Virtual Tour

New Zealand

 

LITTLE UNIVERSE

 

New Zealand is such a small universe with all the attractions of the world. Here you can walk on the slopes of active volcanoes in remote jungles or virgins; through geysers and hot springs mud or kauri forests, with the oldest trees on earth. You can swim with dolphins, whale watching, see how a glacier descends on the jungle, fish for trout in crystalline creeks and contemplate penguins and seals around vessels, while in fiords step into hiding.

 

If you are an adventurer, you can make rapid water rafting, climbing, parachute jump, skiing and especially jump from any height with an elastic cord tied to the ankles: the bugy jumping. You can also experience the fascinating Maori culture and the warmth of the friendly people of New Zealand.

 

And there are cities, of course, full of museums and cultural life ever more ubiquitous. All major towns have a vibrant night life with theater, dance and live music at will. Arts and crafts are greatly appreciated, and arise in any corner to admire magnificent galleries and shopping.

 

The country is increasingly oriented to tourism, from the highest standing up to the "backpacker", with offerings to suit all tastes and economies.

 

Geography

GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION

New Zealand emerges about 2,000 miles southeast of Australia across the Tasman Sea, just the antipodes of Spain. Formed by a group of islands that extend up to 1,600 miles across the South Pacific, equidistant turn the equator and the South Pole Its territory includes the Chatham Islands, Kermadec, Tokelau, Auckland, Antipodes, Snares, Solander, Bounty and the Ross Dependency in Antarctica.

 

New Zealand has two main islands, the North (North Island, 115,000 sq km) and southern (South Island, 151,000 sq km), separated by the Cook Strait. Only 32 kilometers separate the shortest distance and no more than 120 kilometers from any point of the island to the sea. In the extreme southernmost lies Stewart Island, 1,700 square kilometers. The total area of ​​the country is 286.05 square kilometers. The coastline, with numerous bays, harbors and fiords is too long in relation to the land mass that covers the surface of the islands.

 

The southern island is traversed from north to south through the Alps Neo-Zealanders. In New Zealand, as well as volcanoes erased the famous Mount Egmont, still hold up others in full swing as the Ruapehu. The Quaternary glaciations cut deep valleys covered with lakes or fjords later, and those times on the island are conserved extensive glaciers.

 

Among the most important rivers are the Waikato (425 kilometers), the Clutha (322 kms.) And Wanganui (290 kms.). In this country of great natural wealth should not forget the great lakes. It should highlight the Taupo, the largest extension, with 60,606 hectares, Te Anau and Wakapitu.

 

Something that characterizes this country is very caring of their natural environment, also rich in beautiful conifer forests in southern coral reefs, which usually develop near the bodies.

 

Mores

POPULATION AND CUSTOMS

The population of New Zealand is around 3.5 million inhabitants, a relatively small population for its length, it represents a density of just over 12 people per square kilometer. Despite being a country with an important agricultural sector, the majority of the population-around 70% - live in urban areas. Of these, 75% is concentrated in the north island, stimulated by the mild climate, the expansion of the forest industry and horticulture specialist, and the establishment of trading companies and factories near large markets.

 

78% of New Zealanders are of European descent, 13% are native Maori and Polynesians make up 5% of the Pacific Islands. Moreover, 1.3% Chinese and 1% is Indian. Currently, the western population tends to decrease while earning demographic weight the rest of the races. Although in recent years the immigration decreased due to the harsh economic conditions, these days New Zealand gets new waves of immigration, especially from Asia and the islands of Polynesia.

 

Everyone agrees on the New Zealanders qualify as open and friendly and, curiously, like their Australian neighbors, are also considered relaxed. The New Zealanders like to enjoy life and its landscapes, and living without haste, but without pause, because in a very short time has put his country among the developed nations. Highly value self-reliance and private enterprise making use of limited resources (called "kiwi ingenuity").

 

The pace of life in the South Island is clearly more relaxed and paused the North, where the greatest population density and urban development requires a way to live more hurried. People in the south are kind to tourists, but their generosity is no obstacle to retain its roots and a great love for the land where they live.

 

The New Zealanders, in general, very caring of their homes. There are usually rented, thus spend a lot of time and money in keeping them in good repair and beautify them.

 

CULTURE

ART AND CULTURE

Acultura Maori knows like Maoritanga and your lifestyle and world view, constitute a part of life and growing mutant of Aotearoa (New Zealand). Incidentally, the Maori have adopted as their own many aspects of Western culture, and a growing number of New Zealanders currently sharing the riches of Maori heritage.

 

The "marae" the meeting house and the surrounding yard is the core of the Maori community life. The marae complete works as democratic principles that have evolved from the strict codes of conduct that governed every aspect of traditional life.

 

Nowadays, most Maori live far from their marae. Many live and work in the city and must make a special effort to maintain social and cultural ties with its Maori heritage.

 

Among the most characteristic work of  Maoritanga highlight the jars in kauri pine wood, with deep spiritual meaning. But if you want to take a good reminder advise you not despise tissues Maori and of course, their elaborate tattoos.

 

In nephrite (a green stone) the Maori found optimal material for adzes, small apples, their first tools to work the land and pendants. The pendants are the most popular heitiki, who gave up great value, its length ranged from 6 to 20 cm and consisted of a human figure with the head bent over homo, as a fetus, pindurada on a string.

 

One of the most deeply rooted traditions in this country is the music, which Melanesians accompany dances and sacred ceremonies with singing and musical sounds produced with the help of a drum-shaped leather hourglass. This primitive instrument was used by the first settlers of these islands to convey messages up through the jungle. Along coexist others like bamboo flute, the ukeke, a type of zither and ukelele, an isolated of lute. Maori Songs of stress that is concentrated in a note recital called "gold", and the content of each song very important results.

 

Dance and theater are also very developed and cinema New Zealander reaps international successes (The Piano, or Warriors of old, for example). In opera singer Kiri Te Kanawa is one of the most prestigious in the world. The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra offers 120 concerts annually, and is accompanied by pictures of the front row as soloists.

 

If you enjoy reading do not forget to get some of the books of the best-known writers such as Janet Frame or Maori Witi T. Ihimaera.

 

CUSTOMS AND DOCUMENTATION

 

To join the New Zealand need a passport with a validity of at least three months, and visa for stays exceeding 90 days and exit passage.

 

CLIMATE

 

The position of New Zealand in oceanic temperate latitudes, between 34 and 47 degrees South latitude, is the determinant of the country's varied climate. It is generally uniform, but ranges from sub-tropical climate, which presents itself in the northern summer until a polar climate, present in the winters of the Alps of the South

 

The weather is variable and windy: indeed, the seasonal variations are not as marked as in other countries. The summers are seldom too warm and, in coastal areas, winters are short but not too hard. We present rain precipitation year round, more in winter than in spring. The winter snow is limited to the mountains and hilly terrain, and most of the country has at least 2,000 hours of sunlight a year.

 

LANGUAGE

 

English is the common language spoken by most of the population, but the Maori is an official language recognized by Parliament and that is acquiring increasing significance on a national scale.

 

RELIGION

 

Although it does not have an official Religion, Christianity is professed by most of the population. The top three are: the Anglican (Church of England), with 25% of the population, Presbyterian, and Roman Catholic 18%, with 16%. There are many other smaller groups with representation, as the Methodists, Baptists, Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, Pentecostals and Seventh-day Adventists and Ringatu Ratana religions also have a large following (Maori are adaptations of Christianity).

 

ELECTRICITY

 

The electric current in New Zealand is 230 volts, 50 Hz

 

CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE

 

The official currency is the New Zealand dollar, equal to 100 cents. There are coins of 1, 5, 10 and 25 cents. Notes 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and $ 100. >

 

Can be introduced in the country the amount of currency that the traveler wishes, and the same way you can take the cash or traveler's checks unused.

 

You can easily change money in any bank, and get better rates in travelers' checks, no surcharge on exchange transaction. Accepted all major cards at banks, stores and restaurants in a certain entity.

 

POST OFFICE AND TELEPHONE

 

The postal service is very efficient. There are offices in most povoaões.

 

As for phones, there are public booths to make local calls. For long-distance calls can be made directly. To call New Zealand should dial 00, the country code 64, city prefix and number.

 

PHOTOGRAPHY

 

Are smoothly most used brands of film, as well as the material needed for photography. The prices are interesting.

 

TIPS

 

New Zealand is not well seen leaving a tip. Plus, when you enter the country for signs indicating that tipping is not a popular custom and advising the traveler does not give them.

 

Flora

 

The drops have significantly reduced the extent of forests in New Zealand but still can contemplate more than six million hectares of pine forests kauri, rimu and totara, which sometimes exceed altitudes of more than 35 meters. Also on the South Island's extensive forests of beech trees and ferns abound, like the pohutukawa flower scarlet and yellow Kowhai intense. The silver fern is a national symbol.

 

The vegetation of the island is a menagerie of species typical of temperate climate, mean, big and lush tropical plants not found anywhere else in the world. One should not forget that, in fact, that New Zealand has native forests of evergreens, which are derived from some of the oldest known species on the planet.

 

Fauna

 

The fauna of this country, especially highlights the tuatara, a lizard or dinosaur species modern about 60 centimeters, which inhabits some islands near the coast. It is the only surviving species of a family of reptiles extinguished over a hundred million years.

 

On the other hand, the only native mammal is the bat. In contrast, the diversity of birds is overwhelming (some 300), due to the long isolation of the islands, which gave the opportunity for these species to reproduce without any danger. But most of them are unable to fly, is why take the place of mammals on earth. The kiwi, the national bird, living with the pastor tui bird or the weka (wild chicken) and the kakapo (owl-parrot).

 

LOCAL TOURIST

 

We will do an initial tour of the North Island, where we will visit major cities: Auckland, Whangarei, Hamilton, Rotorua, the zone of thermal waters, and the capital, Wellington, at the southern end of the island. After we cross the South Island and will travel the tourist centers of greatest interest: Nelson, Christchurch and Queenstown, among others.

 

NORTH ISLAND

 

AUCKLAND

 

It is the largest city and the fourth extension in the world. It has a population of over one million inhabitants, a quarter of the total New Zealand. "City of Sails" loves water sports, particularly sailing, which brings throngs of visitors.

 

The landmark ruling of the city is the beautiful silhouette of the bridge, the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau two stalls, and the cone of Rangitoto Island, the last city of volcanoes to erupt, are only 600 years.

 

Among the museums that highlight the city offers the Auckland Museum, displaying a very complete collection of Maori culture and objects, and the Maritime Museum Wharf Hobsom situated opposite the sea, exploring over a thousand years of seafaring history of New Zealand.

 

Kelly Tarltom Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World offers one of the most impressive views of the sub aquatic world to be experienced in the world, while the Auckland Zoo has an extensive representation of the local fauna, and it could observe the elusive kiwi and pre -Historical tuatara.

 

Auckland has been keen to keep intact its urban past, and so today you can enjoy various colonial-era buildings preserved and restored. Alberton Homestead, Howick House and Ewelme Cottage are open to visitors. Howick Colonial Village neighborhood in Howick, east of town, is a small village in the middle of the nineteenth fully restored. In the same vein, the neighborhood of Parnell Village has maintained the historic flavor of their shops and homes, but not as museum pieces, but as active elements of one of the areas with most living in Auckland.

 

Auckland sits on the craters of extinct volcanoes about 50 today utilized for recreational areas and provide magnificent views of the city and its surroundings. The highest of them is the spectacular Mt Eden, the other option to get a magnificent view is of One Tree Hill.

 

Tamaki drive and Orakel millionaires are the stronghold of New Zealanders, culminating in Bastiom Point, its luxurious harbor.

 

Missiom Bay is sort of equivalent to Santa Monica California, very popular in summer, with its quiet beach and promenade full of cafes coquetos.

 

Reflecting the concern of New Zealanders for the environment, Auckland has a rich and varied range of parks and gardens. Among them we highlight the Auckland Domain, Cornwall Park and the Eden Garden.

 

LOCAL TOURISM

 

The Hauraki Gulf, on the edge of Auckland, is full of islands, some of them a few minutes from town, which converts them into an ideal destination for day trips.

 

By road SH1, just outside of Auckland is the Whangaparoa Peninsula, ideal for water sports. At the northern end of the peninsula Shakespeare Regional Park offers a wide range, plus the ability to observe a rich collection of fauna and flora NZ.

 

WHANGAREI

 

Whangarei, with its 40,000 inhabitants, is the largest city north of Auckland and a paradise for lovers of racing. The beaches at Whangarei Heads, 35 kilometers from the city, is a stunning beauty. Very close to Bay of Islands is one of the main tourist attractions of the country.

 

HAMILTON

 

The main town in the countryside, is crossed by the Waikato River, the longest in New Zealand. Among the main attractions is the Waikato Museum of History and Art, the National Agricultural Heritage Complex, with several museums to explain the rich agricultural and cattle-raising region, historic buildings and a farm in authentic that you can interact with the animals. The immense Hamiltom Gardens contains over 100 different themed gardens.

 

The Hamilton Area

 

Very near Hamiltom is Waingaro Hot Springs, a complex of rest and entertainment emerged around three thermal pools. For the coast, 48 kilometers from the Raglan Hamiltom is the quintessential beach town of the region. Their immemorial conditions attract many surfers, especially on the beaches of Te Manu Bay and Whale Bay, especially in summer, when celebrated in prestigious international competitions.

 

ROTORUA

 

It is the most important tourist spot of the North Island. It has been renamed the "City of Sulphur", due to intense thermal activity recorded it. Rotorua is also the capital of the Bay of Plenty (Bay of Plenty), known for its huge cabin, trout in the rivers, the excellent beaches and fruit, vegetables (not far, in Tauranga, visits are organized to meet the cultivation of kiwi) and its principal activities of sheep and cattle.

 

In Hinemoa St. are the hot springs and the Orchid Garden. It is a greenhouse (with a rich variety of insects and reptiles) with a large body of water. The most important thermal area of ​​Rotorua and throughout New Zealand is the Whakarewarewa Reserve, where the geyser is Pohutu.

 

Throughout the area there are thermal areas, although the Reserve Hell's Gate, the largest thermal waterfalls in the southern hemisphere will fill you with wonder. A cruise on Lake Rotorua, will take you to the Maori village of Ohinemutu where not miss the Maori Anglican Church of Santa Fe, beautifully carved and decorated with paintings by native artists.

 

A little further south, Lake Taupo, with the largest colony of gannets in the world. The town of Turangi separates it from the Tongariro National Park, the residence of the gods according to Maori beliefs.

 

WELLINGTON

 

It is located in the southernmost point of the North Island and is the capital of New Zealand. Among its major attractions highlights Port Nicholson. The wooden buildings are a distinctive landmark of Wellington, who boasts of having one of the largest buildings made of this material, the Old Parliament Building. Among the religious buildings stands the Cathedral of St Paul, a beautiful show temprano English Gothic wood.

 

Among the numerous museums in the city distinguished the Maritime Museum, closely linked to the history of seafaring town, and with a magnificent three-dimensional model of the port. The Wellingtom City Art Gallery offers stupendous collections of contemporary art, just as the Capitol Discovery Place. The best collections of art and culture Maori and Pacific Islanders will find them in the National Museum, which also houses the National Gallery of Art and the NZ Academy of Fine Arts.

 

The best view of Wellingtom and its port must enjoy it from the lookout atop Mount Victoria. Also worth a visit to the botanical gardens and the zoo.

 

SOUTH ISLAND

 

The Cook Strait separates the islands of North and South America, and some can appear up to two different worlds. The first region is to achieve Malborough. The best base for exploring the stunning National Park Picton Marlborough Sounds is. The ferry arrives this city of the North Island, the Queen Charlotte Sound specifically, one of the legs of the park land. The city has some activity in the summer and when the boats arrive, but it is very quiet at other times.

 

Marlborough Sounds consists of numerous bays, islands, caves and channels. The waters deep valleys formed after the last glaciation. Most of these waters are now included in the National Marine Park, consisting of small separate reservations for private lands.

 

An hour and a half by road from Blenheim, to the west, arrives at Nelson City, capital of the surrounding region of Nelson, which is now home to many of the best craftsmen in the country, attracted by the wealth of material that there can be found (stone, wood, clay, glass) and the magnificent climate. Nelson City is one of the oldest cities in the country, founded in 1840 by German Lutheran immigrants, acquiring the status of the city thanks to the construction of the cathedral. It is a city well endowed with educational and artistic institutions, highlighting the Suter Art Gallery, with a magnificent collection of nineteenth-century frescoes. In the old parts of the city abound large Victorian mansions. It is especially recommended to visit the Broadgreen, in the suburb of Stoke as this restored mansion is surrounded by an impressive garden of flowers. Very close, Isel Park displays magnificent species of trees, besides housing the Provincial Museum.

 

The coast of Nelson is full of beaches and protected bays very safe.

 

In the southern region, between the ridges boscosos the Nelson Lakes National Park, are as beautiful lakes and Rotori Rotoroa. In them one can enjoy a wonderful relaxed virgin landscape.

 

CHRISTCHURCH

 

Down the coast we arrive at Christchurch, the largest urbanization of the South Island With a third of the area devoted to parks, reserves and sports fields, Christchurch is rightly called the "garden city". Strolling by any of the huge parks, on the Hagley find one of the best botanical gardens in the world. You can also walk on the River Avon boat for nearly an hour and enjoy the entire journey.

 

The Cathedral Square remains the heart of the city. In Christchurch architecture is a spectacle. The old building of the Provincial Government of Canterbury reflects the distinctive Gothic architecture of the last century. Lyttelton, the port of Christchurch, there is a unique lighthouse shaped castle dating from the last century.

 

"Sigm of the Tahake" This has become a cafe restaurant is an impressive Gothic building of stone in the Cashmere Hills, from where it dominates the city and the Canterbury Plains.

 

The Anglican Cathedral is a good example of English Gothic, and has a beautiful glazing. The Catholic cathedral is the best work of Renaissance architecture in the country, and its interior is equally superb.

 

Among the city's excellent museums highlight the Maori and Maori-bird McDougal Robert Gallery and Gallery. Make sure you also go to the "South Pole" at the International Antarctic Center. If it is still little in the Canterbury Museum can magnify your information on the subject, and enjoy memories of the first inhabitants of the city, to rebuild a street of the last century.

 

In the cable car can climb to Mt Cavendish, from where the view encompasses the bay and the Canterbury plains to the Alps of the South in recent worth visiting the National Park of Mount Cook, the highest peak in the Southern Alps.

 

QUEENSTOWN

 

Heading south and inland arrives at Queenstown, on the edge of Lake Wakatipu in one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. It is a small town of just over 2,500 inhabitants, living for tourism. You can start by getting to know Queenstowm higher, taking the Skyline Gondola that leads to the summit of the hill dominating the city and offers some incredible views of the lake. A little further down the ridge lies the curious Motor Museum, where you can admire a good collection of old cars and motorcycles. Nearby, the Kiwi and Birdlife Park presents the spectacle of the traditional kiwi in their nocturnal habitat.

 

Around Queenstown

 

Since Queenstowm can visit Fiordland, which, with 1.2 million hectares, is the largest national park in the country and one of the largest nature reserves in the world.

 

On the coast, east of Queenstown, Dunedin is a city of just over 100,000 residents, where 10% are students, whereby abundant cafes, pubs and art and culture centers.

 

The National Park Abel Tasmam is one of the most popular hiking areas of New Zealand, and has several routes, the most beautiful lies around the coast. The park is located on the northern reaches of a mountain range extending up from the Kahurangi National Park. To the north, Farewell Spit, consists of a strip of land 26 kilometers wide, considered his home for seals, albatrosses and other birds.

 

There is also the possibility of making an excursion to the island of Tonga to bathe with the seals, an unforgettable experience, especially for minors.

 

Good Trip!

 

 

Saint Kitts and Nevis

 

 

 

Official name: Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis

 

Area: 261Km2

 

Capital: Basseterre in St. Kitts

 

Population: 44,400

 

Population Growth Rate: 0.5%

 

Life expectancy: 66 (h), 71 (m)

 

Languages: English

 

Literacy rates (adults): 97.3%

 

Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar

 

 

 

Basic Description

 

 

 

Two islands

 

Good land for agriculture

 

Cultivation of sugar cane by French and British.

 

Territory of Great Britain in 1783

 

Independent in 1985

 

Production and processing of sugar, vegetables, cotton and livestock

 

 

 

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a state composed of two islands in the Caribbean Sea, part of the Leeward Islands-Vent (Leeward Islands) St. Kitts (first name and official name now, which replaced that, given the first, St. Kitts or St. Kitts) , the largest and Nevis, located in the southeast of the former, which separates an inlet called the Narrows.

 

 

 

The island of St. Kitts has an area of ​​168 km ² and a length of 36 km. Its width, which is 10 miles north narrows towards the southeast of Basseterre (Basseterre), the capital, to become a tongue of land, which extends back enough to contain a circular lake. Of volcanic origin, the island culminating in Mount Liamuiga, ANC. Mount Misery (1156 m), an extinct volcano that still has sulfur fumaroles and hot springs. The circumference of the island offers no natural harbors; hurricanes are dry, frequent and prolonged frequent flooding during the rainy season, which gives a height of 1,292 m annual (30 years of observations). The average temperature is 30 ° to 27 ° in August and February.

 

 

 

Nevis Island is a volcanic land of 93 square kilometers, which culminates in Nevis Peak (1,096 m high), well watered and wooded, three anchorages.

 

 

 

The main town is Charlestown, on the west coast.

 

 

 

The history of St. Kitts and Nevis

 

 

 

St. Kitts was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. It was occupied by the British in 1623 by the French in 1625 and taken over by the Spanish in 1629.

 

 

 

The Treaty of Utrecht gave the UK which remained until independence, except for a few months in 1782, when it was occupied by the French.

 

 

 

Nevis, however, was discovered by Columbus in 1498. Occupied in 1628 by the British, who did a great slave market long.

 

 

 

She then trained with St. Christopher (St. Kitts) and Anguilla district of the colony of the Leeward Islands (Leeward Islands).

 

 

 

These islands, in 1967, became an Associated State of the UK enjoying internal autonomy. Anguilla rebelled and was allowed to secede in 1971.

 

 

 

St. Kitts and Nevis gained its independence on 19 September 1983.

 

 

 

In 1998, a referendum was held in Nevis on the possible separation of Saint Christopher, but the two-thirds majority needed for this separation is accepted not been reached. The debate about the separation between the two islands is the order of the day.

 

 

 

 

Sugar was once the center of the economy of St. Kitts until 1970. The government closed the sugar industry after the 2005 harvest, after decades of losses by the sugar company managed by the state. In return, the government started a program to diversify the agricultural sector and is used to stimulate other sectors of the economy. Activities such as tourism, manufacturing for export and offshore banking has already acquired a large role in the economy of St. Kitts and Nevis.

 

 

 

Location

 

 

 

State of the Lesser Antilles, Saint Kitts and Nevis are located northwest of Guadalupe.

 

 

 

Member of the Commonwealth, Saint Kitts and Nevis is a federal state composed of two states: the island of St. Kitts, on the one hand and Nevis, on the other hand.

 

 

 

GEOGRAPHY

 

 

 

Hilly and wooded, the two volcanic islands of St. Kitts (176 km 2) and Nevis (93 km 2) enjoy a hot and humid tropical climate, but are exposed to the destructive effects of hurricanes. The current population is composed mainly by descendants of African slaves. It is marked by the weight of the young (28% are under 15) and is concentrated in the capital, Basseterre. The natural increase of about 1% per year, is moderated by emigration.

 

 

 

The islands' economy depends mainly on agriculture, which employs 29% of the workforce is the production of sugar for export page. Light industry (assembly of components, textiles) and tourism registered strong growth, particularly in Nevis. These two sectors contribute to reduce the country's excessive dependence vis-à-vis the production of sugar.

 

 

 

STORY

 

 

 

Colonized by the British in 1623, but shared with the French in 1625, the island became British with the Treaty of Versailles (1783). Starting in 1967, is (Neves), an "associated state" with the United Kingdom. The islands of St. Kitts and Nevis achieved independence September 19, 1983.

 

 

 

The policy since independence is dominated by a coalition of the Popular Action Movement (PAM) and the Nevis Reformation Party (NRP). However, rocked by scandals, this coalition was defeated in the 1995 election, won by St. Kitts and Nevis Labour Party (SKLNP) Denzil Douglas Kennedy Simmonds replaced as prime minister. He holds the reins from his victories in the general elections of 2000, 2004 and 2010.

 

 

 

Federation between the two islands is threatened by separatist Nevis temptations. Secession is a process initiated in 1996, despite opposition from St. Kitts. She was arrested by lack of support from most Nevisians. Since the closure in 2005 of the national sugar factory, now heavily in deficit, the federation is looking for outside help to reorient its economy, particularly with the European Union and Taiwan, with whom n 'has not broken unlike Most countries in the region. Saint Kitts and Nevis is a member of the Community (and Common Market) of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), since 1974, its domestic market since 2006 and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) since 1981.

 

 

 

St. Kitts and Nevis, like no other islands in the Caribbean, seem to embody a kind of lush tropical paradise usually associated with the South Pacific. The atmosphere here is palpably luxuriant, an intoxicating blend of sunlight, air, sea and fantastically abundant vegetation.

 

 

 

In the center of St. Kitts stands the spectacular, cloud fringed peak of Mount Liamuiga (pronounced Lee-a-mweega), a dormant volcano covered by dense tropical forest.

 

 

 

And on Nevis, too, the ground rises in a forest filled with elusive green monkeys and brilliant tropical flowers.

 

 

 

For ecotourists, or simply anyone who enjoys stunning natural beauty, St. Kitts and Nevis can not fail to exceed expectations.

 

 

 

And yet nature is only a small part of the wonder of these small, relatively unknown destinations.

 

 

 

Long ago, St. Kitts and Nevis were the pearls of the British Caribbean, rich and extremely important islands that were celebrated throughout Europe.

 

 

 

Nevis, the "Queen of Caribbees" possessed unimaginable wealth from its sugar industry super-productive, while in St. Kitts the impregnable fortress of Brimstone Hill as the Gibraltar of the West Indies.

 

 

 

In this venerable history is plenty of romance as well, because it was on Nevis that the dashing young Horatio Nelson met, courted, and married Fanny Nisbet, all files. While watching the whirling social life of the island properties prosperous plantation.

 

 

 

Today, these islands are estimated more for its long stretches of sugary sand than for their sugar cane.

 

 

 

Basseterre and Charlestown, capital of the islands, are among the most captivating and picturesque colonial towns Caribbean port. The law here holds that no building here may be taller than the palm trees around, and in both St. Kitts and Nevis natural preservation is a fundamental value.

 

 

 

Activities include excellent hiking through rain forests of the islands, golfing on internationally ranked golf courses, fishing, boating and diving or snorkeling through underwater reefs and unexplored wrecks.

 

 

 

There is also a wealth of exceptional historical points of interest, including restored fortresses, haunted plantations, and ancient petroglyphs.

 

 

 

In the midst of all these attractions are many of the best and most welcoming hostels plantations in the Caribbean.

 

 

 

Still largely undiscovered, despite its extraordinary beauty, its remarkable history and its incomparable charm, St. Kitts and Nevis offer a rare opportunity to visit the "Secret Caribbean."

 

 

 

Landmarks

 

 

 

Basseterre

 

Basseterre, the irresistible scenery of Emerald St. Kitts' green hills and punctuated by elegant Georgian architecture, is one of the best small capital of the Caribbean.

 

 

 

Old Road Bay

 

It was here at Old Road Bay that Sir Thomas Warner, along with his family and 14 others, began the first permanent European settlement in the Leeward Islands. The settlers were initially on good terms with the inhabitants of the island Carib, though such friendship lasted only a few years. Instead of cultivating sugar, tobacco was what had drawn Warner to the island, and the island was cut tobacco that supported the first settlement.

 

 

 

The Warner family estate served as the capital of Saint Kitts until 1727, when he was transferred to Basseterre. Outside the old road bays are found a number of interesting Carib petroglyphs.

 

 

 

Sandy Point

 

This second largest city of St. Kitts' occupies the same place in which Thomas Warner and his small party landed in 1623.

 

 

 

During the 17th century Sandy Point was the center of trade of the island of tobacco, and among the most fascinating sites Sandy Point are the large tobacco warehouses built during that time by the Dutch East India Company.

 

 

 

Frigate Bay Peninsula

 

 

 

Frigate Bay Peninsula extends like the neck of a wine bottle facing upward, connecting the main body of St. Kitts with the extended tip of the bottle mouth Peninsula Southeast. One side of the neck - the dramatic windward beach in North Frigate Bay, is dramatically beaten by the Atlantic surf.

 

 

 

On the leeward side, the beach meets the calm waters of the Caribbean Frigate Bay.

 

 

 

Wingfield Estate and Petroglyphs

 

For hundreds of years before European explorers arrived in the Caribbean, the island community Carib lived in this beautiful site. Three years after the first European settlers arrived, the Caribs were annihilated at Bloody Point. At the edge of the property, standing as mute witness to the island of ancient pre-Columbian history, is a set of large stones petroglyphic strongly marked with symbols and human figures. Liamuiga, or "fertile land" was the Carib name for the island in 1980, this name was given to the central mountain St. Kitts, lush, 3792-foot volcanic peak known during the colonial period, as Mount Misery.

 

 

 

Southeast Peninsula

 

Peninsula in Southeast narrow strip of Frigate Bay Peninsula extends a plain, large undulating containing some of the island's most stunning natural features. There are nine lakes and unspoiled beaches here, like the eye - popping pink salt pond - their color comes from its myriad shrimp krill, tiny. This protected wilderness area is also abundantly populated by tropical birds, as well as white-tailed deer and black-faced vervet monkeys.

 

 

 

St. Thomas Church

 

In the yard of the modest church is the tomb of Sir Thomas Warner, the leading figure in the colonial history of the island. The memorial itself is a fascinating object, filled with a finely engraved Elizabethan epitaph for the 'much lamented gent. Warner, who won his knighthood as a colonizer of St. Kitts and a number of other islands, died in 1648. St. Thomas is located in Middle Island, which followed after the establishment of plantations of the island as the first European settlement of St. Kitts.

 

 

 

 Charlestown

 

A city with a colorful history, Charlestown was built in an area that could be protected by Fort Charles and Fort Black Rocks.

 

 

 

It was the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, whose family home was meticulously reconstructed as a museum.

 

 

 

The original, built in 1680, was destroyed during an earthquake in 1840. Most of the stone houses of the 18th century were destroyed during the earthquake relatively common 1800s, which led to the practice of building wooden upper floors on a stone floor.

 

 

 

Charlestown is also the site of the oldest synagogue in the Caribbean. During the decade of 1700, 25% of the population were Sephardic Jews, who brought the last of cane sugar growing and processing techniques Nevis and Leeward Islands, after being expelled from Brazil during the 17th century.

 

 

 

Charlestown Place Market is the center of activity on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings, eao end cotton by Ginnery, is active during the time of cotton harvest (March and April).

 

 

 

Basseterre

 

Its French name means simply "plain", a description that should have been scratched on a French graphic Sea sometime during the late 1620s.

 

 

 

In the 375 years that followed, there were many Basseterres by earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, fires and invasions were all swept this modest community. Set before the dramatic backdrop of lush St. Kitts' green hills, Basseterre today retains much of the character elegant Georgian day Nelson.

 

 

 

The Treasury Building

 

The domed colonial building that sits on the river bank is a reminder of the value of these islands as sugar colonies. It is the building of the Treasury, or customs, and through its arches went virtually everything that arrived or departed from St. Kitts, including until recently all visitors.

 

 

 

The Circus

 

Today Basseterre French heritage is not as important as its British colonial past. The centerpiece of the city's Georgian architecture evocative is his Circus, a diminutive roundabout modeled on Victorian patriotism after proper Piccadilly, London. In the middle of the Circus is the bronze glossy green Berkeley Memorial Clock, an ornate, cast iron tower with four clock faces and more than a little architectural decoration.

 

 

 Bahrain

 

 

HISTORY

 

Bahrain was part of the ancient civilization of  Dilmun and served as an important link in trade routes between Sumeria and the Indus Valley, while 5,000 years ago.

 

Since the late 18th century, Bahrain has been ruled by the Al Khalifa family, which created close ties with Britain by signing the General Treaty of Peace in 1820.

 

A binding treaty of protection, known as the Perpetual Truce of Peace and Friendship, was completed in 1861 and subsequently revised in 1892 and 1951.

 

This treaty was similar to that assumed by the British Government with the other Persian Gulf principalities.

 

He specified that the ruler could not dispose of any of his territory except to the United Kingdom and could not enter into relationships with any foreign government other than the United Kingdom without British consent.

 

The British promised to protect Bahrain from all aggression by sea and to provide support in case of ground attack.

 

After World War II, Bahrain became the center of British administration of treaty obligations at the bottom of the Persian Gulf.

 

In 1968, when the British government announced its decision (reaffirmed in March 1971) to end the treaty relationships with the Gulf emirates, Bahrain joined the other eight states (Qatar and the seven Trucial Sheikhdoms which are now called the United Arab Emirates) under British protection in an effort to form a union of Arab emirates.

 

By mid-1971, however, the nine sheikhdoms had not agree in terms of unity.

 

Accordingly, Bahrain sought independence as a separate entity and became fully independent on August 15, 1971, as the State of Bahrain.

 

Manama

 

It is the capital of the small island of Bahrain.

 

Among the most interesting places we recommend you visit a large white building that houses the National Museum, the Friday Mosque, built in the early century.

 

It is famous for its mosaics full of colors; Bab al-Bahrain was built by the British in 1945 to house the offices of the government.

 

Today it houses the tourist office; Beit al-Qur'am is home to the Quran, which holds a huge collection of manuscripts and Alcorães wooden sculptures, among other things, as well as an interesting exhibition of Islamic calligraphy.

 

The traditional culture of Bahrain shows up at the Heritage Centre, through photographs and exhibition of traditional costumes, beads and fishing, traditional musical instruments, etc..

 

Financial Harbour Manama

 

The economy of Manama is diversified and is now a finance center.

 

There are also oil companies.

 

Some traditional activities still exist, such as fishing and diving behind the pearls.

 

Manama is the commercial center of Bahrain, home of the most popular malls.

 

Currently, many working in Manama live in satellite towns a few miles away.

 

           She is also a very popular recreation center for the Saudis, with alcohol legal in Bahrain, Manama has several bars and nightclubs as well as beach clubs.

 

In Manama see many significant skyscrapers being built, completely changing the city skyline.

 

Much of the new Manama is built on reclaimed land, allowing traditional city, in part, to survive.

 

Among the attractions is the Friday Mosque, with its colorful minaret, built in 1938 from oil revenues.

 

The transport network of Manama is currently undergoing an extensive update.

 

Manama is itself the Bahraini communications center, directly connected to the road to Saudi Arabia and the Bahrain International Airport conveniently 7 km to the north.

 

The University of Bahrain was established in 1986 and has most of his faculties in Manama.

 

 

History

 

3rd millennium BC: Manama roughly corresponds with Dilmun.

 

7th century AD: Locals are forced to convert to Islam.

 

899: Becomes part of the state Qarmatian, who defied Saudi Islamic structures at the time.

 

1077: The state Qarmatian loses its control over the Al-Hasa in Arabia, Bahrain and only stays under your control.

 

1521: Becomes a Portuguese port.

 

1602: Conquered by the Persians.

 

1783: The Al Khalifa tribe takes control of  Manama, the capital, but its domain is Muharram.

 

1923: becomes Bahraini capital Manama.

 

1958: Manama is declared a free port.

 

1971: Bahrain won its independence with its capital Manama.

 

 Bahamas

 

Story

 

Officially speaking, the Bahamas can be called the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

It is an English speaking country consisting of 29 islands and islets.

The Bahamas is north of Cuba and covers 14000 square kilometers.

Although she may have had a finger in the discovery of many Caribbean islands, Columbus had a firm grip on first arrival in the Bahamas by any European explorer. This does not mean that his story begins in 1492, however, that goes back much further than that.

 

Bahamas: first inhabitants

 

The Bahamas that Columbus found were inhabited by Lucayans. Colombo had no interest in taking control over the islands and gifts exchanged only with the inhabitants. They may have been waiting for these the next time you paid a visit to Europe, but they were being severely disappointed by Spanish slavers who had little interest in exchanging memories.

The indigenous population were, however, allowed the task to work as slaves in the mines of Spanish gold. This was done so that the Lucayan population was almost finished. The Spanish decided not to colonize the island, although it was they who captured it for their own ends. This changed the face of the islands, which were supposedly very well wooded before the Spaniards arrived. Very few traders consider Slaver Spanish as responsible tenants as forests were never replanted.

 

European Colonization

 

The civilization was finally established in the Bahamas, in parallel with the English Civil War. Religious groups Puritans arrived on the island and established a civilization. This explains both the religion and way of speaking in this part of the Caribbean.

Islets and islet all proved to be a great place for pirates and a more perverse profession. The pirates were a big part of the islands to each other and decided in many parts of the Bahamas. It was very complicated to monitor and control, given the scattered nature of the islands.

The islands became a British colony in 1717 and the following year saw law and order finally restored. 1729 was the year that the law and order really took command when the first House of Assembly was installed in the islands. The pirates were arrested under this new rule, and the islands were gradually brought under some form of order.

The Spaniard had one more chance in 1782 during a civil war, this time was American. These attempts were not much to worry about and the British issued land grants to boost the island. The population tripled, as a result, primarily, through the slaves brought to work the plantations. As with many other Caribbean islands, these plantations failed due to the poor condition of the soil.

Race and ethical issues were very relevant during this time and the people have always believed that Europeans were superior citizens. A three-tier system seemed to be in place, lead by Europeans.

 

Independence of The Bahamas

 

1964 was the year of independence, during which the Bahamas finally broke away from Europe, while remaining a member of the Commonwealth.

The Bahamas became a strategic base during World War II and remain a loyal member of the Commonwealth.

His story is immensely diverse, despite having come to rest as an English speaking country. This seems to meet the island is now a tourist center.

 

LANGUAGE

 

The official language is English. It also speaks English Creole, French Creole, Greek and Chinese.

 

Location and Geography

 

In the western Atlantic are located in the Bahamas, an archipelago that stretches from the shores of Florida to the north of Cuba and Haiti.

More than 22 inhabited islands, 700 without dwelling and about 2,000 islands make up the archipelago of the Bahamas, which spreads from Florida to northeastern Cuba. Within this immense group of islands and islets stress Nueva Providencia, Andros, Grand Bahama, Inagua, Abaco, Long Island, Cat Island, Mayaguana, Cayo Lobos, Eleuthera and San Salvador (it is believed that the latter was the first land discovered by Christopher Colombo). The surface of the islands is generally flat and its main river is the Andros.

 

Flora and Fauna

 

The vegetation and animal world of the most important islands lying offshore. The hawksbill turtle, the golondrina, Huita the boa constrictor and the Bahamas are the animals that we contemplate, although some of them are endangered.

 

Historical Data

 

It is believed that the first inhabitants were the Arawak Caribbean. Later, and in order to practice their religious beliefs in new lands, began early arrivals Eleutheranos adventurers, coming from Bermuda.

The agriculture was flourishing while the first pirates were scaling these lands. A former privateer, Woodes Rogers was appointed first Royal Governor and the pirates departed the Bahamas. Thereafter, interest on the island from the neighboring country, the United States grew.

Because of the war, many Americans fled to the islands by the pressure existing in their states. In 1964, the Bahamas gets its first constitution without thereby ceasing to be a British protectorate. In 1973 obtained full independence, but now the contact and proximity to the United States is increasing.

 

Art and Culture

 

During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the slave trade brought millions of Africans to the Caribbean islands, many of which are now black or mulatto countries, having maintained many cultural elements originating from the continents of which the slaves were brought.

In regard to artistic events, the vast majority of Caribbean islands have preserved the traditional techniques of manual labor. Highlight the work sheet (for that use old pots), the cesteria (mainly with coconut leaves and banana) and the development of hand-painted bowls. Also works are leather, amber and wood.

 

GASTRONOMY

 

The most typical of the Bahamas is the Bahamas Snail Das, cooking up a variety of ways: stewed snail, snail salad, snail patties, etc..

The turtle soup is really delicious. For dessert, you can eat guava pudding, sweet pineapple, ice cream pie or soup bitter cocoa. The yellow bird and punch Goobay are two rum cocktails after a great meal.

 

POPULATION AND CUSTOMS

 

The population is mostly of African origin, the rest being American, British and Canadian. Tourism and agriculture are the main occupations of these people, along with fishing. In recent years the oil and the chemical and pharmaceutical industry have assumed an important source of income.

The music and dances are fundamental and every day. The rhythms and melodies heard grasp the historical conditions of the Bahamas, introducing different rhythms in a proposal novedosa. The music and African dance reached the Caribbean brings the arrival of African slaves, originating mainly from Ghana, Upper Guinea and the Nigerian Yoruba.

Just as the rest of the Caribbean islands, Carnival is undoubtedly the feast par excellence. All people participating in these festivals and the streets fill with people, parades, costumes, masks, dances, music and rockets.

The preparation of Carnival begins new year, when locals work with patience and skill in clothes and songs that, for a few days, rejoice calm life of this place.

 

ENTERTAINMENT

 

The possibilities that the Bahamas offer are almost endless. Lovers of water sports, especially divers will find an unforgettable landscape. Nightclubs, bars, cafés and nightclubs offering complete entertainment.

 

FESTIVALS

 

The festivals and celebrations of events marked fill with light and color throughout the archipelago. Thus, Junkanoo is the famous national festival emerged from African traditions, is celebrated on December 26 and New Year's Day, while Goombay Summer Festival is a popular festival with three nights in duration.

The July 10, the date of Independence, begins Week of Independence, celebrated with parades and rockets.

The 28th of August is celebrated Emancipation Day and October 12, as in almost the whole continent, the Day of Discovery.

 

NEW PROVIDENCE - PARADISE ISLAND

 

This is the most famous island of the Bahamas and tourist center more complete tropic. Over 5 miles of white sand stretches Cable Beach, a beach of white sand and beautiful girl.

 

NASSAU

 

Nassau, on New Providence Island (New Providence), is the capital and the commercial and financial center of The Bahamas. This city still retains the charm of the colonial British. The Parliament Square, Avenue Elizabeth, the Governor's House or the Fort Fincastle are a good example of this.

Water Tower (Water Tower) is a 75 meters high, the tallest building in the whole island, where tourists come to enjoy the amazing views offered from the gazebo located in the tallest tower. Queen's Staircase (The ladder of Queen) is one of the places that can not be visited without being, because from above includes stunning views of the entire city and its harbor.

At the end of Elizabeth Avenue lies the Fort Fincastle, a fortress built in 1793 that mimics the shape of the prow of a boat. If you want to stroll through the small streets of Old Nassau, the Rawson Square-Square located between Prince George Dock and Bay Street, will be the best place to exit. And to know more about the gay life of the inhabitants of Nassau, do not let go of the Woodes Rogers Walk, a beautiful promenade situated by the sea.

The most important places to the visitor are the Parliament Square in the city center (this is the seat of government of the islands), the Congress Palace, the former seat of the Colonial Secretary, the Supreme Court and a monument dedicated to Queen Victoria . Very nearby is the National Public Library, former prison. Bay Street is the main street.

Here you can get access to a lot of restaurants and shops. At the Craft Market, you will find everything you need, because it is one of the most important markets in the area.

Prince George Wharf, where abutting a dock and cruises depart with several destinations: Rawson Square, located between Prince George Dock and Bay Street.

Governor's House, interesting mansion, now the governor's residence.

 

AREA OF NASSAU

 

Botanical Garden

 

A wonderful garden with ponds with fish of different colors and also cactus.

 

Coral World

 

Near Nassau. A fine observatory submarine From the interior and through a windows can peer into the seabed.

 

Fort Charlotte

 

Located on West Bay Street. The fort was built in 1788 and has wells, battlements and dungeons.

 

Ardastra Gardens

 

At the foot of Fort Charlotte find themselves these tropical gardens where you can admire the original pink flamingos.

 

Fort Montagu. Located on East Bay Street

 

It was built in 1771 and for some years was an American-owned.

 

POTTER'S CAY

 

Beneath the bridge Paradis Islands. It has a popular market where you can buy a wide variety of edible items.

 

Versailles Gardens and French Cloister

 

Located in Paradis Islands. It is an Augustinian monastery in the fourteenth century, moved from France and rebuilt stone by stone.

 

BIG ISLAND BAHAMA

 

This island, located only half an hour away from Miami, you can practice all kinds of water sports. To enjoy the exotic nature of this island, it is best to visit the Rand Memorial Nature Centre, Gardens Of the Groves and caves Lucaya National Park. The Grand Bahama Museum will show you the history and traditions of the Indians lucayanos. Grand Bahama invites tourists to relax and enjoy the depths of its seas.

 

The sites of greatest interest are:

 

Freeport / Lucaya

An important administrative and commercial center.

 

Natural Randt Memorial Centre

A very few minutes away from Freeport, very interesting for its autochthonous woods.

 

Of the Goves Museum

This is a great museum with a garden cemetery lucayanos of the first settlers of the islands.

 

National Park Lucayana

An interesting natural treasure caves with stone rubble.

 

Perfume Factory

Be sure to visit her.

 

THE FAMILY ISLANDS

 

More than 700 islands and islets without much tourist paradise, perfect to leave everything behind.

 

THE ABACO

 

They form a group of islands along 210 km. From emerald waters. In 1783 the first settlers arrived. The Hope Town of Faro still works with kerosene and is driven by hand.

Near the small town of Green Turtle Cay, very popular by the bright colors of its houses are situated the Pelican Cay National Park and Reserve of Birds at the National Trust, the first being the main attraction for divers and the second for ornithologists.

 

The most important thing to see:

 

Marsh Harbouk

Port of entry with its own airport. Curiously, it also has the only traffic light on the island.

 

Faro Town of Hope

With its red and white stripes, is still driven with kerosene.

 

Green Turtle Cay

It is a very small town, the houses by their colors and shapes, seem to come from a distant time.

 

Man-O-War Cay

Ateleiros where workers build boats following the style of their ancestors 200 years ago.

 

Beach Treasure Cay

One of the most beautiful beaches of these islands.

 

Pelican Cay National Park

An underwater park where divers can enjoy the beautiful landscape in the midst of the sea.

 

Bird reserve of the National Trust

A paradise for birdwatchers.

 

ANDROS

 

90 km outside of Nassau, Andros is the least exploited island of the archipelago. It has two tropical forests in which, according to Indian legend, the late legendary Chickcharine, a red-eyed creature with three fingers and three feet. Nichol's Town and Mastic Point are two great places to learn about the local cuisine you can hear live music Goobay.

This is the largest and least touristy islands and a real barrier reef, a lovely dream for divers. The current sweet ocean is full of a wide variety of marine fauna and flora. A true paradise. Andros is known as the island of Espiritu Santo. Its interior has dense forests and address Chickcahrine, Forest Elf according to Indian legend.

 

ELEUTHERA

 

Eleuthera is a Greek word which means Freedom. This island was discovered 300 years ago. In Eleuthera can visit the Wind Glass Bridge, a bridge with the Atlantic on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other.

To the north of the island is Gregory Town, where it manufactures rum pineapple. Spanish Wells, the first European settlement, still has the charm of architectural and artistic centuries ago. The town of Governor's Harbour is another of the oldest islands of the Bahamas. Also underline Harbour Island, with a beautiful sandy beach petite and Ocean Hole, a very deep indoor lagoon connected to the sea through holes.

 

AS Exumas

 

The Exumas are formed by a chain of 365 islands among which underline Great Exuma and Little Exuma, connected by a bridge. The main attraction of these islands is in the National Marine Park of  Exuma Land and, to get there you must go by boat through an area of ​​coral reefs and underwater caves. The capital is George Town.

 

THE BIMINI

 

This is the most extensive fishing area in the world.

 

The most important are: Blue Marlin Cottage and Museum, where Hemingway lived and sought the inspiration for many of his novels, and the Straw Market in Alice Town.

 

CAT ISLANDS

 

This island is recommended for its spectacular vegetation. The Caves of Arawak are very interesting poisse can include some pre-Columbian remains.

 

Inagua

On this island think is one of the largest colonies of flamingos in the world (nearly 40,000 copies living in Windsor Pond) and Cat Island, you can visit the caves of the Arawak Indians in the vicinity of Port Howe.

Flamingos and the swampy waters of Lake Windsor is the better place.

 

LONG ISLAND

 

These islands offer an interesting contrast. A part of the white beaches and the rocky cliffs of another.

 

SAN SALVADOR

 

San Salvador was, according to the belief-the first island that Christopher Columbus set foot. After five centuries remains, in many respects, the same virgin island these days.

 

Nightlife in the Bahamas

 

Nightlife and fun in this tropical paradise, we find a plethora of programs, bars, nightclubs and casinos to be your night unforgettable.

See below some of these locations:

Flo's Conch Bar & Restaurant

Little Harbour, Berry Islands

The Bahamas

Transportation

 

Most of the islands has a local service to ferry transporting tourists and residents between the neighboring islands and the ports of the main island. There is the opportunity to travel in boats of various types and sizes led by several prominent Bahamians.

Discovery Cruise Lines offers a "Ride Cruise to the Bahamas" which departs daily from Fort Lauderdale bound for Grand Bahama. The ferry part of Fort Lauderdale at 7:25 a.m. in the morning, arriving at 13 hours in Grand Bahama, Grand Bahama part of it at 16.25, arriving at 22 hours in Fort Lauderdale.

 

Currency

 

The local currency is the dollar of the Bahamas, for security, currency trading should be done preferably on the rare exchange houses.

It is advisable to respect the usual safety advice:

Do not ride at night or in isolated locations

Avoid deserted beaches

Transportation with a copy of passport

 

Shopping and Craft

 

One of the best parts of the trip to the Bahamas are tax free purchases.

In Nassau, along the Bay Street shops will find perfumes, cosmetics, liquor and jewelry, duty-free style. Currently the Bahamians maintain the tradition of the ancient Taino and Lucayan Indians production of different arts and crafts that reflect its rich heritage of art and talent.

The Bahamians utilize local sources to create dishes, spices, ceramics, crafts, art and music unique. Local arts and crafts can also be found in various markets straw.

The two main shopping areas on the island are the International Bazaar and Port Lucaya Marketplace.

 

Dip

 

You may have seen some video with divers around a guide feeding sharks with pieces of flesh and blood. This is one of the highlights in the Bahamas, has usually no danger in this type of tourism, several local operators have this type of output in their tour packages.

 

The are plenty of places to dive in the Bahamas.

 

Music

 

The music of The Bahamas, is a mix of african rhythms and calypso. The nightlife happens in Cable Beach and Paradise Island, where are the hotels with their casinos, such as the Crystal Palace and Atlantis.

 

If you are in Nassau on December 26 or January 1, will attend the Junkanoo, the Bahamian carnival, which begins at 2 am and go until 8 o'clock in the morning.

 

Climate

 

The climate is tropical, with average temperatures ranging from 21-27 ° C and constant trade winds.

 

The region is in the path of hurricanes between June and November is the time of greatest occurrence.

 

GOOD TRAVEL!

 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Central America

 

 

GEOGRAPHICAL SOURCING

The Islands of Trinidad and Tobago settles the southern arc of the Antilles and are ahead the Venezuela the 11 kilometers of its shores. Trinidad has an area of 4,828 square kilometers and if uni to Big Delta of the Orinoco River, in addition to Tobago which has a size of 295 square kilometers. THE territory also includes the islands of Little Tobago, we make, uova de cova, Chacachacare and Gasparee.

 

FLORA AND vegetation of Trinidad

 Is very similar to the Venezuelan: plains in parts more dried surrounded by a lush vegetation virgin. There are coconut trees, sugar cane, cocoa, coffee, tobacco as the main crops of the region. Wild life is very rich in fauna, highlighting 622 species of moths and 700 different types of orchids. Tobago account with 19 species of hummingbird and koalas, 7 originating on the island. Among the animals most frequently in their soil we can quote the beetles, the concha sandy, the spiny lobster and polluted, the quail dove, humming "wing saber", the verdilhao (bird) of Monserrat and the wild duck in the Antilles.

 

History

The population of approximately 1,276,000 inhabitants, whose ethnic origins are diversified. Most of the villages are located on the west coast of the island of Trinidad, which is rich in fertile land and oil. Christianity is the predominant religion, with 60% of followers, and can find both Roman Catholic and Anglican; follows in proportion the Hindus in 25 % and Muslims in 6 %. We speak english in most villages, but also use the french, the Spanish, the hindu, Chinese and arab.

 

Art and Culture, the traditional music of this region of the Caribbean is also a mixture of the influences of immigrants from Africa and Europe with their customs rooted the environment of the Antilles. For a long time, the music has been a source of dialog and expression between the peoples and today still retains certain codes understood by motorboats. THE calypso was born on the island of Trinidad and is a mixture of African rhythms, hipânico african and verses in english with structural marks french. The themes that deal with the songs with this pace are daily such as love, sex, politics, etc.

 

Local tourist

ISLANDS OF TRINIDAD PORT OF SPAIN

Considered as one of the islands most cosmopolitan cities of the world, in Trinidad you will find statements from the ancestral traditions, modes of contemporary life, bazaars, hindu places of worship and festivities without pair. The capital is Port of Spain where develops the main political events and administrative. In the old part are King's Wharf or Independence Square. Other attractions are the Parliament of Trinidad that is found in Red House, a building typical of the renaissance; the Woodford Square, with its beautiful fountain; the Church of Trinidad, with its Gothic towers, consecrated in 1826; the National Museum and Art Gallery, where exhibit show culture pre-colombian, paintings by contemporary artists and exhibitions on the oil.

The Queen's Park, better known as Savannah, in addition to recognizing its particular beauty and a center for meeting for various cultural events. Very close is the Magnificent Seven, which are a series of buildings constructed during the last century. Not far away is the Botanical Garden, a huge tropical park where are the residences of the President and the Prime Minister. During the carnival must not fail to visit the hippodrome, for there they celebrate the invitations of musical bands of calypso music, in addition to the traditional horse racing.

 

THE NORTH

16 km from the capital is Lopinot Complex that is conformed by the population of Siree, La Pastora and Lopinot, where it developed in ancient times the large plantations of coffee and cocoa still preserved with care. Fort George is recognized by its characteristic architectural and its precious panoramas. In northwest part is the small village of Toco and the first capital, St. Joseph, which still preserves its beautiful buildings and the old catholic church of XVI century.

 

THE BEACHES OF TRINIDAD

Tirico Bay is the favorite of those who practice the surfing, still that Maracas Day stimulates a more pleasant stay in its lagoon of sand. You can also visit Las Cuevas Bay, which is a sandy beach with numerous submerged caves around the coast. To the northwest is Chagville, a beach that is connected to the end of at Chaguaramas.

 

OTHER ATTRACTIONS OF TRINIDAD

The accumulations of woods and waterfalls can be recognized in the center of Natural Asa Wrigth, hosts more than a hundred different species. Arima for its part, maintains the featues pre-columbian architecture in a city that has come to be the third in importance in the country. Other important points in the region are: Valencia, popular among surfers. Caroni Bird Sanctuary, reserve of birds that we can go by boat.

 

THE SOUTH

an hour from the capital is San Fernando, the main industrial area of the region. More ahead this Point Pierre Wild Fowl Trust, a natural reserve that concentrates several wild species in danger of extinction. The small village of fishermen of Erin with its impressive beaches of Puerto Grande and Los Satyrs; and the refuge of the most famous healers in the area of the village of Moruga.

 

ILHA DE TOBAGO

SCARBOROUH

The capital, Sacarborough, brings together the area of Fort King George, impressive botanical gardens and beautiful views of the entire coast. Very close is Rock Bay, which has the House of Tobago in James Park, and the bridge of Gun Bridge, as architectonic treasures.

In the rest of this island you can find some real beauties such as Mount Saint George, whose acantilado offers a delightful view of the sea; Fort Granby, with a beautiful beach of black sand; the waterfalls of King's Bay whose waters fall in a fresh water swimming pool with excellent beaches around; Charlotte Ville, with its beaches of Man of Bay and Lover's Beach, call thus by its pink sand. Flagstaff Hill, the highest point of the island; the arrecife of Bucoo coral reef; and the beaches of Pigeon Point and Turtle Bay.

 

THE LITTLE TOBAGO

Is the smaller and you can get it from Speyside. Popularly known as the "paradise of birds" by the multiplicity of birds that focuses on their territories. Gastronomy typical gastronomy if you can find elements very similar to the rest of the Caribbean. Among the main dishes we can highlight: the Callaloo (stew or soup of a herb resembles spinach), the beat of amendment (with flavor of peanut butter), the tumtun (green bananas done pure), coocoon (meatballs of corn bread), the tori (earth packed with meat), cascadou (freshwater fish), the chip chip (seafood), the crabmatete (carangueijo), pastels (cakes of meat), the armadillo (beef) and the de Lappe (rabbit of the islands).

 

Drinks from the XVI century the rum has been the drink more important of Caribbean islands. Its origin is associated with the legendary stories of pirates and slaves. A great list of houses producing famous liquor of sugar cane, has popularized its consumption not only in any location of the Antilles, but yes, expanded in the whole world. Throughout the region produce delicious tropical fruit juices whose mixture (coco with papaya, strawberry with coconut, banana and strawberry coconut, etc) the origin to the names that were baptized. They can be served with or without alcohol.

 

Purchasing To bring some remembrance of the journey there are several options. Between the main articles of sale are: the craft of pottery, the copper or the woodcarvings, the bracelets of gold or silver, the straw baskets, the tissues of indian silk and cotton, leather articles.

It is important warn that there are articles protected as the hull of tortoise or the black coral. Probably, the find the sale, but will take their precautions.