake) – the largest natural reservoir of fresh water in Sri Lanka. It is home to 45 species of fish, 160 species of birds (migratory and waterfowl), a very rich flora and, of course, the ubiquitous mangroves.

Koggala, Sri Lanka

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Visa to Cambodia https://www.homosociety.com/visa-to-cambodia.html Fri, 23 Dec 2022 12:31:14 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1474 To visit Cambodia, Russian citizens need a national visa, which can be obtained in advance via the Internet, at the consular section of the Embassy of Cambodia in Russia, or directly at passport control upon arrival. Document requirements are minimal: a valid passport, photo and visa fee of 30 USD, plus a questionnaire if you get a visa at the consulate. At the airport, you can also get a visa for a record period in world practice – 12 months! Another positive point: having a rest in Cambodia, you can go to Thailand – there is an agreement on a simplified visa regime between the countries.

Note: according to allcitypopulation, the population of Cambodia is 16.95 million (2021).

Since November 21, 2012, an agreement has been in force between Thailand and Cambodia, according to which one can stay on the territory of one of the countries on the visa of another country, but the period of stay should not exceed the total validity of the visa. At the same time, the entry stamp affixed by the Thai border guards in the case when an entry visa to the country is not required is not a basis for visa-free entry into Cambodia.

Documents for a visa to Cambodia

Required documents for obtaining a tourist visa:

  1. international passport

The validity of which covers the duration of the trip;

  1. photography

three photographs 4×6 or 3×4 cm.

  1. Questionnaire

Must be completed in Russian or English.

Consular fee – 30 USD, visa processing time – 1 working day.

Documents are accepted from Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 13:00, visas are issued from 14:00 to 17:00.

In addition, you should definitely take out a medical insurance policy for the entire duration of the trip. Let it be better not to be useful than to be left without qualified assistance in case of an accident.

Applying for a visa at the airport

A tourist visa to Cambodia for a period of one month can be issued directly upon arrival at the airports of Phnom Penh, Siam Reap, Sihanoukville, or at any border checkpoint with neighboring states (excluding the border with Laos, where visas are not issued at the entrance). To do this, you must submit a valid passport, one passport-size photo and pay a visa fee of 30 USD. If you do not have a photo, the immigration officer offers to pay a “fine” in the amount of 1-3 USD (of course, you are not given a receipt for payment), and you will still receive a visa even without a photo.

Visa processing takes no more than 5-20 minutes, depending on the number of tourists. Also at the airport, under the same conditions, you can get a business visa for a longer period (from 3 to 12 months, visa fee from 40 to 300 USD, depending on the length of stay). Often, representatives of the customs authorities require a medical card to be presented during registration. This requirement is illegal, so it can be safely ignored (there is information that at the land borders, in the absence of a medical card, they give out some kind of pills and demand 200 KHR “for treatment”). In any case, you should act according to the circumstances, and if the requirements of the border guards begin to go beyond the correct ones, then sometimes it is easier to pay a small amount than to risk missing your bus.

A tourist visa to Cambodia for a period of one month can be issued directly upon arrival at the airport.

Applying for a visa online

It is possible to apply for a visa to Cambodia via the Internet. The so-called “electronic visas” (e-visa) can be obtained within three working days by filling out a form on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cambodia and paying a visa fee of 35 USD(payment by credit card). You will also need a scanned passport photo. E-visa is valid for three months from the date of issue; it allows you to stay in Cambodia for up to one month. However, entry with e-visas is currently limited to Siam Reap and Phnom Penh airports only. In addition, there were failures in the system for issuing visas via the Internet – tourists arrived in the country with a printout of paying for a visa via the Internet, but they were told that for some reason the visa was not in the database and they should pay again. It is difficult to say whether the system for issuing visas via the Internet does not work well, but many ended up having to pay twice.

It is possible to extend the visa for one month on the spot. To do this, you must contact the local Immigration Service and pay a fee of 45 USD.

Visa to Cambodia

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US 52 in Ohio https://www.homosociety.com/us-52-in-ohio.html Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:50:00 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1472  

US 52
Get started Harrison
End Huntington
Length 205 mi
Length 330 km
Route
  • Indiana
  • Harrison-Cincinnati:
  • Cincinnati
  • Ripley
  • Aberdeen
  • Portsmouth
  • Wheelersburg
  • ironton
  • Chesapeake
  • West Virginia

According to Ablogtophone, US 52 is a US Highway in the US state of Ohio. The road forms an east-west route through the extreme south of the state, from the Cincinnati region to the Huntington region of West Virginia. The road follows the Ohio River valley for most of its route. The road is 330 kilometers long.

Travel directions

US 52 in Ohio.

US 52 in Indiana joins Interstate 74 from Indianapolis into the state of Ohio in Hamilton County, just west of Cincinnati. US 52 is double-numbered with Interstate Highways as far as downtown Cincinnati, first I-74, then a portion of Interstate 75. The road then follows Interstate 71 and US 50 through downtown. Here you cross the US 22, US 27 and US 42. At the Cincinnati Stadium, US 52 exits and heads east on Riverside Drive directly along the bank of the Ohio River. The road passes under Interstate 471 and briefly parallels US 50. The road continues past the Cincinnati Municipal Airport, then curves south and intersects Interstate 275. US 52 then follows the Ohio River southeast with 2×2 lanes to Point Pleasant, then narrows to one lane. The road forms a scenic route through Clermont and Brown County, although the height differences are not very large.

At Ripley a short double numbering follows with US 62 and US 68. The Ohio River valley gets rougher through Adams and Scioto County, with steep mountain slopes. There are only a few villages here and few major roads are crossed. After a while you reach the town of Portsmouth, where you cross the US 23. After this, US 52 becomes a highway for a while and later narrows to a 2×2 divided highway with intersections. At Chesapeake, the road crosses the Ohio River and enters West Virginia. US 52 in West Virginia then continues through Huntington towards Williamston and Bluefield.

History

US 52 was created in 1926. The route has not changed significantly in Ohio since, although the route west of Cincinnati has been replaced by the construction of Interstate 74 in Ohio, over which US 52 is routed. The remainder of US 52 follows the north bank of the Ohio River without passing through major cities, making the road primarily single-lane. Only the easternmost part is more urbanized, with US 52 being a divided highway with some freeway characteristics.

Cincinnati

As early as the mid-1940s, the western portion between Miamitown and Cincinnati was widened to four lanes. The road follows a more secondary route through the city of Cincinnati, often directly along the Ohio River, and has been little upgraded. West of Cincinnati, US 52 completely coincides with I-74 and I-75. I-74 opened to traffic between 1962 and 1974.

Cincinnati – Portsmouth

Between Cincinnati and Portsmouth, US 52 is mostly a two-lane road that passes through each village. The road runs close to the Ohio River. The section from I-275 to New Richmond is constructed as a 2×2 divided highway, most of which was opened in 1965. Around 1974, the section connecting to I-275 opened.

Portsmouth – Chesapeake

In the late 1940s, short sections of the route on the outskirts of Portsmouth were widened to four lanes. In the late 1950s, work began to widen US 52 between Portsmouth and the West Virginia border in its entirety to 2×2 lanes. Around 1960-1961 a fairly long stretch between Ironton and Chesapeake was completed. In the second half of the 1960s, the section between Portsmouth and Ironton was widened to 2×2 lanes.

Ohio River

The bridge over the Ohio River to Huntington, West Virginia opened to traffic in 1926. It was replaced between 1991 and 1995 by the current four-lane Robert C. Byrd Bridge. US 52 ran over the West Huntington Bridge from 1970, which was built as a connection to Interstate 64 in West Virginia. Through traffic no longer had to pass through the center of Huntington.

Cincinnati, Ohio

Downtown Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a city in the US state of Ohio. The city is located in the south of the state, on Ohio River. Cincinnati itself has 296,727 residents, but the metropolitan area, which also spans the neighboring states of Kentucky and Indiana, has more than 2.1 million. Cincinnati was founded in 1788 and became a city in 1819. Cincinnati has (by American standards) a large, old neighborhood, namely Over-the-Rhine. Many American insurance companies have their headquarters in Cincinnati. Cincinnati has an original train station. It used to be a busy station, but there were fewer and fewer trains. Between 1972 and 1980 there were no trains at all! The railway company wanted to demolish the building, but the city council was able to prevent that. The building has since been used as an exhibition space and was named Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal. A train now stops six times a week in Cincinnati. It runs from Chicago to New York City (and vice versa). Public transport is carried out by buses. There were also plans for a subway in the past, but construction stopped in 1924. This means that there are a number of empty tunnels and stations under the city. They are, however, busy building a tram line. Cincinnati also has a large, busy airport: Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

Partner cities

  • Munich, Germany
  • South Kanpur, India
  • Mysore, India
  • Liuzhou, People’s Republic of China
  • Gifu, Japan
  • Nancy, France
  • New Taipei, Taiwan
  • Kharkiv, Ukraine
  • Tijuana, Mexico
  • Rome, Italy

US 52 in Ohio

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Annapurna, Nepal https://www.homosociety.com/annapurna-nepal.html Fri, 09 Dec 2022 06:21:28 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1470 Annapurna National Park (180 km from Kathmandu) is known for its Tibetan temples, monasteries and hot mineral springs. The path of pilgrims to the sacred cities of Mustang-Kagbeni and Muktinath passes through its territory, where Hindus, Buddhists and followers of the Bon religion coexist peacefully. The most important Buddhist shrine of Muktinath is the Temple of Fire of the Earth, within the walls of which an unquenchable fire burns, fed by natural gas from underground. Locals say that Shiva himself lives on the top of Mount Machapuchare, whose name translates as “fish tail”. See JIBIN123 for Nepal customs regulations and visa requirements.

The Annapurna massif is located in the southern spur of the Main Himalayan Range and is squeezed by two rivers: Kali Gandaki and Marsengdi. The highest point is Annapurna Main (8091 m), two more peaks of the southwestern spur are adjacent to it – Annapurna Middle (8010 m) and Annapurna East (8000 m), together forming one of the 14 eight-thousanders. Annapurna is the tenth highest peak in the world and the first peak conquered by man.

On the territory of the park are the highest peaks – Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, separated by the deepest valley on the planet, Kaligandaki.

Trekking

There are three main routes for trekking around Mount Annapurna: Jomsom Trek, Sanctuary Trek, Annapurna Trek (Circuit Trek). Hiking around Annapurna is a rare opportunity to get to the very center of the Himalayas and get acquainted with the original culture of the locals: Gurung, Tamang, Thakali and Pokhari. Along the way, you can meet numerous Buddhist monasteries, Hindu shrines, suspension bridges and gorges. The most striking moment is the ascent to the Torung La pass (5416 m), from where a stunning view of the Main Himalayan Range opens. The route usually starts in Kathmandu, passes through mountain paths and ends in the city of Pokhara.

Annapurna base camp

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek lasts about 12 days, starting in Pokhara and ending in Nayapul. The best time to go is from March to June or from October to December. On the way you will see the base camp, located in the heart of the Annapurna mountain range, from here you can enjoy a gorgeous view of the peaks of Annapurna, Gangapurna and Machapuchare. Here is one of the best viewing platforms in Nepal – Poon Hill with a panorama of the peaks during sunset.

2 things to do in the Annapurna area:

  1. Visit the valleys of blooming rhododendrons during their spring bloom.
  2. Look into the largest Gurung village of Ghandruk.

Trek around Annapurna

The Annapurna Circuit or Annapurna Circuit is one of the most popular hiking trails along the slopes of the mountain range in the Annapurna National Park. Its length is 211 km, it lasts about 20 days.

You can gain strength at the Thorong La pass, where there are two tourist camps – Thorong Pedi and the Upper Camp. He takes his start in the village of Besisakhar, part of the way follows the valley of the Marsyandi River, passing through which it is impossible not to admire Mount Annapurna, the massifs of Manaslu, Peri Himal and Damodar Himal. The Annapurna Trek can be supplemented with a trip to Lake Tilicho, 16 km west of the village of Manang.

You can replenish supplies in the large settlements of Dharapani, Chame, Pisang and Manang. Near the village of Ranipauwa is the temple complex of Muktinath. In the Kali-Gandaki valley, the track goes through the villages of Jomsom, Marfa, Dana, Tatopan. At the end of the path, you will climb Mount Pun Hill, which offers a view of the eight-thousanders of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. And in the final – Nayapul, a small settlement, from where you can return to Pokhara by bus.

Jomsom track

Jomsom trek – hiking along the Kali Gandaki River from Nayapul to Muktinath. Not a very popular track, so not crowded.

Other tracks

In addition to the classic tracks to the base camp and around Annapurna, there is a shortened version with a length of 40 km along the route Birethanti – Gandrung – Ghorepani – Ulleri – Birethanti. It passes through rice fields, villages and tropical rainforests. The best time to complete the route is mid-late November.

Annapurna, Nepal

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Ohio: Buckeye State https://www.homosociety.com/ohio-buckeye-state.html Thu, 01 Dec 2022 15:11:10 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1464 Anyone who thinks Ohio is an industrial state is wrong. In the 1980s, the state may have been the center of the Rust Belt, but the beautiful nature and impressive cities of the state have now also been discovered. Ohio is sometimes overlooked by Dutch tourists due to its industrial past, and that is an immense shame. Those looking for a thoroughly American experience should definitely not miss Ohio. Cities, nature, amusement parks and the Amish: the authentic America of the industrial middle class can be found here!

History

The English name “Ohio” comes from the Iroquois word ohi-yo, meaning “great stream.” Ohio joined the American Union as the 17th state on March 1, 1803. During the American Civil War, Ohio belonged to the Union.

Geography

According to growtheology, Ohio is bordered to the north by the state of Michigan and Canada across Lake Erie. It borders Indiana in the west, Pennsylvania in the east and the Ohio River largely forms the border with the states of West Virginia and Kentucky in the south. The northern half of the state is fairly flat, the south is more hilly. The highest point is the top of Campbell Hill (472m). Ohio has more than 2,500 lakes.

The largest city in Ohio is the capital Columbus. Other major cities include Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, Cleveland and Dayton.

12 Ohio landmarks

1. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Varied natural landscapes in the middle of the city? In Columbus you can. In the east of the city is Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This huge park has more than 400 different (tropical) plant species. Walk outside through one of the various botanical gardens or view the collection of palm or bonsai trees in one of the conservatories. There are several exhibitions in the park every season, with no fewer than different exhibitions as a highlight in the spring; including one about Chihuly glass and butterflies. The park is open every day from 10am to 5pm; admission for an adult is approximately $20.

2. West Side Market

A must-visit when in Cleveland, Ohio is West Side Market. This is a covered market hall right in the center. Just the hall itself is beautiful; it is reminiscent of the Victorian period in which it was built. In the hall you will find more than 100 independent stalls serving or selling local specialties. Whether you fancy meat, fish or pastries: it’s all here! The market is open every day of the week, except Thursday. Please note: the market hall closes at 4 p.m. on weekdays!

3. A Christmas Story House

Who doesn’t know him, the Christmas movie classic from 1984: “A Christmas Story”. Did you always dream away at Ralphie’s cozy house, completely lit up in Christmas atmosphere? In Cleveland, you can actually visit the house from the movie. You’ll see set pieces, costumes and other memorabilia from the movies, as well as never-before-seen behind-the-scenes photos. The house also has a museum and a gift shop. Can’t get enough of it? You can even sleep in the house, but then you have to book in time.

4. Great American Ball Park

Definitely a must do when you are in America: attend a baseball game. Cincinnati is home to the Cincinnati Reds, who play their home games at Great American Baseball Park. The stadium is located on the Ohio River, in the middle of the city, so it is easy to reach. There is room for no fewer than 42,000 spectators! There are also regular tours of the stadium, which take you to places where the public is not normally allowed to go, including the press room and the dugout. Don’t you like sports? Big names like Paul McCartney and Beyoncé have performed at Great American Baseball Park before, so who knows, there might be a concert while you’re there!

5. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens is located in Akron, south of Cleveland. This is a huge mansion that was built in 1910 by FA Seiberberg, a very wealthy rubber merchant. There are five buildings and ten (!) gardens on the immense grounds. The main building consists of no less than 65 rooms and is completely built according to the English Tudor style. All rooms are beautifully decorated, so be sure to bring a camera. You can participate in a guided tour, but you can also explore the grounds yourself. Adult access to the main building costs approximately $20. Please note that the site is closed on Mondays!

6. Easton Town Center

Those who feel like shopping will always succeed in Easton Town Center, a large shopping complex in Columbus. The complex was one of the first large shopping centers in the city, which is why it has a well-organized layout. There are more than 300 shops here! Because of its ‘mid-century’ decor and fountains everywhere, it has a very attractive atmosphere. You can even park in front of some stores. You will find the department stores Macy’s and Nordstrom in this shopping center.

7. Amish Country

Looking for something you’ll only find in America? Then spend the day in Amish Country, an area south of Cleveland. You may be familiar with it: the Amish are a reclusive and close-knit community, who still live according to the traditions of the late eighteenth century. They travel by horse and buggy and have no television, computer or mobile phone. During your visit they will tell you more about their culture. Take a look at their farms or take a ride in a horse and carriage. Every season has specially organized activities, also for visitors. So be sure to check out what there is to do during the time you will be there!

8. Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial

For a nice view of Lake Erie, you must visit the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Monument. This monument is located on an island (Put in Bay) in the middle of the lake. A Doric pillar is a memento of the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812, in which Master Commander Oliver Hazard Perry helped the Americans win the battle. Since then, the Americans, British and Canadians have been staunch allies and have celebrated peace for over 200 years. The pillar symbolizes this international peace and thus also one of the few unguarded border areas in the world. From the island you not only have a view of the lake, but you can also see the mainland of Ohio, Michigan and the Canadian province of Ontario in the distance.

9. Progressive Field

Staying near Cleveland and would like to see a baseball game? Dan must be in Progressive Field. This is the home stadium of the Cleveland Indians, the baseball team of Cleveland, who play in the Major Baseball League. The stadium was opened in 1994 and has room for no less than 35,000 visitors. To complete your visit, grab a pre-dinner meal at Terrace Club, the stadium’s restaurant; or you can buy Indian merchandise from the Indians Shop so you can watch the game in style. Can’t get enough of it? Then take part in a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium.

10. Lake View Cemetery

Perhaps a bit sinister to visit a cemetery during your vacation, but Lakeview Cemetery, despite being a cemetery, is beautiful. This natural cemetery has been there since 1869, right in the middle of the city. Because the cemetery is so huge (115 hectares), you can take a guided tour of the grounds. Notable names buried here include John D. Rockefeller, the United States’ first billionaire, and Ray Chapman, a baseball player for the Cleveland Indians.

11. Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery

In the town of Millersburg, in the middle of Amish Country, you will find the family-owned Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery. This is not just a bakery, it even has an entire farm attached to it! All products are made here themselves, and then sold in the bakery. This way you can be sure that you are tasting a fresh and authentic product! Flowers are also sold here and they recently opened an antique shop. Children can pet the farm animals or take a ride on a pony in the petting zoo. A fun outing for the whole family!

12. Kingwood Center Gardens

Looking for a lavish day out? The Kingwood Center Gardens are located between Cleveland and Columbus. This is a huge colonial mansion with several gardens. The house was commissioned in 1926 by Charles Kelley King, a businessman. The house itself is very impressive, but the gardens really steal the show. You will find a rose garden, a herb garden and a peony garden here. The grounds also feature several hidden fountains and houses with special collections of cacti and tropical plants. Adult admission is about $5, children under 12 enter for free.

Ohio FAQs

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ohio?

In terms of temperature and weather, you can rather skip Ohio in the winter (from November) due to the (ice) storms and rain showers. The weather gets better from the end of April/beginning of May: temperatures rise above twenty degrees. The weather is of course at its best in the summer, but then you are in the high season in terms of crowds and prices.

What can you do in Ohio?

In Ohio you can find activities for everyone; young and old. Whether you like action or tranquility, you can do it in Ohio. Visit the bustling cities of Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinatti, or find the tranquility of the countryside.

How many days do you need in Ohio?

This of course completely depends on the time you have and the budget you have at your disposal. In Ohio the distances are reasonable (from Cincinnati in the south to Cleveland in the north is about four and a half hours). If you get there about a week and a half before your Ohio vacation, you’re sure to see all the highlights!

How far in advance should I book my Ohio vacation?

The earlier you book, the lower the price ….flights can be reserved by us 11 months before departure.

What is useful to know before booking a travel package to Ohio?

If you book a package holiday with AmerikaNu.nl you are always insured.

Buckeye State

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Sluis, Netherlands https://www.homosociety.com/sluis-netherlands.html Fri, 25 Nov 2022 08:36:33 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1462 The small town of Sluis is located in the very south-west of the Netherlands, just 5 km from the border with Belgium. Its population is only a couple of thousand people. But there is a Michelin-starred restaurant and a unique beffroy tower. And yet – a story long for many centuries, when all the dominant European nations fought for the city, and he had to bristle with fortifications and stand to the death until nature itself intervened in the matter. Sluis belongs to Zeeland, and the absolute majority of its inhabitants are Flemings. And they are incredibly proud of it. Check liuxers for customs and traditions of Netherlands.

The stone tower-Beffroy, Belfort, was built in 1386 and is occupied by the city government. Today it is one of the two most striking sights of the city. First of all, this beffroy is generally the only one in the country.

How to get to Sluys

It’s faster and more convenient to get to Sluis from Bruges: by bus in the direction of Breskens in half an hour with a small one or by car (it’s only 20 km here). It is much more inconvenient to get from Dutch cities, but it is also possible: the road from Amsterdam by car will take about 3 hours.

A bit of history

Officially, Sluys received the status of a city in 1290 and since then it has developed very quickly: it was a convenient port with an excellent harbor, and even at the mouth of the river. So a lot of people have coveted Sluys. At the end of the 14th century, the Duke of Flanders was the first to fortify the city, and a castle arose in Sluys. Alas, at the end of the 18th century it suffered so much from French artillery that it simply fell apart in the first half of the 19th century. In the 16th century, the 80-year war between Spain and the Northern Netherlands began, and the Spaniards also contributed to strengthening the city’s defenses. In 1587, Sluys was captured by the Duke of Parma. The Spaniards left, they were replaced by the Dutch, who again began to build fortifications in the city…

But then an unexpected thing happened. It turns out that the sea receded from Sluys year after year, and imperceptibly from the seaport it became just a city. The Zwin Bay became the Zwin Valley. And Sluys was still captured by the French, but after them he lived quietly until the Second World War. And he survived it almost entirely: German troops captured the city only at the end of 1944 and were driven out of it a month later by Canadian units. Unfortunately, before the capture of Sluis, the Germans heavily shelled it, destroying most of the medieval buildings. So the current appearance of the city mainly consists of restored buildings.

Popular hotels in Sluis

Attractions and attractions of Sluis

The tourist center and the Old Town of Sluis are centered around two main pedestrian streets. They are planted with flowers and filled with all kinds of shops, from the most expensive to the smallest. At the same time, every weekend the city fills with many tourists from neighboring cities and even countries who come here for shopping. The fact is that for some reason it is in Sluys that everything is surprisingly cheap.

In Sluys, there is a habit uncharacteristic for European cities: shops here are open on weekends and arrange holidays for themselves during the week – or not at all.

The stone tower-Beffroy, Belfort, was built in 1386 and is occupied by the city government. Today it is one of the two most striking sights of the city. First of all, this beffroy is generally the only one in the country. A severe medieval tower with pointed mini-turrets in the corners and a clock dial on a sharp roof can be seen from afar: its height is 32 m. In 1960, a carillon was installed on the top, and today there is also a museum.

Next to the Belfort, there is a second attraction: the Protestant church of St. Mary, which the city is also proud of, although it was built only in the 20th century. The old church was damaged in a fire and collapsed in the first half of the 19th century. The current church is a beautiful building stylized as a medieval church with a rectangular tower and a needle-sharp spire in the center.

3 things to do in Sluis:

  1. Climb the spiral staircase to Belfort and admire the valley.
  2. Go to Sint Anna ter Muiden. It is about 10 km to the west by car.
  3. Try the local Trappist Monk beer.

The ancient mill “De Brac” was built in 1739 and is now located right in the middle of the Old Town. This is the first stone mill in the region, and a brasserie restaurant was opened with it, where you could enjoy your own pancakes. During World War II, the mill was partially damaged, but was restored. Today, the renovated mill is working again, and tourists can buy flour inside, and also climb the stairs to the upper tier and look at the city. And nearby you can, as before, sit in a restaurant-teahouse.

Sluis is visited by 5 million people annually. It would seem not much, but the most cursory calculation shows that on average every day the city receives 4-5 times more new guests than residents.

Some fragments of the Sluys defensive fortifications have survived to this day. At one time, the city center was completely surrounded by walls, which now represent a very nice walking route about 6 km long. From the top of the city rampart, you can admire the Zwin Valley wonderfully. The most impressive section of the fortifications is the Western Gate, or “Steenen Bir” – “Stone Bear”. In 1437, the soldiers of Bruges destroyed them, but then the gates were restored and even reinforced, and the last addition to the structure was acquired in 1702.

Another beautiful city attraction is the Damse Vaart canal. It was dug by Spanish prisoners of war by order of Napoleon, who wanted to connect Bruges with Sluis in this way. Under Bonaparte, the canal was never completed, having dug the last kilometers to Sluys only more than 40 years later, in 1858. Today, swans swim in the canal, fountains are arranged on the water, and you can rent a catamaran on the embankments.

The Old Sluys restaurant in the city is one of only two in the country to be awarded three Michelin stars.

Surroundings of Sluys

About fifty people constantly live in the village of Sint Anna ter Muiden. It is the westernmost village of the Netherlands and is considered a protected monument in its entirety. Despite the microscopic size of the village, it has been a city since 1242. So, in fact, Anna ter Muiden is the second smallest city in the country (after Staverden, which officially has only 40 inhabitants). Actually, the town consists of a very nice market square, full of extremely pretty houses, and a small square where there is a massive church tower of the 14th century, very impressive. In the market square, you can still see the Louis XIV-style water column from 1789, and thatched houses in the city streets.

Sluis, Netherlands

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Fogo, Cape Verde https://www.homosociety.com/fogo-cape-verde.html Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:33:44 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1460 Fogo Volcano Island is still erupting. The last eruption occurred quite recently – in 1995 – and destroyed several cities almost to the ground, but literally six months later they were restored. Tourists are attracted by black beaches, bright Portuguese colonial architecture and interesting hiking and cycling routes to the top of the volcano, including extreme ones. The island is also known for its original winemaking – the unique microclimate and volcanic soils make it possible to grow grapes of a wide variety, including rare varieties.

How to get to Fogo

There are regular flights to Fogo from Santiago (Praia) and Sal, the airport is located in Sao Filipe. It is worth asking for seats on the right side of the plane, as when landing, there are stunning views of the volcano from there. A taxi from the airport to the city center will cost about 500 CVE.

According to wholevehicles, there is a night ferry from Praia to the island.

Transport

Public transport runs between the two main villages of the island – Sao Filipe and Mosteiros, fare 500 CVE. From Mosteiros, the bus leaves at 5:30 am, stops at Sao Filipe and continues to Cha das Caldeiras. In addition, there are routes to Sao Jorge between 10:30 and 11:30.

Traveling from Sao Filipe to Cha das Caldeiras and back by taxi will cost 6000 CVE, tour around the island – 8000 CVE, to Sao Lourenço – 1000 CVE. In addition, Fog is easy to ride a bike: a beautiful road makes a circle around the island, connecting Sao Filipe on the west coast with the village of Mosteiros, where, by the way, the best coffee in Cape Verde is grown.

Rent a car per day 7000-8000 CVE.

Fogo Hotels

The island has one hotel and many boarding houses in Sao Filipe. Mosteiros has several boarding houses and one hostel.

Cuisine and restaurants

Most of Fogu’s restaurants and bars are located in Sao Filipe; a few more “catering” points can be found in Cha das Caldeiras and in Mosteiros.

Shopping: shops

A traditional souvenir from Fogo is products made from the lava of the Fogo volcano. Shops selling such products are located throughout the island, most in Cha das Caldeiras. In addition, excellent coffee is brought here.

Attractions and attractions Fogo

The picturesque town of Sao Filipe sits on a cliff overlooking a black sandy beach. The colorful buildings of the city are decorated with traditional clay tiles, while the squares are decorated with colonial-style buildings.

It is worth a trip to the crater of the volcano, and the town of Cha das Caldeiras. Approximately 1,200 people live in this inhospitable landscape, recently classified as a nature reserve. Terrace with stunning views of Sao Filipe – Alt da Aguadinha.

Also of interest is Igreja Matriz (parish church) – a colonial building of the 19th century, a private museum Casa da Memoria (House of Memory).

There are at least three routes to the volcanic caves on the way to Sao Lourenço. The best walk is climbing the volcano and traveling between Cha das Caldeiras and Mosteiros. It is wiser to hire a guide for a walk in this place.

Good fishing can be found in the Cavaleiros Valley in the north of Sao Filipe and in Alcatraz, on the southeast coast.

The most popular beach is the beach of Nossa Senora, the most beautiful is the Salt Lake, located in Sao Jorge.

Fogo, Cape Verde

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Sights of Ardennes, Belgium https://www.homosociety.com/sights-of-ardennes-belgium.html Fri, 11 Nov 2022 06:40:05 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1458 The Ardennes are a very popular holiday area in the southeast of Belgium. Just a short distance from the Netherlands, you can imagine yourself in a faraway foreign country. The Ardennes have a beautiful varied landscape. Small old villages and towns alternate with beautiful forests, babbling rivers and panoramic views. The Ardennes can be roughly divided into two parts. One has more forests, steep cliffs and rock formations, while the other has a quieter rolling landscape. The Ardennes have been tossed back and forth between different rulers for centuries and therefore has a rich history that can still be found in the area. Besides old castles, In farms and villages, the traces of the Second World War are still clearly visible here and there. The area has both cultural and sporting opportunities for tourists. In short, there is something for everyone in the Ardennes. It is mainly a destination for the active holidaymaker. Below you will find a selection of the most visited attractions in the Ardennes.

Top 10 sights of the Ardennes

#1. La Roche

According to Citypopulationreview.com, La Roche is one of the most visited towns in the Ardennes. In the summer months it is extremely busy. It then looks a bit like the Valkenburg of the Ardennes. It is therefore a nice town from which you can explore the area. La Roche is strategically located in a bend of the river Ourthe. The castle of La Roche has dominated the area since the Middle Ages. The ruins of the castle can still be visited and there is a small war museum in the town that tells the history of la Roche and its surroundings during the Second World War. The town has many cafes and restaurants. For the sports enthusiast, many walks, MTB routes and kayak trips start here. The forests in the hills around La Roche are also beautiful. The nearby Roche Hérou is highly recommended for walks. Much of the walk is high on top of the rock formations. It is a bit of clambering, but then you will also be rewarded with one of the most beautiful views of the Ardennes.

#2. Durbuy

Durbuyis the smallest town in the world. It is a very atmospheric medieval town that has been very well preserved. The small cobbled streets and medieval houses are still in perfect condition. Although it is not large, it has a number of nice small shops and fine restaurants. Durbuy is an attractive base to get to know the area. There are several outdoor centers where you can climb and clamber. Many of these centers also offer special tours by kayak or quad. A great way to view nature. For those who prefer to see nature on their own, there are various walking and cycling tours. There is also a ravel path especially for slow traffic participants. These special walking and cycling paths have been specially constructed to guarantee a safe journey for cyclists and walkers. The ravel paths are a great way to cycle with small children or take a walk with the pram or wheelchair.

#3. Breweries

Those who love a good Belgian beer are in the right place in the Ardennes. The Ardennes have many local breweries that brew great tasty beers. Blonde, brown, double or triple, there is bound to be one that tastes great for you. The nice thing is that these breweries can often be visited. You can take a tour, learn about the brewing process and, of course, taste the end result of all this careful brewing. Well-known breweries that you can also visit include the Chouffe brewery in Achouffe and the Abbey de Orval where Orval is brewed. A bite to eat in the associated brasserie is often highly recommended.

#4. War Museum at Bastogne

In the Ardennes there was a lot of fighting in the Second World War. After D-Day, the area proved to be an important breaking point in the passage of the Allies towards Germany. After the Allies conquered the area, Hitler launched a counter-attack. During the winter of 1944, heavy fighting took place in this area and the Allied situation more than once seemed hopeless. The town of Bastogne with its allied soldiers present there was completely surrounded by the Germans. However, they persisted and eventually defeated the German troops. The memories of this period are kept alive by many war memorials, but also by the war museum and memorial in Bastogne. It Bastogne War Museum gives a detailed account of the fighting in the Ardennes. Supplemented with memorabilia such as uniforms, rifles and ammunition from the time. In 2011, the museum was thoroughly renovated to reopen in 2012.

#5. cool

The classic Coo waterfalls are of course one of the most famous attractions of the Ardennes. These waterfalls in the Amblève River have been a major attraction for tourists for many years. And although the falls can still be admired in all their glory, they are nowadays really overshadowed by the Plopsa COO lying on the banks.. This amusement park for the little ones is located at the bottom of the waterfall and is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the region. Building on the toboggan run, which has been located next to Coo for decades, you can now swing and wave with Bumba, Piet pirate and Mega Mindy. The park has an open setting with various fairground rides, bouncy castles, fairground rides and the like. But also a wildlife park and a beautiful vantage point that you can reach with a chairlift.

#6. Caves in the Ardennes

Due to the special geological composition, the Ardennes has a number of beautiful caves. These are therefore one of the main tourist attractions of the Ardennes. The most important and most beautiful caves in the Ardennes are: the caves of Remourchamps, the caves of Hotton and the caves of Han. The caves of Han are a very large cave system created by the river Lesse. You can visit the caves with a guide who leads you through the different “halls”. These halls have been eroded by the water for centuries. Magnificent stalactites and stalagmites form a magnificent spectacle deep underground.

#7. Spa

Spa was one of the most important spas in Europe in the 19th century. The natural spring water that came from the ground has a medicinal effect that was already known in the 16th century. In the course of history, Spa became a health resort and even became the first casino in Europe. Kings, famous composers and other famous people came here to cure. In addition, the city is of course known for the bottled water that comes from it. Spa was for many years one of the main tourist centers of the Ardennes. Today the old spa buildings can still be seen and there is a museum that shows the ancient history.

#8. Stavelot

Stavelot was founded in the late Middle Ages by the brothers of the neighboring abbey. Stavelotbecame a thriving community on the banks of the Amblève. Today, the city is still very popular with tourists. The Abbey houses three museums, including that of the Francorchamps circuit. In addition, there are always various changing exhibitions. Stavelot is also an important part of the Liège-Bastogne-Liège classic for cycling tourists and cycling enthusiasts. On nice days you can always find large groups of cyclists who are toiling, sighing and sweating climbing the terribly steep Col de Stockeu. Halfway up is the famous statue of Eddy Merckx. For many cyclists, this is a good excuse to stop halfway through this climb and catch your breath.

#9. Francorchamps

Spa-Francorchamps is the race track near Spa. It is one of the most important racing circuits in the Benelux. Races are held regularly. Outside the competitions you can visit the circuit and get a behind-the-scenes tour. Licensed people can test the track on special days and for the common man there are a number of days a year when they can feel like a real driver with their own car and race around the track.

#10. Sporty in the Ardennes

The Ardennes is an ideal holiday destination for mobile types. To walk, cycling, canoeing, MTB and for all levels there are different routes. For example, there are several ravel trails in the Ardennes. These are specially constructed cycle paths for slow traffic. Cars and motorcycles are banned from these paths. These paths are very suitable for cycling with small children or for a walk with a pram. For the more experienced walkers there are beautiful climbing and clambering paths that lead through the beautiful nature. Distances vary from a single hour of walking to long day trips and even multi-day hikes. There are various MTB routes, both for advanced and beginners and the area is ideally suited for a long trip on a racing bike. Legendary hills and mountain slopes such as the redoubt and the Stockeu lie in this area. The true cycling fanatic can indulge himself here with impossible gradients and burning calves.

Ardennes, Belgium

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Sights of Gran Canaria, Spain https://www.homosociety.com/sights-of-gran-canaria-spain.html Fri, 04 Nov 2022 05:15:43 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1455 According to Allcitycodes.com, Gran Canariais one of the most popular flying destinations among the Dutch when it comes to sun holidays. Gran Canaria belongs to the Canary Islands, an archipelago west of the coast of Morocco. The pleasant subtropical climate ensures that you can enjoy a beach holiday here all year round. Most tourists therefore end up in the area called Costa Canaria. This is a succession of seaside resorts and urbanizations that clearly have only one goal in mind: mass tourism. Those who take the trouble to explore the island themselves will discover that there are plenty of beautiful sights to see that mainly have to do with the volcanic origin of Gran Canaria and the way people have dealt with it over the centuries.

You will have to go out to discover the real Gran Canaria. Those who stay in the seaside resorts on the south side will hardly experience all the beauty that the island has to offer. Don’t be afraid that you have to spend hours in the rental car or bus to see beautiful sights. Just a fifteen minute drive from Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés you can enjoy a beautiful view that is offered from the Mirador Degollada de La Yegua. If you drive a little further you will end up in authentic villages such as Fataga. If you really want to go out for a whole day, then all the sights of Gran Canaria are within easy reach. You need at least several days to see all the highlights from our top 10 sights. Don’t forget that nothing has to be done. Choose your own highlights from the top 10 we present on this page.

Top 10 sights of Gran Canaria

#1. Overwhelming views

The volcanic landscape of Gran Canaria provides beautiful views. If you see the word ‘mirador’ on a map or on a sign along the way, you are almost assured of an overwhelming view. The weather conditions must allow it. Because a cloudless sky is not guaranteed in the mountains of Gran Canaria. This in contrast to the sunny south. For example, there is a reasonable chance that you will hardly see anything from the highest mountain, the Pico de las Nieves, because clouds obstruct the view. Here it is mainly a matter of luck. Other viewpoints, such as the one in the crater of the Pico de Bandama, suffer less. You don’t necessarily have to go to higher heights for a nice view. Sometimes height differences in lower areas already provide breathtaking pictures.

#2. Picturesque villages

There are numerous picturesque villages scattered across the island. In some villages tourism is hard to find. Especially in places that are not visited by the excursion buses, there is an authentic atmosphere that is hardly disturbed by tourists.

Pilgrimage town of Teror is seen by many as the most beautiful village in Gran Canaria. At the Plaza Nuestre Señora del Pino is the impressive basilica where the ancient statue of Mary is kept. You can see a tour de force of Canarian architecture in the Calle Real de la Plaza, where historic colored houses with wooden balconies form a beautiful picture. A large weekly market is held in Teror on Sundays.

Gáldar is another example of a beautiful Canarian village. This authentic town on the north side of Gran Canaria offers a beautiful central square (the Plaza de Santiago) with a number of atmospheric tapas bars, a beautiful church and a small-scale market on Sundays where you can still buy real local products. In the archaeological museum Cueva Pintada you can see an archaeological site and a unique cave with ancient murals.

There are several picturesque villages on the coast, such as Puerto de las Nieves. This small fishing village near Agaete has become a popular tourist attraction thanks to its white and blue buildings. Here local people come to eat fish and sunbathe on the black pebble beach. Beautiful building is the white Ermita de las Nieves. You can only visit this church on weekends.

Located on the south coast, Puerto de Mogan is known for its Instagram-worthy looks. It is about the part of the place that is near the harbor. White houses with different color accents, together with the water and numerous bright flowers, provide beautiful photos.

#3. Vegueta

Capital Las Palmas de Gran Canariaconsists of several districts. Vegueta is the oldest neighborhood in the city. As soon as you enter the historic center you enter a completely different world. Here it seems as if time has stood still and the hustle and bustle that you experience elsewhere in Las Palmas has suddenly disappeared completely. La Vegueta is home to some of the city’s most beautiful buildings, such as the Santa Ana Cathedral, the Casa de Colón and the Casa Consistorial. The square in front of the cathedral, Plaza de Santa Ana, offers some great photo opportunities thanks to the beautiful buildings and the eight bronze statues of different dogs. The house of Columbus (Casa de Colón) is one of the most beautiful museums in all of Gran Canaria. Another museum not to be missed is the Museo Canario. This archaeological museum is dedicated to the precolonial history of the Canary Islands.

#4. Barranco de las Vacas

If you don’t know, you won’t just discover this special attraction. The Barranco de las Vacas is something that is not mentioned in every travel guide or website about Gran Canaria. There are also no signposts along the road to this natural phenomenon. Maybe it’s a good thing, because otherwise it would quickly become too busy in this ravine. The reason to visit the Barranco de las Vacas is the special appearance created by erosion. Water and mud have carved the narrow gorge, so that part of it now resembles the world-famous Antelope Canyon in the United States. You reach this photogenic part of the Barranco de las Vacas via a pedestrian tunnel that runs under the GC-550.

#5. Dunas de Maspalomas

The dunes of Maspalomas are surrounded by the seaside resorts of Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés. Within this tourist zone, the partly overgrown sand dunes form a beautiful piece of quiet nature. The protected nature reserve runs on the western side into the beach of Maspalomas. In the east it turns into Playa del Inglés. The dunes are at their best about an hour before sunset, when the sun casts a beautiful light over the curving dunes. A viewpoint has been installed south of Hotel RIU Palace Maspalomas. From here you can also continue east along a paved pedestrian boulevard along Playa del Inglés.

#6. Natural pools

Gran Canaria has several beautiful beaches. They are mainly concentrated on the quieter south coast. That doesn’t mean the north coast of the island doesn’t offer options for swimming and sunbathing. In fact, perhaps Gran Canaria’s natural pools are more interesting than the sandy and pebble beaches. Along the coast there are a number of puddles that serve as a swimming pool. These places were created by nature. Man has only provided stairs, parking spaces, changing rooms and other facilities where necessary. The natural pools are filled with sea water, have a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean and are not affected by the strong waves that prevail here.

#7. Fuente de los Azulejos

Don’t think that the landscape of Gran Canaria is monotonous and colorless. There is even a place that is strikingly colorful: Fuente de los Azulejos. The name of these colored rock formations literally means “fountain of tiles”. It is a reference to the famous colorful Portuguese tiles. The colors are caused by the process of hydrothermal change and oxidation. The Fuente de los Azulejos can be visited for free along the GC-200. This is the road that starts in the Barranco de Mogán and heads towards the western coast of Gran Canaria. Along the way you already get a view of the colored rocks.

#8. Roque Nublo

In the center of Gran Canaria you can see a special rock formation: the Roque Nublo. For the best view, you should put on your hiking boots or other sturdy footwear. Park the car in the designated parking lot and follow the signs. After a walk of about half an hour you come face to face with an eighty meter high basalt rock. This Roque Nublo is seen as the symbol of Gran Canaria. Even more beautiful is the overwhelming view that you have at an altitude of about eighteen hundred meters from here over the island of Gran Canaria. In the distance you can also see Tenerife in good weather.

#9. Dolphins

More than twenty different species of dolphins and whales live in the waters around Gran Canaria. There is a chance that you will spot one near the coast. By going out on the water yourself, you significantly increase the chance of seeing dolphins. You can choose to sail along the south coast of Gran Canaria by boat. Lindeas Blue Bird and Lines Salmon offer regular boat connections between Puerto de Mogan, Puerto Rico, Anfi and Arguineguin, among others. These boats have glass bottoms and are relatively cheap to sail on. If you are lucky you will see dolphins along the way. However, there are also special dolphin excursions, where you go out with a boat for two or three hours to look for dolphins.

One company operating out of Puerto Rico that has a good reputation is Spirit of the Sea. With both options you will sail for two hours to spot dolphins and/or whales. The three-hour excursion includes a one-hour swimming stop. Spirit of the Sea gives a dolphin guarantee. If you don’t see a dolphin or whale during the trip, you can come along again for free.

Reservations for this dolphin excursion are recommended. Via GetYourGuide you can easily book online and cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before departure.

#10. Barranco de Guayadeque

The volcanic landscape of Gran Canaria consists largely of mountains. There are valleys and ravines between the mountains. These so-called ‘barrancas’ are generally quite fertile, such as the Barranco de Guayadeque. Before the Spaniards founded villages and towns on Gran Canaria, the original inhabitants of the island, the Gaunches, mainly lived in caves. These natural shelters were ideal places to house yourself safely. The Barranco de Guayadequewas once the most populated area of ​​Gran Canaria. Some of the traditional cliff dwellings are still intact. Via walking routes you can see how people used to live here. Halfway through the ravine you can see a real cave church. At the end of the main road through the Barranco de Guayadeque you can take a beautiful walk on the slopes of the Montaña de las Tierras.

Gran Canaria, Spain

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US 33 and 35 in Indiana https://www.homosociety.com/us-33-and-35-in-indiana.html Sun, 30 Oct 2022 04:58:02 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1452 US 33 in Indiana
US 33
Begin Pleasant Mills
End Elkhart
Length 109 mi
Length 175 km
Route
Ohio

Decatur

Fort Wayne

Churubusco

Ligonier

Goshen

Elkhart

According to iamaccepted, US 33 is a US Highway in the US state of Indiana. The road forms a diagonal northwest-southeast route in the northeast of the state, between Elkhart, Fort Wayne, and the Ohio border. The road is 175 kilometers long.

Travel directions

The US 33 in Wolflake.

US 33 begins at Elkhart, a town just east of larger South Bend. US 33 begins at its junction with US 20, a highway on the south side of South Bend-Elkhart. US 33 then runs in 2×2 lanes to Goshen, 12 kilometers away, and then becomes a single-lane route to the southeast. The road is then double -numbered for a short part with the US 6, after which the US 33 runs for 60 kilometers to Fort Wayne, a larger city with more than 250,000 inhabitants. After this, US 33 continues via the highway network, first on Interstate 69 to the south, then on Interstate 469 to the east. The U.S. 24also lift a bit. On the southeast side of Fort Wayne, US 33 exits from I-469 and then joins US 27 in 2×2 lanes to Decatur, 20 miles south. Here it crosses US 224, a secondary east-west route, after which US 33 turns off US 27 and crosses the Ohio border. US 33 in Ohio then continues to Columbus.

History

US 33 was created in 1938 and then ran to St. Joseph in Michigan. In 1998, the route was shortened to Elkhart when US 20 opened around Elkhart. In 1989, I-469 opened along the south side of Fort Wayne, US 33 was then routed over it, so that through traffic no longer had to go through the center of the city. Despite this, US 33 is not a very well developed route, most of it is single-lane.

Traffic intensities

The section from Elkhart to Goshen has 24,000 vehicles per day, which then drops to 5,000 vehicles and until Fort Wayne rises slightly to 7,500 vehicles. It only gets a little busier with 12,000 vehicles just before Fort Wayne. The double-numbered US 27 has 13,000 vehicles and 3,900 vehicles cross the Ohio border every day.

US 35 in Indiana

US 35
Get started Richmont
End Michigan City
Length 208 mi
Length 335 km
Route
Ohio

Richmond

Muncie

Gas City

Kokomo

Logansport

Winamac

knox

South Center

LaPorte

Michigan City

According to acronymmonster.com, US 35 is a US Highway in the US state of Indiana. The road forms a diagonal north-south route in a northwesterly direction from the Ohio border at Richmond through Muncie and Kokomo to Michigan City. The route mainly has a secondary function due to its illogical course. The road is 335 kilometers long.

Travel directions

The US 20 / US 35 fork near Michigan City.

US 35 in Ohio enters the state of Indiana from Dayton, along with Interstate 70. The road runs along the north side of the town of Richmond, where it intersects US 27 and US 40. On the northwest side of town, US 35 exits northwest to Muncie, 55 miles away. Halfway through you cross the US 36 and the US 35 then forms the eastern ring of Muncie. North of the city, US 35 turns west and merges with Interstate 69, double -numbered for 20 milesto walk north. At Marion, US 35 turns west again and continues for 50 kilometers to the town of Kokomo.

At Kokomo one crosses the more important US 31 which runs from Indianapolis to South Bend, after which US 35 goes northwest and doubles with US 24. After Logansport, US 35 runs through a sparsely populated area to the northwest, later north. The road to Michigan City is then another 120 kilometers long. After driving about 80 kilometers through the meadows you cross the US 30 and shortly afterwards you cross the US 6. US 35 then runs northwest through La Porte and passes under the Indiana Toll Road, without connecting with it. The US 35 then ends just before Michigan City on the US 20, the road from South Bend to Michigan City.

History

US 35 was created in 1934, after which the route in Indiana has not been significantly changed. the US 35 does not follow a very important route, and one has to turn quite often to follow the number. A section is double-numbered with Interstate 69 between Muncie and Gas City. The US 35 is mainly single lane.

Traffic intensities

About 4,000 to 5,000 vehicles with 15,000 drive on the Muncie ring road from Richmond to Muncie. 6,000 vehicles drive on I-69 and 31,000 on the double numbering with I-69, after which about 5,000 drive towards Kokomo. 7,000 vehicles drive between Komomo and Logansport, with intensities further north between 3,000 and 6,000 vehicles. At La Porte this is a maximum of 15,000 vehicles.

US 35 in Indiana

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US 65, 80 and 84 in Louisiana https://www.homosociety.com/us-65-80-and-84-in-louisiana.html Fri, 28 Oct 2022 18:23:19 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1449 US 65 in Louisiana
US 65
Get started Clayton
End Shelburg
Length 101 mi
Length 163 km
Route
Clayton

Newellton

Tallulah

Lake Providence

Arkansas

According to Existingcountries, US 65 is a US Highway in the US state of Louisiana. The road forms a north-south route through the north of the state, from Clayton through Tallulah to the Arkansas border. US 65 is 163 kilometers long in Louisiana.

Travel directions

US 65 begins at US 425 in Clayton, not far from Natchez. The route heads north on the west bank of the Mississippi River and is a single-lane road. The only larger town on the route is Tallulah, where it crosses Interstate 20. About 70 miles north follows the border with Arkansas. US 65 in Arkansas continues toward Little Rock.

History

US 65 was created in 1926 and at the time had its southern terminus at Vidalia, 10 kilometers south of its current terminus at Clayon. US 65 then ended at US 84. In 1945 the route was extended to New Orleans but shortened again in 1951 to Natchez, Mississippi. Since 2005, US 65 has had its current starting point in Clayton. Despite the fact that US 65 forms a route parallel to the Mississippi River, the road has almost never been upgraded, it is largely a two-lane road.

Traffic intensities

Every day, 2,400 vehicles drive north of Clayton and 2,300 vehicles south of Tallulah. The busiest point is between I-20 and Tallulah with 10,000 vehicles. There are 3,400 vehicles north of Tallulah.

US 80 in Louisiana

US 80
Get started wash bowl
End Vicksburg
Length 195 mi
Length 314 km
Route
Texas

Greenwood

Shreveport

Minden

Gibsland

Ruston

monroe

Rayville

Delhi

Tallulah

Mississippi

According to Anycountyprivateschools, US 80 is a US Highway in the US state of Louisiana. The road forms an east-west route through the north of the state, from the Texas border through Shreveport, Minden, Ruston, Monroe, and Tallulah to the Mississippi border. US 80 is 214 miles long in Louisiana.

Travel directions

The Long-Allen Bridge over the Red River in Shreveport.

US 80 follows Interstate 20 for its entire length, often not much more than 3 to 5 kilometers away. US 80 runs both south and north of I-20. The route is mainly single-lane, only the part from Shreveport to Minden has been expanded with 4 lanes, as well as a part in Monroe. By far the largest city on the route is Shreveport, but Monroe is also of some importance.

History

US 80 was created in 1926 and was a transcontinental route at the time. In the years since, the start and end point has changed a number of times, but the Louisiana route has remained more or less the same.

US 80 crosses the Red River in Shreveport via the Long–Allen Bridge, opened in 1933. This bridge was built between 1931 and 1933 and opened to traffic in September 1933. It was the first road bridge over the Red River in Shreveport and replaced a ferry service. The bridge was mainly built for US 80, but US 79 also lifts on it. Before 1965, US 71 also ran over this bridge.

The stretch from Shreveport to Minden was widened to 2×2 lanes as early as the 1950s, before I-20 was built here. Because I-20 was soon built through northern Louisiana, further stretches of US 80 have not been widened to 2×2 lanes.

The Lea Joyner Bridge over the Ouachita River in Monroe opened to traffic in 1936. The bridge was renovated between 2007 and 2013.

On May 1, 1930, the Old Vicksburg Bridge opened over the Mississippi River on the Mississippi border. On February 14, 1973, the Vicksburg Bridge (I-20) opened to traffic. Until 1998, US 80 ran over the old bridge, until it was closed to vehicular traffic and US 80 was routed over the 1973 bridge. In the 1960s and 1970s, I-20 was built parallel to US 80, so that US 80 no longer has any through-going importance.

Traffic intensities

1,700 vehicles drive daily on the Texas border, rising to 15,000 vehicles on the passage through Shreveport. US 80 is not very busy for such a large city. Between Minden and Ruston, 1,700 to 2,400 vehicles and 4,000 vehicles drove to Monroe. In Monroe, the busiest point with 34,000 vehicles is on the bridge over the Ouachita River. East of Monroe usually 2,000 to 3,000 vehicles drive as far as Tallulah and 800 vehicles east of Tallulah.

US 84 in Louisiana

US 84
Get started Logansport
End Vidalia
Length 182 mi
Length 261 km
Route
Texas

Logansport

Mansfield

Grand Bayou

Clarence

Winnfield

Tullos

Midway

Jonesville

Ferriday

Vidalia

Mississippi

US 84 is a US Highway in the US state of Louisiana. The road forms an east-west route through the north of the state, from the Texas border through Winnfield to the Louisiana border. US 84 is 161 kilometers long in Louisiana.

Travel directions

US 84 and 425 in Ferriday.

US 84 in Texas comes from Palestine and heads east through a less populated part of Louisiana. The route is not really of great importance, and only passes through two small towns, Mansfield and Winnfield. It crosses Interstate 49 and the Red River, as well as the Black River. At Vidalia follow the bridge over the Mississippi River. US 84 in Mississippi then continues to Natchez. US 84 is almost entirely single-lane in Louisiana, only the easternmost part is a divided highway with 2×2 lanes.

History

US 84 was created in 1926, but did not initially pass through Louisiana. That happened in 1934 when US 84 was extended a long way west from Dothan, Alabama to Texico, New Mexico.

In 1933, the Long–Allen Bridge over the Ouachita River in Jonesville opened to traffic. This was a swing bridge that was replaced in 2009 by a 2×2 lane bridge. In 1936, the bridge over the Sabine River on the Louisiana-Texas border opened at Logansport. This bridge was replaced in 2014-2017, with US 84 in Logansport being moved over a slightly more southerly route. The replacement opened to traffic on May 8, 2017. The Natchez–Vidalia Bridge over the Mississippi River consists of two bridges, the first of which was opened in 1940. In July 1988, the second bridge opened, providing 2×2 lanes of traffic.

US 84 has barely been upgraded, most of the route is a simple two-lane road. This is because it does not connect major cities, Winnfield is the largest town on the route with over 5,000 inhabitants.

Traffic intensities

Every day, 14,000 vehicles drive into Logansport on the Texas border and 7,500 vehicles drive as far as Mansfield. At I-49, 4,500 vehicles and 4,200 vehicles east of it crossed the Red River. The double-numbered section of US 71 has about 4,000 vehicles, and 3,200 vehicles drove west of Winnfield and 1,400 vehicles east of it. 5,400 vehicles drove around Jonesville and 21,000 on the four-lane section at Vidalia.

US 80 in Louisiana

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Alaska Economy https://www.homosociety.com/alaska-economy.html Fri, 28 Oct 2022 03:57:20 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1443 By far the most important source of income for Alaska is oil extraction. If Alaska were a country, the economic situation would be very similar to that of OPEC countries such as Kuwait and Saudi Arabia due to the great importance of oil. Mining, military bases and other government services are also important. After oil, fishery products are the state’s most important export product. Tourism is showing strong growth. The gross product of the state in 2001 was $29 billion.

Energy

Alaska oil production in 1973-2009. Source: US Energy Information Administration

De Trans-Alaska Pipeline

According to watchtutorials, in 1967, BP, along with partner Sinclair Oil, and US oil company ARCO both obtained oil exploration concessions in Prudhoe Bay in the far north of Alaska. On December 1, 1967, ARCO drilled into natural gas and oil. A second drilling 10 kilometers further and six months later was a success and confirmed the discovery of a huge oil field. It was the largest field ever discovered in North America.

In order to transport the oil, it was decided to build a 1,300 kilometer pipeline from the extreme north to the southern port of Valdez: the Trans-Alaska pipeline. The pipeline was 120 cm (48 inches) in diameter and cost more than $8 billion in total. Construction permits took a long time to be issued, and construction lasted from April 1974 to June 1977. The first oil arrived a short time later at the oil terminal at Valdez. From there, the oil is further transported to refineries, among others, on the US West Coast. In 1988, just over two million barrelsoil is transported through the pipeline per day. This was the peak and volumes transported have since gradually declined to 0.7 million barrels in 2009.

Natural gas is extracted in southern Alaska. Kenai has the United States ‘ only LNG facility. Production started here in 1969. The natural gas comes from fields in nearby Cook Inlet. The gas that is released in the north during the production of oil is pumped back to maintain the pressure in the fields and thereby stimulate oil production.

The discovery of the Prudhoe Bay field has led to more discoveries in northern Alaska. Kuparuk, the second largest field in North America, is located about 40 miles west of Prudhoe Bay, where oil production began in 1981. Current oil reserves are estimated at 3,500 million barrels, or 18% of the United States ‘ total.. Between 1977 and 1988 production rose sharply to two million barrels of oil per day after which a gradual decline occurred. Alaska was the second largest oil producing state in the United States after Texas in 2009.

Oil extraction has greatly boosted Alaska’s economy. Up to 2007, more than 15 billion barrels of oil were produced with a market value of $250 billion. Revenues for the state of Alaska totaled $113 billion, but this figure is calculated against the dollar’s purchasing power in 2007. Some of these revenues are reserved for future generations when oil runs out; this fund has assets of more than 40 billion dollars. Each year, the Alaska Permanent Fund pays out a small portion of its assets as dividends to residents of the state.

Infrastructure

Road network

Alaska barely has a road network. The primary road is the Alaska Highway, which connects Alaska to Canada. This road was built in 1942 by the US military to transport military equipment overland in the fight against Japan. The road starts in Canada at Dawson Creek and ends 2,290 kilometers further at Delta Junction in the heart of Alaska. 1303 kilometers of the road is in Alaska and the rest in British Columbia. The road was opened to civilian traffic in 1948. Numerous improvements have been made since then; the route has been shortened to 2238 kilometers and the road is now completely paved. There are also some roads between the major cities and the Klondike Highway, which connect Skagwayconnects with Canada.

Railway network

Alaska has one domestic railroad, the Alaska Railroad. It runs from Fairbanks to the coast and carries freight and passengers. Also, part of the White Pass & Yukon Route runs through Alaska.

Waterways

Alaska is enclosed by sea, except on the border with Canada. A large part of the (freight) transport to and from Alaska therefore goes by water.

The sky

Due to the limited road network, most of Alaska’s transportation is by air. There are countless unpaved and paved runways, but seaplanes are also frequently used. Alaska’s main airport is in Anchorage: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. This airport was opened in 1953. Until the opening of Russian airspace in 1989, it was an important stopover. Aircraft traveling between Europe and the Far East, over the North Pole, and landed here between North America and the Far East to refuel. After 1990, partly due to the greater range of new aircraft, the airport became less important. In 2000, the airport was renamed Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Ted Stevens was a state senator for the state of Alaska. About five million passengers now use Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport each year. Due to the presence of major carriers, such as FedEx and UPS, the airport is high on the list for air freight transport.

Pipelines

Because Alaska is partly dependent on oil exports, the Trans-Alaska pipeline is an important part of the infrastructure. In 2008, BP and Conoco Phillips announced plans to build a gas pipeline from northern Alaska to Alberta, Canada. The Denali Pipeline will be 120 cm in diameter, which will allow the transportation of 4.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas. The length will be 2700 kilometers, as far as Alberta, but can possibly be extended to the sales markets in the United States.

Alaska Economy

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US 141 and 2 in Michigan https://www.homosociety.com/us-141-and-2-in-michigan.html Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:38:32 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1447 US 141 in Michigan
US 141
Get started Iron Mountain
End Covington
Length 54 mi
Length 87 km
Route
Wisconsin

Iron Mountain

Wisconsin

Wisconsin

Crystal Falls

Covington

According to watchtutorials, US 141 is a US Highway in the US state of Michigan. The road forms a north-south route on the so-called “Upper Peninsula”, the northern peninsula. The road begins at the Wisconsin border at Iron Mountain and then briefly crosses Michigan before temporarily passing through Wisconsin again. The road then ends at Covington. The route is 87 kilometers long.

Travel directions

The northern end of US 141 at Covington.

At Quinnesec, US 141 in Wisconsin crosses the border with Michigan, coming from Green Bay. The road then merges almost directly with US 2 from Escanaba and the road then passes through the town of Iron Mountain heading west. After only a few kilometers the road re-enters Wisconsin, through the village of Florence, after which the road re-enters Michigan. The road then heads north to Crystal Falls, where US 2 exits to Ironwood to the west and US 141 continues straight north. The road then passes for about 55 kilometers through an area with some forests, meadows and low hills. The road then ends at Covington on US 41, the road from Marquette towards Houghton.

History

According to Citypopulationreview, US 141 was created in 1926 but ran only in Wisconsin at the time. In 1929 the route was extended north to Covington. The route has not changed since then in Michigan, only around Iron Mountain the US 141 was widened to a divided highway.

Traffic intensities

The section through Iron Mountain still handles quite a bit of traffic, but the intensities drop to about 1,000 vehicles at Covington.

US 2 in Michigan

US 2
Get started ironwood
End St. Ignacio
Length 306 mi
Length 492 km
Route
Wisconsin

ironwood

Wakefield

water meet

Iron River

Crystal Falls

Wisconsin

Wisconsin

Iron Mountain

Norway

powers

Escanaba

gladstone

Manistique

St. Ignacio

US 2 is a US Highway in the US state of Michigan. The road forms an east-west route over the so-called “Upper Peninsula”, the northern peninsula from Ironwood to St. Ignace. The road runs a short distance through Wisconsin. The route is 492 kilometers long.

Travel directions

The US 2 along Lake Michigan.

US 2 in Wisconsin enters the state of Michigan from Duluth at Ironwood and then heads east. The first 15 kilometers is a 2×2 divided highway, but from Wakefield the road only has one lane in each direction. You pass through a slightly hilly area with a lot of forest. This part of Michigan is quite sparsely populated and you don’t pass through villages very often. After about 85 kilometers you cross the US 45 in the village of Watersmeet. Then begins a second long route of about 70 kilometers through the Ottawa National Forest to the east. One then reaches the village of Crystal Falls, where the US 141crosses. US 2 then turns south and is double-numbered with US 141 for a bit. The road then also runs a bit through Wisconsin. At Iron Mountain, the road re-enters the state of Michigan and turns off US 141 toward Green Bay to the south. Shortly afterwards, in the town of Norway, the US 8 ends, coming from Rhinelander in the west.

The road then continues its route to the east, passing through an area of ​​low hills and forests. After about 25 miles, US 41 joins the village of Powers from Menominee and Marinette. A double numbering of about 60 kilometers then starts. The road then continues east and reaches the town of Escanaba on immense Lake Michigan. The US 2 turns off here a bit to the north and has 2×2 lanes over a length of 25 kilometers. On the north side of Little Bay de Noc, the road turns east and US 41 continues only to Marquette in the north.

The US 2 then starts on a route of more than 200 kilometers to the east, without passing through larger towns. The road runs parallel to the north shore of Lake Michigan, but sometimes also further inland, partly through the various peninsulas that jut into the lake. The road here passes through the Hiawatha National Forest, a forest area on the Upper Peninsula. There are only a few small villages on the route, such as Manistique. Occasionally one crosses a state route that runs to the north, but there are not many. The road then continues to St. Ignace, a small but important village, as Interstate 75 crosses the Straits of Mackinac, the gorge between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. The road then ends at the junction with I-75.

History

US 2/41 at Escanaba.

US 2 was created in 1926. The route then ended in Sault Ste. Marie on the Canadian border. After I-75 opened in 1963 between St. Ignace and Sault Ste. Marie, a double numbering arose, after which US 2 was shortened to St. Ignace in 1984, and has since ended there on I-75. But a few short sections have been constructed as divided highway around the largest places.

Traffic intensities

The road is very quiet in the west, with barely 1,000 vehicles a day between Ironwood and Iron River. Some 3,000 vehicles drive past Crystal Falls, and 10,200 between Iron Mountain and Norway. After that, the intensities drop to 3,600 and then rise again with 8,500 towards Escanaba with the US 41. The route along the north coast of Lake Michigan does have some through traffic, with 3,000 to 4,000 vehicles per day.

US 2 in Michigan

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State Route 87 and 91 in Nebraska https://www.homosociety.com/state-route-87-and-91-in-nebraska.html Wed, 26 Oct 2022 12:19:54 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1445 State Route 87 in Nebraska
SR-87
Get started alliance
End whiteclay
Length 77 mi
Length 124 km
Route
alliance

Hay Springs

Rushville

whiteclay

South Dakota

According to act-test-centers, State Route 87, also known as Highway 87 is a state route in the U.S. state of Nebraska. The road forms a north-south route in the western part of the state and runs from Alliance to the South Dakota border at Whiteclay. Highway 87 is 124 kilometers long.

Travel directions

Highway 87 begins in Alliance, a small town in the Nebraska Panhandle. Highway 2 crosses here, but US 385 is also not far away. Highway 87 first travels 25 kilometers from Alliance due north through a flat farmland with circular irrigation, then temporarily bends northeast, before continuing north again through farmland to Hay Springs. Between Hay Springs and Rushville, Highway 87 is nearly 20 miles with US 20 double-numbered, heading east here. From Rushville, the road heads north again, after which the road passes through an area with minor elevation changes. At Whiteclay, the border with the state of South Dakota follows, then State Route 407 in South Dakotacontinues to Pine Ridge.

History

Highway 87 was one of the original state highways of 1921 and at the time formed an east-west route from the Wyoming border at Henry to Bridgeport. In the major renumbering of 1925, this was renumbered Highway 18 and would later become US 26.

In the early 1930s, the number was reassigned to the current route. Because of the many agricultural opportunities in this part of Nebraska, the road was passable early on, much earlier than many other secondary north-south routes in western Nebraska. In the 1930s and 1940s the road was largely provided with a chipseal surfacing, and was later completely asphalted.

Traffic intensities

About 1,000 vehicles run daily between Alliance and Hay Springs and 800 to 900 vehicles between Rushville and the South Dakota border at Whiteclay. Highway 87 thus handles somewhat more traffic than north-south routes further east.

State Route 91 in Nebraska

SR-91
Get started thinning
End Blair
Length 231 mi
Length 371 km
Route
thinning

Brewster

Almeria

Taylor

Burwell

Ericson

Spalding

Albion

Lindsay

Humphrey

Leigh

Clarkson

dodge

snyder

scribner

Nickerson

Blair

According to liuxers, State Route 91, also known as Highway 91 is a state route in the U.S. state of Nebraska. The road forms a long east-west route through the center and east of the state, from Dunning to Blair. The road passes through two regions, the Sandhills to the west and the more cultivated Great Plains to the east. Highway 91 is 371 kilometers long.

Travel directions

At the village of Dunning, Highway 91 begins at Highway 2 and then heads east through the Sandhills. This area is very sparsely populated and hardly cultivated, except around a few small rivers. The section through the Sandhills is approximately 150 kilometers long, passing only a few small villages and hamlets and crossing only a limited number of roads. To the east, the area becomes more cultivated, especially east of US 281. Also on the eastern part of the route the places are small, although there is much more agriculture here. The main village is Albion. In Dodge County, Highway 91 has a fairly long double numbering with US 275to just north of Fremont. Highway 91 then continues east through the flat farming area and ends in Blair, 20 miles north of Omaha and near the Missouri River that forms the border with the state of Iowa.

History

Highway 91 was added to the original network of state highways in Nebraska circa 1923-1924 and at the time was a short route between Elk City and Omaha. In the major renumbering of 1925, this became part of Highway 8.

In the early 1930s, Highway 91 was reintroduced, this time on the current route. At the time, Highway 91 ran only from Newman Grove to Blair, so it was only in eastern Nebraska. In 1938 this was largely a gravel road. At the time, the part in the region around Albion was numbered as Highway 32, but still incomplete. In the Sandhills, a section from Dunning to the east was numbered Highway 7, a dirt road to Brewster. In the Taylor and Burwell area, the road was also partially numbered Highway 53.

The route was incomplete at the time, several parts were still missing, and there were no nearby alternative routes. Moreover, the roads that existed at the time were still almost completely unpaved. It was not until the 1950s that Highway 91 was numbered along its entire current route from Dunning to Blair, but the road between Blair and Almeria was missing for a long time. This missing part was built in the mid-1950s, directly as an asphalt road. In 1957, this was almost the only tarmac stretch of Highway 91 west of US 281. It was not until the 1960s and 1970s that Highway 91 was further paved.

Traffic intensities

The western portion of Highway 91 is very light, with only 300 vehicles per day passing through the Sandhills between Dunning and Taylor. Between Taylor and Burwell, 1,100 vehicles per day and 500 to 1,000 vehicles continue to Albion. Eastwards from Albion to US 275, 1,000 to 2,000 vehicles per day typically run and 1,100 to 1,600 vehicles per day on the easternmost section to Blair.

State Route 91 in Nebraska

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Netherlands Geography and Economy https://www.homosociety.com/netherlands-geography-and-economy.html Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:04:36 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1418 Natural conditions of the Netherlands

As early as around 1000, simple culverts were used for drainage purposes in low-lying areas of the Netherlands. Four centuries later, the clay plains in the west and north of the country were interwoven with an elaborate network of dikes and canals. In the 15th to 17th centuries there was a great boom in the construction of windmills. They were used to drain water from the shallow lands behind the dams, resulting in “polders” – agricultural areas that lie below sea level. Steam pumps were introduced in the 19th century, with the help of which the Haarlemmermeer polder was acquired in 1852. At its northeastern tip lies the large international airport Schiphol, 4 m below sea level.

Surface of the Netherlands

According to Shoe-Wiki.com, the flat northern coast of the Netherlands is bordered by the long arc of the West Frisian Islands, enclosing the shallow wadden sea of ​​the Waddenzee. Their northern coast is made up of up to 70 meters high and several kilometers wide bands of sandbanks and benches, which border low-lying polder areas behind them. The Waddenzee is separated from the now freshwater Ijsselmeer by the 32 km long Afsluitdijk.

The dyke was the first step in the implementation of a generous plan conceived as early as 1891 to gain land from the then Zuiderzee sea bay and connect the province of Noord-Holland with the northwestern province of Friesland (Friesland). While the dam was being built, the shallow bay of the Wieringermeer in the southwest dried up. In its place, one of the four large polders was created, which now occupy an area of ​​more than 2000 km 2. Also, a significant part of the most populous provinces (Noord-Holland, Zuid-Holland) lies on the territory that was previously torn away by the sea.

In the province of Zeeland in the southwest, the rivers Rhine (Lek and Waal), Maas and Scheldt flow into the North Sea through a vast delta formed by their funnel-shaped mouths (estuaries) and islands. After the catastrophic flood of 1953, most of the estuaries and sea bays were closed, 32 km of new protective dykes and one entrance was blocked by a tidal barrage. Maritime traffic is served by a new waterway connecting Rotterdam to the sea, and the estuary of the river Scheldt, which provides access to the Belgian port of Antwerp.

Flat lowlands with clayey soils in the north give way inland and to the southeast to only slightly undulating terrain of sandy deposits. In the southernmost province of Limburg, a chalk plateau rises towards the Vaalserberg hill on the border with Belgium and Germany, which is the highest point in the Netherlands at 321 m.

The climate of the Netherlands

The climate is slightly oceanic. Summers are relatively cool, although some days can be very warm; winters are mostly mild and wet. Winds from the north can bring cold weather in spring, especially in the north and east of the country. Rain is frequent, but mostly light and evenly distributed throughout the year. Cloudiness and fog are typical for autumn.

Flora and fauna

Compared to prehistoric times, the extent of forests (now less than 9% of the area of ​​the Netherlands) and swamps has greatly decreased. Most of the oak and birch stands in the east have been planted, as have the extensive coniferous and deciduous forests on the hills in the central Veluwe region. Much of the agricultural land is now occupied by commercial forest nurseries.

In the north, the Waddenzee Sea forms an interesting biogeographical complex with sandbars, wats and marshes. It is the most important wat (an area periodically flooded and exposed by the tide) in Western Europe, where many species of native and migratory birds, fish and crustaceans are found. The coastal dunes are covered by a specific grass growth of helm and other tough grasses, while the wats attract salt-loving rotlins such as the hornbill. The original fauna is represented by polder areas with occurring otters.

Economy

Thanks to its key position at the mouth of the Rhine, the Netherlands has become one of the most prosperous countries in Europe.

Agriculture

Dutch agriculture is the most intensive in the world in terms of yields and milk production. Predominantly family farms are relatively large and highly mechanized, but employ only slightly more than 2% of the workforce. About a quarter of the Netherlands is arable land and a third is pasture. Livestock production accounts for 70% of agricultural production. The main pig and cattle breeding areas are the coastal provinces of Friesland and Noord-Holland on opposite sides of the Ijsselmeer. The country is a traditional exporter of cheese, butter, poultry, eggs, bacon and other meat products. Food, including tobacco, represents more than 20% of the country’s export value.

A characteristic feature of the landscape, especially in the west, are fields where bulbous plants are grown. The Netherlands is the largest exporter of flower bulbs in the world. Also cut flowers – tulips, roses, chrysanthemums and lilies – are distributed worldwide.

Netherlands Geography

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Holiday in Saxony, Germany https://www.homosociety.com/holiday-in-saxony-germany.html Thu, 18 Aug 2022 17:50:09 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1406 The most beautiful cities in Saxony

Dresden

Baroque architecture directly on the Elbe

Also known as Florence on the Elbe , Dresden is a real beauty and popular travel destination in Germany.

One imposing building stands next to the other. The Semperoper , the Frauenkirche and the Zwinger are particularly well-known .

And not only that! In addition to the historic buildings, there are some really cool locations in Dresden for taking great photos.

Leipzig

A city that is right on trend

According to Securitypology.com, Leipzig has developed more and more into a hip and well-visited excursion destination. And rightly so! The old town is beautiful and the Monument to the Battle of the Nations is just impressive.

And apart from the popular sights, the city has some exciting activities to offer.

We think Leipzig is a cool sock and perfect for a weekend or a day trip.

Chemnitz

European Capital of Culture 2025

Chemnitz is more of an insider tip in Saxony and much more beautiful than its reputation would suggest.

The city in Saxony convinces with a beautiful mix of art, industrial culture and lots of nature – not without reason Chemnitz will even be European Capital of Culture in 2025.

Meissen

Birthplace of Porcelain

When you think of Meissen, you probably think of Meissen porcelain ? This is why the small town in Saxony is world famous.

But Meissen also has a beautiful old town with beautiful streets and some great vantage points.

The Albrechtsburg in Meissen is even the oldest castle in Germany .

Gorlitz

Historical old city

Görlitz is best known for its beautiful old town: the buildings come from different eras and are characterized by different architectural styles .

The imposing Peterskirche protrudes from the city center and is the symbol of Görlitz.

The city is located directly on the Polish border – it is worth a detour to our neighbors in Poland .

The most beautiful sights in Saxony

Saxon Switzerland

Hiking paradise & impressive rock formations

For a long time, only Leipzig and Dresden came to mind when we thought of Saxony. There are so many other great places to discover!

This definitely includes Saxon Switzerland . For us, the landscape is one of the most beautiful natural travel destinations in Germany and offers wonderful photo opportunities.

In addition to the Bastei Bridge , Saxon Switzerland offers many other great photo opportunities and fantastic views.

Rakotz Bridge

There is something magical about this place

If you haven’t heard of the Rakotzbrücke yet, then you should change that immediately.

With its semicircular shape and the reflection in the water , the Rakotz Bridge is an incredibly great photo motif. You can take really great photos here, especially in the morning or evening light.

By the way, the bridge is in the municipality of Gablenz. This is located in the northeast of Saxony – near the border to Brandenburg and the Czech Republic .

Prince Pückler Park

Landscape art in Upper Lusatia

The Fürst-Pückler-Park with the majestic New Muskau Palace is only 7 kilometers away from the Rakotzbrücke .

Before there is any confusion: Yes, there is also an Old Castle. This is right next to it, but it’s not half as photogenic as the new one.

By the way! From Fürst-Pückler-Park you can walk across the border to the Czech Republic in just a few minutes . cool right?

Moritzburg Castle

Filming location of “Three Nuts for Cinderella”

Surrounded by water and a beautiful landscape stands the magnificent Moritzburg Castle.

The moated castle is not only the location of the fairy tale film “Three Hazelnuts for Cinderella”, but also contains an impressive collection of hunting trophies .

You can make a wonderful trip here from Dresden – the castle can be reached in less than half an hour by car.

Dresden

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Arizona for Tourists https://www.homosociety.com/arizona-for-tourists.html Fri, 12 Aug 2022 15:19:07 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1402 The Grand Canyon State has many other attractions to offer besides the Grand Canyon itself. The main attractions include the metropolis of Phoenix, Route 66, the desert, the pine forests, the red stones of Sedona, well-known sites such as the Chapel of the Holy Cross, the Vermillion Cliffs, the Meteor Crater, the Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley.

Phoenix – pulsating metropolis in the southwest of the USA

Nature, animals and plants, many sports and leisure activities, but also a lot of culture with Spanish and Indian influence, that is what the southern capital of the US state has to offer its visitors. For example, the ” Phoenix Museum of Art “On North Central Avenue or the” Arizona Museum of National History “On 5th Street. Many exhibits from prehistoric times can also be seen here.

  • Ask4beauty: Brief history and politics of state Nebraska, covering latest population and geographical information of Nebraska.

Without a doubt, this is considered a top attraction in Phoenix Musical Instrument Museum (MIM), where you can immerse yourself in the world of music and musical instruments. The museum is one of the 15 best museums in the United States. The Marcos de Niza Trail near the big city is worthwhile for hikers. Maricopa is also not far away and offers a very unique flair and sights such as the Ak-Chin Hi-Dak Eco-Museum or the Dwarf Car Museum.

But there are also museums in other places in Grand Canyon State that are worth seeing. Among them, for example Arizona Sonora Desert Museum that combines the world of zoo, aquarium, natural history museum, botanical garden and art in a special way. The museum with various live animals is located in Tucson and is worth a visit for young and old.

National parks and natural landmarks in Arizona

Up, up and away! Arizona is a nature lover’s paradise and there are countless ways to spend wonderful days outdoors. Of course, the national parks and natural monuments of the state invite you to visit.

These include, for example, the following sights:

  • Grand Canyon National Park: The famous Grand Canyon is undoubtedly one of the greatest natural wonders on earth and was rightly added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979. The 1.6 kilometer deep and 446 kilometer long gorge and sight with the Colorado River in northern Arizona can ultimately be described with just one word: breathtaking!
  • Canyon de Chelly National Monument: These canyons have been inhabited by humans for almost 5,000 years. Much longer than any other part of the Colorado Plateau. Today at this place called Tsegi, their houses and pictures still tell stories from those days. The National Monument is administered together with the Navajo tribe who live there, raise cattle and farm the land in the canyons.
  • Petrified Forest National Park: Petrified Forest National Park is located in northeast Arizona and is best known for its fossilized wood. This wood also earned him the nickname Petrified Forest. You can hike in the hinterland, visit the Red Basin or Martha’s Butte or learn more about the unique forest in exhibitions.
  • Saguaro National Park: Tucson has the largest cacti in the country. The giant saguaro is the universal symbol of the American west and the majestic saguaro cacti are only found in a small part of the United States. They are protected by this national park, which is located east and west of Tucson. Admire the giant cacti and be sure to watch a sunset in the desert there.
  • Glen Canyon National Recreation: Find Lake Powell Reservoir, Page On The Reservoir Town, and More! The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area offers countless opportunities for an active vacation on and in the water and in the hinterland. It’s a vast recreational area that stretches from Lee’s Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs in southern Utah. Great landscapes, geological wonders and a decent piece of human history.
  • Agua Fria National Monument: The 71,000-acre Agua Fria National Monument is about 40 miles north of Phoenix and includes two mesas and the Agua Fria Canyon. The landscape with its plateau is beautiful and one of the most important systems of prehistoric sites in the American Southwest. It is also a fantastic place to see animals such as coyotes, lynx, antelopes, eagles and other animals.
  • Monument Valley: Monument Valley is one of the most majestic and most photographed places on earth. The sandstone masterpieces that soar into the desert sky here in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, framed by picturesque clouds, create a landscape that is simply magnificent. The John Ford Point is very beautiful, a lookout point named after the director, whose name is inextricably linked with the famous western actor John Wayne.
  • Cococino National Forest: The Cococino National Forest is one of the most diverse national forests in the country, with landscapes ranging from the famous Sedona Red Rocks and majestic Cathedral Rock to the Ponderosa pine forests and from the southwestern desert to alpine tundra. An excellent place to hike mountains and gorges or fish in small lakes.
  • Antelope Canyon: Antelope Canyon is the most-visited slot canyon in the southwestern United States and is located near Page, Arizona. A visit to this natural wonder is definitely worthwhile for young and old, and if it’s just about taking unforgettable holiday photos.
  • Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument: Look and listen carefully! Life pulsates in the Sonoran Desert, an international biosphere reserve and national monument. And if you listen carefully, you can hear the thousand-year history of the unique desert landscape. Take a scenic tour of the reserve, hike the wilderness, or spend one or more nights camping. It is worth it..
  • Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument: The volcanic crater is an impressive example of the destruction and rebirth of a landscape. When the volcano erupted in 1085, it changed not only the landscape, but also the people who lived there. Today it is an impressive example of how nature and man can influence one another.
  • Vermilion Cliffs National Monument: The Vermillion Cliffs are a geological treasure that includes the Paria Plateau, Vermillion Cliffs, Coyote Buttes, and Paria Canyon. The visit to the remote landscape is rewarded with a picturesque view of towering cliffs and deep gorges. And with a bit of luck you can spot the California condor there too. The absolute highlight is definitely “The Wave”.
  • Barringer Crater: Barringer Crater is minutes from Interstate 40 and Route 66 in northern Arizona near Winslow. It is the best preserved meteorite impact site in the world. Today the crater is a popular destination for the whole family. The attraction has an extensive visitor center with a 4D experience room and other attractions.

Worthwhile activities in Arizona

Arizona is a paradise for those who enjoy active vacations. Whether touring the national parks on foot, on horseback or by jeep or winter sports in Flagstaff, there is a lot possible in the Grand Canyon State. If you want, you can also drive on Route 66 by car or motorcycle or admire the Grand Canyon and the unique landscape of Arizona from dizzying heights by helicopter.

A trip on the Apache Trail, which offers an incomparable western experience, is unforgettable. The trail follows an ancient Indian path through the canyons of the Salt River and was once laid out as a supply route for the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Dam. Today the Apache Trail leads in the footsteps of the Indians through an extremely scenic area, past several state parks and former ghost towns such as Goldfield Ghost Town. There is also a rattlesnake zoo here that you can visit.

In addition, Arizona is an excellent starting point to explore the wild west of the USA. A road trip through California, Arizona, and Nevada is an experience you won’t forget in life. For such a round trip through Nevada, Arizona and California you can start from Los Angeles, for example. You should plan at least three weeks for the route from Los Angeles.

Do you love water and are you looking for a source of relaxation? Then why not pay a visit to the state’s beautiful lakes? In addition to Lake Powell, which is well known to most, the lakes Lake Havasu, Lake Mohave, Sanguaro Lake, Watson Lake and Granite Basin Lake are worth seeing.

And anyone who is enthusiastic about airplanes should definitely visit the one in Tucson Pima Air and Space Museum visit. Here in the Pima Air and Space Museum, visitors can expect countless planes and other aircraft from all eras and types of use.

Arizona for Tourists

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Cypress Gardens – The Botanical Park https://www.homosociety.com/cypress-gardens-the-botanical-park.html Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:35:42 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1400 Cypress Gardens had been closed since April 2003 and reopened in late 2004. The new operator gave up in September 2009. Between Tampa and Orlando in Winterhaven. From Interstate 4 onto US Highway 27 South, then onto State Road (SR) 540 West towards Winterhaven. Botanical gardens, water ski demonstrations, butterfly conservatory, reptile and bird of prey demonstrations.

From autumn 2011 the largest Legoland in the world will be on the site (official website). Legoland offers more than 50 attractions, rides and shows. Previous attractions such as the botanical garden, the manor house and the water ski shows remained. Legoland amusement parks are currently in Billund in Denmark, in Windsor near London, north of San Diego in California and in Günzburg in Bavaria.

The park was opened by Dick and Julie Pope in 1936. Originally only 6.4 hectares in size, it soon became particularly popular with its subtropical fauna and cypress groves. Most recently, the park had an area of ​​81 hectares and was partly reminiscent of the flower island of Mainau. But not only gardens with streams, lakes and cypresses were found. More than 8000 plants and flowers from more than 90 countries, water ski demonstrations, variety, figure skating, butterflies, small animals, reptiles, birds and museum exhibitions were shown.

Rating

Cypress Gardens was the “Mainau” of Florida, especially a facility for botany lovers. It was much quieter than the turbulent large parks in Orlando -Area, the visitors were mostly older. The park was less recommended for families with especially small children. The park was easy to visit with a stroller. The shows featured strongly acrobatic content. Whether the ski show was the best in Florida or not is an open question. You could easily spend a whole day here. Those who stayed until the evening experienced a “lighting orgy” which, according to average European tastes, can be perceived as kitschy. Those who stayed that long should, however, be mosquito-proof; these little beasts were already active during the day.

Worthwhile trips from Orlando

There are several attractions in the Orlando area that are well worth a visit.

Popular destinations for excursions include, for example:

  • Kennedy Space Center: The Kennedy Space Center is about an hour’s drive from Orlando on the Atlantic coast. Space history was once written here with NASA’s moon missions. Today the interactive visitor complex of the Kennedy Space Center can be visited. And with a little luck, you can even experience rocket launches live here during your explorations.
  • Cypress Gardens – Legoland Orlando: The Cypress Gardens are located in the largest Legoland on earth. This beautiful and historic botanical garden has been restored to its original state. Here in this horticultural masterpiece you can marvel at many native plants such as azaleas and camellias while on vacation. A particular highlight is the huge banyan tree that was planted in 1939. Cypress Gardens is about an hour’s drive from downtown Orlando.
  • Tampa: The city of Tampa is located on the Florida Gulf Coast at Tampa Bay, which is not only an important economic center, but also has many attractions to offer. The museums and cultural offerings and of course Busch Gardens with its rides and animal enclosures are remarkable. And those who really want to have fun on their tour in the evening will also appreciate Tampa’s lively nightlife. From Orlando, Tampa is approximately a 1.5 hour drive.
  • St. Petersburg: St. Petersburg is about half an hour from Tampa and is a nice destination if you are going to Tampa anyway. In addition to the beautiful beaches, the Salvador Dali Museum with works by the painter and the Fort De Soto Park are worth seeing.
  • Gatorland: About 20 kilometers south of Orlando, Florida is Gatorland, an alligator reptile animal park that opened in 1949. In Gatorland, visitors can marvel at hundreds of crocodiles and snakes, and face a variety of alligators face to face on the grounds. Because several hundred alligators live on the grounds of the park.
  • Daytona Beach: You also want to relax a little and enjoy the sun by the sea and not just by the pool? Then take a trip to Daytona Beach with its endless white beaches. You can also spot manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles here. Daytona Beach is located approximately 80 kilometers away from Orlando.
  • Everglades: The Everglades swamps are a considerable distance from Orlando, but are part and parcel of a stay in Florida anywhere, so the drive is definitely worth it. Take a look at the unique landscape in this paradise during an airboat tour and you will probably also have the opportunity to take a look at the alligators in the marshland from an airboat.

Cypress Gardens - The Botanical Park

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French Polynesia Culture https://www.homosociety.com/french-polynesia-culture.html Thu, 28 Jul 2022 16:46:06 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1398 Modern Tahitians maintain the legacy and ancient traditions of their Maohi ancestors. Fascinating legends tell about many interesting facts of history and culture. For example, throwing darts was the sport of the gods, kings were fond of horseback riding, and Aito strongmen competed in canoe races.

Marae
According to Rctoysadvice.com, Marae are open sanctuaries that were the center of power in ancient Polynesia. They are large stone structures and are a kind of temples for the local population.

Hieva Festival
Among the ancient traditions, the Hieva Festival has been considered the most important event in Tahiti for the last 122 years. Residents of many islands gather in Papeete – the capital of the island of Tahiti – to participate in competitions, including ancient sports and traditional national dances.

Tattoo
For the first time, tattoos were made in Tahiti. In Polynesian culture, tattoos have long been considered a sign of beauty. Even whole ceremonies were performed to reproduce them on the human body.

Dancing and Music
In ancient times, dancing was associated with all aspects of the life of the inhabitants of the islands. They danced for any reason: for joy or to show hospitality to a guest, while invoking the gods or to challenge the enemy, etc. The dances were accompanied by traditional musical instruments, including deafening drums, clam shells and nasal flutes. The modern music of Tahiti is also very pleasant – Polynesian rhythms are combined with Western melodies.

Canoes
Canoes play a very important role in the daily life of the inhabitants of the Tahiti islands, they are used for colorful races.

Flowers
Almost all the islands of Tahiti are buried in tropical plants. Hibiscus flowers are worn behind the ear or woven into wreaths. I greet guests with the Tiare flower. Traditionally, married men and women wear the flower behind their left ear.

Arts and crafts

Crafts are very widely developed on the Polynesian islands, and exhibitions of works by local masters are held annually. The art of weaving has reached its pinnacle in hats of various designs, handbags, baskets and mats, in the manufacture of which the plant fibers of the pandanus, coconut palms or the aeho plant are skillfully used.

Observation and love for nature are especially evident in the lush tifaifai, hand-sewn bedspreads with floral and ethnic motifs. Such covers are an integral part of the decoration of the Polynesian headlights, and on the islands of the Society archipelago there are often exhibitions of coverlets of the most fantastic shapes and colors.

The skill of Polynesian artisans is also embodied in wood products, including wooden sculpture. Artists find inspiration in graphic and symbolic motifs, which are embodied in products from precious woods – tou, a local variety of rosewood and rosewood, as well as from volcanic stone, coral and even bone, from which various decorative trinkets are made. Ocean shell mother-of-pearl finds its use in another area – it is difficult to imagine Polynesian dance costumes and jewelry without it.

Honeymoon

More than half of the tourists who come to Tahiti and its islands are newlyweds or those who want to celebrate a wedding anniversary or just an engagement. The wedding ceremony itself is not official from a legal point of view, although all the participants, flowers, pareos, tapas are certainly real. A Polynesian wedding is an opportunity to participate in an exotic performance where you are the main characters.

The wedding ceremony takes place on the beach, usually at sunset. The beach is decorated in the Polynesian manner with palm leaves, flowers and is lit by huge torches.

Shortly before sunset, the bride and groom are taken to separate bungalows to dress in the Polynesian pareo.

The dancers bring the Vahine bride to the beach to the sound of the guitar and ukulele.

The toastmaster, surrounded by dancers, meets the groom Tane, who sails on a pirogue, accompanied by men in traditional costumes. They lead the groom to the bride, singing the traditional song: Haere mai na tau here.

According to tradition, the head of the ceremony delivers a speech in Tahitian and hands the newlyweds a necklace of tiara flowers, which they exchange while reciting their wedding vows. After that, the newlyweds are given a marriage certificate written in real Tapa.

Next, the witnesses cover the newlyweds with the traditional Tifaifai (wedding veil). Dancers and singers sing to celebrate the happiness of the new family.

The newlyweds are escorted to a decorated bungalow or room or to a festive table on the beach or taken to a motu (desert island), where champagne, fruits, flowers are already waiting for them.

If you prefer to celebrate your wedding in private, you can order a romantic dinner by candlelight and a table decorated with flowers in the restaurant or on the motu or terrace.

We can also arrange for you a private picnic on a desert island, where you will be brought from your hotel on a pirogue. Friday will serve you (one of the Tahitian boys).

French Polynesia Culture

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Major Cities in Illinois https://www.homosociety.com/major-cities-in-illinois.html Fri, 22 Jul 2022 10:05:49 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1395 SPRINGFIELD

According to Acronymmonster, Springfield is the capital of the state of Illinois (United States) and capital of Sangamon County, about 300 km. southwest of Chicago and 167 masl; it was founded in 1819 and chosen as the seat of government in 1837. It has a typically continental climate with an average annual temperature of 11 °, 1; cold winters (January −2 °, 7), hot summers (July 24, 4), with enormous range between absolute minimums and maximums; rainfall amounts to 935 mm., distributed in each month of the year with a prevalence of spring and summer; considerable snowfall (500 mm.). The population rose from 2579 inhabitants in 1840 to 19,743 in 1880, to 34,159 in 1900, to 59,183 in 1920, to 71,864 in 1930. In that year 86.7% of the population was made up of indigenous Whites; 8.7% by whites born abroad (6245 individuals, mainly Germans and English; the Italians were 790); 4.6% was given by elements of color. The city is located in an important district for agriculture, livestock and mining (coal). 53% of the population over the age of 10 was employed in various economic activities in 1930. 4419 workers were employed in large-scale industry in 1929 (steel and mechanical industries; textile and food industries, etc.). The Illinois Watch Company’s major factory with 1,500 workers is based in the city. Springfield is an important railway junction and aviation center served by American Airways. The city is rich in monuments, palaces and has numerous schools, libraries, scientific and cultural associations, museums. 4419 workers were employed in large-scale industry in 1929 (steel and mechanical industries; textile and food industries, etc.). The major Illinois Watch Company factory is based in the city, with 1,500 workers. Springfield is a major rail hub and aviation hub served by American Airways. The city is rich in monuments, palaces and has numerous schools, libraries, scientific and cultural associations, museums. 4419 workers were employed in large-scale industry in 1929 (steel and mechanical industries; textile and food industries, etc.). The major Illinois Watch Company factory is based in the city, with 1,500 workers. Springfield is a major rail hub and aviation hub served by American Airways. The city is rich in monuments, palaces and has numerous schools, libraries, scientific and cultural associations, museums.

Chicago

City (2,833,300 residents In 2006, 9,506,000 urban agglomeration in 2006) of the United States, in the state of Illinois. In recent years, Chicago has offered a radically renewed urban image above all thanks to some significant large-scale interventions. The main one is the recovery of the coastal strip along Lake Michigan: a spectacular linear park – punctuated by notable architectural episodes, by free areas arranged with beaches, sports fields, marinas for yachting – was built along Lake Shore Drive, the old coastal scenic road, keeping pedestrian and cycle paths separate from high-speed driveways.

East of Michigan Avenue, one of the main arteries of the central sector of the city, extended, in particular, a vast railway area, in turn the result of a flood that had recovered large surfaces from the waters of the lake: from the subsequent burying of the tracks, covered by a gigantic reinforced concrete slab, a precious free area has been created, in front of the most prestigious part of the Loop, the main business and commercial district of Chicago, and, with an exemplary landscaping, Millennium Park has been created. To the north, the park is home to a striking and sculptural metal structure, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion (2004), designed by FO Gehry and used, with great public success, for outdoor concerts and other events. Some spectacular installations by qualified contemporary artists, including A. Kapoor, completed the ensemble. Not far away was the Lurie Garden (2000-2004), a sober and refined garden that extends for about three acres, designed by K. Gustafson, of the Gustafson Guthrie Nicho Ltd. studio in Seattle, together with two consultants, the the Dutch P. Oudolf and the Californian R. Israel.

Among the main architectural interventions carried out in the late nineties are the Museum of Contemporary Art, a severe building designed by the German JP Kleihues (1996) and the large single-family house built by T. Ando in Lincoln Park (1997). Three notable achievements were completed in 2003: the first two are inside the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), and it is the McCormick Tribune Campus Center of R. Koolhaas, a multifunctional student center characterized by the incorporation of the elevated metropolitan railway line within the volumes of the factory, and the adjacent State Street Village dormitories, designed by H. Jahn. The third work consists of the courageous intervention designed by Wood + Zapata and Lohan Caprile Goettsch Architects for the Soldier Field stadium, conceived and built in 1924 by Holabird & Roche. Also significant are the many recent recoveries made in some historic residential districts, characterized in the past by extensive degradation phenomena.

Chicago

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What to See in Brest and Dijon (France) https://www.homosociety.com/what-to-see-in-brest-and-dijon-france.html Fri, 15 Jul 2022 03:43:32 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1391 Brest (France)

According to Printerhall.com, Brest is located in the northwest of France in the historical region of Brittany. The city is located on the shores of one of the bays of the Atlantic Ocean. This port was founded in the 17th century. During the Second World War, a large German submarine base was located here. In order to destroy this strategic object, the pilots of the American and British air forces constantly bombarded Brest, so at the end of the war the city was destroyed. In the fifties, they tried to restore it, but Brestdid not become the same.

Of the attractions, one can single out the ancient Castle. He himself is not very attractive, but his Tanguy tower is worth a visit. Here is a museum that tells about the pre-war history of the city. The Oceanapolis Center is located in the east of the city. It is divided into three pavilions, each of which describes different climatic zones (tropical, temperate and polar). In total, there are more than 40 aquariums throughout the center. By visiting it, you will learn the details of the marine life of various areas of the oceans. In 1996, the Center Atlantique de la Photographie was created. For 400 sq. meters, up to 10 exhibitions of various photographs are held annually. From July to August, colorful carnivals with live music and delicious food are held every Thursday at the local port. Every year in November since 1985 in the cultural center “Quartz”

In general, there are not so many places in Brest that will be of interest to tourists, but as soon as you get out of the city, beautiful landscapes will appear before you. The coastline in the Brest region is extremely beautiful. There are sandy beaches in the area, and high cliffs rise above them. In coastal waters you can swim, windsurf, sail on yachts and fish. The weather here is capricious, with strong western winds storms occur.

You can get to Brest by plane – the international airport is located 9 km from the center of Brest. There is also a high-speed train from Paris to Brest.

Dijon (France)

Dijon, the ancient capital of Burgundy, is located in the central part of France. It stands on the river Ouch and is a port on the Burgundy Canal. This is one of the most beautiful cities in the country, a center of culture and a gastronomic Mecca.

Dijon began to be built in the 3rd century. around the Gallo-Roman fortification, which existed from the 4th century BC. BC. With the accession of the Capetian dynasty, it becomes the capital of Burgundy, the most brilliant court in Europe, an outstanding center of arts, science and education. Burgundy was a separate state, and a state much stronger than France. The rulers of Dijon made him “a pearl that sings in the shell of the fields and hills.” In the XIV century. the Capetians are replaced by the Valois dynasty, three of whose representatives were born in Dijon: John the Fearless, Philip the Good and Charles the Bold. After joining the French crown, the city has been a thriving center for winemaking for centuries.

The main attraction of Dijon is the medieval center, in the heart of which the Ducal Palace is located. The palace was built in the 12th century. and renovated by the royal architect Hardouin-Mansart at the end of the 17th century. Almost in its original form, the chapel of Philip the Good has come down to us, where he announced the creation of the Order of the Golden Fleece; Hall of the Guards with the tombs of Philip the Good and John the Fearless. The palace currently houses the Museum of Fine Arts., which contains a rich collection of Burgundian sculpture of the 15th-16th centuries, as well as collections of Flemish primitivists and works by contemporary artists.

Among other museums in Dijon, it is worth noting the Museum of Burgundy, located in the Bernardine monastery of the 17th century; the Magnin Museum, which exhibits paintings by Flemish and Italian artists; Museum of Natural History, founded in 1836 and exhibiting rich geological and paleontological collections, as well as 10,000 insect specimens; Botanical Garden, with 3,500 plant species.

Next to the Ducal Palace is the Cathedral of Notre Dame. It was built in the 13th century. in gothic style. The facade of the building, decorated with sculptures, is interesting.

Dijon (France)

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Canaima, Bolívar (Venezuela) https://www.homosociety.com/canaima-bolivar-venezuela.html Fri, 08 Jul 2022 05:43:09 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1386 According to Petwithsupplies.com, the village of Canaima is located in the east of Venezuela at the northwestern edge of the country’s most popular protected area, the Canaima National Park. Canaima is the base for most excursions in the park. Canaima National Park covers most of the vast Guiana Highlands, which covers about a third of Venezuela ‘s territory.. It was founded in 1962 and in 1994 UNESCO added it to the World Heritage List. The area of the park is 30 thousand square meters. km. It is here that the highest waterfall in the world – Angel (1054 m) is located, and numerous “tepui” (table mountains with flat tops) are located, which are considered by local Indians from the Pemon tribe as sacred places where spirits live. In the tropical forests and savannas of the park, there are about 9 thousand species of plants, among which there are more than 500 species of orchids, 150 species of mammals (jaguars, cougars, ocelots, tapirs, peccaries, agoutis, anteaters, monkeys, giant otters), more than 500 species of birds (eagles, falcons, parrots, toucans, hummingbirds), 72 species of reptiles and about 50 species of amphibians. The best time to visit the park is the rainy season (April-November), when the rivers and waterfalls are at their fullest. There is a fee to visit the park. All excursions in the park must be accompanied by a guide.

There is a small airport in the village of Canaima, where tourists from other regions of Venezuela arrive. Most tourists spend several days in the park. Canaima offers campsites and cottages for accommodation. The village is located on the banks of the picturesque Canaima lagoon (Canaima Lagoon), where there is a sandy beach. Anatoliy’s island is located in the center of the lagoon. Due to the presence of a large amount of quartz here, the water in the lagoon has a brown color, and the sand is pink. There are 4 waterfalls in this part of the lagoon. Two of them – waterfalls Ukayma (Salto Ucaima) and Golondrina (Salto Golondrina) – can be seen by sailing on a boat, and under the other two – waterfalls Sapo (Salto Sapo) and Acha (Salto Hacha) – a trail has been laid, that is, tourists can pass right under the stream. But the most famous waterfall in Canaima National Park is Angel Falls. (Sapo Angel). It is because of him that tourists from all over the world come to these parts every year. Angel Falls is the highest waterfall in the world. Its waters break down from one of the highest mountains of the Guiana Highlands – Auyantepui – from a height of 983 m. The waterfall was opened to the world in 1937, when American pilot Jimmy Angel landed on the top of Auyan Tepui. The waterfall was named after him. Tourists are taken to the waterfall from the village of Canaima either by boat or by plane. or helicopter. In the dry season (December-March), the local rivers become shallow, so at this time you can get to the waterfall only by air. During air excursions, tourists fly over Mount Auyan Tepui and over the waterfall, and helicopters have the opportunity to land on one of the ledges of the mountain near the observation deck. If you choose the boat tour, you will have to spend at least one night at the falls. Tourists are taken from Canaima to one of the camps located near the waterfall, where they spend the night in hammocks, and then along the path they get to the observation deck, from where you can admire the waterfall. The observation deck is small, so on weekends, when a lot of tourists come, queues accumulate. Almost constantly the top of Auyan-Tepui is shrouded in clouds, only in the morning the sky clears up.

On the other side of Auyan Tepui is the village of Kavac, where excursions are also arranged. They get to the village by plane. In the vicinity of the village is the Kavac cave. A river flows along the bottom of the cave, along which tourists swim and get inside. Inside the cave, twilight reigns, and water flows down the walls.

The eastern part of Canaima National Park is called “Great Plains” (La Gran Sabana). On the southeastern outskirts of the Gran Saban is the highest mountain of the Guiana Highlands – Mount Roraima (2810 m). The top of the mountain is absolutely flat, and its area is 30 square meters. km. Roraima is located at the junction of the borders of Venezuela, Brazil and Guyana. It is considered to be the “lost world” that Conan Doyle described in his book, and the Indians consider this place to be the “center of the Earth.” You can get to the top of the mountain only on your own. Most tours last about 6 days (2.5 days up, 1.5 days summit and 2 days descent). Climbing is mandatory with a guide, and tourists are also offered “porters” who will carry all the necessary things throughout the tour.

Canaima, Bolívar (Venezuela)

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Leon, Castile-Leon (Spain) https://www.homosociety.com/leon-castile-leon-spain.html Fri, 01 Jul 2022 03:35:10 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1382 According to Handbagpicks.com, Leon is located in northern Spain at the foothills of the Cantabrian Mountains. It is the center of the province of León. This is the largest and one of the most interesting provinces of the autonomous region of Castile-Leon in terms of tourism.

The first mention of a settlement in these places dates back to 70 AD, when a Roman camp was located here, which controlled the work of the Las Medulas gold mines, located to the west. The settlement was named Legio, hence the name “Leon”. In the 9th century, the city of León was conquered from the Moors and annexed to the kingdom of Asturias, which became part of the vast kingdom of León in the 10th century. It was in the 10th century under King Ordoño II that the city of Leónbecame the capital of this kingdom. In the 13th century the capital was moved to Valladolid. An important role in the development of the city was played by the fact that it was one of the largest centers on the Way of St. James (El Camino de Santiago), which leads to the tomb of the Apostle James, located in the far north of Spain in the city of Santiago de Campostela. That is why the grandiose cathedral and churches were built in Leon. It is worth noting that to this day the Way of St. James is one of the main Christian pilgrimage routes, and the churches and cathedrals located along its entire length, including those of Leon, are the pearls of religious architecture.

The main attraction of Leon is the Cathedral, which is called the “House of Light”. It was built between the 13th and 16th centuries and is now considered the most beautiful Gothic cathedral in Spain. The facade of the cathedral is decorated with three carved entrance arches, a rose-shaped window, which has a diameter of 8 m, and two towers. Passing through the main entrance, you will find yourself in a gallery with hundreds of stained glass windows made of glass of various colors. Stained glass windows are a distinctive feature of the Cathedral of León and create its unique appearance, especially during daylight hours, when the gallery is filled with colorful light beams. It is because of the many windows that the cathedral was nicknamed the “House of Light”. Inside the cathedral, the altar is interesting, in which there is a silver urn, where the relics of St. Freulian, the patron saint of the city, are kept, chapels with tombs of famous personalities, including the tomb of King Ordoño II, and a cloister with frescoes of the 15th century. At the cathedral, the Diocesan Museum is open, where old paintings and Romanesque sculptures of the Virgin Mary are exhibited. Near the cathedral you can see the remains of the Roman walls of the Crypt de Puerta Obispo.

Not far from the Cathedral is the Romanesque church of San Isidoro.. The basilica was built in the 11th century under King Ferdinand I and completely rebuilt in the 12th century. Of greatest interest is the Pantheon Real – the tomb, where the relics of St. Isidore and the remains of 11 rulers of the kingdom of León and their families are buried. The vault of the Pantheon, decorated with frescoes of the 12th-13th centuries, rests on powerful columns, between which there are sarcophagi. Because of the abundance of frescoes, the Pantheon is often called the Spanish Sistine Chapel. There is also a museum in the church, which presents objects of religious art of the 11th-12th centuries and unique manuscripts.

In 1173, the monastery of San Marcos was founded in León on the banks of the Bernesga River., which has become one of the key points on the pilgrimage Way of St. James (El Camino de Santiago). To protect the pilgrims from the attacks of the Moors, the military orders of St. James were placed here. The original buildings of the monastery have not been preserved, as the monastery was completely rebuilt in the 16th century in the Renaissance style. Now it houses a five-star hotel, a church and the Archaeological Museum, which tells about the history of the region since the Paleolithic. The hotel is made in the form of a rectangle with a length of about 100 m. Its Plateresque facade is decorated with columns, carvings, sculptures and medallions.

Be sure to take a walk along the city’s main square, Plaza Mayor, surrounded by baroque buildings. Also of interest is the nearby area of Barrio Humedo., where the most famous restaurants and bars of the city are concentrated. In addition to restaurants, there is the oldest church in the city of San Salvador de Plat del Rey (10th century), the Church of San Martin of the 11th century, the Romanesque church of El Mercado of the 12th century, the palaces of Conde Luna of the 14th century, Casa de las Carnicerias, the 16th-century Palacio de los Guzmanes, which housed the provincial parliament, and the neo-Gothic Casa de Botines, designed by the architect Gaudí in the late 19th century. Also, one of the largest centers of contemporary art in Spain, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Castile and León, has been opened in Leon . . Various exhibitions are constantly held here. And the building of the museum complex itself is of considerable interest: its facade is made of multi-colored glass, reminiscent of fragments of stained glass windows of the Cathedral of Leon.

Leon, Castile-Leon (Spain)

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Vodlozersky Park, Russia https://www.homosociety.com/vodlozersky-park-russia.html Fri, 24 Jun 2022 12:51:34 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1378 According to Computerdo.com, Vodlozersky Park was created to preserve the natural complex in the basin of Lake Vodlozero and the Ileksa River. Its territory is divided into three parts: Vodlozerskaya with a center in the village of Kuganavolok, Ileksskaya with a center in the city of Onega and Pudozhskaya with a center in the village Valdai. The administrative center of the park is located in the village of Kuganavolok. The park is dominated by plains covered with taiga forests, where larch, pine, spruce, downy and drooping birch and aspen grow. More than 10% of the park area is occupied by rivers and lakes. The main body of water is Lake Vodlozero. The area of the water surface of the Vodlozero is 334 square meters. km, the depth reaches 16.3 m. This is one of the largest reservoirs in the Republic of Karelia. More than 40% of the park’s area is occupied by swamps with cranberries and cloudberries growing on them, cinquefoil and wild rosemary, and rare sphagnum mosses. The local forests are home to 38 species of mammals, 177 species of birds, of which 129 are nesting species, 5 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 22 species of fish. The most common are brown bear, lynx, wolverine, elk, fox, marten, badger and muskrat. The southern border of the modern habitat of the reindeer passes through the park. Swans, geese, geese, sandpipers, river and diving ducks, whooper swan and bean goose are found in the swamps. In addition, rare birds such as the white-tailed eagle, osprey and golden eagle can be seen in the park. Pike perch, roach, pike, bream, whitefish, grayling, ide, burbot, vendace, dace, crucian carp, sculpin and perch are found in local reservoirs and rivers, which attracts anglers here. Ice fishing is very popular on Lake Vodlozero. which attracts anglers. Ice fishing is very popular on Lake Vodlozero. which attracts anglers. Ice fishing is very popular on Lake Vodlozero.

On the territory of the Vodlozero Park, many architectural monuments of the 18th-19th centuries have been preserved – barns, chapels and peasant houses. The most popular cultural attraction is the Ilyinsky churchyard ensemble. This monument of wooden architecture was built in the 18-19 centuries. According to some reports, it was founded in the 16th century by monks who followed to the Solovetsky Islands. Ilyinsky churchyard stands on a cape, deeply protruding into Vodlozero. It includes the wooden church of Elijah the Prophet and the Assumption of the Virgin, a bell tower and a chopped fence. The church was built in 1798 and almost completely rebuilt in 1902. Now it is a functioning Orthodox church. Of greatest interest is a massive chopped log fence, which in the northern part of Russia practically not preserved. The fence is similar to stone fortress walls. There are many routes in the park – hiking, skiing, horseback riding, cycling, water and bus. In winter, you can travel through the park on snowmobiles. All routes have a duration of 1 to 5 days. The park has a children’s ecological camp, small hotels, a camp site, more than 80 tourist camps and guest houses arranged in peasant huts. The city of Medvezhyegorsk is located 170 km northwest of Pudozh on the shores of the Povenets Bay of Lake Onega.. The history of the city begins with the construction of a sawmill on the river Kums in 1792-1794. Further, two events contributed to the emergence of the city of Medvezhyegorsk. In 1914-1916, the Murmansk railway passed through this place, and a settlement was formed at the Medvezhya Gora station. From those times in Medvezhyegorsk, the building of a wooden station, built in the form of a Dutch church, has been preserved. The station is still called Medvezhya Gora. The second event was the construction of the White Sea-Baltic Canal. The canal was built by political prisoners and opened in 1933. With the beginning of the construction of the canal, the village became a transit point for prisoners, and with its completion – the capital of the White Sea Canal. Medvezhyegorsk received city status in 1938. In the city center on Kirov Square, a monumental building of the former hotel has been preserved management of the White Sea-Baltic Canal in 1935. In front of him stands a monument to S.M. Kirov. Today, the former hotel houses the Medvezhyegorsk City Museum. The museum was founded in 1962. It contains archaeological and ethnographic collections, collections of photographs and paintings. Among the unique items exhibited in the museum are items made of wood and birch bark, Zaonezhskaya embroidery, wood painting by the Old Believers of Vygoretsia, copper casting and icons of the churches of Zaonezhye and Segozerye.

Sandarmokh tract is located 15 km south of Medvezhyegorsk. During the Stalinist repressions, there was a place for the execution of sentences. According to various sources, from 9 to 12 thousand people of different nationalities were shot here during the years of the “Great Terror”. Now there is a memorial complex in memory of the victims of Stalinist repressions in the 1930s “Sandarmokh” here. It is a branch of the Medvezhyegorsk City Museum. A wooden chapel in the name of St. George the Victorious was erected on the tract, a meadow of Memory with Orthodox and Catholic memorial crosses was equipped, a 4-meter Cossack cross was installed, a memorial stone was installed in the forest, and at the entrance to the cemetery with mass graves – a granite monument with the inscription “People Don’t kill each other.”

26 km east of Medvezhyegorsk, near the village of Povenets, from where the White Sea Canal begins, there is the so-called “staircase of locks”, the upper part of which is located at an altitude of 80 m from the level of Lake Onega.

Vodlozersky Park, Russia

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India Travel Tips https://www.homosociety.com/india-travel-tips.html Fri, 17 Jun 2022 01:56:23 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1374 According to Cellphoneexplorer.com, India is the cradle of ancient Indian civilization, the birthplace of four religions and the largest country in South Asia. This exotic destination attracts many travelers, but for a great trip, check out travel tips for India. After all, breaking the law threatens with fines, wrong gestures can offend local residents, and a hotel that does not meet your wishes will cause discomfort during the holidays.

Local laws

  • On excursions to sacred places, ask your guide if you can take pictures, often in temples this is prohibited. It is forbidden to film government and military institutions, including airports and train stations. And to take a photo of a local resident, ask him for permission.
  • In India, it is not customary to show feelings in public places, shake hands with women and put your hand on the shoulder of the interlocutor. It is also considered an offensive gesture to turn the toes of the shoes towards the interlocutor when communicating.
  • Swimwear, short dresses and shorts are appropriate only on the beach. For walks around the city and on excursions, wear more closed clothing.
  • Religious buildings are usually bypassed on the left side. You should not go inside with leather goods. Women in the shrine are required to have their heads covered.
  • The law prohibits smoking in public places, for violation there is a fine of 200 rupees (3 USD).
  • Please note that many airports in India can only be entered with an air ticket. Therefore, resolve all issues before leaving the terminal after arrival, be sure to have a return ticket with you.

Local currency and shopping in India

  • It is better to go to India with dollars. Change the small amounts of money you expect to spend. The export of the national currency from the country is prohibited, so the remaining rupees will have to be changed back, which is less profitable.
  • Keep your receipt when buying souvenirs. It will need to be presented at customs.
  • Most often, fabrics, carpets and spices are brought as gifts from India. Silk, cashmere and cotton, which are produced here, are considered among the highest quality in the world. Rajasthani cotton is the most popular. Usually, saris and lungi are sewn from it – traditional Indian outfits.
  • The country has cheap silver and a large selection of precious stones. Therefore, pay attention to the tips for vacationers in India about jewelry. You need to buy them only in specialized stores, and when paying, require a quality certificate. It may be needed at the border and, if you want to return the jewelry back.
  • Haggle when you buy items that don’t have a fixed price. Often the cost announced by the seller is overestimated by 2-3 times. Check the quality of things immediately at the checkout.

Accommodation in hotels

  • There are different categories of hotels in India. Before you make a choice, read the reviews of other travelers about the resorts that you liked. Budget hotels may not have air conditioning or internet in the room, and rats and insects are not uncommon in the cheapest options.
  • In addition to information about the infrastructure of the guest complex, it is important to study vacation tips in India about resorts. Families with children choose hotels in South Goa, where there are calm and clean sandy beaches. North Goa is suitable for youth recreation – there are many clubs and budget housing. The resorts of the Himalayas go skiing and climbing. For the purpose of an educational trip, choose the “Golden Triangle” – Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and to explore the underwater world, book rooms in hotels near the Andaman and Laccadive Islands. In the state of Kerala, where Ayurveda originated, complexes with wellness centers are common.
  • Choose hotels with in-room safes. The criminogenic level in the country is high, so leave all valuables and original documents “under lock and key”.
  • Before checking into a hotel, pay attention to tips for tourists in India regarding tips. Monetary gratitude in the country is called baksheesh. It is customary to give it everywhere: on excursions – to guides and bus drivers, in temples – to wandering monks and ascetics, as well as in resorts. They leave baksheesh at the reception to speed up the check-in process and get a better room, maids and porters – for excellent service. The tip amount depends on the service – from 10 to 20 rupees (0.15-0.30 USD).

Climatic features

  • Tropical climate prevails in the country’s beach resorts. These conditions are ideal for many insects. Therefore, take repellents and antihistamines on a trip, because bites can cause allergies.
  • An allergic reaction can also occur with a change in diet. Do not abuse exotic fruits and local cuisine, switch to new foods gradually.
  • Do not buy drinks with ice on the street, as it is made from tap water. Before drinking bottled water, pay attention to the tightness of the bottle. Unscrupulous sellers can refill an already used container. Don’t drink tap water either.
  • Hot weather contributes to the development of pathogenic microflora in the environment. Therefore, follow basic hygiene rules: always carry wet wipes with you and wash vegetables and fruits with soap. If possible, use a taxi instead of public transport.

India Travel Tips

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Sights of Egypt https://www.homosociety.com/sights-of-egypt.html Thu, 09 Jun 2022 17:27:35 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1372 According to Campingship.com, Egypt is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations, attracting a huge number of travelers every year. After all, there is everything for a good and eventful holiday. You can swim in the sea and sunbathe on the wide beaches, have fun in nightclubs, or explore the rich historical heritage of the country. The most interesting sights of Egypt are easy to visit by purchasing both a sightseeing tour and a beach ticket. The second option is more popular. There are many bureaus in coastal resorts that offer a wide range of programs for exciting trips to famous historical monuments, ancient cities and reserves. And cheap trips to Egypt allow you to visit even more interesting parts of the country!

Legendary pyramids

The Egyptian pyramid of Cheops is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that has survived to this day, and this fact alone causes admiration and surprise. According to historical information, the buildings were built during the period of the Old Kingdom, in the XXVI-XXIII centuries BC. e. In those days, there were no tools and equipment that modern builders have, and therefore there are still many legends around the construction of the pyramids. But if you believe the facts, it took more than 20 years and 100,000 workers to create each tomb. The largest building, named after Pharaoh Cheops, weighs over five million tons, and its height is 146 meters. The main attractions of Egypt are located in Giza, a suburb of Cairo.

Luxor Temple and Valley of the Kings

In the ancient Egyptian civilization, special attention was paid to religion: many architectural monuments were erected to glorify the gods. Thus, the Luxor Temple began to be built as early as the 14th century BC to honor the god Amon-Ra and his family. The size of the building is impressive – once there was a whole settlement on its territory. Tourists will be able to see the preserved sculptures, walk through the hall of columns, learn more about Egyptian culture in the open-air museum.

The list of Egypt attractions that are definitely worth seeing includes the Valley of the Kings, consisting of the tombs of the pharaohs. Of particular interest to tourists is the tomb of Tutankhamun. Since 1979, the Valley of the Kings has been protected by UNESCO.

Temples of Abu Simbel

The temples of Abu Simbel are included in the rating of attractions in Egypt along with the pyramids. Two religious monuments dedicated to Pharaoh Ramses II and his first wife Queen Nefertari are carved into the rock on the western bank of the Nile. The Temple of Ramses is a monumental structure, the main elements of which are 4 huge statues depicting the pharaoh himself and three patron deities. The second temple, erected in honor of Nefertari, also looks interesting, although not so impressive.

Bedouin village

Bedouins (desert dwellers) are nomadic tribes living far from civilization. For tourists, special tours are organized with a visit to the village, where you can chat with its inhabitants, immerse yourself in local life, learn more about the customs and traditions of the Egyptians.

The most interesting places in Egypt, in addition to the above, also include:

  • Cairo Egyptian Museum;
  • Palace and park of Montaza in Alexandria;
  • the mountain of Moses;
  • Colored Canyon in Nuweiba;
  • Ras Mohammed National Park.

Sights of Egypt

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Sri Lanka 2010 https://www.homosociety.com/sri-lanka-2010.html Fri, 03 Jun 2022 14:10:51 +0000 https://www.homosociety.com/?p=1361 The end of the civil war between the government and Tamil rebels organized in the Liberation tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) reached in 2009, after 26 years of clashes and over 70,000 victims, opened a new political phase and faced the government with the difficult task of pacification and reconstruction of a fabric of civil coexistence that would allow the country to recover stability and security. The conflict ended in a bloody way with a major offensive by the army which in 2008-09 had led to the reconquest of most of the territories in the hands of the rebels. Finally, in 2009 the decisive attack was launched on the LTTE stronghold near Kilinochchi during which, according to UN sources, about 40,000 Tamil civilians were killed. The leader of the Tigers also lost his life, Velupillai Prabhakaran, and subsequently the organization declared its defeat and the end of the armed struggle. In January 2010, the head of state Mahinda Rajapaksa (in office since 2005) obtained a second term with 57.9% of the vote. Its popularity, reinforced by ending the civil war, was also confirmed in the parliamentary elections held the same year, in which the alliance led by Rajapaksa (United people’s freedom alliance, UPFA) won 144 seats out of 225. The government it was, however, the subject of strong criticism – especially internationally – for its refusal to investigate human rights violations committed during the final phase of the civil war. His reluctance in this regard stiffened relations with Western states and India, traditional ally of the government, which has come out in favor of two resolutions of the United Nations Human Rights Council, approved in 2012 and 2013, aimed at shedding light on the deaths of Tamil civilians. The reconciliation process remained largely unfinished and the rights of minorities were often violated. The government also assumed increasingly authoritarian characters also following the constitutional amendment of 2010 which, in addition to having removed the limit of two presidential terms, had strengthened the role of the head of state, invested with the power to appoint the judges of the Supreme Court and of the Court of Appeal, members of the electoral commissions and the Human Rights Commission, as well as finance and police personnel. Re-candidate in the elections of January 2015, Rajapaksa was beaten by his former ally Maithripala Sirisena, former Minister of Health (they obtained respectively 47% and 51% of the votes), who managed to coagulate around his candidacy and his program to relaunch internal democracy both the opposition of the ‘United national front (UNF), is a large group of former UPFA deputies and to have the support of the Tamil community as well as the Hindu and Muslim communities. In the following month of August, the political force of the former president – who aspired to become prime minister – was also defeated by the elections for the renewal of the Parliament: in fact, the UNF won the relative majority of seats (106), whose leader Ranil Wickremesinghe was confirmed in the post of prime minister assumed in January.

The Tamil Tigers and the civil war

Between 1983 and 2009 Sri Lanka was torn apart by a protracted civil war that pitted government forces and the Tigers organization for the liberation of the Eelam Tamil (L tte), or Tamil Tigers. The conflict, which saw alternating phases of struggle, attacks and non-respected truces, caused the death of over 70,000 people, including heads of state and ministers. The presence of the Tamil minority, of Indian origin, which represents about 10% of the population, is a legacy of the colonial period, when the British brought Tamils ​​to the island to work on the tea plantations. Concentrated mainly in the north and east of the island, Tamils ​​feel marginalized in a country with a Buddhist majority, where the wind of Sinhalese nationalism is blowing strongly.

According to A2zcamerablog.com, the Tamil Tigers, created in 1976 by Velupillai Prabhakaran to create an autonomous state in the Eelam Tamil region, exploited the discontent of the ethnic minority to develop a real secessionist guerilla. They also managed to set up their headquarters in Jaffna, in the north of the country. In 1983 the clashes erupted into a civil war, which devastated the country for the next twenty-six years. During the years of the conflict there have been several, albeit unsuccessful, attempts by other states to mediate in order to reach a peace agreement. In particular, in 1987 India, under pressure from the protests of its Tamil community and the flow of refugees, intervened directly in the conflict, sending an interposition force. The Indian mission, Indian Peacekeeeping Force (Ipkf), however, did not achieve any results and, in 1990, the New Delhi government ordered the withdrawal. Following the Indian intervention, the conflict was further exacerbated and the Tamil Tigers carried out attacks of great resonance: in 1991 the former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated. In 1993, the organization killed then Sri Lankan president Ranasinghe Premadasa. These two assassinations, both carried out by suicide bombers, have made the clash even more gruesome. Although the parties had signed a ceasefire agreement between 2001 and 2005, thanks to the mediation of Norway, the conflict resumed with the rise to power of Rajapaksa, who aimed resolutely at a military solution to the conflict.

In May 2009, the Sinhalese army besieged guerrillas near Kilinochchi, the de facto capital of the Tamil territories. In the final siege, in which the L tte held hostage and also killed many Tamil civilians, many guerrillas lost their lives, including the leader of the Tigers, Prabhakaran himself. Subsequently, the organization admitted defeat and announced the end of the armed struggle. In September 2013, the Tamil National Alliance party (T na), which represents the Tamil minority, won the provincial elections which took place, for the first time in 25 years, in the north of the country. The area, mostly inhabited by the Tamil minority, has been garrisoned by the Sinhalese army since the end of the war in 2009. The issue, however, will not come to full resolution until the Sri Lankan central government agrees to the Tamil minority. much coveted devolution. The new president Sirisena has expressed his intention to proceed in this direction, but the mission will not be easy, given the strong opposition of Sinhalese nationalist groups.

Sri Lanka 2010

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