Travel Tour to Belgium
Tourism culture and History tour

Belgium travel overview

A pitcher of frothy beer, chocolate, paint and bureaucrats, Belgium off to a strong odor bourgeoisie. But if you are still looking for an 'artificial state' roughly made up two thirds of Flemings and Walloons from third. Divided by pride first and then by language, Belgian family shared a strong sense and an indomitable entrepreneurial spirit. And if the Belgian role in the European scene seems to be decreasing, it is because the people hardly boast of it. This country has more history, art, cuisine and architecture per square centimeter as many of its older and noisy neighbors.

best time to visit Belgium

It is usually difficult to find the extreme weather conditions in Belgium. From April to September are the warmest months, but we must not forget that regardless of the season can occur days, gray skies and wet streets. Arguably, the umbrellas and raincoats are almost the Belgian national dress.

Belgium vacation and Holidays

Apart from the traditional Catholic celebration, the festive months are July and August. The first Thursday of July is the Ommegang, a huge parade of nobles dressed in time. Belgian National Day is celebrated on July 21 and marks the opening of the Exhibition of Belgium, which lasts a month

Belgium attraction and places

Brussels

Brussels is a modest town that combines magnificent buildings with modern skyscrapers classic to which many visitors have become accustomed. Since it is the capital of the European Union, is full of bureaucrats and officials who give the place an air of efficiency without it becoming a place of great animation. The city is built on a pentagon of boulevards known as the Petit Ring. In the center is the Grand Place, which is said to be the Europe's most beautiful square. A twenty-minute walk leads to the area that houses the majority of accommodations in the city, will reach the majority of them by tram, bus or metro.
Near the Grand Place there are several museums, architectural gems and rarities. To the south, you can see the famous Manneken Pis, a statue of a boy doing pee in a street corner. To the north, Tintin lovers should not fail to visit the Comic Strip Center, located in an Art Nouveau building designed by Horta. To the east, near the Royal Palace, the Museum of Ancient Art and the Museum of Modern Art is complemented by brilliant.
In the Rue des Bouchers (street of butchers), near the Grand Place, are the majority of restaurants. In the area you can find specialties such as lobsters, crabs, mussels and fish waiting to be served in a restaurant after another. And none of Brussels sprouts.

Antwerp

The compact city of Antwerp, with a rich history, is one of the tourist resorts around the country side. Situated on the River Scheldt, is bordered by the 'Ring', a railway built in the sixteenth century a moat surrounding the city in a vain attempt to prevent the arrival of the Spaniards.

It is one of the most important ports in Europe, has an international air but something left. However, after its humble facade hides the Jewish quarter of the diamond industry more prosperous. Few places combine the old with the (relatively) new one so accomplished. Besides eclectic mansions with art nouveau and neo-Renaissance villas are medieval castles provide a myriad of cafes and a touch of magic.

Antwerp, which houses the largest gothic cathedral in the country (Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Katedraal), and the birthplace of Rubens, is an ideal place for art lovers, architecture lovers and globetrotters aimlessly fixed. In the Royal Museum of Fine Arts you can visit a magnificent collection of paintings of the early Flemish painters. The Antwerp Zoo is also highly recommended for its collection of exotic beasts. Located some 40 km north of Brussels, Antwerp has airport also offers connections by bus or train to Brussels and the neighboring countries.
Bruges

Bruges is the best preserved medieval city in Europe and the most visited Belgium. This "living museum" of the thirteenth century seems stopped in time since it closed its port. With two medieval centers, the Markt and the Burg, the city also boasts one of the best collections of art in the city. Groeninge Museum displays works by early Flemish painters and Stadhuis (City Hall) of XIV century contains excellent collections of paintings and furniture. For a spectacular view of the city, to climb the 366 steps to the belfry.
From Antwerp or Brussels can be rea ched this city from the northeast. Coaches from Antwerp and London route for Calais (France) stop at Bruges. Also recommended are visits a day from the city to the poppy fields of Flanders.

Ghent

If it were not for Paris, Ghent is the largest city of medieval Europe. With a rich history, dominated by the spirit of revolt and industrious effort, is at the confluence of the rivers Scheldt and Lys. Was the scene of bloody battles, led by its citizens, who rebelled against the heavy taxes and restrictions on their civil liberties. Ghent is a city gray and somewhat less picturesque than Bruges, but more realistic. It also has a bell that is worth the climb and the Sint-Baafskathedral (Bavon Cathedral) houses a masterpiece by Jan van Eyck, Adoration of the Lamb.
Situated between Brussels and Bruges, it is best to take the train or coach.
Ardennes

Travelers tend to overlook the far southeast Belgium, with many deep valleys and great forests. This area includes village hidden among the rows of the valleys of the Meuse and Lesse Ourthe or on top of green hills. Was the scene of the Battle of Bulge. There are many routes that allow the most visited cities in the region.
The town of Namur is the best starting point - with a station on the railway line leading to Luxembourg, also has connections to train or bus to some of more difficult access

Jeaneke Pis

You've heard of the statue of the young child is on track to Brussels but did you know that you have a sister? You can visit her in the Rue des Bouchers (street of butchers), where most restaurants in town.
Menin Gate

In the town of Ypres, in this memorial are written the names of 55,000 British soldiers killed in the trenches of Flanders during the First World War. Every afternoon, at 20 h sounds a bugle.
Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent

After about 10 minutes walk to the northeast of the central station of Ghent, the Museum of Fine Arts is well worth a visit. It houses works of the early Flemish artists and a couple of scenes of demonic Bosch.
Tongeren

To the east, near the city of Liege, has the honor Tongeren (near Tournai) to be the oldest city in the country. Founded in the 15th century BC as a base for Roman troops, the city maintains an important collection of Gallo-Roman ruins and is surrounded by Roman walls and medieval

activities in Belgium

Lovers of the outdoors can be directed to the Bulge, the largest forest in the country. In this area you can ski in winter and practice kayak, excursions or out mountain biking, besides having a good network of forest roads. Another possible activity is to visit the prehistoric caves in the area (especially those who are near the cities of Han-sur-Lesse, Rochefort and Dinant), which are interesting for those who enjoy exploring the underground terrain

History of Belgium

The residents of this country, France, Germany and the United Kingdom (across the North Sea) will soon set in Belgium as a nice place to kill each other. Conquered by Germanic tribes, Christianized in the seventh century and divided during the French rule in 1100, much of the country experienced a golden era of prosperity and flourishing of the arts under the French Duke of Burgundy during the fourteenth century. During this period saw the rise of the Flemish towns of Ypres, Ghent and Bruges, principally engaged in the textile industry. With the death of Bruges due to competition from the British and the closure of the river, Antwerp became the first European port.
The golden age began to go into decline in the mid-fifteenth century when the Netherlands were inherited by Spain, and began a long struggle against Spanish domination. Philip II sent the Inquisition to be adhered to Catholicism. Thousands were imprisoned and executed before the outbreak of war in 1568.
Revolt of the Netherlands took 80 years and ended when the Netherlands and the provinces allied to the Spanish thrown. Belgium and Luxembourg remained under Spanish dominion. The defeat of Napoleon at the battle of Waterloo led to the creation in 1814, the United Kingdom of The Netherlands, including Belgium and Luxembourg to the territory of the Netherlands. But the Catholic Belgians rebelled and became independent in 1830.
Despite the neutral position of Belgium, the Germans invaded in 1914. In 1940 the country was again attacked by the Germans, who were with the territory in three weeks. Questioned the rapid capitulation of the king Leopold III led to abdicate in favor of his son, King Baudouin, whose popular reign ended with his death in 1993. By not having children, what happened on the throne his brother Albert II.
The Kingdom of Belgium after the war was marked by economic growth that is later promoted to be designated headquarters of the European Union (EU) and Organization of the North Atlantic Treaty (NATO). Belgium today is a country that houses an army of diplomats, with whom he has come a wave of internationalism. While the capital was dedicated to working for the rest of Europe, the rest of Belgians remain unconcerned, the true spirit of the Belgians will continue to emanate from its people and its past.
In 1999 Crown Prince Felipe married a speech speech with both ball like flamenco roots.
In 1996, the Belgian government was accused of incompetence in the investigation into a case of pedophilia. This prompted 300,000 Belgians to protest in the streets of Brussels. In 2004, Marc Dutroux was sentenced to life imprisonment for the rape and murder of several adolescents.

In 2003, Belgium agreed to restrict the law of war crimes. These arrangements were carried out under U.S. pressure. Among those charged are George J. Bush Sr. and former Secretary of State Colin Powell

Belgium culture and people

The origin of the diversity of languages in Belgium dates back to the time of the Franks, who was sent to the Celts and Gauls to the southern regions, while the north remained a form of Dutch. Currently, the French is the language of the south. Brussels is one of the few officially bilingual capitals. Most Belgians are Catholics, and despite not practicing, religious traditions still existing in the country every day.
The first Belgian artists credited with the invention of oil painting, so it's no surprise the amount of artwork that has produced the country. The painter Jan van Eyck was pioneered in the fifteenth century, Pieter Brueghel followed with his scenes of peasant life in the sixteenth century, and Pieter Paul Rubens dominated in the art of the early seventeenth century for his use of light during the Baroque. In Antwerp, Rubens has opened a production workshop of painters who left their magnificent religious allegories famous Christ on the cross.
At the end of the twentieth century, originated in Brussels the sinuous Art Nouveau architecture of the hands of Henri van de Velde and Victor Horta. Horta is known for its interior, which prevents the straight lines - the roofs became an extension of the curved walls. The windows and wrought iron were very used to accentuate their creations in the form of coup whip.
The comics are other strengths of the Belgians, and while there are many local artists, Hergé, creator of the reporter Tintin is the best known.
Belgian food is very good reputation throughout Europe. Can be defined as a mixture of French and German, the main ingredients are meat and seafood. The Belgians have invented swear frits (french fries), and judging by their abundance, few dare to discuss. And although it did not invent beer or chocolate, could well have done

Belgium map

Travel Tour to Philippines
Tourism culture and History tour

travel in Philippines overview
The seven thousand islands that make up the Philippines are the major Southeast Asian forgotten: to be removed from the main land route, have never attracted a large number of tourists. Undoubtedly, this has hurt the country economically, but now its reputation for dangerous nation has become obsolete, and most of it has stabilized and is more secure. The country is promoting itself as like the smile of Asia and its people are friendly and helpful. Additionally, transportation is cheap, the food, quality and range of accommodation, wide.
In the Philippines pursues him unfortunately. In 2000, a research center based in Brussels declared the Philippines a country with increased susceptibility to disasters on Earth. Typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, landslides and military action against Muslim insurgents are just some of your problems.

best time to visit Philippines

The best time to visit the country extends from December to May, the low season of typhoons. During the Christmas holidays and Easter increased demand and difficult to find a ticket, regardless of transport.
The most colorful festivals are held during the months of January and May, while the rice terraces of Luzon show their full glory in March and April, this is also the best time of year to travel between the islands

Philippines Vacations and Holidays

New Year's Day is celebrated with great hustle and fireworks. On January 9 will celebrate the Black Nazarene Procession, the largest in the country, which wanders through the streets of Quiapo a statue of Jesus in life-size black wood. Filipino Carnival on Tuesday, the Ati-Atihan, is celebrated during three days of the third week of January in Kalibo (Panay Island). On Friday proliferate flogging, especially popular in San Fernando and Antipolo, near Manila. May also organize other processions, such as the Flores de Mayo in honor of the Virgin Mary. On June 12 is celebrated with military parades on Independence Day

Philippines attraction

Manila

Some consider Manila as a city of only about ten million people, access point to other places more interesting. And while the least urbanized areas are a great attraction for the more adventurous traveler, who stay a while in the capital city that is home to discover some treasures. Manila is a modern metropolis (was completely destroyed during World War II) which claims to have some beautiful colonial vestiges. The city may be the ideal place for leisure: bars and entertainment venues will keep the traveler in shape and eager to continue the fun for months.
Banaue

The spectacular bench where rice is grown in Banaue in northern Luzon, have been described by many as the eighth wonder of the world. Excavated from the hillside by Ifugao tribe of the two or three thousand years, is spreading like stone steps to the sky, some up to an altitude of 1,500 m.
Beaches

The island of Boracay, located on the northwest corner of Panay, regularly appears on lists of best beaches in the world. However, uncontrolled tourism development has hindered the elimination of waste. Environmental tests conducted in 1997 showed that Boracay waters from being polluted and not providing sufficient health guarantees for bathing. Subsequent studies revealed that the waters were within acceptable limits of contamination, and it is true that the beaches of Boracay seemed to have recovered a idílico.Puerto Galera on Mindoro Island, has become the ideal enclave to enjoy the sun. Puraran on the island of Catanduanes, near Luzon, also offers beautiful beaches, reefs and opportunities for surfing, but the currents can be dangerous.
Other points of interest

Throughout the archipelago, there are many pockets of great beauty, like the Chocolate Hills of Bohol (Visayas province), the crater of Taal Lake, south of Manila, the burial caves of Sagada, Bontoc and 18 km from the quiet port city of Cebu, where Magellan commanded to erect a cross, marking the beginning of Christianity in the Philippines, and a total of five thousand and even uninhabited islands to explore

Remote islands

The islands north of Bohol are particularly suited for the more adventurous, especially Dibutonay, and Maltatayoc Horse, located in Bay Gutob, between the islands of Busuanga and Culion. Batan Islands in the North, preserved surprisingly, are characterized by difficult access. They offer the possibility to visit remote towns, where you can stay in private homes.
Vigan

In Northern Luzon, Vigan has remnants of the splendid architectural legacy Spanish. Colonial structures are preserved in very good shape and atmosphere of a unique seventeenth century. The town has several museums dedicated to various national heroes who were born there.
Viriato

On the island of Samar in the Visayas, is Viriato, population next to a coastal road with one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country that runs between mountains, steep cliffs, remote islands and beautiful bays full of boats. In the village can also admire great waterfalls and made good hiking.
Lake Sebu

The lake, a beautiful inland sea on the island of Mindanao , is located in the highlands of southern Tiruray, at an altitude of 300 m. The main attraction of this remote enclave is the possibility of knowing the culture and traditional lifestyle. The local tribe, the t'boli remains in an almost total seclusion and is famous for the quality of their work in brass and tissues. The Saturday market is especially lively

Philippines Hotels and activities

Several hotels in the city of Angels offer tours to Mount Pinatubo, which erupted in 1991, leaving behind a striking landscape. You can visit the area on foot across ravines, rent an SUV or to arrange a tour by air. It is also possible to climb Mount Mayon, located south of Luzon and found a perfect volcanic cone. This 2,450 m active volcano has erupted four times since 1968, the last came in February 1993. The escalation requires several days and can Legaspi hired local guides. Other interesting ascents are made at the Mount Taal, south of Manila, with a reputation for being one of the smallest and most dangerous volcanoes in the world, and in the Philippines highest peak, Mount Apo in Mindanao.
Along the east coast of Luzon, particularly in the provinces of Quezon and Bikol, are offered the opportunity to go hiking. For those who choose to avoid motor vehicles, nothing compares with walking through the islands of Batan and Lubango, where horse carts are still the main mode of transport. Wildlife lovers should not miss visiting the island Calauit a reservation where animals are bred African species, such as giraffes, zebras and gazelles, for almost twenty years.
To be composed of about seven thousand islands, the Philippines has a varied practice for diving and snorkelling. Among the areas best Boracay contained, Alona Beach (Bohol), Puerto Princesa (Palawan) and the island of Apo. Those who prefer can navigate by canoe down the rapids of Pagsanjan River, 70 km southeast of Manila, some of whose places may be familiar, since there Coppola filmed part of his film Apocalypse Now. Caving enthusiasts can explore the underground river of Palawan, a labyrinth of caves with a length of 8 km

History of Philippines

The first inhabitants of the Philippines arrived in the country three thousand years ago, probably across a land passage linking it with the Asian continent. The Aetas arrived twenty-five thousand, but were expelled by successive waves of immigrants from Indonesia, followed by the arrival by sea of native Malaysia. In 1380 the makdum of Arabic origin, were established  in the Sulu archipelago and formed what would become a powerful Islamic enclave, which exerted a major influence over the centuries.

Ferdinand Magellan landed in 1521 and claimed the islands on behalf of Spain. However, he was killed by local chiefs, who were opposed to his claims. A Magellan followed Ruy López de Villalobos in 1543, named these lands like the Philippines in honor of Philip II. Permanent Spanish occupation began in 1565, six years after the entire country, except the Muslim Sulu archipelago, was under Spanish domination.

In the nineteenth century began a movement for independence and Filipinos fought alongside Americans in the Spanish-American War of 1898. After the Spanish defeat, General Aguinaldo declared the Philippines independent. However, United States bought the islands to the Spanish government for $ 20 million. Finally accepted the independence of the people claimed filipino and in 1935, as pre-independence ultimately, Manuel L. Quezon was sworn in as president of the Philippine Commonwealth. In 1942 Japan invaded the country and maintained their control until the United States occupied it again two years later. In 1946 the Philippines achieved full independence.

Ferdinand Marcos was elected president in 1965. Seven years later, declared martial law and ruled as dictator until 1986. His regime was attacked by both communist and Muslim guerrillas and the president was accused of fraud and rig the elections. The 1983 murder of opposition leader Benigno Aquino led mass protests against the government. In 1986 he held elections in which opposition parties united on Aquino's widow, Corazon. Although both parties claimed victory, Aquino took the reins of power. Initiated a program of non-violent civil unrest that caused the flight of Marcos.

Aquino restored democratic institutions, but economic problems, the army and the powerful Filipino elite were a burden on its mandate. American influence on the country fell after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 which destroyed the U.S. Clark Air Base. Moreover, the Philippine Senate refused to ratify the lease of the naval base at Subic Bay. Aquino refused to rule on seven hits over his six years in office in 1992 and was succeeded by his defense minister, Fidel Ramos, who tried to revive the economy, attract foreign investment, end corruption and expand infrastructure.

The Philippine government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (FMLN) signed a peace agreement in September 1996, ending, at least formally, a 24-year war for independence in Mindanao. The agreement provided a grant considerable autonomy to the FMLN in many provinces in Mindanao. But peace does not seem easy to achieve in the area because of the emergence of a dissident group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (FMLI), which opposes the pact. For now, the government continues to conduct military operations in the areas occupied by the FMLI in Basilan and Sulu.

In 1998, Ramos was replaced in office by Joseph Estrada, a former action movie star. He promised major improvements in economic impact and complied, but only for their own benefit. In late 2000 he was charged and tried for receiving bribes from gambling syndicates. The people took to the streets in mass protests in Manila.

On January 19, 2001 Estrada gave in to the popular clamor and resigned, the next day his former vice president, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, was sworn in as new president of the Republic of Philippines. In his inaugural speech he promised to end poverty and corruption. In addition, he resigned to grant amnesty to Estrada and left so the courts were to decide their fate. He is accused of perjury and dishonest way of amassing a fortune of one billion pesos. Since then the Arroyo presidency has been subject to harsh trials.

Various separatist movements in the South have been linked to global terrorism, which has caused the U.S. to send military aid. The attempted military coup of July 27, 2003 revealed the tensions beneath the surface of the country. A stalemate that lasted 20 hours ended when Arroyo has proposed a five-hour ultimatum. In June 2004 he won a second term as president

Philippines culture

The Filipino culture has been formed as the result of a mixture of foreign influences and native elements.
Although the traditional theater, literature and kundimans (love songs) in the local language regained prominence with the advent of People's Power movement of Corazon Aquino, now the visitor will see contests for beauty, soap operas, movies and action Philippines love of music and local groups inspired by Western pop.
Only 10% of Filipinos (the so-called cultural minority groups or tribal Filipinos) maintains its traditional culture. There are about sixty ethnic clans, among them the Badjao, sea nomads who inhabit the Sulu Archipelago, and the head hunters Kalinga in the north of Bontoc.
Philippines is the only Christian country in Asia, creed professed by over 90% of the population. The largest minority religious group is Muslim, which is the island stronghold of Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago. There were also a Philippine Independent Church, some Buddhists and a small number of animists.
Geography and history of the Philippines contributed to the multiplicity of existing languages, which in total add up about eighty dialects. The concept of national language was developed after the Spanish-American War of 1898 and in 1936 was decreed as the national language Tagalog, although there were other candidates to get this title as cebuano the Hiligaynon and Ilocano. In 1973 it was agreed that the filipino is the official language. It is a language based on Tagalog, but incorporating elements from other languages. Nevertheless, English remains the most widely used in commerce and politics.
Philippine cuisine has been influenced Chinese, Malaysian and Spanish. Designates both the snack snack mid morning to mid afternoon and while the pulutan (appetizers) are served with alcoholic beverages. For dinner style skewered meat or seafood on the barbecue. Among the most popular dishes, always served with rice, include meat and vegetables cooked with vinegar and garlic, simply on the grill, meat stews and a variety of soups: rice, noodles, beef, chicken, liver, bone, kneecap, offal or bitter vegetables. The dishes are accompanied with slices of green papaya, fermented fish or shrimp paste and bits of crispy pork rind. The halo-halo is a dessert made of crushed ice with fruit and caramel, all covered with milk powder

Philippines map

Travel Tour to Belize - British Honduras
Tourism culture and History tour

Belize travel overview

Belize , (British Honduras ),, bathed by the Caribbean Sea, is closer to its neighboring islands to the elevating of the rest of Central America volatility. In this tiny country, speaking English, Creole and inherently free with a history of coups, has a calm and relaxed.
Traveling in Belize can be difficult with only three paved roads, the prices are high and hotels and short distance between them. But while in Belize can only be one brand of beer, these difficulties with some of the most exceptional sites for scuba diving, Mayan ruins overlooking the jungle and out of hotels for the adventurous ecotourism more sedentary.

best time travel to Belize

The travel to Belize best time of year to visit the country cover from November to May, the dry season, but these months are also more conducive to winter sports, with higher prices and full hotels. It is cheaper to travel in summer (July-November), but we must bear in mind that this is also the season of hurricanes.

belize vacations

The major national holidays are dictated by the Roman Catholic calendar, but other events include Baron Bliss Day (March 9), in honor of a noble British philanthropist who fell in love with Belize and his death bequeathed his fortune to the people. The Belize National Day (September 10) commemorates the battle of St. George Cay; festivities stretch until Independence Day (September 21). Other important dates are the Columbus Day (October 12) and the Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19), which recounts the arrival from Honduras in 1823, the Garinagus (black Caribs) on board canoes carved trunks. The ideal place to attend this event is the tiny town of Dangriga

Belize Attraction

Belize City

The former capital of Belize can be considered the only relatively large population of the country. Tropical storms that often ravaged the city in the nineteenth and early twentieth century still appeared occasionally, damaging their ramshackle homes of wood, but also clearing the open sewer that crosses the entire city. When there is no storm, Belize City is known for its bustle, heat and humidity. Few come here to holiday or visit their points of interest, but as the nerve center of trade and transport in the country, travelers are likely to be spending some time on it. Belize City can be quite dangerous, especially at night.
Haulover Creek, a tributary of the Belize River, divides the commercial center of the northern suburbs. South of Bridge Swing Bridge are various areas of interest, such as Battlefield Park, always bustling with vendors, swindlers and idlers, the Cathedral of St. John (1847), the oldest Anglican church in Central America and important, and the Bliss Institute, the cultural heart of the city. North of the bridge is the Paslow Building, a wooden building that houses the central post office. To the south are located the Image Factory Art Foundation, with exhibitions of artists from Belize, and before reaching the tip of the peninsula, the Belize Audubon Society, a good source of information on national parks and nature reserves of the country.
North Front Street on the north shore of Haulover Creek, is stocked for accommodations. Luxury hotels at the end of the peninsula on the north coast. Albert Street, Regent, King and Orange are the main shopping

Cays

290 km long, the reef of Belize to be the longest in the Western Hemisphere. To the west are numerous cays reveling in warm waters up to 5 m deep. The two are the most visited Caye Caulker and Ambergris Cay. The first is considered the island ideal for travelers in economy class, while the latter has a higher grade of hotel complexes.
The Cay Caulker (800 inhab.), 33 km north of Belize City, up to 7 km in length and only 600 m at its widest point. In fact, Caulker was split into two islands, north of the population, after Hurricane Hattie in 1961. Mangroves cover much of the coast, shaded by coconut palms. The reef is just a short boat ride from the eastern shore and is ideal spot for diving, scuba diving and fishing. The visibility of the water can reach 60 m depth, being able to perceive the presence of corals and tropical fish. It is inadvisable to swim from the beach to the reef due to the danger of the propellers of ships.
The Ambergris Cay (2,000 inhab.), 58 km north of Belize City is the largest in the country with its 40 km long and its northern end with slash Mexico. As in Caulker, the atmosphere is relaxed, despite the emerging blocks of apartments and other tourist buildings. The reef is located 1 km east of San Pedro, the largest population in the key. Can be made many excursions to places suitable for snorkeling and diving practice, and to turn to other keys in the region, as the Blue Hole, the Half Moon Cay and the Turneffe Islands, the only three coral atolls in the western hemisphere.

Lamanai

These Mayan ruins, only partially excavated and restored, are located in its own archaeological reserve near the settlement of Indian Church. Its 60 major structures include a building height of 34 m from the end of the pre-period, a small temple and a ball. Lamanai (submerged crocodile) was already populated in 1500 BC and became an important ceremonial center with its huge temples long before most Mayan sites. Aboriginal people lived in their Lamanai until the arrival of the Spaniards, nearby, the ruins of two churches that testify Indian still in Maya to be evangelized. The 90 minutes journey by boat up the river from New River in Orange Walk to Lamanai is an adventure in itself. The boat passes through the Mennonite community of Shipyard and provides the opportunity to see many birds and crocodiles.

Xunantunich

Xunantunich (girl rock) is the pride of archaeological Belize. Built on top of a flattened hill, near the Belize River and the Guatemalan border, Xunantunich controlled the road along the river that originates in the hinterland to the Caribbean coast. The population flourished as a ceremonial and, apparently, was abandoned after an earthquake that struck around the year 900 AD Much of the ruins have not been restored, although its tallest building, the impressive castle stands with its 40 m high above the jungle.

Placencia

Perched at the southern end of a long narrow sandy peninsula in Southern Belize, this quiet beach town justifies each of the jolts and bumps that are felt to run through the tracks of land that are directed to Placencia. The whole business was done by sea, so the main street of the population is only a narrow paved path that does not reach the meter in width. The main attraction of this site focuses on its beaches and water sports, but also offers the option to go fishing, watch birds and manatees, camping on remote cays and take trips to different rivers that run into the jungle or the Reserve Natural Cockscomb Basin, home to jaguars, pumas, ocelots, margays, agouti, anteaters, armadillos, boa constrictor and numerous bird species.
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
This forest reserve of 800 km ², anchored in the West virtually virgin terrain, with numerous waterfalls and orchids, parrots, toucans and other exotic species of flora and fauna. In the wet season, the tiresome routes through the forest are insurmountable, but it is this inaccessibility that makes the area remains unexplored, is an ideal location for exploring on foot, horseback or canoe. These tours include the Rain Forest Medicine Trail, a walking trail through the jungle on medicinal herbs; Chechem Ha, a Mayan cave full of newly discovered objects and ceremonial pottery; Caracol, a large Mayan city without restoring immersed in the jungle , Thousand Foot (Hidden Valley) Falls, a waterfall 300 m silver is precipitated into a misty valley, and Barton Creek Cave, a cave Maya increasingly popular, but less visited than Chechem Ha, with skulls and bones and fragments of ceramics.
Sanctuary in Bermudian Landing community Mandrel
Sanctuary in Bermudian Landing community Mandrel The black howler monkey is found only in Belize, and this is the ideal location to discover one. The villagers of Bermudian Landing have established a reserve in the jungle close to their population (about 30 miles west of Belize City), with a visitor information center, where exhibitions of this endangered species and two hundred species of animals and birds that inhabit the reserve

Belize activities

The keys and the reef of Belize offers all possibilities for swimming, diving, snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing and fishing. It is also possible to canoe down the rivers Macal, Mopan and Belize, around San Ignacio and caves along the river Chiquibul. The best routes for hiking are in the Forest Reserve Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve and the Cockscomb Basin Natural. Birdwatchers can go to rivers, swamps and lagoons of Crooked Tree Nature Reserve, halfway between Belize City and Orange Walk, where flocks of migratory birds arrive between November and May

History Of Belize

Maya and Carib Indians were the first inhabitants of Belize, a territory that was part of the Mayan empire which stretched through Guatemala, southern Mexico and parts of Honduras and El Salvador. The classical period of greatest splendor of that civilization began toward the second century AD, reached its splendor between the ages VI and VIII and began its decline in the fourteenth century. When the Spanish arrived in the sixteenth century, many cities were deserted.
Colonizers Belize only appreciated its timber, for the manufacture of dyes. While the country depended on the Spanish governor of Yucatan, it lacked an effective government. This vacuum government with the security provided by the reef that protects its shores attracted English and Scottish pirates during the seventeenth century. When piracy began its decline, many saqueaderos were introduced in the timber trade. Belize was a British tradition and sympathy and when British forces expelled in 1798 for the Spanish Navy's Cay St. Georges. In 1862, while United States was immersed in civil war and unable to comply with its Monroe Doctrine, United Kingdom colonized Belize, which should be known as British Honduras.
After World War II, its economy is weakened, leading to an agitation for independence. Formed political parties and democratic institutions, and in 1964 the nation gained independence. The government decided to build a new capital at Belmopan in 1970, the former capital, Belize City, had been razed after Hurricane Hattie in 1961. Guatemala, which claimed the territory, threatened to declare war in 1972, 1975 and 1977, but British troops are facing in the country to secure a diplomatic solution. Independence was achieved in September 1981 when he became British Honduras Belize, a member of the Commonwealth. During the volatile 1980s, Belize remained stable and pro-United States, thanks to the entry of substantial U.S. aid. In 1991, the new Guatemalan government recognized the country's territorial integrity. The British garrison was withdrawn in 1994, at present, Belize has a regular army of only a few hundred soldiers.
Since the fall of General Noriega in Panama, Belize has become an important port of call for the United States for cocaine from South America. There is also widespread cultivation and smuggling of marijuana.
Belizeans take 20 years fighting for the reinstatement of the indigenous culture. Many Belizeans had to leave the country to make a fortune and send money to support his family.
Prime Minister Said Musa, in power since 1998, has overseen the transformation of the economy of Belize. The services sector especially tourism, now prevalent in places where before prevailing farming, logging and fishing. Belize is hispanizando through its approach to other countries in Central America. Is exposed to the fury of hurricanes in late summer, as Keith and tested hurricane Iris in 2000 and 2001, respectively
The Maya built impressive temples, following the movement of celestial bodies. Although technically it is a culture of the Stone Age, also developed sophisticated mathematical and astronomical calendars in addition to measure time. The Spaniards built churches stone sober but modern architecture is based on the British Caribbean.
The official language of Belize is English, but the Creoles (the largest ethnic group) speak it with their own dialect. Spanish is the language most used in the North and some towns in the West. Also, minorities who are in Maya, Chinese, German Mennonite, Lebanese, Arabic, Hindi and Garifuna (the language of the Garinagu Stann Creek District).
The majority of the population professes Catholicism, and the British influence has made a considerable and varied Protestant congregation, including German and Swiss Mennonite. Mayan practice of Catholicism is marked by a fusion of shamanism, animism and Christian rituals.
Belize has never developed a true national cuisine. Its cuisine is inspired by the British, American, Mexican and Caribbean. Its basic ingredients are rice and beans, often eaten with chicken, pork, beef, fish or vegetables, coconut milk and bananas fried dishes to add a truly tropical taste. The recipes include traditional exotic meat armadillo, venison and fried paca, a rodent similar to a brown guinea pig

Belize map

Travel Tour to Indonesia

Tourism culture and History tour in Indonesia

Indonesia overview

The islands of the Indonesian archipelago, genuine emerald floating over the centuries have attracted people with very varied. Chinese traders and Indians, European settlers, missionaries proselytizing, intrepid adventurers, mining companies and mass tourism, all at one time or another, have felt trapped by the sandalwood and spice breezes, their way of life and Bali Hai its magnificent beaches, mountains and volcanoes.

But another frequent visitor to the nation is a war correspondent, who came to report on the latest uprising, disturbance or coup d'etat. The stereotype of paradisiac lucky country for its natural resources is often compromised because of the deep racial and religious, despotic autocracy, government corruption, economic mismanagement and natural disasters. Recent developments of sectarian violence and military have made Indonesia a problematic destination for most Western travelers.

best time travel in Indonesia

Although you can travel during the rainy season for most of the country, the time may be an impediment for some activities and by driving muddy roads in less developed areas is complicated. In general, the best time to go to Indonesia coincides with the dry season between May and October.

Christmas holidays attract waves of Australians, and there is an even bigger tourist rush during the summer in Europe. The main Indonesian holiday period is the end of Ramadan, a period in which some resorts are crowded and the prices astronomical amount

Mean Events and Holidays in Indonesia