Page not found – The Country Tutor https://www.thesciencetutor.org Tue, 26 Mar 2024 07:22:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.25 Portugal Weather by Month https://www.thesciencetutor.org/portugal-weather-by-month.html Wed, 20 Mar 2024 13:16:59 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1760 Exploring Portugal through its diverse climates and seasonal changes offers travelers a captivating journey through its charming cities, picturesque coastlines, and rich cultural heritage. From the mild winters to the sunny summers, Portugal’s weather varies significantly throughout the year.

1. January:

January in Portugal marks the peak of winter, with mild temperatures in coastal regions and cooler temperatures inland. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures range from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F) in coastal areas, while inland regions experience slightly cooler temperatures ranging from 5°C to 14°C (41°F to 57°F).
  • Precipitation: January is one of the wettest months in Portugal, particularly in the northern and central regions, with occasional showers and cloudy days.
  • Activities: Despite the cooler weather, travelers can explore Portugal’s cultural attractions and historic landmarks, such as Lisbon’s Belém Tower and Porto’s Ribeira district, where they can enjoy indoor activities like museum visits and wine tastings.

2. February:

February continues the winter season in Portugal, with similar weather patterns to January. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures remain relatively consistent with January, ranging from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F) in coastal areas and 5°C to 14°C (41°F to 57°F) inland.
  • Precipitation: February sees continued rainfall, particularly in the northern and central regions, although the intensity of precipitation may vary throughout the month.
  • Activities: According to clothingexpress, travelers can explore Portugal’s culinary scene by sampling traditional dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) and caldo verde (green soup), visit historic towns and villages in the countryside, and attend cultural events and festivals celebrating Portuguese heritage.

3. March:

March marks the transition from winter to spring in Portugal, with milder temperatures and the first signs of blooming flowers. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures begin to rise, ranging from 9°C to 17°C (48°F to 63°F) in coastal areas and 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F) inland.
  • Precipitation: March sees a decrease in rainfall compared to the winter months, although occasional showers may still occur, particularly in the northern and central regions.
  • Activities: Travelers can explore Portugal’s scenic landscapes and natural parks, such as Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and Peneda-Gerês National Park, where they can go hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Additionally, cultural events and festivals celebrating springtime traditions offer opportunities for cultural immersion.

4. April:

April brings the arrival of spring in Portugal, with warmer temperatures and blooming nature. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures range from 11°C to 19°C (52°F to 66°F) in coastal areas and 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F) inland, with warmer temperatures in southern regions.
  • Precipitation: April sees minimal rainfall overall, with sunny days becoming more frequent as spring progresses, although occasional showers may still occur.
  • Activities: Travelers can explore Portugal’s coastal regions and beaches, go surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking along the Algarve coast, and visit historic sites and landmarks in cities like Lisbon and Évora.

5. May:

May is a delightful time to visit Portugal, with mild temperatures and blooming nature. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures range from 13°C to 21°C (55°F to 70°F) in coastal areas and 10°C to 19°C (50°F to 66°F) inland, with warmer temperatures in southern regions.
  • Precipitation: May sees minimal rainfall overall, with sunny days and clear skies prevailing throughout most of the country, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
  • Activities: Travelers can explore Portugal’s cultural heritage by visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Monastery of Batalha and the Historic Centre of Oporto, go wine tasting in the Douro Valley, and enjoy outdoor dining and street performances.

6. June:

June heralds the arrival of summer in Portugal, with warm temperatures and longer days. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures range from 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F) in coastal areas and 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F) inland, with warmer temperatures in southern regions.
  • Precipitation: June sees minimal rainfall, with dry and sunny weather prevailing throughout most of the country, perfect for beach vacations and outdoor adventures.
  • Activities: Travelers can relax at Portugal’s beaches and coastal resorts, enjoy water sports such as surfing, sailing, and snorkeling, and explore cultural attractions and historical sites.

7. July:

July is the peak of summer in Portugal, with hot temperatures and vibrant energy. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures range from 17°C to 27°C (63°F to 81°F) in coastal areas and 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) inland, with warmer temperatures in southern regions.
  • Precipitation: July sees minimal rainfall, with dry and sunny weather prevailing throughout most of the country, perfect for beach vacations and outdoor activities.
  • Activities: Travelers can experience the vibrant nightlife of Portugal’s coastal towns, including Lisbon, Porto, and Lagos, where they can enjoy beach parties, live music, and cultural events. Additionally, outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boat tours offer opportunities to explore Portugal’s natural beauty.

8. August:

August continues the summer heat in Portugal, with long sunny days and warm temperatures ideal for outdoor pursuits. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures range from 18°C to 29°C (64°F to 84°F) in coastal areas and 16°C to 27°C (61°F to 81°F) inland, with warmer temperatures in southern regions.
  • Precipitation: August sees minimal rainfall, with dry and sunny weather prevailing throughout most of the country, perfect for beach vacations and outdoor adventures.
  • Activities: Travelers can explore Portugal’s coastal regions, visit popular beach destinations such as the Algarve and the Costa Verde, and enjoy water sports such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Additionally, cultural festivals and events celebrating Portuguese traditions offer opportunities for cultural immersion and entertainment.

9. September:

September marks the transition from summer to autumn in Portugal, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures range from 17°C to 26°C (63°F to 79°F) in coastal areas and 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F) inland, with warmer temperatures in southern regions.
  • Precipitation: September sees minimal rainfall overall, although occasional showers may occur, particularly in northern regions, as Portugal transitions to the rainy season.
  • Activities: Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wine tasting in Portugal’s countryside and vineyards, visit cultural attractions and historical sites with fewer crowds, and attend seasonal events and festivals celebrating Portuguese food, wine, and music.

10. October:

October brings cooler temperatures and the onset of autumn in Portugal, with changing foliage and quieter streets. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures range from 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F) in coastal areas and 11°C to 20°C (52°F to 68°F) inland, with cooler temperatures in northern regions.
  • Precipitation: October sees an increase in rainfall, particularly in northern and central regions, as Portugal enters the rainy season, although the intensity of precipitation may vary throughout the month.
  • Activities: Travelers can explore Portugal’s countryside and national parks, go hiking and birdwatching in places like Peneda-Gerês National Park and Serra da Estrela Natural Park, and visit historic towns and villages with autumn foliage.

11. November:

November marks the onset of winter in Portugal, with cooler temperatures, shorter days, and occasional frost. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures range from 11°C to 18°C (52°F to 64°F) in coastal areas and 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F) inland, with cooler temperatures in northern regions.
  • Precipitation: November sees an increase in rainfall and occasional showers, particularly in northern and central regions, as Portugal experiences the peak of the rainy season.
  • Activities: Travelers can explore Portugal’s cultural heritage by visiting historic cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra, where they can enjoy indoor activities like museum visits and wine tastings, and attend seasonal events and festivals celebrating Portuguese traditions.

12. December:

December brings the onset of winter in Portugal, with cold temperatures, occasional rain, and festive holiday celebrations. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperature: Average temperatures range from 9°C to 16°C (48°F to 61°F) in coastal areas and 6°C to 14°C (43°F to 57°F) inland, with colder temperatures in northern regions.
  • Precipitation: December sees an increase in rainfall, particularly in northern and central regions, as Portugal experiences the peak of the rainy season, although coastal areas may experience milder weather.
  • Activities: Travelers can embrace the holiday spirit by visiting Christmas markets and festive decorations in cities like Lisbon and Porto, enjoy winter sports and activities such as skiing and snowboarding in Serra da Estrela, and savor traditional Portuguese holiday dishes and desserts. Additionally, indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and historic sites offer opportunities for cultural exploration and sightseeing.

Regional Variations:

While Portugal generally experiences similar weather patterns across the country, there are regional variations influenced by factors such as proximity to the coast, elevation, and geographical features:

  • Northern Portugal: Often experiences cooler temperatures and higher rainfall compared to southern regions, particularly in mountainous areas such as the Serra da Estrela and the Peneda-Gerês National Park.
  • Central Portugal: Offers a mix of coastal and inland climates, with milder temperatures along the coast and cooler temperatures in inland areas, such as the historic city of Coimbra and the medieval town of Óbidos.
  • Southern Portugal (Algarve): Enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, making it an ideal destination for beach vacations and outdoor activities year-round.
  • Azores and Madeira Islands: Have subtropical climates with mild temperatures and high humidity, offering lush landscapes, volcanic scenery, and outdoor adventures such as hiking, whale watching, and diving.

Conclusion:

Portugal offers travelers a diverse range of weather experiences throughout the year, from mild winters and blooming springs to sunny summers and colorful autumns. By understanding the weather month by month and considering regional variations, travelers can plan their visit to Portugal accordingly, whether they’re seeking beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, cultural explorations, or seasonal festivities. With its charming cities, stunning coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, Portugal welcomes visitors year-round to discover its timeless beauty and warm hospitality.

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United Arab Emirates Location on the Globe https://www.thesciencetutor.org/united-arab-emirates-location-on-the-globe.html Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:58:20 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1759 The UAE is situated in the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering the Persian Gulf to the north and Oman to the east and south. This comprehensive overview will delve into the UAE’s position on the globe and its impact on various aspects of its identity and development.

Geographically, the United Arab Emirates is located between latitudes 22° and 26° N and longitudes 51° and 56° E. It shares its northern border with the Persian Gulf, a strategic body of water that has played a crucial role in the country’s history and economic development. The UAE is bordered by Oman to the southeast and south, while its western border is shared with Saudi Arabia.

According to Baglib, the UAE is composed of seven emirates, each with its own unique geographical features and characteristics. The most well-known emirates are Abu Dhabi, the capital and largest emirate, and Dubai, a global hub for commerce, tourism, and innovation. Other emirates include Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah.

The landscape of the UAE is predominantly desert, characterized by vast stretches of sand dunes, gravel plains, and rocky outcrops. However, the country also features some mountainous regions, particularly in the eastern part of the country near the border with Oman. The Hajar Mountains, which run along the eastern coast of the UAE, are known for their rugged terrain and stunning natural beauty.

The coastline of the UAE extends for approximately 1,318 kilometers (819 miles) along the Persian Gulf, providing the country with access to important maritime trade routes and strategic shipping lanes. The UAE’s coastal areas are home to numerous islands, including the Palm Jumeirah and The World islands in Dubai, as well as natural reserves and protected marine habitats.

The climate of the UAE is arid and desert-like, with hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures can soar to over 40°C (104°F) in the summer months, while winter temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Rainfall is scarce and irregular, with most precipitation occurring between November and March in the form of brief showers or thunderstorms.

Despite its harsh climate and arid landscape, the UAE has made significant strides in harnessing renewable energy sources and implementing sustainable development initiatives. The country is home to the world’s largest single-site solar park, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai, which aims to generate 75% of Dubai‘s electricity from renewable sources by 2050.

From a historical perspective, the UAE’s geographical location has long been a crossroads for trade, commerce, and cultural exchange. The region that is now the UAE has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Bronze Age. The UAE’s strategic position on the Arabian Peninsula made it a vital hub for trade between the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe.

The ancient city of Umm Al Nar, located in Abu Dhabi, is one of the oldest archaeological sites in the UAE, dating back to the 3rd millennium BCE. The site provides insight into the early maritime trade networks and cultural interactions that shaped the region’s history.

In the 7th century CE, the UAE came under the influence of Islam following the expansion of the Muslim Caliphate into the Arabian Peninsula. Islam played a central role in shaping the cultural identity and social fabric of the region, with mosques, madrasas, and Islamic architecture becoming prominent features of the UAE’s urban landscape.

Throughout the medieval period, the UAE was part of various Islamic empires and dynasties, including the Abbasid Caliphate, the Seljuk Empire, and the Ottoman Empire. The region’s coastal cities, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, served as important centers of maritime trade and commerce, connecting the Arabian Peninsula with the Indian Ocean and beyond.

In the 19th century, the UAE’s coastal regions came under the control of the British Empire, which established treaties and agreements with local rulers to protect British interests and secure maritime trade routes. The Trucial States, a group of sheikhdoms along the UAE’s coast, entered into a series of treaties with the British government, leading to the establishment of the British Residency in the Persian Gulf.

The discovery of oil in the 20th century transformed the UAE’s economy and brought unprecedented wealth and prosperity to the region. The first commercial oil well in the UAE was drilled in 1958 in Abu Dhabi, leading to the rapid expansion of the country’s oil industry and the establishment of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) as the primary state-owned oil company.

The UAE’s oil reserves, estimated to be the seventh-largest in the world, have fueled the country’s economic growth and development, enabling investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and tourism. Dubai, in particular, has emerged as a global hub for finance, commerce, and tourism, attracting millions of visitors each year with its iconic skyscrapers, luxury resorts, and vibrant cultural scene.

In recent decades, the UAE has diversified its economy beyond oil and gas to focus on sectors such as tourism, finance, real estate, and renewable energy. The country’s visionary leadership, coupled with strategic investments in infrastructure and innovation, has positioned the UAE as a dynamic and forward-thinking nation on the global stage.

The UAE’s cultural landscape is a reflection of its diverse population and rich heritage, with influences from Arab, Islamic, and international cultures. Arabic is the official language of the UAE, while English is widely spoken and used in business, education, and government. The country’s population is composed of various ethnic groups, including Emiratis, expatriates from South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, as well as Western expatriates from Europe and North America.

The UAE’s cultural heritage is celebrated through festivals, events, and cultural institutions that showcase Emirati traditions, art, music, and cuisine. Emirati cuisine is known for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and hearty dishes, with specialties such as machboos (spiced rice with meat), harees (wheat porridge with meat), and luqaimat (sweet dumplings) enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

In conclusion, the United Arab Emirates‘ geographical location on the globe has played a pivotal role in shaping its history, culture, and economic development. From its ancient roots as a center of trade and commerce to its modern-day status as a global hub for business, tourism, and innovation, the UAE continues to thrive and evolve as a dynamic and forward-looking nation in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.

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Geography of Grant County, South Dakota https://www.thesciencetutor.org/geography-of-grant-county-south-dakota.html Thu, 14 Mar 2024 16:11:31 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1758 Grant County, nestled in the northeastern part of South Dakota, boasts a diverse geographical landscape shaped by its rivers, lakes, plains, and rolling hills. The county’s geography is influenced by the glacial history of the region, which left behind fertile soils and numerous bodies of water. Grant County’s climate is characterized by cold winters, warm summers, and relatively low precipitation, typical of the Great Plains region. In this comprehensive overview, we will explore the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other natural features of Grant County, South Dakota. Check homethodology to learn more about the state of South Dakota.

Geography and Climate:

Grant County covers an area of approximately 688 square miles in the northeastern corner of South Dakota. It is bordered by Roberts County to the north, Codington County to the east, Deuel County to the south, and Day County to the west. The county seat, Milbank, is located near the center of the county.

The landscape of Grant County is primarily composed of gently rolling hills, flat plains, and fertile farmland. The terrain gradually rises from the east to the west, with elevations ranging from around 1,000 feet in the eastern part of the county to over 1,500 feet in the western part. The soil in Grant County is predominantly loamy and well-suited for agriculture, particularly the cultivation of corn, soybeans, wheat, and other cereal grains.

Grant County experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, relatively dry summers. The region is situated in the transition zone between the humid continental climate of the Midwest and the semi-arid climate of the Great Plains. Average high temperatures in the summer typically range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, while winter highs average in the 20s to 30s Fahrenheit. Precipitation is relatively low throughout the year, with most of the moisture falling as snow in the winter months. The county occasionally experiences severe weather, including thunderstorms, hail, and tornadoes, particularly during the spring and summer months.

Rivers:

Grant County is traversed by several rivers and streams, the most significant of which is the Big Sioux River.

The Big Sioux River flows in a southeasterly direction through the eastern part of Grant County, serving as the county’s border with Minnesota. Originating in Roberts County, the Big Sioux River meanders through the prairies and farmland of eastern South Dakota before joining the Missouri River near Sioux City, Iowa. The river provides important habitat for fish and wildlife and offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking.

Other smaller rivers and streams in Grant County include the Whetstone Creek, which flows through the central part of the county, and the Bois de Sioux River, which forms part of the county’s eastern border with Minnesota. These waterways contribute to the county’s hydrology and provide valuable resources for agriculture, wildlife, and recreation.

Lakes:

Grant County is home to several natural and man-made lakes, which add to the county’s scenic beauty and recreational amenities.

Big Stone Lake, located in the northeastern part of the county, is one of the largest natural lakes in South Dakota. Fed by the waters of the Big Sioux River, Big Stone Lake stretches approximately 26 miles along the South Dakota-Minnesota border, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and camping.

Artificial reservoirs, such as Lake Farley and Lake Traverse, provide additional recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Lake Farley, situated near the town of Milbank, features a beach, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Lake Traverse, located in the southeastern part of the county, is part of the chain of lakes along the Minnesota-South Dakota border and offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities.

Conclusion:

Grant County, South Dakota, offers a diverse and picturesque landscape characterized by its rivers, lakes, plains, and rolling hills. The county’s fertile soils, abundant water resources, and moderate climate make it an ideal location for agriculture, outdoor recreation, and wildlife habitat. From the meandering waters of the Big Sioux River to the tranquil shores of Big Stone Lake, Grant County’s natural features provide a unique and inviting environment for residents and visitors alike. As stewards of this rich natural heritage, it is essential to preserve and protect the county’s environment for future generations to enjoy.

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Geography of Edmunds County, South Dakota https://www.thesciencetutor.org/geography-of-edmunds-county-south-dakota.html Thu, 14 Mar 2024 06:18:58 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1757 Edmunds County, located in the northeastern region of South Dakota, is a picturesque area known for its rolling prairies, fertile farmland, and scenic waterways. From the vast expanses of grassland to the tranquil lakes and winding rivers, the county offers a variety of geographical features and natural attractions. This comprehensive overview will explore the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other prominent features of Edmunds County, providing insight into its unique charm and environmental significance. Check bittranslators to learn more about the state of South Dakota.

Geography:

Prairie Landscape:

Edmunds County is primarily characterized by its expansive prairies, which dominate much of the county’s terrain. These grasslands stretch as far as the eye can see, interrupted only by occasional groves of trees, farmsteads, and small towns. The prairie landscape supports a variety of plant and animal species, including grasses, wildflowers, deer, and prairie dogs.

Glacial Deposits:

During the last Ice Age, glaciers covered much of what is now South Dakota, shaping the landscape and leaving behind a legacy of glacial deposits. Edmunds County is part of the Prairie Coteau region, characterized by its gently rolling hills and glacial moraines. These geological features contribute to the county’s diverse topography and provide scenic vistas for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Lakes and Ponds:

Edmunds County is home to several lakes and ponds, including Bowdle Lake, Dry Lake, and Green Lake. These bodies of water provide habitat for fish and waterfowl and offer recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. Green Lake, in particular, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its clear waters and sandy beaches.

James River:

The James River flows through the western portion of Edmunds County, meandering from its headwaters in North Dakota to its confluence with the Missouri River in central South Dakota. The river provides habitat for fish, wildlife, and vegetation and supports recreational activities such as fishing, canoeing, and birdwatching. The James River Valley is also an important agricultural region, with fertile soils and abundant water resources.

Farming Communities:

Agriculture is the primary land use in Edmunds County, with farmers cultivating crops such as wheat, corn, soybeans, and sunflowers on the county’s fertile soils. Livestock raising, including cattle and sheep, is also prevalent, with ranchers utilizing the prairies and pasturelands for grazing. Farming communities such as Bowdle, Ipswich, and Roscoe are central to the county’s economy and rural way of life.

Climate:

Temperature:

Edmunds County experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from the single digits in winter to the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit in summer. Temperature extremes can occur, with occasional heatwaves in summer and subzero temperatures in winter.

Precipitation:

Precipitation in Edmunds County is relatively low, with an average annual rainfall of around 20 inches. The majority of precipitation falls during the spring and summer months, often in the form of thunderstorms and heavy downpours. Snowfall is common in winter, contributing to the county’s winter sports and recreation opportunities.

Wind:

Wind is a significant factor in Edmunds County’s climate, with frequent gusts blowing across the open prairies. The prevailing winds, often from the northwest, can create blustery conditions and contribute to the region’s evaporation rates and dry climate. Wind energy production is also a growing industry in the county, with wind farms harnessing the power of the wind to generate electricity.

Economic Activities:

Agriculture:

Agriculture is the backbone of Edmunds County’s economy, with farming and ranching playing a vital role in the region’s prosperity. Farmers cultivate crops such as wheat, corn, soybeans, and sunflowers on the county’s fertile soils, while ranchers raise cattle and sheep on the vast prairies and pasturelands. Agriculture contributes significantly to the county’s economy, providing employment, income, and food for the region and beyond.

Energy Production:

In addition to agriculture, energy production is an emerging industry in Edmunds County, with wind energy playing a growing role in the county’s economy. The county’s flat terrain and windy conditions make it an ideal location for wind farm development, with wind turbines dotting the landscape and generating renewable energy for local communities and beyond.

Tourism and Recreation:

While agriculture and energy production are the primary economic drivers, tourism and recreation also contribute to Edmunds County’s economy. Outdoor enthusiasts visit the county to enjoy activities such as hunting, fishing, birdwatching, and camping in the prairies and along the rivers and lakes. Cultural and historical attractions, such as the Bowdle Pioneer Village and Museum, offer insights into the region’s pioneer heritage and rural way of life.

Conclusion:

Edmunds County, South Dakota, offers a glimpse into the vastness and beauty of the Great Plains, with its expansive prairies, meandering rivers, and tranquil lakes. Despite its relatively flat terrain, the county’s diverse landscape and rich natural resources provide endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Whether fishing along the banks of the James River, hiking through the prairie grasslands, or simply admiring the wide-open skies, visitors to Edmunds County are sure to be captivated by its unspoiled beauty and tranquil ambiance.

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Geography of Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, Alaska https://www.thesciencetutor.org/geography-of-yukon-koyukuk-census-area-alaska.html Thu, 14 Mar 2024 03:42:20 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1756 The Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, located in the interior region of Alaska, encompasses a vast and remote landscape characterized by rugged mountains, sprawling tundra, and winding rivers. Spanning an area larger than many U.S. states, this census area is one of the most sparsely populated regions in the United States. Its geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other natural features play a crucial role in shaping both the environment and the way of life for its inhabitants. This comprehensive overview will delve into the geography of the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, providing insights into its physical characteristics, climate, rivers, lakes, and more. Check climateforcities to learn more about the state of Alaska.

Physical Geography

The Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area is situated in the central part of Alaska, covering a vast and diverse expanse of land that extends from the interior plains to the towering peaks of the Alaska Range. The landscape is dominated by the vast wilderness of the Yukon River basin, which includes rugged mountains, expansive tundra, boreal forests, and countless lakes and rivers.

The Alaska Range, with peaks reaching heights of over 20,000 feet, cuts across the southern part of the census area, forming a dramatic backdrop to the surrounding terrain. Mount McKinley, also known as Denali, the highest peak in North America, lies within the boundaries of the census area.

To the north, the landscape gradually transitions into the vast expanse of the Arctic tundra, characterized by low-lying vegetation, permafrost, and numerous lakes and ponds. This region is sparsely populated and largely untouched by human development.

Climate

The climate of the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area varies widely across its vast expanse, but it is generally characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers. The region experiences a subarctic climate, with extreme temperature variations and relatively low precipitation.

Winters are harsh, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing for extended periods. In the interior valleys and lowlands, temperatures can plummet to -40°F (-40°C) or lower, while in the mountainous areas, temperatures can be even colder. Snowfall is common during the winter months, contributing to the region’s snow-covered landscape.

Summer temperatures are milder but still relatively cool compared to other parts of Alaska. Daytime highs typically range from the 50s to the 70s Fahrenheit (10-25°C), although temperatures can occasionally reach into the 80s Fahrenheit (27-32°C) during periods of warm weather. The short summer season brings long daylight hours, with the sun shining for nearly 24 hours a day in the northern part of the census area.

Rivers and Lakes

The Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area is home to some of Alaska’s most iconic rivers and lakes, which play a vital role in the region’s ecosystem and way of life.

Yukon River

The Yukon River, one of the longest rivers in North America, flows through the heart of the census area, serving as a lifeline for the communities that dot its banks. Originating in Canada’s Yukon Territory, the river meanders through Alaska for over 1,000 miles before emptying into the Bering Sea.

The Yukon River is a crucial transportation route, providing access to remote villages and settlements along its course. It also supports a rich diversity of fish species, including salmon, grayling, and pike, which are essential for subsistence and commercial fishing.

Koyukuk River

The Koyukuk River is another significant waterway in the census area, flowing from the southern slopes of the Brooks Range to join the Yukon River near the village of Koyukuk. This wild and scenic river traverses remote and pristine wilderness, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Lakes

The Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area is home to numerous lakes and ponds, ranging in size from small tarns nestled in the mountains to expansive bodies of water that stretch for miles. Many of these lakes are fed by glacier meltwater or snowmelt and support abundant populations of fish and other aquatic life.

Some notable lakes in the census area include:

  • Lake Minchumina: Located in the heart of the Alaska Range, Lake Minchumina is a large freshwater lake renowned for its scenic beauty and excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including boating, kayaking, and camping.
  • Galena Lake: Galena Lake is a man-made reservoir formed by the construction of a hydroelectric dam on the Yukon River near the town of Galena. The lake provides important habitat for fish and wildlife and offers recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

Natural Attractions

The Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area boasts a wealth of natural attractions, ranging from towering mountains and pristine wilderness to vast expanses of tundra and Arctic landscape.

Denali National Park and Preserve

Denali National Park and Preserve, located in the southern part of the census area, is a world-renowned wilderness area dominated by the towering peaks of the Alaska Range, including Mount McKinley, the highest peak in North America. The park offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and mountaineering.

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, located in the northern part of the census area, is one of the most remote and inaccessible national parks in the United States. This vast wilderness area encompasses rugged mountains, tundra plains, and pristine rivers, providing unparalleled opportunities for backcountry hiking, camping, and exploration.

Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, located in the northeastern corner of the census area, is one of the last remaining wilderness areas in the United States. This expansive refuge protects a diverse range of ecosystems, including Arctic tundra, coastal plains, and boreal forests, and provides critical habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including caribou, polar bears, and migratory birds.

Conclusion

The Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area is a vast and remote wilderness region that showcases the natural beauty and rugged grandeur of Alaska’s interior. From the towering peaks of the Alaska Range to the meandering rivers and expansive tundra, the landscape is as diverse as it is breathtaking. Despite its harsh climate and isolation, the census area is home to a resilient population that has adapted to life in one of the most challenging environments on Earth. Whether exploring the wilderness of Denali National Park, fishing for salmon on the Yukon River, or trekking through the remote backcountry of Gates of the Arctic, visitors to the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area are sure to be awe-inspired by its untamed beauty and boundless wilderness.

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Geography of Haakon County, South Dakota https://www.thesciencetutor.org/geography-of-haakon-county-south-dakota.html Wed, 13 Mar 2024 17:34:24 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1755 Geography of Haakon County, South Dakota

Haakon County, situated in the central-western part of South Dakota, is a region characterized by its vast prairies, rolling hills, and rugged badlands. This county, named after the Norwegian explorer Haakon Haakonsson, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and outdoor recreation opportunities that reflect its rich history and landscape. Check allunitconverters to learn more about the state of South Dakota.

Terrain and Landforms

The topography of Haakon County is predominantly flat to gently rolling, with elevations ranging from around 1,800 feet in the prairie lowlands to over 3,000 feet in the higher elevations of the Badlands to the southwest. The county is primarily composed of expansive prairies, agricultural fields, and buttes, which were shaped over millions of years by erosion and sedimentation.

One of the most iconic features of Haakon County is the Badlands, a rugged and picturesque landscape characterized by its steep cliffs, colorful rock formations, and sparse vegetation. The Badlands offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and provide habitat for a variety of plant and animal species adapted to the harsh prairie environment.

In addition to the Badlands, Haakon County is also home to several other notable landforms, including the Cheyenne River to the east and the Moreau River to the north. These rivers meander through the countryside, providing important water resources for agriculture and serving as vital habitats for fish and wildlife.

The county’s landscape is further shaped by its numerous creeks, streams, and small rivers, including Box Elder Creek, Owl Creek, and Battle Creek. These waterways meander through the countryside, providing habitat for a variety of aquatic species and offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other recreational activities.

Climate

Haakon County experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by cold, dry winters and hot, humid summers. The region’s location in the northern Great Plains results in a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with cold Arctic air masses bringing frigid temperatures in the winter and warm, dry air masses bringing hot temperatures in the summer.

Winter temperatures in Haakon County typically range from the single digits to the low 20s Fahrenheit, with occasional cold snaps pushing temperatures well below zero. Snowfall is common from November through March, with accumulations often exceeding a foot or more during major winter storms. While winter weather can be harsh at times, the snowy landscape also offers opportunities for skiing, snowmobiling, and other winter sports.

Summers in Haakon County are generally warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, bringing heavy rainfall, lightning, and occasional hail to the region. Despite the heat, low humidity levels and cool evening temperatures provide relief from the daytime heat, making summer evenings pleasant and inviting.

Precipitation in Haakon County is relatively sparse, with the majority of rainfall occurring during the summer months. The region receives an average of around 15 inches of precipitation annually, which is often insufficient to support agriculture and other outdoor activities without supplemental irrigation.

Rivers and Lakes

The Cheyenne River is the primary waterway in Haakon County, flowing from its headwaters in Wyoming through the heart of the county before eventually emptying into the Missouri River. The river’s meandering course provides habitat for a variety of fish and wildlife, as well as offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities.

In addition to the Cheyenne River, Haakon County is also home to several other notable rivers and streams, including the Moreau River, Battle Creek, and Owl Creek. These waterways meander through the countryside, providing important habitats for fish and wildlife, as well as offering opportunities for outdoor recreation.

While lakes are relatively scarce in Haakon County, there are several small reservoirs and impoundments scattered throughout the region, including Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe. These bodies of water provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking, as well as serving as important habitats for waterfowl and other wildlife.

Conclusion

Haakon County, South Dakota, is a region of rugged natural beauty, characterized by vast prairies, rolling hills, and rugged badlands. The county’s semi-arid climate, with cold, dry winters and hot, humid summers, shapes the landscape and influences the distribution of plant and animal life. From its iconic Badlands and scenic rivers to its expansive prairie landscapes and abundant wildlife, Haakon County offers residents and visitors alike a chance to experience the unique blend of natural beauty and agricultural heritage that define this corner of the Great Plains.

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Geography of Caldwell County, Missouri https://www.thesciencetutor.org/geography-of-caldwell-county-missouri.html Mon, 11 Mar 2024 17:49:15 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1753 Caldwell County, situated in northwestern Missouri, is known for its diverse geography, agricultural landscapes, and historical significance. The county, established in 1836, has evolved over the years, blending rural charm with natural beauty. To provide a comprehensive overview, let’s explore the climate, topographical features, rivers, lakes, and other essential elements that define the geography of Caldwell County. Check ehuacom to learn more about the state of Missouri.

Climate: Caldwell County experiences a humid continental climate with distinct seasons. The climate is characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and moderate precipitation throughout the year. Average high temperatures in the summer range from the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 31 to 35 degrees Celsius), while winter temperatures can drop below freezing, with occasional snowfall.

Topography: The topography of Caldwell County is relatively flat, with gently rolling hills and fertile plains. The county is part of the Central Lowlands region, and the land is predominantly used for agriculture. The topographical features contribute to the county’s suitability for farming and its scenic rural character.

Missouri River: The Missouri River forms a portion of Caldwell County’s western border, serving as a significant watercourse. The river, one of the longest in North America, has played a crucial role in the historical and economic development of the region. The Missouri River contributes to the county’s geographical identity and provides recreational opportunities.

Historic Far West: Caldwell County is historically significant as the location of the town of Far West, which was established by early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) in the 1830s. Far West played a central role in the Mormon migration to the west and the establishment of Mormon communities in the region.

Agricultural Lands: Agriculture is a key aspect of Caldwell County’s geography, with vast expanses of farmlands dedicated to crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. The fertile soils in the region support agricultural practices, contributing to the county’s economy and rural character.

Lakes and Streams: While Caldwell County doesn’t have large natural lakes, it is intersected by various streams and smaller water bodies. These contribute to the local hydrology and support the agricultural activities in the county. Conservation efforts are often directed towards maintaining water quality and preserving aquatic habitats.

Winston Tunnel State Historic Site: The Winston Tunnel, located in Caldwell County, is a state historic site that showcases the region’s railroad history. The tunnel was part of the Chicago Great Western Railway and is now preserved as a reminder of the area’s transportation heritage.

Outdoor Recreation: Caldwell County offers outdoor recreational opportunities, primarily centered around its natural landscapes. Residents and visitors can explore the county’s rural areas, engage in hiking, birdwatching, and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside.

Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad: The Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, commonly known as the Katy Railroad, historically traversed Caldwell County. While the railroad’s active use has declined, remnants and historical markers pay homage to the important role it played in the county’s transportation and economic history.

Linn County: Caldwell County shares its southern border with Linn County. The proximity to neighboring counties contributes to regional collaboration and resource-sharing. The landscapes in this area include a mix of agricultural fields, woodlands, and water features.

Educational Institutions: Caldwell County is served by educational institutions that provide learning opportunities for residents. Schools and community colleges contribute to the county’s educational landscape and support the intellectual development of its residents.

Cultural Heritage: The cultural heritage of Caldwell County is intertwined with its history, including the Mormon settlement and the agricultural traditions of the region. Local museums and historical sites showcase the county’s cultural richness and historical significance.

Cities and Towns: Caldwell County includes several cities and towns, with Hamilton serving as the county seat. These communities contribute to the county’s social fabric, offering a mix of residential, commercial, and agricultural activities.

Community Life: Caldwell County has a close-knit community, with residents participating in local events, fairs, and community gatherings. The county’s small-town atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging and shared values among its residents.

Healthcare Facilities: Access to healthcare is crucial for community well-being, and Caldwell County is served by healthcare facilities and medical centers that provide essential services to residents. These facilities contribute to the overall health and quality of life in the county.

Transportation and Connectivity: Caldwell County is accessible by major highways, including U.S. Route 36 and Missouri Route 13. These roadways enhance connectivity within the county and link it to neighboring regions. Accessibility is vital for economic activities and transportation of goods.

Challenges and Opportunities: Caldwell County faces challenges related to economic development, infrastructure improvement, and preserving its rural character. Opportunities for the county lie in sustainable growth, community engagement, and initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents.

Conservation Efforts: Efforts are underway in Caldwell County to preserve natural habitats, protect agricultural lands, and promote sustainable land use practices. Conservation initiatives aim to balance economic activities with environmental stewardship, ensuring the long-term health of the county’s natural resources.

Economic Diversity: While agriculture plays a significant role in the county’s economy, Caldwell County recognizes the importance of economic diversity. The presence of small businesses, local services, and regional collaborations contributes to a balanced economic landscape.

Future Growth and Sustainability: Caldwell County is mindful of future growth and sustainability. Planning efforts focus on responsible development, infrastructure enhancements, and initiatives that support both economic prosperity and environmental resilience.

In Conclusion: Caldwell County, Missouri, is characterized by its rural landscapes, agricultural heritage, and historical significance. The Missouri River, farmlands, and historical sites contribute to the county’s natural beauty and cultural richness. As Caldwell County continues to address challenges and embrace opportunities, its commitment to conservation, community well-being, and sustainable growth remains central to its identity and appeal.

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Geography of Windham County, Connecticut https://www.thesciencetutor.org/geography-of-windham-county-connecticut.html Tue, 05 Mar 2024 06:49:40 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1749 Windham County, located in the northeastern part of Connecticut, is a region known for its picturesque landscapes, historic charm, and vibrant communities. From its rolling hills and fertile valleys to its meandering rivers and tranquil lakes, Windham County offers a diverse array of natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. In this comprehensive exploration, we’ll delve into the geography, climate, rivers, lakes, and other notable features of Windham County.

Geography:

According to Zipcodesexplorer, Windham County covers an area of approximately 521 square miles (1,350 square kilometers) and is situated in the northeastern part of Connecticut, bordering Massachusetts to the north and Rhode Island to the east. It is the easternmost county in Connecticut and is known for its rural character, small towns, and scenic countryside.

The county’s geography is characterized by its rolling hills, fertile valleys, and dense forests, which are interspersed with farms, fields, and meadows. The eastern part of the county is more heavily forested and mountainous, while the western part is flatter and more agricultural.

The county seat, Willimantic, is located near the center of Windham County and serves as a hub for commerce, education, and culture. Other communities in the county include Putnam, Brooklyn, and Plainfield, each with its own unique character and amenities.

Climate:

Windham County experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The region’s climate is influenced by its location in the northeastern United States and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.

Summers in Windham County are typically warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 18 to 29 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves are common during the summer months, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). Thunderstorms are also frequent, bringing heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds to the area.

Winters in Windham County are cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (around -4 to 0 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common, particularly in the higher elevations and northern parts of the county, with several inches of snow accumulating throughout the winter months. Most precipitation falls as snow or rain, with occasional winter storms bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain to the area.

Spring and fall are transitional seasons in Windham County, with mild temperatures and changing foliage making them pleasant times to visit. Spring brings the blooming of wildflowers and the greening of the landscape, while fall showcases the vibrant colors of changing leaves and the harvest of agricultural crops.

Rivers and Lakes:

Windham County is blessed with an abundance of rivers, lakes, and streams, which provide valuable habitat for fish and wildlife and support recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking.

The Quinebaug River is one of the major rivers in Windham County, flowing from Massachusetts through the heart of the county and eventually joining the Shetucket River in Norwich. The river is known for its scenic beauty, clear waters, and abundant wildlife, including trout, bass, and otters. It offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, as well as scenic beauty and wildlife viewing along its banks.

In addition to the Quinebaug River, Windham County is also home to several smaller rivers and streams, such as the Willimantic River, the Natchaug River, and the Still River, which meander through the countryside and provide habitat for fish, wildlife, and vegetation. These waterways offer opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and tubing, as well as scenic beauty and wildlife viewing.

While Windham County does not have any natural lakes of significant size, it is home to several reservoirs and ponds, which provide water for irrigation, recreation, and wildlife habitat. These include reservoirs such as Mansfield Hollow Lake and Bigelow Hollow Pond, as well as smaller ponds and impoundments scattered throughout the county.

State Parks and Forests:

Windham County is home to several state parks and forests that offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration. These include:

  • Mashamoquet Brook State Park, located in Pomfret, which features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a scenic brook.
  • Natchaug State Forest, located in Eastford and Chaplin, which offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities, as well as scenic drives and wildlife viewing.
  • Pachaug State Forest, located in Voluntown and Griswold, which encompasses over 24,000 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and waterways, providing opportunities for hiking, hunting, fishing, and horseback riding.

These parks and forests serve as valuable natural areas for residents and visitors to enjoy, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, education, and conservation in a protected setting.

Agriculture and Farmland:

Windham County is known for its rich agricultural heritage and fertile farmland, which support a variety of crops and livestock. The county’s agricultural industry includes dairy farms, vegetable farms, fruit orchards, and nurseries, as well as horse farms and vineyards.

The county’s agricultural landscape is characterized by its rolling hills, open fields, and picturesque barns, which contribute to the scenic beauty and rural character of the region. Visitors to Windham County can explore the county’s agricultural heritage through farm tours, farmers markets, and agritourism activities, such as pick-your-own fruit and vegetable farms and farm-to-table restaurants.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Windham County, Connecticut, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and rural charm. From its scenic rivers and lakes to its picturesque state parks and forests, the county’s geography reflects the diverse ecosystems and rich cultural heritage of the northeastern United States. Whether exploring the Quinebaug River, hiking in Mashamoquet Brook State Park, or enjoying the scenic countryside, Windham County has something to offer for residents and visitors alike. With its vibrant communities, historic landmarks, and abundant natural resources, Windham County is truly a hidden gem of New England.

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Geography of Newport County, Rhode Island https://www.thesciencetutor.org/geography-of-newport-county-rhode-island.html Mon, 04 Mar 2024 04:20:05 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1748 Geography of Newport County, Rhode Island

Newport County, located in the southern part of Rhode Island, is a region renowned for its coastal beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. Encompassing approximately 314 square miles, the county is known for its picturesque coastline, charming seaside towns, and rich maritime heritage. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the intricate details of Newport County’s geography, including its climate, rivers, bays, and notable landmarks.

Geographical Features:

According to topb2bwebsites, Newport County’s landscape is defined by its coastal geography, which includes sandy beaches, rocky shores, and sheltered bays. The county is situated on Aquidneck Island, the largest island in Rhode Island, and also includes several smaller islands and peninsulas.

The eastern part of Newport County is dominated by Narragansett Bay, a large estuary that separates Aquidneck Island from the mainland. The western part of the county features rolling hills and rural landscapes, with inland ponds and wetlands providing habitat for diverse wildlife.

Climate:

Newport County experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons characterized by mild summers, cool autumns, cold winters, and moderate precipitation throughout the year. The region’s climate is influenced by its coastal location and its position within the northeastern United States.

Summer temperatures in Newport County typically range from the 70s°F to 80s°F (21-27°C), while winter temperatures can drop below freezing, with highs averaging in the 30s°F to 40s°F (0-5°C). The county receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts in the spring and summer months.

Rivers, Bays, and Waterways:

Newport County is surrounded by several rivers, bays, and waterways that shape its coastal landscape and provide important habitats for marine life. Narragansett Bay, the largest estuary in New England, extends along the eastern edge of the county and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and recreational activities.

In addition to Narragansett Bay, Newport County is home to several smaller bays and harbors, including Newport Harbor, Sakonnet Harbor, and Mount Hope Bay. These sheltered waterways provide safe anchorage for boats and yachts and serve as popular destinations for sailing and water sports.

Beaches and Coastal Features:

Newport County boasts numerous beaches and coastal features that attract visitors from near and far. Easton’s Beach, also known as First Beach, is one of the most popular beaches in the county, offering sandy shores, calm waters, and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Other notable beaches in Newport County include Sachuest Beach, also known as Second Beach, and Third Beach, both of which are known for their pristine sands and excellent surfing conditions. These beaches provide opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking, as well as birdwatching and wildlife viewing along the shore.

Notable Landmarks:

Beyond its natural features, Newport County boasts several historic landmarks and cultural attractions that showcase its rich history and maritime heritage. The city of Newport is home to several historic mansions, including The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff, which are open to the public for tours and events.

Another iconic landmark in Newport County is the Cliff Walk, a scenic trail that winds along the eastern shore of Aquidneck Island, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. The trail passes by several historic mansions and natural landmarks, including Rough Point and Forty Steps.

In conclusion, Newport County, Rhode Island, offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty, historic charm, and recreational opportunities. From its sandy beaches and sheltered bays to its historic mansions and cultural attractions, the county’s geography reflects the timeless allure of New England’s coastline. Whether exploring its picturesque landscapes, enjoying its recreational activities, or immersing oneself in its rich history, Newport County invites visitors to experience the beauty and tranquility of coastal Rhode Island.

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Dead Sea, Israel https://www.thesciencetutor.org/dead-sea-israel.html Fri, 10 Feb 2023 07:23:54 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1399 The Dead Sea, one of the most amazing bodies of water on the planet, is a resort, a clinic and an attraction all in one. Here you can relax on the surface of the water, buried in your favorite book, treat a bunch of sores – from dermatitis to lumbago and, of course, lean in healing mud to your heart’s content (by the way, some psychologists say that floundering in the slush has a very beneficial effect on the mind: they say, it wakes up memories about the golden months spent in the mother’s womb).

Attention: banality (nowhere without it). The Dead Sea is a unique place. No, really. The water in it is extremely salty and contains almost the entire periodic table. Which inevitably gives it healing properties. Well, along the desert and rocky shores of the sea there are a large number of thermal springs rich in selenium and deposits of therapeutic peloid mud. Is it worth calling the most developed type of recreation on the shores of this extraordinary lake?

“It was a fun swim! We couldn’t drown. Here you can stretch out on the water at full length, lying on your back and folding your arms over your chest, with most of the body remaining above the water. At the same time, you can completely raise your head… You can lie very comfortably on your back, raising your knees to your chin and wrapping your arms around them – but you will soon turn over, as your head outweighs. You can stand on your head and from the middle of your chest to the end of your legs you will remain out of the water, but you will not be able to maintain this position for a long time. You cannot swim on your back with any noticeable movement, because your feet stick out of the water and you have to push off only with your heels. If you swim face down, then you are not moving forward, but backward. The horse is so unstable that it can neither swim nor stand in the Dead Sea – it immediately lies on its side.

Quote from Mark Twain, given in “Entertaining Physics” by Yakov Perelman

Dead Sea beaches

There are more than ten beaches on the Dead Sea, most of them are public. They are concentrated in the areas of Ein Bokek and Hamei Zohar. Those who like outdoor activities choose the flourishing oasis of Ein Gedi as their destination, located near freshwater sources and an hour’s drive from Ein Bokek. See CITYPOPULATIONREVIEW for weather information.

Solar radiation in the Dead Sea region is practically devoid of its harmful, “hard” component: here you can stay in the sun for 8 hours a day without any unpleasant consequences. But in the sea itself you can swim only two (maximum three) times a day, and then – no longer than 20 minutes. The extremely salty water of the Dead Sea, when it comes into contact with the mucous membranes, causes a strong burning sensation. Therefore, when plunging into this reservoir, you should protect your nose, mouth, and especially your eyes from water, and in which case, immediately rinse them in the shower. Well, only a complete misanthrope, moreover, completely devoid of the instinct of self-preservation, will splash water on his neighbors in the Dead Sea.

A few more tips on the same topic: take a shower every time after swimming, do not dive (by the way, it still won’t work), and do not rub your eyes with your hands wet from sea water.

Treatment

In total, there are more than ten dermatological medical institutions operating in the Dead Sea, they successfully treat many skin diseases, arthropathy and chronic arthritis. In addition, the oxygenated air of the Dead Sea helps in the treatment of respiratory diseases, and high atmospheric pressure helps to reduce blood pressure in patients with hypertension. “To the heap” in local centers they accept (and not just accept, but also treat) patients with neurological and andrological diseases, and also offer various health programs with mud baths and black clay wraps.

Entertainment and attractions of the Dead Sea

The ancient fortress of Masada (visiting the palace of King Herod, the synagogue, water reservoirs carved into the rocks, visiting the campsites of the Roman troops and their breakthrough into Masada).

Dead Sea oases – Nahal David, Nahal Arugot and Ein Gedi, Qumran National Park, Lot’s Wife – a mountain range of salt rocks about 20 km long.

Dead Sea, Israel

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Algiers, Algeria https://www.thesciencetutor.org/algiers-algeria.html Fri, 03 Feb 2023 07:40:41 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1396 Self-willed and hot Algeria is a stronghold of the Berbers given under the rule of the Sahara, where the sand carefully hides the monuments of ancient civilizations, and travel around the country turns into a safari by default. Map, photo, tours and visa – everything about Algeria from the Subtleties of tourism. According to petwithsupplies, Algiers is one of the largest cities in Algeria.

The North African residence of the Sahara – this is the shortest way to describe Algeria, 80% of whose territory is occupied by the sands of the great desert. In addition, Algeria is the second largest country in Africa with the richest heritage of the Phoenician and Roman eras and the stronghold of the indigenous population of the continent – the Berbers. Due to smoldering civil strife and periodic kidnappings of foreigners, Algeria has been undeservedly in the shadow of its tourism-oriented prosperous neighbors Morocco and Tunisia for two decades, but the country shows an almost fantastic splendor of landscapes and deeds of human hands to the brave and sophisticated traveler.

The capital is Algiers. The main cities are Oran, Annaba, Tamanrasset, Constantine, Setif, Batna.

Climate of Algiers

The north coast of Algeria has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and relatively cool winters. The average temperature in January is +11 °C, in July – +27 °C. Most of the country is dominated by a semi-desert climate with dry summers (the thermometer rises to +36 ° C). The southern regions of Algeria lie in a desert climate zone with a minimum of precipitation and a constant summer temperature of about +40 ° C. The coast can be comfortably visited throughout the year, and it is better to travel to the Sahara in March-May and September-November. Actual information: weather forecast for the main resorts of Algiers for the coming days.

Beaches

Algeria cannot be called a country of beach holidays: although there are almost 990 km of coastline, there are not so many good-quality hotels, and local beaches are noticeably inferior to Tunisian and Moroccan ones. You can enjoy the beauty of the water surface on the so-called Turquoise Coast (Сote Turqoise) and Cape Sidi Frej.

Shopping

Shops in Algeria are open in two hours: morning and afternoon, with a two-hour siesta break. Opening hours are usually from 8:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 18:00. This does not apply to souvenir shops: the principle “to the last customer” applies here. Supermarkets in the capital are open from early morning until late evening.

Algiers is the second largest country in Africa with the richest heritage of the Phoenician and Roman eras and the stronghold of the indigenous population of the continent – the Berbers.

From Algeria, you can bring copper chasing and bronze products, leather and wood products, Berber carpets and straw products. A separate line is the heritage of the Berbers: from massive silver jewelry to mats with national motifs.

Cuisine and restaurants

Algerian cuisine is part of a vast complex of Maghrebian culinary traditions. National dishes – lamb shorba soup, couscous with meat or vegetables, shakshuka – vegetable salad with egg, tagine – a dense omelette stuffed with potatoes, chicken or meat, reshta – homemade noodles with chicken and beans, dauara – entrails stewed with vegetables, meshui – grilled lamb or beef steaks. Many varieties of chebureks, dolma and kefta have settled in Algeria from Turkish cuisine. French baguettes (white bread) are ubiquitous, in the southern regions they eat tagella – a flatbread baked in the sand. Sweets include kalb el loz (“almond heart”) and baklava of all kinds. Finish the meal with sweet green tea or strong “Arabic” coffee.

Entertainment and attractions in Algiers

The Sahara is the country’s main tourist attraction. Tourists are offered many excursions deep into the Great East Erg, the largest of the sandy “seas” of the desert, lasting from several hours to two weeks. You can travel on foot, on camels or four-wheel drive jeeps. From the pearls – the city of Ouargla, the “golden key to the desert”, Mzab with its fantastic architecture, Beni Isgen behind the impressive fortress gates. In the south of Algiers is the Tassili National Park.

The Kabyle Mountains are famous for the beautiful Shiffa Gorge (“lips”).

Algeria’s coastline is home to many Phoenician, Roman and Byzantine ruins. Among the most popular are the ruins in the vicinity of the capital – Dzhemila (with magnificent basilicas, temples, a forum and a triumphal arch), Timgad and Tipassa (the Royal Mausoleum of Mauritania is located here).

In the city of Algiers, the medina (the old city behind the fortress wall), the tomb of St. Sidi Abderrahman and the Jemaa al-Jadid mosque deserve attention. Of the cultural institutions, the Bardo Ethnographic Museum stands out with a rich collection of ancient artifacts and the National Museum of Fine Arts.

Among other cities of the country, you can visit Oran (the Santa Cruz citadel and the Great Mosque built in the 17th century), Blida (the mosque built by the pirate Barbarossa), Annaba with the ruins of the ancient city of Aphrodisium, Constantine and its Roman citadel, Biskra, where the tomb is located. Islamic conqueror of North Africa Okba ibn Nafaa.

Visa to Algiers

Algeria, alas, cannot yet be classified as a popular tourist country in North Africa, but it still has its own, albeit not numerous, contingent of tourists. You won’t be intimidated by the peculiarities of obtaining an Algerian visa for Sahara lovers: an invitation from an Algerian tour operator with guarantees of the safety of the “wards” is mandatory, so independent tourists will not be too at ease here. Those who have Israeli marks “lit up” in their passport should wait for its change – in this sense, Algeria is very jealous, and will refuse to issue a visa.

Documents for a visa to Algeria

Required documents for obtaining a tourist visa:

  1. international passport

Valid for 6 months after the end of the trip;

  1. Questionnaire

In 2 copies (filled in in French or English; the form can be downloaded from the embassy website or received on the spot) with the personal signature of the applicant

  1. Invitation from an Algerian tour operator

In which the terms of stay, the address and details of the hotel, the program of the stay must be indicated, and there must also be a phrase about guaranteeing the safety of tourists during the stay;

  1. Photo

2 photos 3×4

  1. Copies of air tickets

The consulate may request copies of air tickets and sending an invitation from the host directly from Algeria to the fax of the consular department;

  1. Medical insurance

For your own peace of mind and safety, you must also buy insurance for a visa to Algeria.

In the presence of Israeli marks in the passport, an entry visa to Algeria will be denied.

Even if you are going to visit the southern regions of the country, it is better not to talk about this at the reception at the consulate.

Valid term of a visa

The visa is valid for 30 days from the date of issue, the period of stay in the country is from 14 to 30 days.

Consular fee – 40 €

Consular fee for a single entry visa – 40 EUR in ruble equivalent.

Algiers, Algeria

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Entertainment and Attractions of Vatican City https://www.thesciencetutor.org/entertainment-and-attractions-of-vatican-city.html Fri, 30 Dec 2022 03:22:37 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1393 Fans of massive structures, as well as fans of the opera, will be in awe of Sant’Angelo, one of the most majestic and outstanding historical buildings in Rome. It dates back to 135 and was originally the Mausoleum of Emperor Hadrian. After numerous medieval outbuildings and superstructures, the castle acquired a modern look, including the famous balcony with a colonnade, from where the inconsolable Tosca rushed. Opening hours from 9:00 to 18:30, closed on Mondays. An audio guide is offered.

Note: according to allcitypopulation, the population of Vatican City is 825 (2019).

For lovers of outdoor walks, we advise you to walk through the luxurious Vatican Gardens and climb Monte Mario Hill, which offers a beautiful view of the Vatican and Rome. Don’t forget comfortable shoes.

One of the best ways to see everything in the Vatican and not miss anything is to join an organized tour organized by the local municipality.

  • Do I need to buy a ticket to the Vatican to see St. Peter’s Square and the Sistine Chapel
  • What is the best way to buy tickets to the Vatican: in advance or on the spot

Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are some of the most remarkable and extensive in the world, best known for their magnificent rooms with paintings by Raphael and the frescoes by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel. To understand the halls and not miss anything interesting, we recommend purchasing a plan guide or using an audio guide at the entrance. Due to the long queues, it is recommended to book a visit in advance. To get to the Sistine Chapel, you need to go through all the halls of the museums (about 1 hour). It is forbidden to photograph its interior, neither with a flash nor without it. Well, when you exit the Vatican Museums, another masterpiece awaits you – a luxurious spiral marble staircase.

It is impossible not to pay attention to the cheerfully dressed soldiers of the Swiss Guard, who since 1506 have been guarding the peace and security of the Vatican. The colorful striped form also comes in summer and winter colors. By the way, this is the smallest and oldest army in the world.

Cathedral of St. Peter

Cathedral of St. Peter – the main attraction not only of the Vatican, but also of Rome surrounding it. It got its name from the tomb of the Apostle Peter, presumably located on this site. This is a grandiose cathedral, inside which the largest temples in Europe can fit – to make sure of this, look for special marks on the floor marking their sizes. The height of the dome of the cathedral is 136 m, and the length of the central nave is 211 m. Outside and inside its walls, you can see numerous masterpieces – from marble statues of Christ and the apostles to monuments to statesmen and majestic tombstones, including over the resting place of Pope John Paul II. Pay attention also to the amazing “Pieta” by Michelangelo. You can climb to the top of the dome of St. Peter’s Cathedral (a little cheaper on your own or a little more expensive by elevator). Expect 1 hour round trip.

Such great artists as Michelangelo, Raphael, Botticelli and Bernini lived and worked in the Vatican.

St. Peter’s Cathedral is open from 9:00 to 19:00 in summer and until 18:00 in winter. On Wednesday morning the cathedral is closed for papal audiences. Photography is only allowed without a flash.

The oval square of St. Peter is located right in front of the cathedral of the same name. The central obelisk was moved here by the emperor Caligula from Egypt in 37 in honor of the construction of the circus of Nero (where the apostle Peter was martyred thirty years later). Pay attention also to the picturesque and very “fluffy” fountains.

If you stand on any of the two stones located on both sides of St. Peter’s Square, the four columns on the opposite side of the colonnade will merge into one.

Rules for visiting the Vatican

At the entrance to the Vatican, a standard security check is carried out – guests pass through the frame, things are sent to the screening tape. Those who have weapons, knives, sharp, piercing metal objects (they can even find fault with a nail file), as well as alcohol, psychotropic, narcotic substances, medicines in large quantities, pungent, coloring, poisonous substances, are not allowed into the territory. pornography and materials that contribute to inciting any kind of conflict.

You cannot enter the Vatican in clothes that do not cover your shoulders, knees, and stomach. Guests of any gender are not allowed in shorts, tank tops, skirts above the knees, short T-shirts, transparent or torn clothes. Women may wear trousers and bare their heads.

Large bags, suitcases, backpacks, umbrellas, canes, tripods will be forced to hand over to the storage room. You should not take water and other liquids in glass bottles with you, most likely they will be asked to leave them at the entrance.

In the Vatican, you can not only smoke, but also set fire to a cigarette. For violation – a fine of 30 EUR.

On the territory of the Vatican, you can take pictures with and without a tripod, but there are restrictions inside the museums. Filming is strictly prohibited in the Sistine Chapel. In St. Peter’s Basilica and other museums, you can take photos, but without a flash and a tripod.

Attractions of Vatican City

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Grandvalira, Andorra https://www.thesciencetutor.org/grandvalira-andorra.html Fri, 23 Dec 2022 12:31:04 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1391 The Grandvalira ski area is a valley that connects several resorts: Pas de la Casa, Grau Roig, El Tarter, Soldeu, Encamp (Encamp) and Canillo (Canillo).

Grandvalira has trails for skiers of all levels, as well as cross-country skiing areas, several freestyle areas, halfpipe, boardercross areas. A single ski pass is valid on all Grandvalira slopes.

Note: according to allcitypopulation, the population of Andorra is 77,354 (2021).

How to get there

Andorra does not have its own airport, and the nearest ones are located in neighboring Barcelona (220 km), Toulouse (195 km), Carcassonne (176 km), Girona (260 km), Reus (240 km) and Lleida (150 km). From the airports of Toulouse, Barcelona, ​​Lleida, Valencia and Madrid, buses of the Nadal-Eurolines company run to Andorra, and Hispano Igualadina from Reus. And from the airports of Barcelona, ​​​​Girona and Toulouse – Novatel buses.

Andorra also does not have its own railway station. The nearest station is located in the French town of Hospitalet, 3 km from the border with Andorra, from where regular Hispano Andorrana buses run to Pas de la Casa. In addition, Andorra can be reached by bus Viatges Montmantell and Alsina-Graells from the railway station in Lleida.

By car

Traveling from Spain, take the C-145 from Lleida, then follow the C-16 through the Cadi tunnel or the town of Puigcerda to Seu d’Urgell, 30 km from Encamp.

Traveling from France, you should take the N-22 road, which crosses the border with Andorra at Pas de la Casa.

Transportation

Bus transportation in Andorra is carried out by the local company Cooperativa Interurbana Andorrana, all 8 lines (or routes) of which run through the capital of the Principality of Andorra la Vella. Buses run every 30 minutes, and the fare varies from 1.50 EUR to 5.50 EUR. Line L4 connects Encamp, Canillo and Soldeu, while line L5 connects Encamp, Canillo and Pas de la Casa.

Hotels

All six resorts, ringed around Grandvalira, have a developed infrastructure that allows you to accommodate everyone.

Kitchen

El Raco Del Park restaurant offers not only excellent regional cuisine, but also stunning panoramic views. The restaurant is located in close proximity to the Funicamp ski lift.

The Roc De Les Bruixes restaurant in Canillo is considered one of the most highly rated restaurants thanks to its blend of French, Andorran and Pyrenean cuisines, as well as its view of the Valle del Forn.

In El Tarter, there is an Italian restaurant La Trattoria, where they cook delicious pizza, pasta and risotto right in front of visitors, and another restaurant, Mercat Del Pi, with a unique architecture and interior, which is considered one of the newest in Grnadvalira. The restaurant serves traditional dishes of rice, paella and fideua.

At 2,250 meters above sea level in Soldeu, Gall De Bosc Steakhouse serves grilled, stewed, fried or oven-baked meats with various sauces.

In Grau Roig, it is worth visiting the restaurant Llac De Pessons, located at an altitude of 2,350 meters on the shore of a natural lake, and on the pass separating Pas de la Casa from Grau Roig, at an altitude of 2,600 meters, the Coll Blanc restaurant with panoramic 360 degree view. In addition to restaurants, Grandvalira has self-service restaurants.

Grandvalira slopes

The Grandvalira ski area has 112 slopes of varying difficulty: 19 green, 39 blue, 30 red, 24 black, equipped with 66 lifts.

  • Encamp: 1 green, 4 blue and 3 red pistes, 4 lifts.
  • Canillo: 3 green, 1 blue, 1 black pistes, 7 lifts.
  • El Tarter: 3 green, 7 blue, 5 red, 4 black runs, 11 lifts.
  • Soldeu: 6 green, 14 blue, 5 red, 7 black slopes, 16 lifts.
  • Grau Roig: 3 green, 10 blue, 11 red, 8 black pistes, 16 lifts.
  • Pas de la Casa: 3 green, 3 blue, 5 red, 4 black runs, 12 lifts.

The highest peak in Grandvalira is Tossal de Lallosada (2560 m), and the entire ski area is located on two levels: upper and lower. The upper level is located at an altitude of 2000 to 2500 meters and is represented by high-mountain trails of any difficulty level. The lower level is located at an altitude of 1700 to 2000 meters and is represented mainly by forest trails, closed from the wind.

The resort of Pas de la Casa is located at a mountain pass on the border with France, and the local slopes will appeal to anyone: difficult slopes with a large vertical drop lie in the upper part of the valley, and more gentle and even trails pass at the foot of the mountain.

Soldeu is located in the central part of Andorra at an altitude of 1700 meters above sea level. The resorts of Soldeu and El Tarter are located 3 km from each other and are united by ski slopes and cable cars. In addition, these two resorts are connected by a lift to Canillo. The slopes of Soldeu and El Tarter are laid through picturesque forests and are more suitable for skiers of an average level of skiing.

The resort of Pas de la Casa is located at a mountain pass on the border with France, and the local trails will appeal to anyone: difficult descents with a large vertical drop lie in the upper part of the valley, and more gentle and even trails pass at the foot of the mountain.

A ski pass for 1 day of skiing in the high season will cost 50 EUR / 34 EUR per adult / child under 11 years old. For 6 days of skiing – 264.60 EUR / 175.80 EUR.

Entertainment and attractions of Grandvalira

The main attraction of the resort town of Canillo is the Palau de Gel ice palace, which is a sports complex with an indoor skating rink, designed not only for various competitions, but also for recreation.

3 things to do in Grandvalira

  1. Check in a bar in each of the six Grandvalira resorts a week in advance.
  2. Create your own ski route from Encamp to Pas de la Casa. At the same time, you need to have time to return to Encamp before the lifts close at 16:45, otherwise you will have to get to the hotel by bus.
  3. Conquer the highest peak of the Andorran Pyrenees, climbing on a lift to a height of 2520 m above sea level. The main thing is to be able to go down from there!

Encamp has a car museum, which displays about 100 cars produced between 1898 and 1950, as well as a large number of rare bicycles and motorcycles.

Not far from Encamp, in the village of Les Bons, there is the historical complex of Sant Roma de les Bons, consisting of a 12th-century church, a 13th-century watchtower, a water tower, an irrigation canal and the remains of a late 13th-century fortress, according to historians, belonging to the counts Fua. The church is dedicated to St. Roman of Caesarea (Antioch) and designed in the Romanesque style. The church has a rectangular nave and a semicircular Lombard-style apse. The interior is represented by a stone altar and reproductions of paintings in the Romanesque and Gothic styles. The paintings depict the apocalyptic visions of Saint John (12th century) and Saint Peter (16th century). Unfortunately, the historical complex is open for tourists only from July to August, and in winter it can only be viewed from the outside.

Grandvalira, Andorra

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Downtown Tunnel and Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel, Virginia https://www.thesciencetutor.org/downtown-tunnel-and-hampton-roads-bridge-tunnel-virginia.html Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:47:47 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1389 Downtown Tunnel
Downtown Tunnel
crosses Elizabeth River
Length 1,022 meters
Opening 23-05-1952 / 04-03-1987
Intensity 84,000 mvt/day
Location Map

According to Beautyphoon, the Downtown Tunnel is a tunnel in the United States, located in Norfolk, Virginia. The tunnel passes under the southern branch of the Elizabeth River and connects Portsmouth to Norfolk. The tunnel is part of Interstate 264.

Characteristics

The Downtown Tunnel is a two-tube, 2×2 lane tunnel that passes under the south branch of the Elizabeth River. The tunnel has two different tube lengths, the northern tube is 1022 meters long, the southern tube is 1162 meters long. The biggest difference in length is at the west portal in Portsmouth. Interstate 264 has 2×3 lanes through Portsmouth, but narrows at Effingham Street near downtown to 2×2 lanes and then continues under the Elizabeth River through the Downtown Tunnel. The eastern tunnel portal is located in the Norfolk Harbor area, where it immediately interchanges with Interstate 464 and I-264 crosses the eastern branch of the Elizabeth River over a bascule bridge to I-264 into downtown Norfolk.

History

Originally traffic in the Norfolk region depended on many ferry services, the city was an important port but poorly connected to the US road network, especially to the north and west. Shortly after World War II, plans were made for a tunnel and bridge, the Norfolk-Portsmouth Bridge-Tunnel. This connection opened to traffic on May 23, 1952 as a toll road. The toll at the time was 25 cents.

As a single-tube tunnel, the connection soon became congested due to the large amount of commuter traffic around Norfolk. The toll was scrapped after the bonds issued for the construction were paid off. In the 1980s, a second tunnel was finally built next to it, which was opened on March 4, 1987. A second bridge over the Elizabeth River was also built at the time, providing 2×4 lanes on I-264 east of the interchange with I-464 and 2×2 lanes through the Downtown Tunnel to Portsmouth.

The tunnels were extensively renovated between 2013 and 2016. The refurbishment started on 9 August 2013 with weekend closures for the tunnel tube towards Portsmouth, followed by nighttime closures for the tunnel tube towards Norfolk from July 2014. The project was completed on 17 August 2016. The renovation was awarded as a PPP project called the ‘Elizabeth River Tunnels Project’. Since then, tolls have to be paid again in the tunnel.

Toll

The Downtown Tunnel is a toll road with electronic toll collection. Toll rates are time-dependent, although there is no real-time congestion pricing. E-ZPass users pay the lowest rate.

Traffic intensities

Every day, 84,000 vehicles use the tunnel.

Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel

Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel
Spans Hampton Roads
Lanes 2×2
Total length 5,600 meters
Main span ?
Bridge deck height ?
Opening 01-11-1957 / 01-11-1976
Traffic intensity 87,000 mvt/day
Location Map

The Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel is a river crossing in the United States, located in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia.

Characteristics

The Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel.

The connection is a bridge-tunnel combination, with a 2,275 meter long two-tube immersion tunnel and connecting girder bridge connections over the Hampton Roads, both north and south of the bridge. These are two parallel bridges. The bridges connect to the tunnels via an artificial island. The total link is 5.6 kilometers long, the shortest fixed river link in the Hampton Roads region. Over the river crossing, Interstate 64 in Virginia runs 2×2 lanes and connects Hampton to Norfolk. It is the most important and busiest connection in the region. The connection is toll-free.

History

Originally there was a ferry service at this location, connecting Hampton to Norfolk. The first bridge in the region was the James River Bridge to the west which opened in 1928, but this was such a long detour that the ferry service was faster. The Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel was the first cross-river connection at Norfolk itself and was constructed in the mid-1950s with a single 2-lane carriageway with oncoming traffic. This connection opened to traffic on November 1, 1957. Construction costs at the time were $44 million and the connection was a toll road.

The Port of Norfolk grew in importance as the main port of the US Navy during the Cold War. Traffic on the Hampton Roads increased and a second span was built in the mid-1970s as part of the Interstate Highway program. The second connection opened to traffic on November 1, 1976. The construction of the second connection cost $95 million. When it was opened, the toll on the first connection was stopped. Traffic continued to grow and in 1992 the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel was opened to the west, relieving the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel of the intensive traffic.

Future

The tunnel is overloaded and therefore the capacity will be expanded to 8 lanes. The new capacity consists of two new drilling tunnels with 2 lanes each, so that the corridor consists of 4 tunnel tubes with 2 lanes each. The connecting road sections will be widened to 2×3 lanes where this is not yet the case. On February 15, 2019, the contractor was selected for the $3.3 billion project. This is the largest project in Virginia history. Construction started on October 29, 2020. The project must be completed by November 1, 2025 at the latest.

Traffic intensities

Every day 90,000 vehicles drive over the connection, which is therefore overloaded.

Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel, Virginia

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How to Get to Santorini, Greece https://www.thesciencetutor.org/how-to-get-to-santorini-greece.html Fri, 09 Dec 2022 06:21:31 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1385 There are two ways to get to Santorini: by air and by water.

By plane

Santorini National Airport is located on the island of the same name, in the vicinity of the village of Kamari, 6 km from the capital of the Fira archipelago. There are no direct flights from Moscow, the choice of interchanges is quite wide: they are organized by Aeroflot, Aegean Airlines, Air Serbia, Finnair, British Airways and other carriers. Most often, connections are made in Athens, but there are also routes through Thessaloniki, Vienna, London, Helsinki, Munich and other cities. The cheapest is to fly with Aegean Airlines, but the travel time is decent – 18 hours 45 minutes. UTair will help shorten the waiting time: you will only have to spend 5 hours and 10 minutes on the road, but the price is much higher. See JIBIN123 for Greece customs regulations and visa requirements.

From airport to city

You can get from Santorini airport to Fira by bus, shuttle or taxi. A bus ticket costs 3 EUR, the interval is 15 minutes, but sometimes transport is very out of schedule. Small shuttle buses carry passengers to any address on the island for 25 EUR. A taxi ride will take about 20 minutes and cost 20-30 EUR (don’t be afraid to bargain with the drivers). An alternative for the most fastidious is a personal transfer, which can be ordered on the airport website for 35 EUR (for 1-3 people) The prices on the page are for August 2021.

On water

It is also convenient to get to Santorini by water: regular ferries and speedboats run from Heraklion, Rethymno and other Greek cities. A boat trip from Heraklion will take from 1 to 4.5 hours, tickets – from 68 EUR (early in the morning or late in the evening – half the price). The distance between Rethymno and Fira can be overcome in 3 hours, the cost of the trip is from 85 EUR. Most ferries (4 hours) and planes (50 minutes) go to Santorini from Athens, so it would be useful to think about how to lay a route through the Greek capital. The cost of the trip can be calculated on the Greek ferry website (in English).

  • How to get from Heraklion to Santorini

Transportation

Santorini has an excellent bus service: KTEL operates efficiently and punctually (website in English). You can also move around small picturesque resorts on foot, but for traveling between cities, a bus is ideal transport. KTEL routes connect almost all settlements, the cost of tickets depends on the distance and direction.

The best way to get up from the port to Fira is by funicular: it will be short, but very impressive. The cost of pleasure is 7 EUR, the cable car is open from 6:30 to 22:00. Traditional for Greece, but unusual for travelers, donkeys bravely ride passengers along the narrow city streets.

If you wish, you can also use the services of a taxi. It is most convenient to call a car by phone or via the Internet, but it is also possible to arrange a transfer at the port of Fira.

Numerous ferries carry tourists to the remote beaches of Santorini and other islands of the archipelago. For example, you can get to neighboring Thirassia in 25 minutes, and a 5-hour sightseeing tour to Nea Kameni with a visit to a dormant volcano will cost 50-60 EUR per person.

Bicycles for rent

An option for the most enduring is to rent a bicycle. Riding here is not easy: the streets are tight and winding, the terrain is hilly, but the pleasure of freedom of movement in the midst of magnificent scenery is definitely worth all the inconveniences.

Rent a Car

Driving in Santorini is a mixture of risk and pleasure. Driving a car on narrow streets winding along the mountain slopes with sharp turns is not an easy task. But driving along scenic roads overlooking the azure waters of the Aegean Sea is an unforgettable experience. At the airport and the center of Fira, offices of well-known rental offices are open: Sixt, Budjet, Avis, Enterprise. The rental price is from 110 EUR per day for an economy class car to 550 EUR per day for a 7-seater minivan. For the luxury of a ride around the island in a convertible, you will need to pay from 250 EUR. Local car rental companies have lower prices: a small car can be rented for 70 EUR per day.

Drinking while driving is strictly not recommended: a fine for drunk driving can reach 2000 EUR. The same amount will have to fork out for the use of radar detectors.

Traffic jams in Santorini are rare. There are paid sections on the roads: for example, travel through a tunnel or bridge will cost 5 EUR. There are many free parking lots in the center of Fira and on the streets of popular resorts, but in the high season almost all of them are occupied. Paid parking lots are also found, you can leave a car here for 2-5 EUR per day.

Santorini, Greece

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Idaho: The Gem State https://www.thesciencetutor.org/idaho-the-gem-state.html Thu, 01 Dec 2022 14:54:23 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1379 According to growtheology, Idaho is a state of great natural beauty with huge mountains, dense forests, wildlife, secret valleys and large lakes. Idaho is one of the five states of the Great American West region.

Idaho is one of the states of the United States. The nickname for the state is the ‘Gem State’. The capital is Boise.

History
The area that is now called Idaho was originally populated by Native American tribes such as the Nez Perce. There are still a few reservations in the state. Idaho was one of the last areas of today’s contiguous United States to be explored by Europeans. The first official exploration dates back to 1805-1806, when the Lewis and Clark expedition crossed Idaho on its way to the Pacific Ocean. They came from present-day Montana and crossed the current border at 2,247-foot Lemhi Pass. The first city in Idaho was Franklin, founded by Mormons in 1860, who believed they were still in the Utah Territory. From 1860 there were also some “Gold Rush”s in Idaho, which resulted in settlements in Idaho around gold mines. On March 4, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed into law creating the Idaho Territory. This territory included present-day Idaho, as well as the present-day states of Montana and Wyoming. In the same year, the city of Boise was founded, the current capital. A year later, present-day Montana and Wyoming were already split off, giving Idaho its current borders. In 1869 the first transcontinental railway was completed, bringing many people to the region. The railroad passed just south of the southern border of present-day Idaho, north of the Great Salt Lake. On July 3, 1890, President Benjamin Harrison signed into law the law formally making Idaho, the 43rd, a state of the United States.

Geography
Idaho borders Canada to the north, Washington and Oregon to the west, Montana and Wyoming to the east, and Nevada and Utah to the south. The main river is the Snake River, which forms part of the border with Washington and Oregon. The largest lakes are Lake Coeur d’Alene, Lake Pend Oreille, Bear Lake, and the American Falls Reservoir.

Much of mountainous Idaho is taken up by the Rocky Mountains, the highest point of which is Borah Peak (3861 meters). The state is rich in lava from Craters of the Moon, the Hells Canyon, which is deeper than the Grand Canyon and the Balanced Rock.

The official nickname of the state, the Gem State, refers to the presence of many gemstones and natural beauty.

Boise
Boise is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Boise is the quiet capital of the state of Idaho and a lot of agriculture is done here. Boise is the perfect place for adventure tours through the pristine nature in the area. Boise owes its name to the many trees, bois in French, that grow on the river of the same name. The city is well worth a visit, the inhabitants are very relaxed and there are many bars and restaurants.

Craters of the Moon
Craters of the Moon is a National Monument, but nevertheless very large. The monument consists mainly of lava fields and steppes with sagebrush. The lava from the lava fields mainly came from The Great Rift: a fissure/crack in the earth’s crust with a length of 85 kilometers. There are also many cone volcanoes in the park. NASA trained astronauts here for a long time. because it was thought that the lunar landscape would look something like this. However, this turned out not to be the case.

Hell’s Canyon
Hells Canyon is a deep canyon of 16 kilometers wide and 2412 meters deep. Hells Canyon is even deeper than the Grand Canyon in Arizona. It is fun to sail through the gorge with a jet boat, such a trip is very spectacular! Hells Canyon is located along the border with Western Idaho. It is part of the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.

Coeur d’Alene
Coeur d’Alene, nicknamed ‘Lake City’, is located in northern Idaho and is surrounded by dozens of ice age lakes. The lake of the same name is the most popular attraction. You can row, canoe, kayak, raft, jet and water ski, and of course fish and swim.

The Gem State

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How to Get to Heviz, Hungary https://www.thesciencetutor.org/how-to-get-to-heviz-hungary.html Fri, 25 Nov 2022 08:36:35 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1377 Heviz is located 190 km from Budapest, which means that first you need to get to the Hungarian capital by plane, train or bus. The trip from there to the resort takes about 3-4 hours, you just need to choose the right vehicle. There is no railway station in Heviz itself, the nearest one is in the city of Keszthely, which is 5 km from the lake. Trains from Budapest (from the South and East stations) depart regularly, the ticket price is from 3900 HUF one way, the schedule can be found at the office. website of the Hungarian Railways (in English). It will not be difficult to get from Keszthely to Heviz: buses run frequently, tickets – from 400 HUF, travel time – 20 minutes. Prices on the page are for July 2022. Check liuxers for customs and traditions of Hungary.

The railway and bus stations in Keszthely are located on the same square, so you definitely won’t get lost when transferring.

In addition, the city has its own the airport, although it does not accept direct flights from Moscow.

Another way to get to Heviz is by bus. Routes from the capital belong to the company Volanbusz (off. site in English) – the main Hungarian long-distance carrier. Buses depart from Nepliget Station and reach their destination within 3 hours. The intervals of movement depend on the season, the ticket price is 2090 HUF one way.

You can also get to Heviz by a car rented in Budapest (from 8000 HUF per day plus gasoline). The road will take 2-3 hours and will run along the most beautiful highways in the vicinity of Lake Balaton.

Transportation

Heviz is a small town, so you have to walk between the hotel, the lake, restaurants and sights. And this is only for the best: walking through the picturesque countryside in pleasant weather is a very special pleasure. But if you want to explore the surroundings, public transport is indispensable. Most routes to neighboring cities – Tapolca, Siofok, Martsali – run through Keszthely. There is a railway station, a bus station and a pier, from where pleasure boats regularly leave for literally all settlements on the coast of Lake Balaton.

A boat trip from Keszthely to Balatonlelle or Szigliget will cost from 3500 HUF round trip.

If necessary, you can use the services of a taxi by finding a parking lot in the center or calling a car by phone.

It is also pleasant to explore Heviz and nearby sights on a bicycle. Moreover, a new HeBi rental system has recently been launched here: several automatic stations have appeared in the city where you can rent a bike. To begin with, you will have to look at the Turinform office for a special plastic card, leaving a deposit. When leaving Heviz, you can return the card and get the full amount back. Card holders can take a bike to any of the stations and travel around the city up to 4 hours a day.

Heviz Hotels

Several dozen hotels are open on the coast of Lake Heviz, almost all of them with high-quality rooms, excellent service and modern health improvement opportunities. Most of the hotels are 3-4 * categories, the most fashionable is Lotus Therme Hotel & Spa, so far the only “five” in the resort. The rate usually includes breakfast or half board. Therapeutic procedures – baths, silt wraps, massages, etc. – for an additional fee.

A room in a 3 * hotel within a 5-minute walk from the lake will cost from 35,000 HUF per day. In hotels of a higher class, you can stay for 20,000 HUF per day. For a vacation in a luxurious “five” you will need to pay from 85,000 HUF per night. An alternative to hotels is apartments in private houses and family hotels.

The voltage in the electrical network in Heviz, as in all of Hungary, is 230 V, the sockets are the usual European ones, type C and F, which do not require an adapter.

Rent a Car

There is only one car rental in Heviz, owned by the international company Hertz. You can also rent a car at Sarmellek Airport in the vicinity of Lake Balaton. Renting an economy class model will cost from 20,000 HUF, a standard car – from 28,000 HUF, an SUV – from 34,300 HUF per day. Discounts are available for contracts for several days. The list of required documents includes a driver’s license (driving experience – at least 1 year) and a passport, in addition to the full prepayment, the distributors also require a deposit. The price of gasoline in Hungary is 768.8 HUFfor 1 liter The roads in the vicinity of Heviz are of high quality, the views from the window are breathtaking, there are no traffic jams, there will be no problems with parking – in other words, carte blanche for fans of independent travel.

Communication and Wi-Fi

There are no mobile phone offices in Heviz, you will have to connect in Budapest or neighboring Keszthely. You have to choose from 3 main operators: Telenor, Vodafone and T-Mobile. Their prices are about the same, you need a passport when applying. The balance can be replenished via the Internet, as well as at any gas station, at a press kiosk or post office.

In the center of Hévíz there are several payphones from which it is convenient to make calls both within Hungary and abroad. T-Com cards are sold at newsstands and post offices. From 20:00 to 8:00 there are discounts for all negotiations.

It is better to look for free Wi-Fi in hotel lobbies, cafes and restaurants: signs on the windows will not let you make a mistake. There is no Internet cafe in the town, so for safety reasons it is worth connecting a SIM card with mobile traffic.

Heviz, Hungary

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St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda https://www.thesciencetutor.org/st-johns-antigua-and-barbuda.html Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:33:35 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1375 Antigua and Barbuda is a country where the number of beaches is equal to the number of days in a year. Almost half of the state’s population lives in the capital, St. John’s. This is such a kind of paradise with coral reefs, quiet lagoons and bays. It is so quiet and calm here that sometimes you have to feel yourself – suddenly you are already in heaven. The locals, of course, are not one hundred percent angels, but they will do everything possible to make your stay in St. John’s memorable at least until the end of your life.

How to get there

According to wholevehicles, 8 kilometers from the capital of Antigua and Barbuda, there is an airport with the long name St. John’s VC Bird International Airport. There are no direct flights from Russia to St. John’s, so you’ll have to travel by seatbelt.

The airport accepts planes from England, USA, Germany and Canada. Flight time from Baltimore is 4 hours, Frankfurt is 9 hours, London is 8 hours. Such a trip costs from 1000 USD.

For some reason, local border guards charge all fees only when leaving the country – this is 20 USD. So make a stash or they won’t let you go home.

Transportation

St. John’s has a bus service. You can get to any point quickly and cheaply. True, there are no buses in Dickenson Bay and other resort areas in the northern part of the island. On Sundays, public transport rests. But on any day you can catch a taxi. Fares are fixed, and some drivers are qualified guides, so they can tell you a lot of interesting things along the way.

As for car rental, you can rent a car directly at the airport. But remember: traffic in the country is on the left side.

St. John’s beaches

Antigua has 365 sandy beaches. In St. John’s, the beaches are public, you can safely take a place where your heart desires. Unless it’s better not to go to the remote ones alone. Yes, for safety. The most popular beaches are Fort James and Deep Bay. During the winter months, surfers occupy Galli Bay. And in Hawksbill Bay, one of the beaches is owned by nudists.

Cuisine and restaurants

The local cuisine is an exotic mix of different traditions: Caribbean, French, Dutch and English. Culinary delights include char-grilled red snapper, flying fish fillets, gambas prawns, sudons clams, lobsters and lamby shells.

Locals escape the heat with tea and ice-cold fruit drinks. The city makes excellent rum and brews good beer. Popular varieties are ‘Banks’ and ‘Vadadli’.

Shopping

The largest concentration of shops where you can buy various souvenirs is on the waterfront around the Harbor, near the Heritage Kwai complex and the Red Cliff Kwai area. Antigua and Barbuda is a duty free zone. In the capital, you can buy goods at bargain prices that in other countries (not to mention Russia) will cost 30-40 percent more. Tourists buy jewelry, precious stones, watches on the island. Most of the shops are open until 17:00.

St. John’s Hotels

There are plenty of 3-5 star hotels in St. John’s. The average cost of accommodation in a standard double room is from 40 USD. High class hotels charge from 100 USD per night. Some hotels have wellness centers with swimming pools. Spacious rooms with a beautiful view of the ocean, with a balcony or terrace with a hammock.

5 things to do in St. John’s

  1. To hear real reggae – this music must be listened to by people who are rooted in this culture. Local clubs often play reggae, jazz, calypso.
  2. Go on a picnic – Bird Island is the best place to eat outdoors. Collect a basket of provisions, rent a motorboat and go to bird paradise.
  3. Get to know the life of the islanders – many excursion programs offer safaris deep into Antigua, where you can visit small villages and get acquainted with the life of local residents.
  4. Fishing in the Atlantic – fishing in the ocean is many times greater than gatherings on the banks of the river. Firstly, you will not find such fish at home. And secondly, you can get close to her if you go down to the bottom with scuba gear.
  5. Visit Carnival – A national carnival is held in the British West Indies in August to commemorate the abolition of slavery. This is one of the main tourist attractions with processions, competitions and stylized shows.

Entertainment and attractions in St. John’s

The main attractions and entertainment of the capital of Antigua.

St. John’s Cathedral

This cathedral is visible from afar thanks to its snow-white towers. It was built in the middle of the 19th century in the third version, since the first two were destroyed by an earthquake. The cathedral is made in the Baroque style. This is a majestic building that reminds the locals of its difficult past.

Museum of Antigua and Barbuda

This museum, housed in a colonial courthouse, tells the history of the island. Artifacts that were found during archeological excavations are exhibited here. In the museum you can get acquainted with the life of the natives – there is a life-size copy of the Arawak house, plantation models and much more.

Farmers market

The farmers’ market, located on the southern outskirts of the city, looks like a swarm of bees on weekends. Everything here moves, makes noise, shimmers, sparkles, screams and reduces the price. In the market you can buy handicrafts and exotic tropical fruits. In addition, the market is a good morning exercise: you can push around, stretch your muscles.

Sports and active entertainment

The most popular sport in Antigua is cricket. The West Indies even held the world championship in this sport. Cricket for Antigua is akin to football in Russia, although our fans do not understand these men with clubs.

The island also trains professional athletes and tennis players who represent the country in major competitions.

For tourists, the island is full of active entertainment: surfing, diving, golf, riding motor boats, scooters, kayaks, jeep tours and much more.

Weather in St. John’s

You can come here to relax all year round. In the coolest month, the temperature drops to +25. Rains, not particularly frequent, usually fall from May to November.

St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda

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Sights of Florence, Italy https://www.thesciencetutor.org/sights-of-florence-italy.html Fri, 11 Nov 2022 06:40:09 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1373 According to Youremailverifier, Florence (called Firenze in Italian) is the capital of the province of the same name and of the Tuscany region. The city is one of the most famous cultural cities in Europe. It is the cradle of the Renaissance. Many famous artists, scientists, writers and other historical people have lived or were born here. Examples include Leonardo De Vinci, Michelangelo and Galileo Galilei. Today, Florence is the must-visit city when in Tuscany. The city is bursting with beautiful squares, streets, bridges and palaces.

The book “Inferno” by American author Dan Browne has given tourism in Florence an extra boost. Following the book and the movie released in 2016, which is largely set in Florence, tourists go in search of the historical sites and buildings described in the book.

Florence ‘s Top 10 Things to Do

#1. Uffizi
Anyone who has not visited the world famous museum Uffizi has not seen the city of Florence. This magisterial and huge museum has many art treasures to admire. Sufficient space has of course been devoted to Michelangelo’s work, but works by Sandro Botticelli, Giotto, Simone Martini, Pierro della Francesca and our own Rembrandt van Rijn can also be viewed here.

The Uffici is extremely popular. It is not for nothing that more and more people buy their Uffizi tickets in advance via the internet. In this way you avoid the often huge queues that can stand in front of the cash registers of this museum. By purchasing skip-the-line tickets you can get in much faster. Buy your tickets for the Uffizi. here

#2. Florence Cathedral

By far the best known and most beautiful church building in Florence is the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. It is often referred to as the Florence Cathedral or the Duomo (dome). The medieval church building is centrally located in the historic center of Florence. It is a beautiful sight to see both inside and out. Beautiful elements are the white and black exterior of the cathedral, which especially give the facade an impressive appearance, the red domes and the 85 meter high campanile. After climbing 414 steps, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Florence.

#3. Palazzo Vecchio
This beautiful building from the early 1300s is located on the famous Piazza della Signoria. Palazzo Vecchio has had several names in the past. It was called both Palazzo della Signoria and Palazzo del Popolo. The administration of the city of Florence has worked from this building for a long time. Now today it is a museum with works by Mantegna, Pontormo and Donatello.

#4. Galleria dell’Accademia
When you visit Florence, you can’t avoid visiting the Galleria dell’Accademia museum. After all, the museum contains the original sculpture ‘David’ by Michelangelo. This artwork is considered one of the masterpieces of the Italian artist Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni. In the Galleria dell’Accademia you can see the real statue. The statue in Piazza della Signoria is a replica. Besides David, there is of course much more to see in the Galleria dell’Accademia. The collection includes a fine collection of paintings from the Renaissance.

#5. Palazzo Pitti
This majestic palace and estate once belonged to the successful merchant Luca Pitti. Later it came into the hands of the famous Medici family. These lived there until 1737 when there were no more descendants. Over the years, much has been added to this beautiful palace. It eventually became the home of the Italian royal family. This is still reflected in the interior. Behind the palace are the beautiful Boboli Botanical Gardens.Also for the Palazzo Pitti, advance reservation of tickets with a time slot is a must.

#6. Ponte Vecchio
A very old bridge crosses the river Arno. This is the Ponte Vecchio which was built in 1345. This stone bridge replaced a wooden bridge that was destroyed by a flood in 1333. The influential Medici family wanted a covered passageway over the bridge to walk from the Palazzio Vecchio to the Palazzo Pitti. And so this beautiful bridge was created.

#7. Piazza della Signoria
The most important square in Florence is the Piazza della Signoria. Here are a number of important historical buildings such as Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi museum, the town hall and the covered sculpture gallery with pieces such as Hercules and the Centaur, Perseus and Mendusa and the Sabine Virgins robbery. This Loggia dei Lanzi attracts many visitors every year. The gallery was built between 1376 and 1382. You will also find a replica of Michelangelo’s David on this square.

#8. Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana
A grandson from the Medici family once suggested housing the enormous book collection in a library. And so it happened that a monastery library was built at the Basilica San Lorenzo. Many documents and manuscripts from the Medici history can be found under the name Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana. Because Michelangelo was responsible for the construction together with the then Pope ‘Pope Clement VII’, this library is considered to be his most complete building.

#9. Santa Croce
One of the most important churches in Florence is the Santa Croce which is located on the square of the same name, Piazza Santa Croce. It is even one of the most beautiful Gothic basilicas in Italy. Many treasures can be admired inside, including the crucifix of Donatello and the tomb of Michelangelo Buonarotti. There are also many tombs of famous Florentines. Those who used to pay for the construction of this beautiful church had the right to be buried here for him and his family.

#10. Piazzale Michelangelo
For a beautiful view of the city of Florence, you should definitely visit Piazzale Michelangelo. The view is particularly good as it is on a hill. In the center of the square is a memorial to Michelangelo. This is a copy of David and a few other statues.

Florence, Italy

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Landmarks of Lisbon, Portugal https://www.thesciencetutor.org/landmarks-of-lisbon-portugal.html Fri, 04 Nov 2022 05:15:32 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1371 According to Themotorcyclers, Lisbon is the capital of Portugal. The city, located near the Atlantic Ocean, has no less than three million inhabitants including suburbs, making it the largest city in Portugal. Lisbon is largely built on hills. As a result, some neighborhoods have quite a few level differences. Lisbon has the Baixa districtas a historic center. It is not for nothing that you will find quite a few impressive historic buildings during a walk here. Just as beautiful is the adjacent Bairro Alto district. You can reach it from the center with a 45-meter high elevator. This Santa Justa elevator is a sight in itself. Bairro Alto is the neighborhood where you have to be for a nice meal or to go out.

Food, drink and music are important ingredients in the daily life of the Lisbon people. Portuguese cuisine is very similar to that of Spanish cuisine, but certainly has a number of specific dishes of its own. In Lisbon, for example, cod is often cooked. Dried, baked or processed into sandwiches: you will see a lot of cod in Lisbon. Patel de Nata is a real local specialty. These are small cakes of puff pastry and pudding. You eat the best in Belem. For the now world-famous Pastéis de Belém, people like to stand in the almost always present queue. We didn’t put this sophisticated sweet treat in the top 10 things to do in Lisbon, but we wanted to mention it. You just have to try this one when you are in Lisbon.

Top 10 sights of Lisbon

#1. Jerónimos Monastery

Het Jerónimos Monasteryis a monastery located in the Belém district. The monastery contains the graves of explorer Vasco de Gama, poets Fernando Pessoa and Luís de Cames and members of the Royal family, among others. The dimensions of this beautiful monastery are very impressive. The inside of the monastery is decorated with Manueline motifs, in which European and Moorish motifs and elements make it very special. The Spanish architecture and renaissance style is also common. An equally impressive square is located next to this striking monastery. The Praça do Imperio is approximately 280 x 280 meters in size with a garden of 3,300m² in the middle. There is a large fountain in the center.

The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is considered Lisbon’s main attraction. It is not for nothing that the entrance tickets to visit this monastery are sold like hot cakes. It is therefore advisable to buy an entrance ticket online in advance .

#2. Alfama

A visit to Alfama is a must if you want to get to know the real Lisbon. This neighborhood founded by the Moors is the oldest part of Lisbon. Actually, not much has changed in Alfama over the centuries. It is still a working-class neighborhood that comes alive especially in the evenings. After sunset you can smell the barbecues on the streets and hear different forms of Portuguese music. You can experience the most famous Portuguese music, fado, in special fado restaurants. The food is mediocre, the prices are high, but the atmosphere and music are great.

Alfama’s main attraction is its winding and often steep streets and paths. Even Google Maps is regularly lost here, we have experienced. Does not matter. Let yourself get lost in the neighborhood and try to discover the character of Alfama.

Within Alfama you can see a number of sights. The Lisbon Cathedral is one of them. In Portuguese this building of faith is called Sé de Lisboa. Perhaps even more interesting is the Igreja de Santa Luzia. This church is located at a beautiful viewpoint: the Miradouro de Santa Luzia. From here you have a nice view over a part of Lisbon. Do you want to have a fabulous view over the red tiled roofs of the Alfama district? Then walk around the church to Miradouro das Portas do Sol.

#3. Belém Tower

Another landmark that is located in the Belém district. The Torre de Belém is one of the most famous buildings in Lisbon. Architecturally, the Tower of Belém is already worth seeing. The location in the water provides an extra dimension. The square defense tower was built between 1515 and 1521. The architecture is a fine example of the Manueline style or the Portuguese late Gothic style. Purists believe that you should not simply use this definition without mentioning that clearly Moorish influences can be seen in the Torre de Belém. This is reflected in, among other things, the watchtowers with domes.

You can admire the Torre de Belém from the outside for free. To view the tower from the inside, you need entrance tickets. You can pick them up at the kiosk of the tourist office or you can buy them online. You do not need to print the tickets.

#4. Rua Augusta

If you walk through the center of Lisbon, you almost automatically end up in Rua Augusta. Rua Augusta is a lively pedestrian street in the shopping heart of Lisbon. The most striking structure on Rua Augusta can be found on the south side of the street. It is the Arco da Rua Augusta. This historic building with a triumphal arch was erected to commemorate the earthquake of 1755. Rua Augusta is located in the Baixa Pombalina district, which had to be completely rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755. The shopping area is paved with very nice mosaic tiled sidewalks. Many cozy terraces and here and there a street artist characterize this thriving street.

#5. Sao Jorge’s Castle

The Castelo de São Jorge towers over the Alfama district. This beautiful castle is located on top of the highest hill in the center of Lisbon. The hill itself was inhabited early on. The oldest foundations of the castle are said to date from the sixth century before the beginning of our era. The Castelo de São Jorge is a medieval castle that was intended to defend Lisbon against unwanted guests. For example, it was used at the end of the twelfth century to keep the Moors out.

Today, the Castelo de São Jorge is a popular tourist attraction in Lisbon. The medieval castle itself is not that special, although the structure is in good condition. It is mainly the panoramic view that you have from this castle that people come for. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the entrance fee while there are also a number of free viewpoints in this part of town, we can answer that with a ‘yes’.

A free alternative is the viewpoint Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. It is slightly less conveniently located, but is open 24 hours a day. It is therefore the better place to admire the sunset over Lisbon.

#6. Tram line 28

The tram is an important means of transport within Lisbon. In the flatter parts of Lisbon you can now see modern trams gliding over the tramways. The hills of the city are conquered by trams of the older type. These trams have become one of the main attractions of Lisbon. It is in particular tram line 28 that has become a true attraction. This is mainly because these old trams drive a beautiful route through the most beautiful neighborhoods of Lisbon. Whoever sits at the window has a cheap sightseeing tour of the city. Is tram line 28 not hyped? Maybe. It is a consideration for everyone whether a ride with tram 28 is a must-do or not.

Do not confuse yellow trams of the historic tram line 28e (the ‘e’ stands for eléctrico) with the red historic trams of Hills Tramcar Tour. It is purely intended for tourists and therefore more expensive. It is generally quieter, so you can sit comfortably. With a ticket from the Hills Tramcar Tour you can also use the Santa Justa lift for free. The Hills Tramcar Tour includes an audio guide (also in Dutch) that tells you what you see along the way.

#7. Nations’ park

Translated into Dutch, Parque das Nações means “Park of Nations”. This young neighborhood is located in the east of Lisbon, on the Tagus River. The ultra-modern district is the remnant of the Expo held in Lisbon in 1998. Now it is a favorite place among tourists and locals. Well-known buildings and sights in this area include Torre Vasco da Gama, modern shopping center Vasco da Gama and the Lisbon Oceanarium and a promenade overlooking the São Gabriel and São Rafael towers.

The Oceanarium of Lisboais the most famous and most visited attraction within the Parque das Nações. North American architect Peter Chermayeff designed the building, which resembles an aircraft carrier. It is one of the largest aquariums in Europe and is highly appreciated by visitors of all ages. The oceanarium spans two floors and is divided into six themed areas. For an additional fee you can get a tour where you can also look behind the scenes of the oceanarium.

#8. Bairro Alto

If you put the Moorish neighborhood of Alfama in the top 10 sights of Lisbon, then the neighborhood on the other side of the lower city should not be missed. Bairro Alto is a centrally located neighborhood known for its shopping and entertainment area. You will also find some artistic shops and art galleries here. The tall buildings and narrow streets make walking the shadow-filled streets of this area a pleasure. In the evening the many bars, restaurants and clubs are busy. Some streets are even closed to cars, so that the nightlife crowd gets plenty of space here.

Three places in Bairro Alto that we would like to mention separately are the view from the top platform of the Santa Justa elevator, the square Praça Luís de Camōes and the Museu Arqueológico do Carmo. The ruin of the Carmo monastery is so special because you can still see the shape of the former Gothic church, while the roof above the nave is completely missing.

#9. Cemetery of Pleasures

Cemitério dos Prazeres is the largest and most beautiful cemetery in Lisbon. This cemetery with many famous Portuguese people can be found in the Campo de Ourique district. Those who follow the famous tram line 28 from Praça Martim Moniz will eventually have to get off at the stop in front of the cemetery. This is the final stop. You can then board again to take the tram back to the center. Often you then join in a row. You can also use this time to take a look at one of the most impressive cemeteries in the world.

You will be amazed by the streets lined with tombs and mausoleums. Some of the structures are immense. The grave houses even have house numbers. Most of the graves are well maintained, but some have a more dilapidated impression. Entrance to this ‘city of the dead’ is free.

#10. Palaces

Those who like to visit castles and palaces should not miss the places Queluz and Sintra. Queluz is home to the former summer residence of the Portuguese royal family: the Palace of Queluz. This eighteenth-century palace is a fine example of two mixed styles: baroque and rococo. When the weather is nice, take some time to visit the palace gardens. From the center of Lisbon you can travel directly to Queluz by train.

The train that takes you to Queluz continues to Sintra. This place belongs to the Lisbon district and is known for its beautiful palaces, the atmospheric historic center and the Moorish castle. The Palácio Nacional da Pena, built on top of a hill, is Sintra’s most famous palace. The palace stands on the remains of an old Hieremonite monastery.

On another hill above Sintra, lies the early medieval ‘Castelo dos Mouros’. The largest tower on this estate can be climbed with about 500 steps. The castle is surrounded by a 450 meter wall, which is clearly visible from a distance. The entire complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lisbon, Portugal

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US 30 in Ohio https://www.thesciencetutor.org/us-30-in-ohio.html Sun, 30 Oct 2022 04:58:04 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1368  

US 30
Get started Dixon
End East Liverpool
Length 245 mi
Length 395 km
Route
Indiana

Van Wert

freeway

Van Wert

East Van Wert

Middle Point

Delphos

East Delphos

Lima

Beaverdam

Upper Sandusky

freeway

Nevada

Oceania

North Bucyrus

Sulfur Springs

East Bucyrus

Leesville

Galion

Crestline

West Mansfield

Ontario

roseland

Downtown Mansfield

North Mansfield

East Mansfield

Wooster

freeway

West Wooster

Downtown Wooster

East Wooster

Riceland

Dalton

freeway

East Greenville

West Masillion

Downtown Masillion

Richville

West Canton

Downtown Canton

East Canton

waco

Minerva

Lisbon

freeway

West Point

Glenmoor

calculator

East Liverpool

West Virginia

According to Toppharmacyschools, US 30 is a US Highway in the US state of Ohio. The road forms an important east-west connection in the middle of the state and has many 2×2 and highway routes. The route is 395 kilometers long.

Travel directions

The US 30 near Van Wert.

Western Ohio

US 30 in Indiana comes from Fort Wayne and is a major 2×2 divided highway. Also in western Ohio, US 30 has continuous 2×2 lanes, has bypasses in all places and has frequent grade separations. The road runs via Van Wert and Delphos to Beaverdam, where there is a connection to Interstate 75. Then follows more than 50 kilometers over the flat meadows to Upper Sandusky, where there is a wide bypass and a double numbering with the US 23 follows. East of Upper Sandusky, US 30 becomes a freeway bypassing Bucyrus, Galion, and Mansfield to Interstate 71.

Eastern Ohio

After I-71 the US 30 is again a 2×2 divided highway to the Massillon region. This part of Ohio has more vegetation and is more varied. US 30 forms a short freeway bypass of the town of Wooster. Just before the town of Massillon, US 30 becomes a freeway again, forming the southern bypass of Massillon and then a freeway through the town of Canton. In Canton one crosses the Interstate 77. The freeway ends abruptly on the east side of Canton, traffic must then continue on US 30 single-lane into the Ohio River valley. This area is more wooded and slightly hilly. The last stretch to East Liverpool coincides with State Route 11 and has been developed as a freeway. Through the Jennings Randolph Bridgecrosses the Ohio River and continues on US 30 in West Virginia to Pittsburgh.

History

US 30 / OH-11 north of East Liverpool.

US 30 was created in 1926 and largely followed the historic Lincoln Highway, an auto trail. Originally there was US 30N and US 30S through western Ohio, between Delphos and Mansfield, with US 30S running a little further south, via Lima and Marion. This situation existed between 1932 and 1974. The rest of the global route has not changed significantly since 1926. US 30 does not serve many major Ohio cities, such as Columbus or Cleveland, but does serve a number of other medium-sized cities such as Mansfield, Massillon, and Canton. As a result, much of the US 30 is at least a divided highway with 2×2 lanes dotted with freeway sections.

In 1897 the bridge over the Ohio River at East Liverpool opened to traffic, connecting Ohio to West Virginia. This bridge was replaced in 1977 by the Jennings Randolph Bridge, which is the largest Pratt Truss type truss bridge in North America.

The first 4-lane stretch was between Wooster and Canton, which was widened in phases between 1946 and 1952. In the mid-1940s, small sections of US 30 were also widened as an approach road from Mansfield. In 1966, the first stretch of 2×2 divided highway opened from Wooster to the west, toward I-71 at Mansfield. This is not a freeway but does have some grade separated intersections. In 1967, the extension opened westward to I-71. Around 1965, the Upper Sandusky bypass also opened, but mainly to traffic using US 23traffic on US 30 could not yet use it, which would take another 30 years until the western link between US 30 and the Upper Sandusky bypass opened in 1995. Around 1969, the 2×2 divided highway opened between the Indiana and Van Wert borders, which also included some grade separated intersections and also included the Van Wert bypass.

Around 1971 a fairly long stretch of 2×2 lanes opened to traffic between Delphos and Beaverdam, a distance of approximately 30 kilometres. An unusual connection to I-75 was realized at Beaverdam, in fact two exits next to each other. In 1979, the section between Van Wert and Delphos opened as a freeway, the only section of double-lane US 30 in western Ohio that is completely grade separated.

It took until 2004 before the section between Upper Sandusky and Bucyrus was widened to 2×2 lanes. This occurred on a new route south of the original US 30 and included a spacious interchange with US 23 on the east side of Upper Sandusky. Finally, the section between Beaverdam and Upper Sandusky was constructed as a 2×2 divided highway, largely over a new route. This opened to traffic in stages in 2006-2007, providing 2×2 lanes for nearly all of US 30 in Ohio. Only the part between Canton and West Point in the east of the state is still missing.

Bucyrus – Mansfield

A linked series of bypasses has been constructed as a freeway around Bucyrus, Ontario and Mansfield. In 1958, the first section of the Mansfield bypass opened to traffic for two miles, which was extended eastwards in 1959 to the then-construction I-71. The Bucyrus bypass opened to traffic circa 1971. Around 1979, the Ontario bypass opened to traffic. After that, it took another 25 years for the missing section between the Bucyrus bypass and the Ontario bypass to open. In 2005, the missing section along Galion opened to traffic.

Massillon – Canton

Traffic had to cut through the city of Massillon and through the center of the city of Canton. A southern bypass has been constructed as a freeway for this purpose. Around 1971 the first part of approximately 13 kilometers from Dalton to the south side of Massillon opened. In 1972, an approximately 9-kilometer extension to what was then US 62 opened in the southwest of the city of Canton. In 1978, a short extension of barely a mile opened to Harrison Avenue, just short of I-77. The missing link opened a year later, including an interchange with I-77. In 1981 a 2 mile extension opened to Waynesburg Drive. The last extension to Trump Avenue opened around 1985, clearly prepared for an extension further along East Canton, which was never built.

East Liverpool

Around 1964, the first three-mile stretch of freeway from US 30 opened on the north side of East Liverpool. This was the winding part through the narrow valley from Calcutta into the city. In 1967 a 4 kilometer extension opened to OH-7. Around 1971 this was extended 5 kilometers further to West Point, where US 30 joins the freeway, which consists of the rest of the OH-11. Supposedly in 1973, a short stretch of freeway opened in East Liverpool itself, running along the west side of the city to the bank of the Ohio River, where it joined OH-7 toward Steubenville. Presumably in 1977 the section opened along the center of East Liverpool to the new Jennings Randolph Bridge over the Ohio River into West Virginia.

Future

The Ohio Department of Transportation plans to extend US 30 east from Canton as a toll road to State Route 11 near Lisbon. This new toll road would be 58 kilometers long. This is the only portion of US 30 in the state of Ohio that has not yet been expanded with 2×2 lanes.

US 30 in Ohio

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State Route 41, 43 and 44 in California https://www.thesciencetutor.org/state-route-41-43-and-44-in-california.html Fri, 28 Oct 2022 18:53:07 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1365 State Route 41 in California
SR-41
Get started Morro Bay
End Yosemite National Park
Length 186 mi
Length 299 km
Route
Morro Bay

Atascadero

Shandon

Kettleman City

Stratford

Lemoore

Easton

freeway

125 Jensen Avenue

126 → Bakersfield / Modesto

126B Downtown Fresno

127 Tulare Avenue

128

129 McKinley Avenue

130 Shields Avenue

131 Ashlan Avenue

132 Shaw Avenue

133 Bullard Avenue

134 Herndon Avenue

135 Friant Road

138 Children’s Boulevard

Yosemite Lakes

Oakhurst

Yosemite National Park

According to toppharmacyschools.org, State Route 41 is a state route in the U.S. state of California. The road forms a north-south route through the center of the state, from Morro Bay on the Pacific coast through the San Joaquin Valley through the city of Fresno to Yosemite National Park. State Route 41 has been partially developed as a highway in the larger city of Fresno. The route is 299 kilometers long.

Travel directions

View of Yosemite National Park from the ‘Tunnel View’ parking lot from SR-41.

State Route 41 begins in the coastal town of Morro Bay at the intersection with SR-1, the Pacific Coast Highway. The road then runs inland through the Santa Lucia Range to Atascadero, where it connects to US 101, the freeway from Los Angeles to San Francisco. The road then continues through remote mountainous regions of the Diablo Range to the San Joaquin Valley, a large agricultural area in central California. At the village of Kettleman City you cross the [[Interstate 5 in California|Interstate 5]. The road then continues as a single-lane road through farmland to Lemoore, where it crosses State Route 198, which leads to the town of Visalia. After this, the SR-41 is a 2x2divided highway to the south side of the city of Fresno.

In Fresno, the SR-41 is a highway, as Fresno is a larger city with a population of 500,000. SR-41 is then a 2×2 lane highway, after which an interchange with State Route 99 follows, the highway from Bakersfield to Sacramento. After this you pass the center and the SR-41 has 2×3 lanes. Via an impressive junction you then cross the State Route 180, Fresno’s east-west highway. Also north of this, the highway has 2×3 lanes and then runs through the northern districts of the city. Further north, the road narrows to 2×2 lanes, and the highway section also ends north of the city. The 2×2 section continues for a while before the SR-41 narrows to one lane. State Route 41 then continues to Yosemite National Park.

History

In 1933, the road to Yosemite National Park opened to traffic. Famous for this section is the view from the ‘Tunnel View’ parking lot. It was not until the 1950s that the entire route was completely paved, the last part to be paved was between Creston and Atascadero.

The first portion of State Route 41 as a freeway was a spur of CA-99 at Downtown Fresno that opened in 1966. In 1972 also followed a spur south of the CA-99. The route along Downtown was built in 1974. In 1979 a solitary stretch of land opened in northern Fresno, which was connected to the highway through Fresno in 1982. Extensions opened in northern Fresno in 1988 and 1989.

Opening history

From Unpleasant Length Date
126 126B Van Ness Avenue 1 km 00-00-1966
125 Jensen Avenue 126 2 km 00-00-1972
126B Van Ness Avenue 127 Tulare Avenue 2 km 00-00-1974
130 Shields Avenue 132 Shaw Avenue 3 km 00-00-1979
127 Tulare Avenue 128 1 km 00-00-1980
128 130 Shields Avenue 3 km 00-00-1982
132 Shaw Avenue 134 Herndon Avenue 3 km 00-00-1988
134 Herndon Avenue 138 Children’s Boulevard 6 km 00-00-1989

Traffic intensities

Some 7,000 vehicles drive through Morro Bay and 30,000 vehicles through Atascadero. After that, only 700 vehicles will drive, and 9,000 at I-5. After Lemoore, intensities rise from 14,000 to 35,000 for the SR-99. A maximum of 149,000 vehicles per day pass through Fresno. Of those, 2,000 vehicles remain at Yosemite National Park.

State Route 43 in California

SR-43
Get started Taft
End Selma
Length 98 mi
Length 158 km
Route
Calders Corner

shafter

washing co

Corcoran

Hanford

Selma

State Route 43 is a state route in the U.S. state of California. The road forms a north-south route through the San Joaquin Valley, from Taft to Selma, and is 158 kilometers long.

Travel directions

State Route 43 begins near Taft at an intersection with State Route 119 and heads north through the flat agricultural San Joaquin Valley. The road parallels State Route 99 for some distance, which serves major cities in the valley. State Route 43 passes just west of Bakersfield along, and through, the regional towns of Wasco and Hanford. One also passes by Corcoran, known for the prison. State Route 43 is almost entirely a single-lane road. State Route 43 ends at Selma on State Route 99.

History

Today’s State Route 43 was created in 1964 during the major renumbering of California roads. The road has been upgraded very little over the years.

Traffic intensities

State Route 43 has mostly 6,000 to 7,000 vehicles per day outside the larger towns. In places like Shafter, Wasco and Hanford, there are usually 10,000 to 15,000 vehicles per day.

State Route 44 in California

SR-44
Get started Rescue
End Susanville
Length 107 mi
Length 172 km
Route
Rescue

Sundial Bridge Drive

Sacramento River

Dana Drive

Victor Avenue

Shasta View Drive

Old Oregon Trail

Old Station

Susanville

State Route 44 is a state route in the U.S. state of California. The road forms an east-west route through the Cascades in Northern California, from Redding to Susanville. State Route 44 is 172 kilometers long.

Travel directions

State Route 44 begins in Redding, the largest city on the route and one of the larger towns in northern California. State Route 44 is a short 2×2 lane freeway in Redding. One crosses the Sacramento River and intersects Interstate 5 with a clover turbine. At the edge of Redding the road narrows to single carriageway and then enters the Cascades.

State Route 44 leads to Lassen Peak, a prominent volcano visible from afar. The road leads over the north flank of the mountain and rises to an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters. North of Lassen Peak to Old Station is double-numbered with State Route 89. To the east of this the road leads over a plateau with a few volcanoes. The road veers southeast and ends west of Susanville on State Route 36.

History

State Route 44 is a major tourist route and is the fastest route from Interstate 5 to the Lassen Peak area. The eastern portion of the route has less through importance, but it is the shortest route from Redding to Susanville.

Rescue Freeway

In 1965, the stretch of freeway opened between downtown Redding and the interchange with I-5. In 1968 this was extended to the east side of Redding. In 2010, State Route 44 was reconstructed, completely replacing the bridge over the Sacramento River.

Traffic intensities

Every day, 52,000 vehicles drive between downtown Redding and I-5 and 47,000 vehicles east of it, dropping to 16,000 vehicles on the outskirts of Redding. The part further to the vicinity of Lassen Peak has about 3,500 vehicles per day. The eastern part to near Susanville has 1,500 vehicles per day.

State Route 44 in California

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Equatorial Guinea Foreign Policy https://www.thesciencetutor.org/equatorial-guinea-foreign-policy.html Fri, 28 Oct 2022 03:57:11 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1359 The states with which Equatorial Guinea maintains active diplomatic relations can be divided into three groups: European states with a colonial past, states that import oil from RG, and some countries, especially in the West and Central African region. The first group mainly includes Spain and France, which together with Germany are the only EU countries to have diplomatic representations on the RG. The relations between Spain and its former colony are quite complicated, as the EC grants political asylum to the fugitive oppositionists from the RG. Countries to which RG exports oil include the USA, China, Japan and South Korea. In the African region, RG maintains relations mainly with Nigeria, Angola, South Africa and Morocco (Moroccan soldiers helped Obiang carry out a military coup in 1979, in return RG recognized Morocco’s claims to Western Sahara in 1980). RG also maintains good relations with Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Lebanon, Turkey, Venezuela, Brazil and Cuba. It has been a member of the Francophonie since 1988, and intends to join the community of Lusophone countries. Although Equatorial Guinea is a CEMAC member country, relations with Gabon and Cameroon are burdened by unresolved border disputes.
Equatorial Guinea is a member country of the UN (United Nations), AU (African Union), NAM (Nonaligned Movement, HNZ – Movement of Independent Countries), WTO (observer), IMF (IMF – International Monetary Fund), AfDB (African Development Bank)., ACCT, ACP, ECA, FAO, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, OAS (Observer), OPCW, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WToO (World Tourist Organisation), BDEAC – Development Bank of Central Africa (Banque des Etats de l´Afrique Centrale), Lomé IV.

Equatorial Guinea actively cooperates with the countries of the Gulf of Guinea in the fight against piracy, which is a big issue in the area. The port in Malabo is even an operational base for maritime patrols. However, the country has so far been excluded from joint EU-Africa exercises, including the last one “Grand Nemo”, which took place in October 2018. Equatorial Guinea is interested in participating in EU projects under the EU Strategy for the Gulf of Guinea and the 11th EDF Regional Indicative Programme, such as examples are PASSMAR and PARSIC. She would also like to participate in joint naval exercises with EU member countries. In 2019, a shift in the desired direction can be expected in this area.

On the international scene, Equatorial Guinea has been relatively isolated (among other things also due to minimal trade exchange), however, it is trying to strengthen its legitimacy through frequent contacts with African leaders (mostly CEMAC countries) and the AU, a global diplomatic offensive and recently also with the EU. The result is success in the form of a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the period 2018-2019. Equatorial Guinea also gained OPEC membership in May 2017, with oil discovered on its territory as early as 1996, yet the country is Africa’s 3rd largest oil producer. In February 2019, President Obiang was appointed as the Head of the 2019 AU Central Theme: “The Year of Refugees, Returnees and Internally Displaced Persons: Sustainable Solutions for IDPs in Africa” ​​as part of the 32nd African Union Summit.

In addition to Equatorial Guinea’s long-term excellent relations with China and Russia, deeper cooperation with Turkey is also beginning to take shape. This is evidenced by the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation between the governing PDGE and the Turkish ruling Justice and Development Party (Adalet ve Kalk?nma Partisi – AKP) in February 2019, which followed Obiang’s visit to Ankara in August 2018.

Relations with France have been marked by condemnation since July 2017 Teodorina Obiang. The head of state of Equatorial Guinea, in turn, accuses France of supporting people who wanted to overthrow him in 2017.

Previously above-standard relations with Brazil are currently also marred by Teodorín’s money-smuggling affair and suspicion of meddling in the country’s internal political affairs (support of the criminally prosecuted ex-president Lula da Silva). The former left-wing Brazilian president Inácio Lula da Silva (in power 2003-2011) maintained above-standard relations with the African dictator Obiang. In 2010, both countries signed several intergovernmental agreements on mutual cooperation. Lula supported the admission of Equatorial Guinea to the Community of Portuguese-speaking countries (although Portuguese is only the third language in the country after Spanish and French). In 2015, ex-president Lula also helped Teodorín to quickly leave the country after he was threatened with detention in Rio de Janeiro and subsequent extradition on the basis of an international arrest warrant issued by France, see the case mentioned above. In 2013, Lula’s successor, Dilma Vana Rousseff, forgave several African countries, including Equatorial Guinea, a total of US$900 million in debt in the name of “further strengthening friendly relations”. In return, President Obiang awarded major construction contracts to the Brazilian construction company OAS (closely linked to Lula), not only in Equatorial Guinea, but apparently in other African countries as well. In 2015, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo also sponsored the carnival in Rio de Janeiro with over 3 million USD, which is surprising to say the least from a representative of a developing country where, according to public statistics, 57% of the population does not have access to drinking water. In return, President Obiang awarded major construction contracts to the Brazilian construction company OAS (closely linked to Lula), not only in Equatorial Guinea, but apparently in other African countries as well. In 2015, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo also sponsored the carnival in Rio de Janeiro with over 3 million USD, which is surprising to say the least from a representative of a developing country where, according to public statistics, 57% of the population does not have access to drinking water. In return, President Obiang awarded major construction contracts to the Brazilian construction company OAS (closely linked to Lula), not only in Equatorial Guinea, but apparently in other African countries as well. In 2015, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo also sponsored the carnival in Rio de Janeiro with over 3 million USD, which is surprising to say the least from a representative of a developing country where, according to public statistics, 57% of the population does not have access to drinking water.

Equatorial Guinea Foreign Policy

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State Route 84 and 85 in Florida https://www.thesciencetutor.org/state-route-84-and-85-in-florida.html Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:55:12 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1363 Florida State Route 84
SR-84
Get started Naples
End Fort Lauderdale
Length 6 + 20 mi
Length 10 + 32 km
Route
Naples

Golden Gate

Weston

Fort Lauderdale }

According to toppharmacyschools.org, State Route 84 or State Road 84 (SR-84) is a state route in the U.S. state of Florida. The road forms an east-west route through southern Florida and consists of two widely spaced sections, a six-mile west section near Naples and a 20-mile eastern section between Weston and Fort Lauderdale in the Miami suburbs . State Road 84 is 42 kilometers long in total.

Travel directions

Naples

State Road 84 forms a 2×2 to 2×3 lane urban arterial in Naples. The road runs between US 41 and Interstate 75. The entire route is in suburban area.

Weston – Fort Lauderdale

The section between Naples and Weston is formed by Interstate 75 through the Everglades. This part is 125 kilometers long. State Road 84 begins again in Miami ‘s large suburb of Weston at the junction with Glades Parkway. The road initially forms the frontage roads of I-75 and Interstate 595. The road has two to three lanes in each direction and is located next to the New River, a canalized river. East of the huge interchange with US 441, State Road 84 branches off from I-595 and forms an urban arterial with 2×3 and partly even 2×4 lanes, this is Marina Mile Boulevard through Fort Lauderdale. The road then ends at an intersection with US 1.

History

State Road 84 was created with the 1945 renumbering, where it became an east-west route on the Florida grid. At the time, the road only ran between US 27 and US 1 near Fort Lauderdale, the area was not yet suburbanized at the time. The Everglades Parkway (Alligator Alley) through the Everglades between US 41 in Naples and US 27 at Weston was completed in 1969 and was subsequently renumbered State Road 84. State Road 84 was 163 kilometers long at that time and ran from US 41 in Naples to US 1 in Fort Lauderdale.

In the 1970s, the eastern portion of State Road 84 between US 27 in Weston and Fort Lauderdale was widened to a 2×2 divided highway. This stretch was significantly reconstructed in the 1980s with the construction of Interstate 595, with State Road 84 becoming the frontage road of I-595 here. In the early 1990s, Alligator Alley was widened to 2×2 lanes through the Everglades between Naples and Weston and has been numbered Interstate 75 since 1993. The State Road 84 has since been divided into two separate parts that are approximately 125 kilometers apart.

Traffic intensities

15,000 to 30,000 vehicles drive through Naples daily between US 41 and I-75. The frontage roads of I-575 between Weston and Fort Lauderdale use between 7,000 and 15,000 vehicles in each direction. Marina Mile Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale is a very busy road with 40,000 to 60,000 vehicles per day.

Florida State Route 85

SR-85
Get started Fort Walton Beach
End florala
Length 56 mi
Length 91 km
Route
Fort Walton Beach

Ocean City

Valparaiso

Niceville

Crest view

Alabama SR-55

State Route 85 or State Road 85 (SR-85) is a state route in the U.S. state of Florida. The road forms a north-south route in the Florida Panhandle, from Fort Walton Beach on the Gulf of Mexico to the Alabama border at Florala. State Road 85 is 91 kilometers long.

Travel directions

State Road 85 near Eglin Air Force Base.

State Road 85 begins in the town of Fort Walton Beach on US 98, not far from the Gulf of Mexico. The road heads north and is a 2×2 lane urban arterial through Fort Walton Beach, Ocean City and Shalimar. The road then forms a semi-level grade 2×2 divided highway around Eglin Air Force Base. One then first reaches Valparaiso and then Niceville, where there is a connection with the State Road 20.

From Niceville the road continues inland as a 2×2 divided highway through a forest area and air force area. The road here is semi-grade. Further north, one reaches an urbanized area around Crestview. This is an important urban arterial where almost all commercial activities are. There is a connection to Interstate 10 and the US 90 crosses in the center of Crestview. The road then has a further 2×2 lanes and then narrows to a single carriageway, which continues to the Alabama border just before Florala.

History

State Road 85 was created in 1945 during the renumbering of the state roads in Florida, where a grid was created in which State Road 85 forms a primary north-south route.

Much of the road has been widened to 2×2 lanes. This was primarily the outcrop of Eglin Air Force Base, a massive air force base developed during World War II in the Choctawhatchee National Forest. As early as the 1950s, the southernmost section of the road between Fort Walton Beach and Niceville was widened to 2×2 lanes. Shortly afterwards, a diversion was also realized near Elgin Air Force Base. In the early to mid-1970s, the road was also widened to 2×2 lanes between Niceville and Crestview. In the late 1970s, the Elgin Air Force Base bypass was also widened to 2×2 lanes.

Later, a number of split-level connections were constructed. A grade-separated intersection with State Road 123 on the north side of Eglin Air Force Base was constructed between 2010 and 2012. This is a through traffic shortcut between Fort Walton Beach and I-10 at Crestview. In 2014, a grade separated junction with State Road 293 opened around Niceville. A grade-separated connection at Duke Field was also constructed in 2012.

Traffic intensities

Every day, 40,000 to 50,000 vehicles drive through Fort Walton Beach, 30,000 to 40,000 vehicles on the Elgin Air Force Base bypass, 18,000 vehicles on the north side of Niceville, and 40,000 vehicles between SR-123 and Crestview. After that, 40,000 to 46,000 vehicles drive through Crestview, which north of Crestview quickly drops to less than 10,000 vehicles per day, with only 3,000 vehicles per day on the Alabama border.

Florida State Route 85

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State Route 177, 183, 184, 194 and 196 in Colorado https://www.thesciencetutor.org/state-route-177-183-184-194-and-196-in-colorado.html Wed, 26 Oct 2022 12:31:02 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1361 State Route 177 in Colorado
SR-177
Get started Highlands Ranch
End Greenwood Village
Length 6 mi
Length 10 km
Route
County Line Road

Dry Creek Road

Arapahoe Road

Belleview Avenue

Quincy Avenue

Hampden Avenue

According to act-test-centers.com, State Route 177, commonly known as State Highway 177 or SH 177 is a state route in the U.S. state of Colorado. The road forms a north-south route through southern Denver metropolitan area, between Highlands Ranch and Greenwood Village. SH 177 is 10 kilometers long.

Travel directions

SH 177 at Highland Ranch.

SH 177 is formed by University Boulevard, an urban arterial with mostly two lanes in each direction, although parts are a five-lane road with a center turn lane. The southern starting point is at the junction with SH 470 at Highlands Ranch, the terminus at US 285 in Greenwood Village, a very expensive suburb south of Denver.

History

One of the original 1920s state highways, SH 177 was originally a longer route in the Denver area, running from Sedalia over University Boulevard to Colfax Avenue. At that time, only part of the route passed through urban areas. In 1936, SH 177 was extended north through York Street to Brighton Boulevard. In 1946, the north end was shortened again to 46th Avenue (US 6/85).

In 1954 the route was further shortened, the northern terminus became Colfax Avenue again, the southern starting point was then County Line Road. In 1960 and 1963, the north end was further shortened to Hampden Avenue. In 1986, the southern section was extended a short distance to the then newly constructed SH 470, which forms the Denver ring road.

Traffic intensities

SH 177 is used daily by 27,000 to 34,000 vehicles.

State Route 183 in Colorado

SR-183
Get started Highlands Ranch
End Greenwood Village
Length 1.0 mi
Length 1.6 km
Route
Fort Lyon

State Route 183, commonly known as State Highway 183 or SH 183 is a short state route in the U.S. state of Colorado. The road forms a 1.5 kilometer connection at Fort Lyon in the High Plains.

Travel directions

SH 183 is an extension of County Road 15 in Bent County, between County Road HH and the intersection with US 50.

History

In the mid 1930s this road became a state highway. The road was paved in 1938, opening up a hospital for veterans. In 2001 it was transformed into a prison. The prison closed in 2011.

Traffic intensities

200 vehicles use the road every day.

State Route 184 in Colorado

SR-184
Begin Lewis
End Mancos
Length 26 mi
Length 41 km
Route
LewisDolores

Mancos

State Route 184, commonly known as State Highway 184 or SH 184 is a state route in the U.S. state of Colorado. The road forms an east-west route in the west of the state, from Lewis to Mancos. SH 184 is 41 kilometers long.

Travel directions

SH 184 forms a secondary link on the south side of the Uncompahgre Plateau, from US 491 at the village of Lewis via Dolores to US 160 at Mancos. The route passes north of the town of Cortez. The road has few height differences.

History

SH 184 became a state highway in 1939. At the time, SH 184 ran a little further south through the grid on the western part, from Arriola via Lebanon to Dolores and from there to Mancos. In 1954, most of it was transferred to Montezuma County. The road was paved in the early 1970s. In 1978, SH 184 was extended from Dolores to Lewis, creating the current route.

Traffic intensities

Every day 1,400 vehicles drive between Lewis and Dolores and 2,500 vehicles between Dolores and Mancos.

State Route 194 in Colorado

SR-194
Get started La Junta
End Las Animas
Length 20 mi
Length 32 km
Route
La JuntaLas Animas

State Route 194, commonly known as State Highway 194 or SH 194 is a state route in the U.S. state of Colorado. The road forms an east-west route across the High Plains, from La Junta to Las Animas. SH 194 is 32 kilometers long.

Travel directions

SH 194 runs parallel to US 50 between La Junta and Las Animas, two regional towns on the Arkansas River. SH 194 begins just north of La Junta on SH 109 and ends north of Las Animas on US 50. There are no other places on the route, but its location on the Arkansas River means there are many farms be in the area.

History

The road became a state highway in 1939, but it was not until 1947 that the first part west of Las Animas was asphalted. In the period 1950-1957 the rest of the route was asphalted. In 1972 the connection to the US 50 was made grade separated.

Traffic intensities

Every day, between 600 and 1,000 vehicles use the SH 194.

State Route 196 in Colorado

SR-196
Get started McClave
End Wiley
Length 9 mi
Length 14 km
Route
McClaveWiley

According to Liuxers, State Route 196, commonly known as State Highway 196 or SH 196, is a state route in the U.S. state of Colorado. The road forms a short link between McClave and Wiley on the High Plains and is 14 kilometers long.

Travel directions

SH 196 begins at an intersection with US 50 and heads two miles north, through the hamlet of McClave, and then veers east. The remainder of SH 196 heads east through agricultural land to US 287 near Wiley.

History

SH 196 was established in 1939 as a spur from Kornman to May Valley. A second section ran east from Kornman and later south. These routes are slightly more easterly than current SH 196. In 1954, SH 196 was significantly changed to a longer east-west route, from US 50 at McClave via Wiley, past Lamar, via Bristol to Hartman. SH 196 was scrapped east of US 385 in 1970. In 2010, SH 196 east of US 287 at Wiley was also scrapped, leaving the current route.

Traffic intensities

About 400 vehicles use the SH 196 every day.

State Route 196 in Colorado

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Bulgaria State Overview https://www.thesciencetutor.org/bulgaria-state-overview.html Fri, 26 Aug 2022 11:04:40 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1334 The skeleton of Bulgaria consists of large mountain ranges separating vast plains and basins from each other. In a length of 550 km with the center of the country from the border of Serbia parallel to the Black Sea, the Stara Planina or Balkan mountain range stretches, reaching a height of 2376 m (Botev), interrupted only by the canyon of the Iskar River. To the north, it descends into a vast plain along the bordering Danube. It then passes to the south through the lower Stredna Gora mountain range to the fertile Upper Thracian Plain in the Marica river basin. The dry hills of Ludogorie and Dobruja fill the northeast.

The entire southwest is occupied by mountains: the Vitoša massif (2290 m), the crystalline Rila mountain range with the highest peak of the Balkans, Musala (2925 m), the limestone Pirin mountain range (2915 m) and the extensive forested Rhodope Mountains (2191 m), stretching along the border with Greece. Another mountain range (up to 2252 m high) stretches beyond the Struma river valley on the Serbian and Macedonian border. The capital Sofia is located on a plateau connecting the Balkan and Vitosha mountains. In the east, there is a larger plain just around the Burgas Bay of the Black Sea.

According to Paradisdachat, the south and east have a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Dobruja (below 400 mm) and the Thracian Plain have the least amount of precipitation. The north and west of the country is more continental with colder winters. Predominantly deciduous forests cover a third of the territory, in the southeast there are scrub formations of the makchia type. The animals are especially enriched with reptiles (turtles) and insects.

History, society

In ancient times, the area was inhabited by the Thracians, and at the beginning of our era, the territory became part of the Roman provinces of Thrace and Moesia. The first Bulgarian empire was established in 681, when previously nomadic Turkic tribes originally from Central Asia merged with the Slavic population that had settled here about a hundred years earlier. In 1018, the Bulgarian state came under the rule of Byzantium. The second empire, which became independent in 1185, survived until 1396, when it was occupied by the Ottoman Turks. For the next 500 years, Bulgaria was under Turkish rule.

The boom of the national liberation movement in the 19th century led to the decline of Turkish power and culminated in the uprising in 1876. The Congress of Berlin, convened in 1878 to settle territorial disputes in the Balkans, granted Bulgaria the status of a self-governing principality. Repeated anti-Turkish uprisings forced the elected Bulgarian prince Ferdinand (1861–1948) of the Saxe-Coburg-Gotha dynasty to declare himself Tsar of independent Bulgaria in 1908. In 1912, Bulgaria joined forces with Serbia, Greece and Montenegro to conquer more territory from the declining Ottoman Empire. In 1913, however, it turned against the Allies and, after a humiliating defeat, surrendered part of its territory to Greece and Serbia. Balkan policy led Bulgaria to ally with Germany in World War I and World War II and cost it further loss of territory. In 1944, Bulgaria was “liberated” by the Red Army, the Communist-controlled Patriotic Front headed by Georgi Dimitrov (1882–1949) was established and two years later the monarchy was abolished and a socialist constitution was proclaimed. In 1949, the Communist Party became a monopoly power in the state.

Like other Eastern European countries, Bulgaria was swept away by the wave of changes that swept through the entire Soviet bloc at the end of the 1980s. Todor Zivkov, who had been Bulgaria’s president for 27 years, was ousted in 1989 after a series of strikes and demonstrations. The Communist Party gave up its leading role, renamed itself the Bulgarian Socialist Party and won the most votes in the first plurality elections in 1990. In the parliamentary elections of the following year, the opposition Union of Democratic Forces narrowly won, and Željo Želev (born 1935) became president. The manner of elections to the National Assembly also changed; half of the 400 seats are elected by the majority system and half by the proportional representation system. These years also saw the decentralization of the economy and the recognition of the rights of the Turkish minority, which, with the return of some emigrants after the exodus of 1989 it reached a 10% share of the Bulgarian population. Gypsies are another significant minority.

Economy

The transition to a free market in Bulgaria takes place primarily through the transformation of state-owned enterprises into independent companies with the right to issue shares.

Bulgarian agriculture has experienced a large drop in employment (now about 12-13% of workers), but the value of production is quite significant. Crop production dominates, especially wheat production. Corn, barley, a large amount of vegetables (tomatoes), vines, fruit (peaches, apricots), tobacco and sunflowers are also grown. The production of rose oil is famous. Sheep, pig and cattle breeding is less important. A previously important fishery has declined.

Bulgaria has diverse reserves of non-ferrous metal ores: copper, lead, zinc, manganese, molybdenum and silver ores are mined. Of the fuels, only brown coal is mined in larger quantities. 60% of the electricity is produced by thermal power plants, 37% comes from the older Soviet-type nuclear power plant Kozloduy near the Danube. Industrial production fell sharply. The most important industries were iron metallurgy (Pernik), non-ferrous metallurgy (Kremikovci), production of cement, means of transport (ships, lorries, battery trucks), agricultural machinery and fertilizers. Burgas has an oil refinery. Tobacco production has always been very important. Now, the importance of the food industry and light industry in general is growing again.

The railways are more than half electrified and mainly serve the transport of raw materials and cargo to the ports of Burgas and Varna. Ruse on the Danube is also an important port. Road and river transport suffers from the embargo of Yugoslavia. The formerly significant tourism industry on the Black Sea coast has declined.

Bulgaria State Overview

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Trips to Morocco https://www.thesciencetutor.org/trips-to-morocco.html Thu, 18 Aug 2022 17:49:49 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1322 The Kingdom of Morocco is located in North Africa on the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic. On the Atlantic coast you will also find Rabat , the capital of Morocco. To the south and east, Morocco borders on its large neighbor Algeria.

Morocco is so close to Europe that you don’t have to strain to see mainland Spain from the northernmost point . The two countries are only about 15 kilometers apart. That’s even half as far as the shortest route between France and Great Britain .

As small as Morocco is compared to other African countries, the selection of landscapes is really colorful . Extensive beaches and numerous large cities line up along the coast , while mountains over 4,000 meters high await you in the mountainous regions. In the south of the country, beautiful palm oases stretch between the sandy seas of the Moroccan desert .

Our highlights in Morocco

Marrakech

The top travel destination

According to Loverists, Marrakech is the most popular destination in Morocco . You have the choice between magnificent palaces , mosques and many other impressive sights.

Strolling over the Djemaa El Fna in the evening and trying traditional dishes will surely immerse you in the oriental world .

Chefchouen

The blue city

Chefchouen is located in northern Morocco. In the center of the city almost all houses have blue facades and that gives the city a very special charm.

You will find many small art and souvenir shops there, but also pretty cafes and great riads where you can have a good time.

Of course, the blue streets also offer many beautiful photo opportunities .

Fez

The Capital of Culture

The Medina, i.e. the old town in Fez, is the largest in North Africa and there are many sights.

Another highlight are the huge tanneries , which you can visit.

Fès is definitely worth a city trip and lets you immerse yourself in another world.

Rabat

The capital

In Rabat you can visit some highlights like the mausoleum of Mohamed V. or explore the traditional medina.

This is where modernity meets traditional flair and, along with Marrakech, Fès and Meknès, it is one of the four royal cities in Morocco.

Since the capital is on the coast, you can also combine your trip with a beach holiday .

Essaouira

port city in the west

Located on the west coast of Morocco, Eassaouira is also known as the White City . It is one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco and is a popular destination for surfers and invites you to spend a few relaxing days by the sea.

You can walk through the beautiful medina, eat fish at the port or stroll through the small shops.

Desert tour

Adventures in the Sahara

For many, a trip to Morocco also includes a trip lasting several days or at least a day trip into the desert .

You have many opportunities to visit the Sahara Desert and have unique experiences.

Riding camels through the Sahara or spending a night in a Bedouin camp are unique experiences.

Atlas Mountains

Impressive landscapes

The Atlas Mountains stretch over 2,300 kilometers and large parts of them are in Morocco. You should not miss this part, because the mountains offer impressive nature, mountains, gorges and in between beautiful cities or traditional mountain villages.

Tour of Morocco

Unique experience

If you want to see more of Morocco and have more time, a round trip is the perfect option for you. You have the opportunity to get to know the different cities, regions and facets of the country even better and to delve deeper.

When is the best time to visit Morocco?

You can actually travel to Morocco all year round . But the best time for a trip to Morocco is spring , i.e. between March and the end of May.

Temperatures are already pleasant during the day from February. At night, however, it remains sensitively cold.

In spring everything is wonderfully green and the whole landscape is in bloom. Especially the almond trees in the Anti-Atlas are a real splendor at this time.

Around Easter is high season. It gets very crowded at the central sights and, at least in Marrakech , the hotels are increasing their prices.

In summer it gets really hot in Morocco and Moroccan tourists populate the seaside resorts. However, if you want to go to the mountains, you will still find some pleasant spots at the mountain lakes in the High and Middle Atlas in summer.

In autumn you can go on trekking tours . The temperatures are then bearable again, but of course the landscape lacks the fresh color of spring.

Traveling in Ramadan

When planning your trip, you should pay particular attention to whether your travel time falls in Ramadan . Morocco is a Muslim country and therefore many Moroccans fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan.

This is nothing special at first, but it has some special features for your trip during Lent.

For one thing, out of respect and consideration , you should avoid eating anything in public during the day. Many smaller and Arabic hotels do not offer any food at all until sunset.

In larger cities there are still enough international, larger hotels and restaurants that go about their regular business as normal. In the country it can be more difficult.

Of course you can also take care of yourself. Supermarkets are open and small shops start just a little later during Lent.

Overall, public life is restricted during Lent . It just lacks the energy. Some sights and museums have limited opening hours or even close completely. Public counters are therefore often only manned in the morning.

But the turbulent nightlife after breaking the fast is all the more animated and interesting.

Money and payments in Morocco

Traveling in Morocco is generally cheap. However, the hotels are comparable with European prices. But you can always find cheap alternatives.

An overnight stay in a very basic hotel or hostel does not cost more than 10 euros per person. A comfortable and clean double room in a pretty middle-class riad , on the other hand, costs around 40 to 80 euros, above that the equipment is already very good.

If you want to eat in international restaurants, this also costs accordingly. But even here you have the choice.

You can eat authentically and very cheaply at the food stalls on the side of the road. A tajine or a portion of couscous is also available for less than 5 euros in the small Moroccan restaurants.

Sights are usually cheap. You can admire beautiful palaces and museums from 1 euro entry. More than 10 euros is extremely rare for a sight.

In the following overview you can see what a few typical things cost you in Morocco:

  • Bottle of water: 0.50 to 1 euro
  • Peppermint tea in the restaurant: approx. 1 euro
  • Taxi fare: Up to 3 euros in town
  • Overland bus ride: For example Marrakech – Essaouira about 7 euros
  • Food in the food stall: 2 to 3 euros
  • Eat in a simple Moroccan restaurant: from 4 euros
  • 3-course menu (soup, main course, dessert): approx. 15 to 30 euros (middle-class restaurant)
  • Visit to a tourist attraction: 1 to 10 euros

Currency

The currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (Dh). How many dirhams you get for one euro varies as the exchange rate is tied to the fluctuating US dollar.

Currently (June 2022) 100 Dh correspond to about 9.60 euros, the other way around, 10 euros are about 104 Dh. It is best to remember the conversion rate 1:10. You are almost right on that.

This is how you get dirhams

The most convenient way is to withdraw dirhams directly from the ATMs in the country with your credit card. In all cities you will find banks that accept Master and Visa cards. You can usually get money here with your Maestro bank card.

Payment by credit card, on the other hand, is not common in Morocco. This is only possible in some large hotels, restaurants or in very touristy areas.

Our tip : small change seems to be scarce in Morocco. On the market or in small shops, dealers often cannot issue larger bills.

So always try to have enough change in your pocket. You can pay with bills in restaurants, hotels or supermarkets and keep the coins of the change or even have another bill changed into small change.

So you always have a few dirhams in your pocket, either for small services or to slip something to a beggar.

Do you tip in Morocco?

Of course, yes! Tipping plays an important role in the tourism sector in Morocco, after all, the wages paid are very low. Many servants therefore rely on tips for additional income.

That doesn’t mean you have to tip randomly. Even a few coins show that you were satisfied with the service. You simply make the amount of the tip dependent on the performance and your satisfaction.

Food and drink in Morocco

What do you eat in Morocco? Moroccan cuisine is fantastic and incredibly diverse . you will love them!

Many influences from the countries on the Mediterranean and the eastern, Arabic areas mix with the preparation of fresh dishes.

The unmistakable taste of many Moroccan dishes comes from the spices used : Cumin in particular, but also cinnamon, coriander, ginger and saffron are often used.

Herbs are also indispensable, thyme, mint and laurel are simply part of Moroccan cuisine. Not to forget the Moroccan olive oil, which Moroccans like to use liberally.

You should not miss these specialties on your trip through Morocco:

  • Couscous – the national dish in Morocco! There are many different variations of couscous, cooked in a sieve over a stew with meat, vegetables and chickpeas.
  • Tajine – this is simply the typical national dish. The preparation in the clay pot with its pointed lid is characteristic. All sorts of things are simmered over the charcoal in here.
  • Brochette – these are kebabs, i.e. grilled meat skewers, which can be found at almost every simple street kitchen. Served with fries or salad.
  • Kefta – You may know this? The spicy and fried lamb meatballs are native to the entire Maghreb.
  • Harira – a nutritious, traditional Lenten soup eaten primarily to break the fast. They are found throughout the Arab world, including Morocco.
  • Maakouda – these are small dumplings or flatbreads made from potatoes and eggs, seasoned with onion, butter, garlic, coriander, ground pepper, turmeric and cumin, which are fried. You can get them in bakeries or at small food stalls in the streets.
  • Briouat – small crispy fried dumplings (usually in the shape of a triangle or cigar), filled with either minced meat, chicken, feta cheese or vegetables. Also a street food and super tasty. They are also available with a sweet filling for dessert.

Travel guide for your trip to Morocco

Are you looking for more travel tips for your trip to Morocco? We can recommend these travel guides:

Marco Polo travel guide Morocco: The all-rounder is particularly worthwhile for round trips . It describes all the sights of Morocco, there are many insider tips from the author about the country and its people, and there is also a free tour app with offline maps.

Travel know-how travel guide Morocco: The book is primarily aimed at those who want to discover Morocco individually by rental car or public transport . You will get many practical tips and lots of background information.

Reise Know-how CityTrip Marrakech : This is currently the most up-to-date travel guide for a city trip to Marrakech. There are tips for city walks, excursions into the surrounding area, food and what to do in the evening as well as a removable city map.

Marrakech

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Chinatown, New York https://www.thesciencetutor.org/chinatown-new-york.html Fri, 12 Aug 2022 15:19:13 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1319 The “Chinese City” in New York is a must for tourists. It is the largest Chinatown in the United States and the cultural and political center of the Chinese in New York. It is the largest concentration of Chinese in the western hemisphere, with permanent residents estimated at 70,000 to 150,000. Thousands of tourists are here every day.

The core of Chinatown includes Canal, Mott, Pell and Doyers Streets on the southern edge of the Lower East Side. The neighborhood has grown more and more and absorbed parts of Little Italy. The boundaries are Kenmore and Delancey Streets in the north, East and Worth Streets in the south, Allen Street in the east and Broadway in the west. The world in Chinatown is bright, colorful and lively, hopelessly overcrowded and sometimes shabby.

The enclave is a strange world for the tourist with exotic shops in narrow streets, fruits and vegetables, living fish, crabs and mussels in the shop windows and red-stained ducks hung in the showcases of the restaurants. The labels are in Chinese and English. You feel like you are in another world. There are more than ten Buddhist temples in this area and even the telephone booths are designed as pagodas. Magnificent dragons, fans, lanterns and figures create an exotic atmosphere.

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When the neon lights shine in the evening, the district is particularly beautiful. A visit is particularly recommended on weekends. Then the relatives from other parts of the city come to their families and life is particularly colorful. There should be at least 200 restaurants. If you like Chinese cuisine, you should definitely stop here. Especially at lunchtime there is often “dim sum”, a kind of Chinese fast food made up of individual snacks filled with shrimp, meat or vegetables, served hot and fresh. One helps oneself from the serving trolleys, which are constantly pushed through the rows of tables. You pay according to the number and type of plates you have taken. The price-performance ratio is still considered real here.

Chinese cuisine is generally one of the best in the world because, as a rule of poverty, the chefs understand how to conjure up delicious dishes from supposedly inferior ingredients. But there is no Chinese cuisine in the true sense of the word. What Europeans understand by this is Chinese food with a strong European influence. China’s cuisine is as diverse as its regions. Traditional Chinese cuisine therefore differentiates between Cantonese, Szechuan, Shanghai, Suzhou, Hunan, etc. and often takes on Vietnamese and Malay influences. Cantonese cuisine is dominant, but Chinatown offers all regional characteristics. You can find restaurant recommendations on the website of Chinatown online. The 10 best dim sum restaurants in New York City presents the website of about.com before (served between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m.).

Chinatown also offers plenty of shopping, especially tea, ginseng, furniture, china, clothing, and small kit from Taiwan. All products from China can also be found here, especially of course ingredients for Chinese cuisine. Recommendations for shopping in Chinatown offer again Chinatown online.

story

Nobody really knows when the first Chinese reached New York. The first Chinese are said to have been sailors who entered New York Bay in 1847 on board a junk and were an attraction due to their strangeness. About 25 years later, they were followed by Chinese migrant workers working on railroad construction in California were active or came during the gold rush and were no longer needed. From the beginning, the Chinese settled where there were already Chinese. This was not least a consequence of the racial discrimination of the “foreign”. Shortly after the gold rush, the world traveler JJ Benjamin, who came from Hanover, wrote about the Chinese situation at the time: “In this country they deserve all condolences, because they are treated worse than the dogs there. If someone kills a Chinese man and robs him of his few hard-earned dollars, he has to face no punishment in advance, since no consideration is given to this nation in court, and no white man is inclined to pay a “heavenly resident” in favor of the lost “heavenly resident” To bear witness. In the mines

With the Chinese Exclusion Act (1882-1943) Washington DC tried to stop the further influx of Chinese into the USA. The Chinese were extremely unpopular, after all, they were willing to work harder and cheaper than other immigrants. The state reprisals were high: Immigration was only possible if a job was guaranteed and the re-entry of women and children was generally forbidden, even for Chinese men who had lived in the USA for years. As a result of these restrictions, only around 40 to 150 women lived in Chinatown around 1900; the number of men was around 7,000. The consequence of this “Bachelor’s Society” was the flourishing of prostitution and opium consumption.

It was not until the Second World War that living conditions eased and limited immigration was allowed. In the 40s and 50s of the 20th century, the population grew slowly but steadily. With the increase in the immigration quota from 1968 onwards, Chinatown exploded. Today, land rents in Chinatown are among the highest in New York. The inflow of capital from Hong Kong also made a significant contribution to this. The population of Asian and Pacific descent has doubled in the last decade in New York, but is still around 7%, making it the city’s smallest minority group.

Due to historical developments, the Chinese society is still closed. You had to help yourself and be prepared for all dangers. Chinatown has always been characterized by an internal self-organization, culturally, politically and socio-politically. In a sense, it’s a world of its own. It is said that there are still people here who speak Chinese (Mandarin or similar), but not a word of English and have never seen the rest of the USA.

If you want to delve into the history of Chinatown, then a visit to the Museum of Chinese in the Americas recommendable. You can also learn everything about rice culture and the 7 m long dragon weighs 1.5 tons. The street festivals on the occasion of the Chinese New Year (between January 21 and February 19) are a special attraction (Lunar New Year’s festival).

The beginning and end of the New Year celebrations do not fall on an annually recurring day in our calendar, but “vary”. The reason is that the Chinese calendar is based on the lunar calendar and is therefore, for example, the lunar year 4702 in 2004. In 2004, the Chinese New Year festival begins on January 22nd according to our calendar and is the year of the “monkey”. The Chinese astrological calendar is based on a 12-year moon cycle and gives each year the name of an animal. The festival spans a period of 2 weeks and ends on the 15th day with the lantern festival.

New York City celebrates the festival in particular with the Manhattan Chinatown Parade, which basically takes the following course and usually takes place on the Sunday after the start of the New Year between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The parade begins on Mulberry Street (Columbus Park) – Canal St. – Mott St. – Chatham Sq. – East Broadway – Market St. – Division St. – Bowery – Canal St – and ends at Mulberry St. The highlight is always the dragon parade, there are also numerous other events in the districts.

The Museum of Chinese in the Americas provides background information and, under the heading “MoCAlender”, also notes on the dates of events. Further links on this topic can be found under gonyc.about.com. By the way: One of the top ten parades on the occasion of the Chinese New Year is also the Moving to San Francisco: The highlight here is a kite that is moved through the streets by 100 people. USATODAY offers a report on Chinatown in English under the heading “ New York’s Chinatown: Food, shopping and the Year of the Rooster “.

Chinatown, New York

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Seaworld San Diego, California https://www.thesciencetutor.org/seaworld-san-diego-california.html Fri, 05 Aug 2022 12:51:29 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1317 The umbrella term SeaWorld covers three marine theme parks in the United States, located in Orlando, San Diego and San Antonio. As the name suggests, water and the animals that live in it play a predominant role in the parks. SeaWorld could be described as a mixture of an exciting amusement park, a versatile dolphinarium and an exciting zoo.

SeaWorld San Diego was the 12th most visited amusement park in the United States in 2014, with around 3.8 million visitors. The park is owned by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, a subsidiary of the Blackstone Group, and was the first of the SeaWorld parks. Initially, an underwater restaurant in combination with a sea animal show was planned. However, these plans were quickly abandoned in favor of a theme park that celebrated great success within a very short time and could be expanded bit by bit.

SeaWorld is closely connected to the black and white killer whales, which have become very popular since “Free Willy” at the latest. At the end of the 1960s, SeaWorld San Diego was the first park in the world where visitors could marvel at such an orca. This first killer whale was named Shamu. In his honor, all adult orcas are called Shamu in shows even today, although they actually have different names.

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The animals at SeaWorld San Diego

The main attraction at SeaWorld San Diego are the orcas. 11 of the black and white killer whales currently live in the park: Corky (II), Kasatka, Ulises, Orkid, Keet, Kalia, Nakai, Ikaika, Shouka, Makani and Amaya. Corky, Kasatka and Ulises are still caught in the wild.

There are also dolphins (bottlenose dolphins), beluga whales, short-finned pilot whales, sharks and Californian eagle rays, but also penguins, sea turtles, Californian sea lions, seals, walruses, Californian sea otters, Asian dwarf otters, polar bears, caterpillars, black vultures, crowned cranes, parakeets.

The animal shows

The animal shows at SeaWorld San Diego typically last between 20 and 25 minutes. It is advisable to be there about 15 to 20 minutes earlier in order to get a good seat. You can find out about dates and times on the park website or directly on site.

“One Ocean”

The main attraction of the park is the daily live shows with the orcas “OneOcean”, which has been in the program since 2011. “One Ocean” wants to take its visitors into the world of the ocean and touch the senses of the visitors accompanied by majestic killer whales. “We are all part of a world, of an ocean and we can all make a difference in the world we live in,” that is the message that the show wants to convey to its guests during the approximately 25-minute show.

“Dolphin Point Playtime”

Playtime with the dolphins takes place at “Dolphin Point”. During the show, visitors learn about the park’s dolphins, can take part in a training session and are inspired on how to protect the clever animals in the wild. One child at a time also has the chance to get up close and personal with a dolphin under the supervision of a SeaWorld trainer.

“Killer Whales: Up Close”

During this demonstration, SeaWorld trainers describe how to care for the killer whales in the park. Visitors also have the opportunity to learn more about the impressive marine mammals. It explains, among other things, where the black and white coloring of the animals comes from and which types of killer whales live in the world.

“Sea Lions LIVE”

Behind this name is the sea lion show with the two sea lions Clyde and Seamore. The show lasts about 20 minutes.

“Pets Rule!”

Pets Rule! is the pet show in the park’s demonstration program. Dogs, cats, birds and pot-bellied pigs show their skills here. This animal show lasts about 20 minutes.

Other shows

In addition to animal shows, the park’s Mission Bay Theater hosts a variety of events, including B. the “Magic Weekends” with well-known magicians such as Steve Wyrick, Michael Grasso, David Thomas, Rick Thomas and Michael Turco.

The amusement park

There are currently two roller coasters in the park, the “Journey to Atlantis” water rollercoaster and the “Manta” LSM coaster.

Journey to Atlantis

The water coaster “Journey to Atlantis” by Mack Rides (the managing partner of Europa-Park in Rust) opened on May 29, 2004. It is a 29 meter high water roller coaster that reaches a maximum speed of 68 km / h on an 18 meter high descent. Part of the approximately five-minute drive runs through an elaborately designed building that is based on Atlantis – or what one imagines Atlantis to be. Dome towers and arches can be found there and the fall of the mythical island kingdom is recreated. Another special feature is the vertical lift, with which the vehicles are pulled up vertically until the visitors can finally make the last descent. “Journey to Atlantis” consists of individual wagons that travel on rails,

Manta

The LSM-Coaster Manta is a steel coaster and was opened on May 26th, 2012. The roller coaster can reach speeds of up to 69 km / h over a total distance of 853 meters. A world first is the start of the roller coaster ride. You are in a 270 ° cinema, see mantas swimming back and forth above your heads, the train slowly shuttles back and forth and is then suddenly catapulted out of the tunnel and the two-minute journey begins. The “Manta” also comes from Mack Rides.

Eating in the park

Various restaurants are available to visitors at SeaWorld San Diego, all of which serve sustainably produced dishes. A special feature are the “Breakfast with Shamu” and “Dine with Shamu” programs, where families and their children can dine right next to the orca pool.

In addition, the park offers various other offers, such as dolphin swimming or entire vacation packages in cooperation with hotel partners.

Criticism of the park

SeaWorld has long been criticized by animal rights activists who criticize the keeping of animals and their display in the context of demonstrations. The 2013 documentary “Blackfish” made a particular contribution. Injuries or deaths to employees caused by the animals also caused a stir in the media, such as the death of trainer Dawn Brancheau at SeaWorld Orlando in 2010.

SeaWorld announced in March 2016 that it would no longer breed orcas in the future or capture them in the wild. In addition, the “One Ocean” show in San Diego is to be discontinued at the end of 2016 and replaced by a show that comes closer to the natural behavior of animals.

Seaworld San Diego, California

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Kenya Tourism https://www.thesciencetutor.org/kenya-tourism.html Thu, 28 Jul 2022 17:05:09 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1315 There are no communication problems. According to Localbusinessexplorer, in Kenya, English is one of the two official languages, so there are no difficulties with communication. The Kenyans involved in the tourism business also speak French, German, Italian…polyglots, in general. So far, they are lagging behind with Russian because of the small number of our tourists. By the way, for some reason, most of the locals you meet will consider that Russia is part of Yugoslavia, and they heard about Russia as about Atlantis.

Kitchen. The food is either tolerable or excellent (you will have to eat mostly only in hotels, but in different ones). Lodges in national parks are trying to be built in such a way that one can observe some kind of water hole from the restaurant. You eat and contemplate how elephants and zebras drink water… an idyll, one might say. European dishes are everywhere, local delicacies like fried bananas are given only as an alternative (and thank God).

What’s wrong with Kenya? – Roads. It’s something monstrous. A trip of 50 km takes several hours and is noticeably exhausting. The trails in the national parks are much more agile than some sections of the Nairobi-Mombasa International Road. In some places the road simply ends, instead of it there are about 10 local residents who seem to be building it sluggishly. Terrible, in general. With so many tourists, they could build something to ride on. Although, probably, they do it on purpose, for the exotic.

On the way to the safari, the Germans and Italians squeal with delight on the bumps, clearly perceiving such a ride as another additional adventure for the same money. It is difficult for a “Soviet” person to experience such delight…

Accordingly, public transport. As they say, I won’t tell you for all of Mombasa, but there is a strong suspicion that local transport runs, flies and swims, as the Kenyan god puts on his soul. Various delays are common here. Various kind European people will always reassure you that you don’t have to worry, yesterday the train didn’t go, and today the plane didn’t fly, and it’s okay (of course, why should they be afraid, you might angrily think: “imported planes fly every day”). The good local administration will also advise you not to worry, Akuna, they say, matata, no problem, but it would be better if you went to a restaurant and dined at the expense of the airline, and then we will see, maybe it will fly. It turns out that they have permanent tables reserved there, and the food is simply incredibly tasty … very calming. In the end it will turn out that you have only 20 minutes between the landing of one plane and the take-off of another. In general, delays are mainly with local airlines. People like British Airways can’t afford that luxury…

Most travel agencies plan a week-long trip to Kenya as follows: three days on a safari, then four days on the coast. A three-day safari is not a safari. The safari effect really kicks in on the sixth day. Those who experienced the impact of a safari will agree that no super comfortable Europe or America has such a beneficial effect on the psyche. It is best to go to Kenya for 2 weeks at once. And in the proposed tours, now usually a week is devoted to safari and a week to rest in Mombasa, on the coast of the Indian Ocean.

Kenyan safari is not hunting. Shooting here has been forbidden for twenty years. You go around the reserve in a minibus or jeep, look, take pictures. And precisely because they haven’t hunted in Kenya for a long time, the animals don’t pay any attention to the approaching cars. A car for them is a safe and completely inedible beast.

To snort in response to the words that a safari in Kenya does not involve killed animals can only be done by a person who is not at all advanced. The assertion that with the same success you can look at all African animals in the zoo is below all criticism.

Of course, almost everyone has seen a pink flamingo in some zoo. But have you ever seen a lake where thousands of pink flamingos roam in the rays of the setting sun? You stand on the shore, look at them, and they either stomp to the right, then suddenly turn around and stomp to the left in the same unison. And you continue, as if spellbound, to stand and look at them, unable to understand why they wandered in the other direction.

Has your car ever been chased by a rhinoceros? And if you dare to answer with the air of an experienced person: “Just think, a rhinoceros!”, I will immediately understand that you have never been on a safari. And you don’t even really imagine what kind of animal it is – a rhinoceros. And what do you feel when he rushes at you.

Kenyan nature reserves are remarkable in that after a few days of safari you begin to perceive yourself as part of the wild. Suddenly it begins to seem that you have lived your entire conscious and unconscious life in the savannah. Next to this lion family lying about a meter from your bus. Or among zebras and antelopes.

Well, how to meet a young leopard, and if there is a hyena nearby, cracking down on a piece of meat. As is customary on such occasions, everyone jumps out of their seats (the roof of the safari bus is always up) to capture “natural life”. The driver, as usual, accelerates. For ten minutes you will drive the hyena across the savannah. Like real wild animals. And with a goal worthy of any inhabitant of the reserve: to take away her prey. She, poor thing, is unlikely to understand at all why you are so suddenly… A completely harmless animal named minibus suddenly attacks. The hunt was successful.

Nevertheless, during the trip you can see everything – zebras, and rhinos, and all kinds of antelopes, and giraffes, and elephants, and lions, and leopards, and cheetahs. In the end, you will begin to feel like full-fledged inhabitants of the savannah and bush. And look at the minibuses with white tourists you meet along the way, just like giraffes. However, equally meaningful glances were directed at us from oncoming buses.

By the end of the trip, there is already a kind of indifference. Well, think about it, another elephant. A lion. Another pig bearing the exotic name “warthog”. Zebras and wildebeests were generally perceived as cows. Often you can observe the hunting of baboons – “dog-headed” monkeys. Ten minutes of such a spectacle – and you completely cease to be touched by the wild life of animals. The spectacle is bloody and not for the faint of heart.

In the last days of the safari you will return to Nairobi. And from there, after the rest, it will be possible to leave for Mombasa.

If you are asked which reserves in Kenya you want to visit, be sure to ask for the Masai Mara. Here the animals graze in the most innumerable quantities. And only here you will see the real Maasai – the only people in Kenya who spit on all the laws of a democratic society. If you try to take a photo of a Masai without asking for his consent, you risk getting hit on the head with a stone. Masai are smart and fearless people. If a Masai is attacked by a lion, then the angry Masai kills the predator with a special Masai club. And although hunting is prohibited in Kenya, the Masai have the right to kill any animal in self-defense. Wild people, in a word. And they live right in the middle of the reserve.

In Masai Mare, you will also experience the American way of life. Some resourceful American who settled here bought three balloons and began to offer tourists flights over the reserve. The most American entertainment ever. $250 per nose. Cool? Therefore, it is easier to shoot how Europeans fly in a balloon. You take pictures of them, they take us. In addition, to feel calmer still on the ground. The hot air balloon ride lasts less than an hour. But, looking at the faces that returned from the sky, at the moment when the ball falls to the ground, you understand that they had enough.

On a safari there is another entertainment that requires some material costs – visiting a local village. This can be organized in any reserve. But it is more correct to visit a village in the Masai Mare. Because only there you will get to the authentic Maasai. The Masai are a picky people. As we noted, they do not like to be photographed. And if they agree, then for the money. The standard fee for the opportunity to photograph a beautiful Masaika or an equally beautiful warrior (however, warriors are less corrupt, and they rarely agree to filming) is 100 Kenyan shillings (about $ 2). But if you visit the village in an organized manner as part of a group, then you pay an entrance fee of 500 shillings. And there – shoot at least twenty films. They are taken to the village to special, “tourist” Masai. Therefore, in the middle of the village there will be a Masai bazaar. Here and beads, and ”

You can also visit the Amboseli National Park, which is located 250 km from Nairobi (4 hours drive) and 400 km from Mombasa at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. Amboseli was founded in 1948 and has long been the most visited in Kenya, due to its proximity to Kilimanjaro and the wonderful view that opens from its territory to the first peak of Africa. In 1971, 329 sq. km were declared a national park in which the Maasai were forbidden to graze livestock.

Amboseli Park is located in the arid zone of the country and is usually quite hot and dry there. Acacias, characteristic of the savannah, are widespread in the park. Of the representatives of the animal world, in addition to lions, cheetahs, hyenas and jackals, there are buffaloes, gazelles, warthogs, zebras, giraffes and many baboons. One of the most breathtaking sights to see in this park is the huge herd of 600-700 elephants as well as the very rare endangered black rhinoceros. Almost 10 years ago, due to rare rains, Lake Amboseli dried up. But in 1992-1993, the lake re-formed and pink flamingos returned to it. With the return of the lake, the park has become even more green and blooming. However, no one from Kenya returned without impressions.

The main result of a safari is not the opportunity to be among the Masai, not the number of animals that you managed to see, and not even the adventures that no safari can do without, but the fact that you really start to look at everything like a giraffe. The head becomes pristine. Which is quite natural. Safari only to a person who has not gone through it seems like a trifling task. And that, by the way, is hard physical labor. You get up at 6-7 in the morning, have breakfast (if something at all gets into your throat at that time), then you go to the beast along roads that are significantly inferior in terms of patency to those near Moscow. You return for dinner. Eat with a greed more befitting a wild beast. Two hours are given for rest. You want to sleep, but instead after dinner you go to the pool. Stupidly you exchange words with your groupmates, discussing the merits of the local water. Drink some beer and get back on the road. Until sunset. Kenya is a stable country: both sunset and sunrise are at the beginning of the seventh, regardless of the season and the political situation in the country. Then dinner. You pile on your plate exactly as much as you are not able to eat. In order to at least partially swallow food, you order beer or wine (God forbid the local papaya). You drink strong coffee. After supper you fall dead into bed, or first you drink and only then you fall dead into bed. You get up in the morning healthy and happy. In a week, you get so tired from this daily shaking from morning to evening, you are so fed up with all these “exotic animals”, you are so disinfected with gin and tonic from this damned malarial mosquito that you want to fall down and sleep for a day.

And just at that moment you are taken by white hands and loaded into the first class car of the Nairobi-Mombasa train. Then you are transferred from the train to the bus, which brings you to a luxurious hotel, standing on the very shore of the Indian Ocean. And you can fly by plane!

Mombasa is the next step in clearing your head of unnecessary thoughts (on the second week of your stay in Kenya, you realize that almost all thoughts are superfluous). And you firmly master the basic Kenyan rule, which you heard on the safari and says that in Kenya “hakuna matata”, which means “no problem”. There is even a special Kenyan song in which this “hakuna matata” is repeated twenty-five times. This song is immediately learned by all the tourists who find themselves here. The moment you finally find yourself on the coast, you realize that all life’s seemingly insoluble difficulties do not really exist. Be sure that if you escaped on a safari, then you need to relax on the ocean for a week only in Kenya.

It’s hard to imagine a vacation planned more rationally. For a week you communicate with nature, gradually reaching a state in which, even if you can claim that you are homo, you are no longer quite sure that you are sapience. And then by the ocean you gradually return to civilization. African. On the coast, all tourists get acquainted with the second basic Kenyan rule: “field-field” (pole-pole), which means “slowly slowly.” If you order a beer at the beginning of dinner, the waiter will bring it just in time for the moment when you deal with dessert. And do not be angry with him, scold him for negligence and try to explain that orders must be executed instantly – it is useless. He will listen to you carefully, but the next order will be executed at exactly the same speed. In Mombasa, the main thing is to have time to switch from ” that he will take away the extracted piece. With sense and arrangement, go around the table with numerous snacks and choose what you want to eat today, then slowly send the contents of the plate to the stomach, and by the time you realize that it’s time to go for hot, they just bring you beer. And with what pleasure you will drink roast lamb or pork chop with this wonderful Kenyan beer! And then, completely tipsy from dessert, you still find the strength to crawl to the bar, where you order a gin and tonic. And wait another fifteen minutes until they bring it to you. But slowness they bring you beer. And with what pleasure you will drink roast lamb or pork chop with this wonderful Kenyan beer! And then, completely tipsy from dessert, you still find the strength to crawl to the bar, where you order a gin and tonic. And wait another fifteen minutes until they bring it to you. But slowness

the waiter will no longer be annoying. “Pole-pole” will enter your blood. On the third day, if some other parts of the brain remain functional, you may notice yourself as a participant in an unusual mise-en-scene. A waiter stands in front of you (who, of course, did not arrive until five minutes after you expressed a desire to order), and you stare at him for five minutes, trying to figure out why you actually needed him. Then, finally, with considerable effort, you realize that you would like something to drink.

For two hours in an easy chair, treacherously conducive to sleep, with a glass of gin and tonic, you digest dinner, and by eleven o’clock you suddenly remember that you need to somehow have fun. You order a taxi and go to the nearest disco (of course, there is a disco in your hotel, but it’s more interesting to have fun on the side). And in the morning you crawl out to the beach, under a palm tree. For lovers of outdoor activities, there is a complete set of all conceivable water activities. If there is no longer any energy for activity, then you can simply wander along the coast and chat with the local population. They will definitely ask you where you are from, and when they hear that you are from Russia, they will definitely remember Yeltsin and then invite you to go see “the best and cheapest goods.” The entire beach is dotted with benches, and every two meters there are beach “counters” right on the sand. They sell mainly figurines made of wood (including black) and stone. Prices are downright low. Much lower than in stores located near the reserves. And the main advantage of local shopping is that you can bargain to your heart’s content. You can bargain in all Kenyan shops, but since you are not constrained by any time frames on the beach, and in general you have nothing to do before lunch,you knock down prices to ridiculous amounts. And if you don’t want to, you can buy something. On the second day, you meet familiar Kenyans who, when you appear at the waters of the Indian Ocean, joyfully shout: “Jumbo” (“Hello”, in our opinion).

Jumbo! – just as happily you answer them. And you hear the already familiar “pole-pole”.

And again under a palm tree – you should not wander for a long time under the equatorial sun: you can get burned. But, despite such a harsh sun, the climate in Kenya is fabulous. You almost don’t feel the heat. A cool breeze blows from the ocean. And in the depths of the country in the evenings you can’t do without a sweater.

After relaxing on the coast, tourists return to Nairobi, where they are recommended to visit (to consolidate their impressions) the Carnevory restaurant, known throughout the world for its huge stylized stone brazier. Here you can taste the meat of crocodile, zebra, giraffe and ostrich grilled on fire. In Kenya, they treat white tourists with great respect, while maintaining their own honor and dignity.

This is how the day goes. Then another, then a third. And suddenly it turns out that it’s time to fly back. And this news fills you with horror. Pole-pole, where to hurry? What job? What’s the deal? What for? There is such a wonderful “hakuna matata”. That’s it, no more “akun matat”, tells you your ticket with a fixed date of departure. Weeping with burning tears, you board a Kenyan airline that takes you from Mombasa to Nairobi. And there you already find yourself in the arms of your own airline. All. In Almaty, they will quickly explain to you that hakuna matata is only found in Kenya. In general, I have to agree with this rather quickly. But ten days after returning, you begin to observe two persistent relapses in yourself. Firstly, you get upset because the sellers in the market do not agree to cut the price of tomatoes by a factor of three. Secondly, when at work they demand Stakhanov records from you, you want to say “pole-pole” to him. Which, of course, is useless, because the employer does not know a word of Swahili and has never been to Kenya. However, that is his problem. We now have “hakuna matata”.

Kenya Tourism

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Hawaii History https://www.thesciencetutor.org/hawaii-history.html Fri, 22 Jul 2022 10:05:52 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1313 Group of 8 large islands and 4 minor islands, formed by the emerged peaks of an underwater volcanic chain that rises for about 730 km. from the bed of the Pacific, between the island of Niihau (22 ° N. and 160 ° W) and that of Hawaii (19 ° 30 ′ N. and 155 ° 30 ′ W). The inhabited islands of the archipelago are: Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii; then there are numerous rocky and deserted islets of no importance. Volcanic activity is greater in the SE, that is, in the large island of Hawaii, while it gradually decreases towards the northwest of the group.

According to iamaccepted, the islands are generally formed by one or more contiguous volcanic peaks, and are almost entirely made up of basic igneous rocks, joined to basalt; however, sometimes, around some of them, there are also raised coral reefs. Volcanic rocks are of two kinds: the first emission lava flows consist of very coarse material called aa, almost impassable; the subsequent castings, on the other hand, have smooth, rounded surfaces and are easily traversable. This guy, called pahoehoe somewhere provides a very compact blue building stone. More or less friable and tender tuffs have formed from the volcanic ashes, which constitute a much less good soil than that formed by the altered solid lava. In many places the soil is enriched with layers of humus; elsewhere the abundant rains have carried away in considerable quantities the soluble substances thus making the soil very poor.

Human settlement on the islands. – It seems that the first inhabitants of Hawaii came from the south, that is from Samoa; however, in the north-western islands of the group, a racial type with shorter stature seems to predominate which, according to Roland Dixon, does not occur in other places in Polynesia. It is assumed that the islands were first occupied around 500 AD. C. by the men who built the giant fish farms in Molokai. In 1100 there was another migration from the south, but then the Hawaiians remained completely isolated and with a very uncertain memory of the countries of origin. The Spaniards may have discovered the islands first, but the first authentic report remains the one reported by Cook in January 1778. He had given the group the name of Sandwich (in honor of John Montagu, Earl of Sandwich), but it was later replaced from the indigenous one. On February 14, 1779 Cook, returning to the islands, was killed on the west coast of Hawaii, in Kealakekua Bay, during a melee with the natives. Between 1790 and 1810 Kamehameha, the successor of a long series of warrior chiefs, succeeded in making himself master of all the islands; but in this period G. Vancouver landed there and in February 1794 they were spontaneously placed under the English protectorate. However, the treaty was not ratified. Kamehameha was a wise and strong governor, rightly believed to be the greatest Hawaiian. At the beginning of the 19th century the islands were frequently visited by navigators in search of sandalwood. The first American missionaries arrived there in 1820. Liberal laws on land ownership were enacted by King Kamehameha III, according to which the indigenous people largely became owners of the land on which they lived. In 1843 Captain Paulet annexed Hawaii to England, but his act was not approved and the islands regained their autonomy. In about 1850, communications began by regular steamers with San Francisco and Sydney. During the reign of Kalakaua a trade treaty was ratified with the United States and in 1876 Hawaii ceded to them, in exchange for preferential treatment, the wonderful bay of Pearl Harbor as a maritime base. In 1894 the republic was proclaimed in the islands headed by President Sanford B. Dole: in 1898, after long negotiations, they passed to the United States. Until about 1875, they were inhabited almost exclusively by indigenous Hawaiians: it seems that in 1820 there were 150,000, reduced in 1870 to about 60,000. In 1910 there were about 30,000 pure indigenous people (and 7,848 mestizos), by 1920 there were only 25,000 pure Hawaiians. Indeed, no other part of the earth has such a great mixture of races, and nowhere, as in Hawaii, can the interesting problems of racial interbreeding be studied.

In 1852, numerous Chinese were brought in to work on the sugar cane plantations, and in 1878, 2,000 natives from the Gilbert Islands arrived there. The first Japanese were introduced in 1868. Between 1878 and about 1882, 8000 Portuguese immigrated there from the islands of Madeira and the Azores. In 1896 there were about 31,000 pure Hawaiians, 24,000 Japanese, 21,000 Chinese, 15,000 Portuguese. More recently, to make up for labor shortages, workers began to be brought in from the Philippines. These have now acquired, in the sugar cane plantations, more importance than the Japanese, who instead have dedicated themselves to the large crops of pineapples. The Japanese are increasing in numbers so rapidly that it is assumed that in the 1940 elections they will probably have a majority of the voters.

Hawaii History

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What to See in Laos https://www.thesciencetutor.org/what-to-see-in-laos.html Fri, 15 Jul 2022 04:37:57 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1310 Pakse, Champasak Province (Laos)

Pakse is located in southern Laos on a peninsula bounded to the south by the Mekong and to the west and north by the Sedon River. It was founded by the French in 1905 as an administrative center, and is currently the capital of Champasak Province.

Pakse is the third largest city in the country, a river port and the center of the agricultural region of the Bolaven Plateau. Highway 13, the main highway of the country, passes through the northern part of the Old City from west to east. Most of the city’s boarding houses, hotels, shops, travel agencies and restaurants are concentrated on it. To the west on the same road are the airport (2 km from the city) and the northern bus station (8 km from the city).

The city itself is not very interesting, most often it is used by tourists as a starting point for other excursions to the south of Laos, for example, to the Bolaven plateau, to the ruins of the Khmer temple of Pu Champasak (Wat Phu Champasak), to Sipandon or the Four Thousand Islands (Si Phang Don.

The Bolaven Plateau is known as a great trekking destination and you can also ride elephants here. There are many beautiful waterfalls on the plateau, there are interesting villages in which the traditional way of life has been preserved, there are coffee and tea plantations.

Pu Champasak Temple belongs to the Angkor period. It stands on a hill at an altitude of 607 m in the place where the spring once flowed. Historians believe that the temple was a sacred site of the pre-Angkorian kingdom of Chenla and may have been used for human sacrifice. Its layout forms a logical sequence of three levels with a long walkway connecting them. The harmonic transition from the river to the valley and then to the mountain was supposed to serve as the personification of the power of the cult.

In the very south of Laos, in the province of Champasak, there is a place called Si Phang Don., which in translation means 4 thousand islands. The name is not accidental, in this place the Mekong floods and forms many small and large islands, the number of which increases greatly during the dry season, when the river becomes shallow. The largest of the permanently existing islands are inhabited all year round and provide an opportunity to get up close and personal with the life of the coastal villages. The French left here several colonial villas on the islands of Don Khong, Don Det and Don Khon. On the island of Don Khon, the remains of a railway and a pier built by the French have been preserved. Other attractions of this island are waterfalls and a rare species of river dolphin. Khon Phapheng Falls, the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia, is located 15 kilometers from Don Khon Island. There are many restaurants around the waterfall, there is an observation deck,

Phonsavan (Laos)

Phonsavan is the capital of Xieng Khouan province in northeastern Laos. The city is located at an altitude of 1200 m and pleases its visitors with a mild climate.

The main attraction of this area is the Plain of Jars . It is located on the Xiangkhuang Plateau and is easily accessible from Phonsavan. The valley belongs to the megalithic era and is one of the most mysterious monuments in the culture of the ancient peoples of Indochina. More than 300 huge stone vessels, as if grown into the ground, are scattered in groups across the plain among tropical greenery. Some vessels weigh up to 6 tons.

52 km north of Phonsavan there are two hot springs, Bo Noi and Bo Yai, where you can bathe.

Sarawan (Laos)

According to Intershippingrates, Sarawan is located in southern Laos, 100 kilometers northeast of Pakse, and is the capital of Sarawan Province. This province is known mainly for the Bolaven Plateau. It is well suited for trekking, here you can also ride elephants. There are many beautiful waterfalls on the plateau, there are interesting villages in which the traditional way of life has been preserved, there are coffee and tea plantations.

The Phu Xieng Thong Conservation Area has also been established in the province. It occupies an area of about 1000 km 2 where a large number of wild animals are protected.

Xienkhuang (Laos)

Xieng Khuang is located in the province of the same name, the main attraction of which is the famous Plain of Jars.

The valley is located on the Xiengkhuang plateau. The valley belongs to the megalithic era and is one of the most mysterious monuments in the culture of the ancient peoples of Indochina. More than 300 huge stone vessels, as if grown into the ground, are scattered in groups across the plain among tropical greenery. Some vessels weigh up to 6 tons. The purpose of these jugs is still unknown.

Xienkhuang (Laos)

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Major Cities in Uzbekistan https://www.thesciencetutor.org/major-cities-in-uzbekistan.html Fri, 08 Jul 2022 05:56:22 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1304 Termez (Uzbekistan)

Termez is located in the southern part of the country on the border with Afghanistan on the banks of the Amu Darya River. It was formed in the 19th century on the site of a Russian border post, however, a large trading settlement on this site existed during the reign of the Seleucids in the 2nd-3rd centuries BC. The remains of this settlement were found a few kilometers from modern Termez. In the 1st century A.D. Termez became one of the main Buddhist centers of Central Asia, as evidenced by the numerous cult complexes found in the vicinity of Termez. The most significant of these complexes are Kara-Tepa with the ruins of monasteries, monuments and the remains of frescoes and ancient inscriptions, Fayaztepa and Zurmal. All of them were erected in the 2nd century AD. during the reign of the Kushan king Kanishka, who declared Buddhism the state religion. In addition, such ancient buildings have been preserved in Termez, such as the mausoleum of Abdulla Muhammad Ibn Ali Termezy, the patron saint of the city (10-15 centuries), the ruins of the Kirk-Kiz castle of the 9th century, the mausoleum of Sultan Saadat of the 11-17th centuries and the remains of the fortress walls of Kampir-Tepe.

20 km from Termez there is a balneological resort Jayran-Kana. It functions on the basis of local hot sulfur springs, the composition of which is similar to the waters of Matsesta. The ethnographic zone is interesting to the north of Termez Baysun, which keeps the memory of the Greco-Bactrian and Kushan kingdoms. In ancient times, the paths of the Great Silk Road passed through the local mountain gorges. The local Teshik-Tash cave is known all over the world, in which traces of fires, a rich complex of stone tools and an incomplete skeleton of a Neanderthal boy were found. Trips to the villages of Baysun are very popular, where you can get acquainted with the folklore traditions of the local people and their main crafts – embroidery, carpet production, painting on ceramics and the Kuznetsk business. Surkhan Nature Reserve

is located near Baysun on the slopes of the Kugitang ridge.. It was established in 1987 on an area of 24,583 hectares. On the territory of the reserve there are steppe and forest (juniper) plant communities and typical vegetation of the subalpine belt. Among the many animals, the unique representatives of the fauna of Central Asia stand out – the markhor goat and the mountain sheep. In addition to the rich and diverse flora and fauna, the reserve is also home to archaeological sites. In the southeast of the reserve, traces of dinosaurs were found that lived in these parts several hundred million years ago. Also, more than 200 colored rock paintings of the Mesolithic and Neolithic eras were found on the territory of the reserve. These examples of ancient rock art are called the Zarautsa Gallery.

Andijan (Uzbekistan)

According to Homeagerly, Andijan is one of the oldest cities in the Ferghana Valley. Zakhriddin Babur was born in Andijan, a military leader, statesman and descendant of Timur, who conquered India and founded the Mughal Empire in the 16th century. In 1902, Andijansuffered from a strong earthquake, and the city was actually rebuilt.

Among the historical monuments, only the Jami madrasah has been preserved.

In the vicinity of Andijan, there are the remains of the settlement of Markhamat, the capital of the ancient state of Davan, as well as the remains of the ancient city of Kuva, where you can see the ruins of buildings of the 3rd century BC and a Buddhist temple of the 6th-8th centuries AD. e.

Namangan (Uzbekistan)

Namangan is located in the northeast of the Ferghana Valley near Andijan. For the first time the city is mentioned in the autobiography of Zahriddin Babur “Baburname”. After the independence of Uzbekistan, Namangan became a stronghold of Wahhabism (Islamic radical movement) in Central Asia.

In the vicinity of the city, the ruins of the ancient city of Akhsikent are interesting, which was the capital of the Ferghana Valley from the 10th to the 13th centuries. Also, not far from Namangan, in the valley of the Chartaksay river, there is a balneological resort “Chartak”, functioning on the basis of iodine-bromine mineral waters, and in the mountain spurs of the Chatkal ridge there is a valley of the Padshaatasay river with numerous recreation areas.

Namangan (Uzbekistan)

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Barcelona, Catalonia (Spain) https://www.thesciencetutor.org/barcelona-catalonia-spain.html Fri, 01 Jul 2022 03:34:46 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1301 Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia. The city is located on the Costa Dorada and is one of the main ports in Europe.

The historic center of the “old” Barcelona – the Gothic Quarter. Its main attraction is the Cathedral, located on Plaza Catalunya. This is a real masterpiece of Catalan Gothic architecture. Its construction began in 1298, but was finally completed only in the 19th century. The huge bell towers of the Cathedral contain both elements of the medieval style and the Renaissance. Inside the building is the Museum of Medieval Art.

According to Getzipcodes, Sagrada Familia can be called a masterpiece of modern architecture. Its design was developed by the architect Antonio Gaudi at the beginning of the 20th century. He conceived 12 towers, symbolizing the 12 apostles and interconnected and 2 spiers – Mary and Jesus Christ.

In the western part of the city is the Rambla area, consisting of a chain of streets that form a single boulevard. Along it are restaurants, cafes and shops. Every day, street artists bring their paintings to passers-by, and musicians and actors cheer up passers-by. Leads Rumble to the statue of Columbus at the entrance to the harbor. There are many restaurants, bars and cafes in the port, there is a trendy cinema with a huge screen.

In Barcelona in 1963 the Picasso Museum was opened. It contains an extensive collection of works by this famous artist. In the vicinity of the Ramblas are the Museum of Theater Arts, the Arts Centre, the Wax Museum and the Museum of Modern Art. Mount Montjuic rises in the southwest of the city. At its top, sports facilities for competitions were built for the 1992 Olympic Games, including the Olympic Stadium and the Water Stadium.

Not far from Barcelona to the north on a hill is the famous Park Güell. It was created by the architect Antonio Gaudí between 1900 and 1914. From the hill you have a great view of Barcelona.

In addition to visiting the historical and cultural values ​​​​of Barcelona tourists enjoy relaxing on the sandy beaches of the city. Among them are Sant Sebastia, La Barceloneta, Nova Icaria, Bogatell, Mar Bella and Nova Mar Bella. The beaches are crowded in July and August at the peak of the season.

The international airport is located 12 km southwest of the city.

Valencia (Spain)

Valencia is located on the east coast of Spain. the city was founded by the Greeks in 138 BC. Throughout the history of the country, it belonged to the Greeks, Romans and Arabs until the 13th century, so the culture of various peoples left a trace here.

The square of the Virgin Mary, on which the Rio Turia fountain stands, is the center of the historical part of Valencia. In its vicinity are attractions such as the Cathedral, the Basilica and the Government Palace. The Cathedral was built in 1262. It is a mixture of Gothic, Baroque and Classicism. The altar of the Cathedral is decorated with paintings by Fernando Yanes and Fernando de Llanos, there is a museum, and on the bell tower (at a height of 50 m) there is an observation deck from which the whole city is perfectly visible.

Another square – the triangular Plaza del Ayuntamiento – is located in the southern part of Valencia and was built relatively recently, at the beginning of the 20th century. Here are the city hall, the building of the central post office, shops and cafes. There is a bullfighting arena nearby. If you walk a little further, you can get to the shopping area. The ancient building of Lonya in the past was a place for the sale of silk and other goods, the so-called “Silk Exchange”. The building is in Gothic style and dates back to the 15th century. This is the only building in the city that has been recognized by UNESCO as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Nearby is the Central Market. Previously, trade took place on the street, but in 1928 a special pavilion was set aside for this. It is one of the largest in Europe. On an area of about 8,000 sq. m presents a huge selection of all kinds of products and seafood. The market is closed on Sundays.

It is not possible to swim in the sea and sunbathe directly in Valencia, but 1 km north of the city is the place La Malvarrosa, and 5 km south – El Saler, where sandy beaches stretch.

Valgrande Pajares, Asturias (Spain)

The Valgrande-Pajares ski resort is located on the border of the provinces of Asturias and Leon in the Cantabrian Mountains, a 40-minute drive from Leon and Oviedo.

The slopes of the resort are suitable for skiers of any skill level. In total, there are 32 tracks, with a total length of 21.5 km (7 “green”, 9 “blue”, 12 “red” and 4 “black”). The elevation difference is 400 m (1464-1870 m), and the longest track has a length of 2000 m. The tracks are serviced by 9 lifts. Some trails are illuminated at night. The resort has an artificial snow system. In addition, in Valgrande Pajares 1 track for cross-country skiing with a length of 7 km was laid and a snowpark for snowboarding enthusiasts was equipped.

At the service of vacationers in Valgrande Pajares, a ski school, equipment rentals, a kindergarten, one cafe at the first stage of the lifts and one at the upper station are provided. To accommodate tourists in the resort there are 2 hotels. Also, a lot of places to stay can be found in the nearby villages.

From Valgrande Pajares, you can go to the nearby town of Pola de Lena, where the pre-Romanesque church of Santa Cristina de Lena of the 11th century is located, to the capital of the autonomous region of Asturias – Oviedo (Oviedo), or to travel in the protected areas of the Cantabrian Mountains: Picos de Europa National Park, Fuentes del Narcea, Degana and Ibias Natural Park, Redes Natural Park (Redes natural park) or Somiedo Nature reserve.

Barcelona, Catalonia (Spain)

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Sightseeing in Volgograd, Russia https://www.thesciencetutor.org/sightseeing-in-volgograd-russia.html Fri, 24 Jun 2022 12:51:36 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1299 Not far from here on Lenin Square stands Pavlov’s House. During the Battle of Stalingrad, this four-story residential building was heroically defended for two months by a group of scouts under the command of Sergeant Pavlov and became a real bastion that stood in the way of the Nazi troops. These events are reminiscent of the memorial wall-monument, where the names of the soldiers who defended the house are carved. On the end wall of the house there is another memorial wall, it is dedicated to the labor prowess of the builders who rebuilt the city after the war.

In Volgograd, on a small stretch of the banks of the Volga River, there is a place called Lyudnikov Island. In fact, this is not an island, but a piece of land, which got its name because here, during the Battle of Stalingrad, the 138th division under the command of Colonel I.I. Lyudnikova was cut off from the main Soviet forces and heroically defended herself for 40 days. Now a memorial complex has been opened here, which includes a stele with a bronze memorial plaque, the ruins of the command post of the 138th rifle division and three mass graves. Bald Mountain rises on the outskirts of the city141 m high. During the Battle of Stalingrad, it was an important strategic object, where fierce battles took place. At the top of the mountain, in memory of those who died in the battles for Lysaya Gora, a 20-meter obelisk was erected with a carved inscription: “Peace to those who defended for future generations. Glory to you and eternal gratitude to the Fatherland. The Motherland honors these feats, whose name is immortality.”

One of the oldest monuments of the city, the monument to N.V. Gogol (1910), here are the mass graves of the heroes of the civil war, an underground shelter, which during the Battle of Stalingrad became the command post of the city leadership, and the grave of Major General V.A. Glazkov, commander of the 35th Guards Rifle Division.

According to Diseaseslearning, the central square of the city is interesting – the Square of the Fallen Fighters. It got its name after the mass terror of the Whites against those who supported the Red Army. The remains of 55 bodies of the executed were buried on the square. After the Battle of Stalingrad, the defenders of Stalingrad, who fell in battle, were also buried here. In honor of the heroes of the Civil and Great Patriotic Wars, a monument-obelisk 26 m high, made of black and red granite, was erected on the square, and an eternal flame was installed. Since 1966, Post N1 was formed near the eternal flame, where sentries stand to this day, in Soviet times they were pioneers and Komsomol members, today they are ordinary schoolchildren. There is also a mass grave of three soldiers of different nationalities – a Spaniard, a Russian and a Tatar, who died at different times, but for one common cause. On the square there is a poplar that survived the Great Patriotic War, a memorial plaque is hung on it. hotel “Volgograd ” This is the oldest high-class hotel in Volgograd. It was built in 1890 by the merchant V. Voronin. Be sure to walk along the Alley of Heroes and Lenin Avenue, where monuments to the heroes of the Great Patriotic War are also erected.

Of the religious buildings of the city, the Kazan Church of the late 19th century stands out. Initially, it was a cemetery church built in the pseudo-Russian tradition. Later, the brick church was elevated to the rank of a cathedral. The cathedral was rebuilt in 1946 after the end of the war.

In addition to museums whose expositions are dedicated to the Battle of Stalingrad,there are several other interesting museums in Volgograd . The Volgograd Regional Museum of Local Lore tells about the history of this part of the Lower Volga region. The Volgograd Museum of Fine Arts is the only art museum in Volgograd. It was founded in 1960. Nowadays, the museum exhibits works of the Russian school of the 18th – early 20th centuries. Of great interest are portraits of the 18th – early 19th centuries, landscape painting, a collection of works by I.I. Mashkov, works of the post-revolutionary period, as well as works by foreign artists – Italians, Germans and French.

Sightseeing in Volgograd, Russia

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Culture of Mauritius https://www.thesciencetutor.org/culture-of-mauritius.html Fri, 17 Jun 2022 01:56:25 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1296 NATIONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Tourists who come to Mauritius in search of spacious beaches and blue lagoons are waiting for another amazing discovery: the extraordinary ethnic and cultural diversity of its inhabitants, who have come here for centuries from all continents and countries of the world, Europe, Asia, Madagascar. They brought with them their customs, languages, religions, which they try to observe, as evidenced by the numerous religious holidays celebrated throughout the year. Despite this, they are all merged together, forming a single Mauritian state, interconnected by one Creole language, rich literature, and even the national dance – Sega. So, if you are completely desperate to meet people on the planet who live without any racial or religious prejudice, in peace and harmony – go to the island of Mauritius!

HOLIDAYS

Mid-January – KAVADI, performed by Hindus from south India
January / February – Spring Festival, Chinese
February / March – MAHA SHIVAHATRI, Hindus
September 9 – Father Laval, Christians
October / November – DIWALI, Hindus of south and north India
October / November – Ganga Asnan, Indians of North India
November 2 – Commemoration of the dead, Christians. Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan and Moharram according to the Islamic calendar. Moharram is celebrated in memory of the torment of Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, in the Iraqi city of Karbala. This is a day of prayers and remembrance, but the customs gradually turned it into a real folk festival. The main attraction of this festival is the gong “ghoon”, a huge tower made of bamboo, completely covered with colorful paper ribbons and adorned with winged horses. In the evening, this ensemble lights up with multi-colored bulbs. “Goons” are installed on a huge stretcher and stroll through the streets of Port Louis. On the way, the sinners, languishing in the “gunas”, flog each other, torture each other with cruel tortures, piercing each other with saber blows. Looking at this spectacle, you involuntarily feel the feeling

Mauritius: Mauritian Cuisine

According to Computerminus, Mauritian cuisine is an expression of ethnic diversity and a stay in Mauritius will also be a journey into the world of culinary traditions for you! The features of the tropical climate of Mauritius forced the first European immigrants who appeared here to adapt their culinary traditions to local products. Gradually, immigrants from Africa and India began to arrive, great specialists in spices. And finally, the Chinese have added their touch to the local culinary traditions. As a rule, traditional rice, vegetables or citrus fruits prepared according to a special recipe in vinegar with spices are served as a side dish for all dishes. A traditional Mauritian dish, refined and very refreshing, palm kale or palm heart salad accompanies smoked fish. Well, since you are on the ocean, Mauritian cuisine is replete with fish dishes – crab soup, oyster casserole, octopus and a wide variety of seasonings for fish. In the markets and tables in restaurants, there are mountains of fresh exotic tropical fruits – papaya, watermelons, pineapples, bananas, citrus fruits. In summer, from November to May, you can enjoy Chinese cherries – lychees, taste mangoes, dates… Coffee here has the finest vanilla flavor and is prepared in the Creole style.

Mauritius: Money and currency of Mauritius

Money, CURRENCY EXCHANGE Mauritian rupee (MUR or Rs), equal to 100 sous. In circulation there are paper notes of 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 and 2000 rupees, coins of 1, 5 and 10 rupees, as well as 5, 10, 20 and 50 sous. Small change coins are increasingly falling into disuse due to inflation, but in the interior they are still in use.Banking hours are from 09:15 to 15:00-15:30 on weekdays, and from 09:15 to 11:15 on Saturdays. Foreign currency exchange is not limited, the exchange can be made at any bank or at hotel exchange offices (commissions are higher). The exchange of rupees for foreign currency is made only at the airport when leaving the country. Credit cards and travelers checks are accepted in almost all hotels, shops and travel agencies. ATMs are also installed almost everywhere.

Culture of Mauritius

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Attractions in Seychelles https://www.thesciencetutor.org/attractions-in-seychelles.html Thu, 09 Jun 2022 17:27:27 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1294 According to Equzhou, Mahe Island is the largest island (150 sq. km.), as well as the economic and political center of the country. 90% of the population lives here and the most modern Seychelles International Airport is located.

Victoria – one of the smallest capitals in the world, the only major port of the Seychelles and the only city in the country – any other settlement of the archipelago, no matter how it is called, is essentially a village. The capital of the island and the entire archipelago attracts tourists with its numerous Creole restaurants, souvenir shops and shops, traditional houses with awnings and openwork balconies, art galleries, colorful fruit and vegetable markets. The city is immersed in the greenery of coconut palms (although recently modern, almost devoid of greenery quarters have also been growing rapidly), it is surrounded by cinnamon plantations, and from the tops of the nearby hills of Signal, Crev-Ker, Niol and the Three Brothers Mountains (699 m.) offers a fantastic view of the other islands of the archipelago. Not far from Victoria is the Craftsmen’s Village. near the magnificent building of the Creole Institute (closed to visitors), “Tea Tavern” on the slopes of the foothills of Morne Blanc, halfway from Victoria to Port Glaud, Royal Garden “Le Jardin du Roi” in the Royal Bay, studio of the famous artist Michael Adams in the lush Blue Hens Bay, and the magnificent St. Anne National Marine Park between Mahe, Deer, Long, Middle and Round Islands. Silhouette Island, lying directly opposite Beau Vallon Beach, is considered the “owner” of the most beautiful equatorial forest in the entire Indian Ocean – the island is sparsely populated, but all conditions have been created for tourists (Silhouette is an experienced island of the “Island Development Company”) – a local “lodge” at least and small, but well equipped. There are sixty-eight beaches on Mahe!

The coastline is indented by many bays – from the smallest Kashe, Coral, Karana Beach, Solnechnaya, Major, Anse-Nord-Ost and Rice, to larger ones – Beau Vallon, Anse Royale, Anse-a-la-Moche, Grand -Anse, Anse Intendance (famous for the most beautiful beach on the island), Anse Takamaka, as well as the completely deserted beaches of Anse Souillac Bay. The beaches of Anse-à-la-Moche and Anse Forbans are distinguished by their calm waters and silence, and Beau Vallon, stretching from Fisherman Cove to Wacoa Village, Praslin is the second largest island in the archipelago, it is often called the “Garden of Eden” – it is home to such wonderful places as the unique Valley de May National Park (“May Valley”, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List), where more than 7 thousand palm trees “coco de mer” grow and such a rare bird as the black parrot lives, as well as the beautiful landscapes of the Côte d’Or, Volbert, Consolation, the Gulf of St. Anne, Cape St. Mary, the bays of Lazio, La Blague, Petit-Lance-Kerlan, etc. There is also a copra factory and vanilla plantations, as well as the beautiful beaches of Grand Anse, We will, Georgette, Ari -Matelo, Ari-Petit-Cours, etc. The island has 8 dive and 4 fishing centers, luxury hotels and gourmet restaurants, but just a stone’s throw from them you can see a mountain stream, covered with a green canopy of palm trees and breadfruit trees, and walks on this small island bring a lot of pleasure to many tourists. Nearby is the island-reserve Arid – the second most important natural reserve of the archipelago. More seabirds live here than on all other islands combined. Cousin Island (Cousin) is under the protection of the International Committee for the Protection of Birds – here, right on the paths, unique species of birds breed chicks, and on the beach of the island, the rarest sea turtles lay their eggs. Bird Island (Ile-o-Yours, private property) is home to approximately 1.5 million black terns that live here from May to November. A local celebrity, the giant tortoise Esmeralda, also lives here. Denis Island, the northernmost island of the archipelago, often referred to as the “empire of coconut trees”, is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Seychelles.

The island is known for its fishing (5 world records for tuna fishing have been set in the vicinity of the island!) and a developed related service with the most modern equipment. La Digue Island is considered the most comfortable corner of the Seychelles, life here has not changed at all over the past 200 years – a completely clean seabed, clear water, lush vegetation. The only transport here is bullock carts. The best place in the archipelago for “landscape” photography is considered to be the “visiting card of the island” – the bay of Source d’Argent and Cape Turcy, and the area of ​​the bays of Petit Ari, Grand Anse, Anse Coco, Reunion, Sever, Palat, Goulette, Gros Roche, Banana and Fourmy provide an excellent opportunity for both a relaxing holiday and for contemplating the majestic rocky landscapes. In La Passa, the capital of the island, a large number of old Creole wooden houses are concentrated, as well as the island’s only (but fairly modern) large hotel – La Digue Lodge, built with local flavor and even having its own dive center. 4 km. north of La Digue lies the island of Felicite (“bliss”) with luxurious vegetation. Aldabra – the world’s largest coral atoll (the inner lagoon occupies almost 200 sq. km., is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List), and narrow straits divide the atoll into four segments, providing a regular influx of clean ocean water. The bottom of the lagoon is almost completely exposed during low tides, revealing thickets of coral and marine life. Aldabra remains one of the few places in the world where you can see such a colony of giant land tortoises (more than 152 thousand individuals), as well as many birds. But it is very difficult for a tourist to get here – the island is managed by the Seychelles Foundation and is considered a scientific station. Many small islands (“siel elvannien”) are no less attractive to visit than large islands, which have long and firmly been chosen by tourists. Coetivy Islands made famous by cultivating shrimp. Desroches, the main one in the Amirante Islands group, is famous for the underwater sports center of the Deroche Island Lodge Hotel, which is considered the best dive center in the Indian Ocean, while the local underwater “walls” and coral “gardens” are indescribably beautiful. D’Arros has a magnificent lagoon and a large grove of coconut palms surrounded by magnificent coral sand. The Farquhar archipelago is a group of small islands stretching for 15 km. in length with a width of less than 1 km., and forming an atoll with an area of ​​720 hectares. Copra production and fishing are practiced here, but most tourists come here for diving and fishing in the waters of the 30-kilometer Providence Shoal.belongs to a private person, but is fully equipped for receiving guests, as many are attracted to this tiny piece of land not only by the opportunity to soak up the beach in silence and solitude, but also by the hope of finding pirate treasures allegedly left on this island – everyone is provided with all the opportunities for this. Fregate Island is the easternmost island of the Seychelles archipelago and an ancient pirate haven, which today is a paradise for “fat wallets” (one of the best fashionable holiday centers in the country is located here), old fruit trees, birds and turtles.

Attractions in Seychelles

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Cambodia History and Government https://www.thesciencetutor.org/cambodia-history-and-government.html Fri, 03 Jun 2022 14:10:54 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1281 During the Second World War, Cambodia was particularly affected, together with Laos, by the Tōkyō agreement of 9 May 1941, which forced it to cede a large strip of territory (69,000 sq km) on the northern border to Thailand, including the important centers of Battambang Popet and Mongkol Boray.

Already in September 1940, the Thai government had asked France to cede some Indochinese territories, including the area of ​​Cambodia, located west of the Mekong River. Rejected, it caused several border incidents, and Thai planes flew over Indochinese territory and bombed French troops. The United States intervened to recommend the maintenance of the status quo, but since the incidents did not cease and on January 16, 1941 there was even a naval clash, near Xochange, where the battleship La Motte Picquet sank some Thai units, Japan interposed its mediation.. Thus an agreement was reached with the assent of the Vichy government.

Mutilation was probably the main reason for the pro-French attitude maintained by Cambodia in the immediate post-war period, hoping it to regain, with the help of the government of Paris, the lost territories. In fact, the dispute was resolved in favor of Cambodia on November 17, 1946. As for its relations with France, after the stipulation of a modus vivendi (January 7, 1946), Cambodia was proclaimed an independent state on December 23, 1947 in within the Indochinese Federation and the French Union. According to the 1936 census, Cambodia (181,000 sq km) had 3,046,000 residents; the capital Pnom Penh, 103,000. For economic news, see. Indochina (in this App.).

History and order

According to Cancermatters, the first Cambodian parliament, which proved not very efficient in its functioning, was dissolved by King Norodom Sihanouk in 1953 and replaced with a Consultative Assembly. As a consequence of the Indochina War (see Vietnam) in Cambodia there was the activity of various local rebel groups and the infiltration of irregular troops from the Vietminh; but on 2 October 1955, for the application of the Geneva agreements (1954), both the troops of the French Union and those of the Vietminh were evacuated from Cambodian territory. In the general elections of September 1955, meanwhile, the People’s Socialist Community, led by the former king Norodom Sihanouk who on March 2 of that same year had abdicated in favor of his father Norodom Suramarit, had gained all 91 seats in the Consultative Assembly. As soon as it took office, the new Assembly unanimously approved an amendment to the constitution under which Cambodia is no longer an “autonomous state belonging to the French Union as an associated state”, but an “independent and sovereign” state. Other provisions concerning the establishment of regional assemblies; the creation of an upper house or council of the kingdom; the extension of suffrage to women; and the limitation of French (or any other foreign language) to diplomatic, administrative and technical uses only, led to a complete revision of the 1947 constitution, which in its new form was proclaimed in January 1956. The general elections of the March 1958 again assigned all seats in the Assembly to the party of Prince Norodom Sihanouk. In April 1960, King Norodom Suramarit passed away and royal powers were exercised by a regency council.

Physical characteristics

The territory is occupied by the alluvial lowland built by the Mekong and its tributaries, the main one being the Tonle Sap ; on its edges there are fragments of the ancient Indochinese hoof, of paleozoic formation, mostly with a tabular structure (Monti Dangrek, 663 m, to the N; Monti Cardamomi, 1813 m, SW; extreme offshoots of the Annam chain, 1200 m, E). The reliefs, particularly the south-western ones, influence the climate, retaining a good part of the humidity of the monsoon air masses that discharge up to 5000 mm of rain on the Cardamoms (May-October), while in inland regions the rainfall does not exceed 1500 mm per year. Average temperatures are around 27 ° C, with very limited excursions, except in some coastal stretches (Kompong Som: 5-6 ° C between January and July). The result is a vegetation cover mainly consisting of the tropical forest, which is replaced by the rainforest in the external mountainous areas, the latter heavily degraded, however, by the impact and above all by the industrial cut. Marshy areas remain in the central basin. The floods of the Mekong are formidable, which quadruple the flow rates compared to the lean period (up to 60,000 m 3 / s in October), flooding the entire plain, despite the fact that the Tonle Sap basin receives part of the excess water, so the surface of the homonymous lake (a few hundred square kilometers in the dry season) reaches up to 10,000 km 2. The most fertile soils are the central alluvial ones, while the more marked seasonality favors the laterization processes in the northern plateaus.

Cambodia Government

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Luxembourg Arts https://www.thesciencetutor.org/luxembourg-arts.html Fri, 27 May 2022 08:12:04 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1278 According to Calculatorinc, Luxembourg served for twenty centuries as an arena to the European peoples, and preserves the signs of successive civilizations that came from Gaul. Celtic traces (dolmen in Diekirsch, Herthslei in Altlinster), Gallo-Roman and Roman (via per Trier, near Martelange and Mondorf-les Bois); are inscribed and sculpted in Berdorf and in the Luxembourg museum; Roman camp in Dalheim; mosaics in Madernach and Nennig, remains of towers in Haesdorf and Christnach; bas-reliefs in Bettendorf, remains of a bridge (4th century) in Echternach. The barbarian races left Frankish graves in Dalheim, Schandel, Emmering and Waldwies; were converted in the century. VIII, from San Willibrord, and were affected by the Carolingian civilization spreading from Aachen. When Lotharingia was established with the Treaty of Verdun (843), Luxembourg was included: and it too had an Ottonian art, subjected to the influences of the south and east, of Lombardy and the Rhine, known for its rhine-Mosan geographical position. Both the Abbey of Echternach (evangeliarî and “codex aureus” of the 8th and 10th centuries) and Trier (Byzantine enamels) had a certain importance for the Rhenish school of architecture and for the industrial arts of the Carolingian and Byzantine tradition 10th century, miniatures 10th-11th centuries), Metz (miniatures and ivories 9th-10th centuries), Liège (ivory 10th-11th centuries) and Cologne (12th century enamels). During the riots generated by the feudal wars, Luxembourg, oriented towards Germany, covered itself since the century. X fortresses of which imposing ruins remain: city walls, towers and square keep in Luxembourg (X-XIV centuries), in Larochette (XII century?), Square tower in Niederwiltz (X century), in Brandenburg (XII century until to 1668). There are numerous leftovers in the Our: in Vianden (13th-16th centuries) there is also a Romanesque chapel with a decagonal plan; in the Esch, in Schœnfels there is a huge four-storey vaulted keep, in Hollenfels a square keep from the 13th century. XIII, in Septfontaines a formidable fortress with walls and towers from the 9th-10th centuries; in the Sure we can remember Beaufort founded in the century. XIII, Bourscheid with Romanesque parts of the century. XII, Esch founded in the century. XI. Bourscheid with Romanesque parts of the century. XII, Esch founded in the century. XI. Bourscheid with Romanesque parts of the century. XII, Esch founded in the century. XI.

During the Gothic era, Luxembourg adhered to the French style; then reunited in Burgundy (1444), its artistic principles followed: Gothic realism (sepulcher in Septfontaines; tombs in Junglinster), the Italianate address, under the reigns of Charles V and Philip II (Grand Ducal palace in Luxembourg, 1563; chimneys Renaissance style from the 16th century in Erpelding castle; 16th century tombs in Junglinster), the Baroque in the 15th century. XVII (floral style partition and portals, 1621, of the cathedral in Luxembourg). French influence took over under Louis XIV and Louis XV (abbey of 1732 and Louis XV pavilion in Echternach). The park, the Adolfo bridge (1903) and the modern palace of the “Arbed” (1919-22) in Luxembourg are due to French artists.

In Luxembourg, the cathedral (1613), of a hybrid style combining Gothic, Moorish and Renaissance elements, has a portal from 1621, a Baroque partition and an interesting Treasury. The chapel of S. Quirino, partly Gallo-Roman, carved into the rock, has Romanesque sculptures on the altar and the facade is of the century. XIV. The church of S. Michele, which dates back in part to the century. XIII, has a beautiful Assunta by de Crayer (17th century). The church of S. Cunegonda stands on the site already occupied by the castle (1563-65) of Mansfeld, now almost completely disappeared; it retains some Romanesque sculptures and a beautiful park. The massive government palace is the ancient refuge of the abbey of S. Massimino di Treviri (18th century); has the interior decorated in Louis XV style. The palace of justice (1565) was remodeled in the century. XIX. In the town hall (1830) is the Fisherman Museum, with paintings from the Flemish, French and Dutch schools. The grand-ducal palace, built in 1563 by Ernesto di Mansfeld, preserves ancient tapestries. There remain the ruins of the castle of the counts of Luxembourg built on the Bock on which the Celtic oppidum and the castellum were already located(III century) by Gallienus. It is believed that the ruined tower and the “Melusina well” are due to Sigefredo (10th century); there are also ancient casemates carved into the rock (the Ponte del Bock [1735] replaces the ancient drawbridge). Of the ancient fortifications remain the Pfaffenthal Gate, with three towers of the old city wall (1050-80), the Trier Gate (1398), three towers on the Rham (1393-1400), the underground Berlaymont (14th century) under the Palace Fisherman. Of the old Altmünster convent founded in 1086, destroyed in 1451 and 1684, some ruins remain; the new convent was attached (17th century) to the church of S. Giovanni, where the tombs of the counts of Luxembourg are preserved; the convent hospice dates back to 1624.

Interesting Roman and Frankish monuments are collected in the Historical Museum.

We also remember the fort of the “3 glands” (1732), two towers due to Vauban (1686), the monuments of William II of the Netherlands executed by Mercié (1884), of Princess Amalia by Petre, of the poets Diks and Lenk opera by Federspiel (1903); old houses at the fish market and on the Alzette.

In Diekirch there is an ancient church, which dates back in part to the 10th century. X and the restored Celtic Dolmen de la Hart.

In Vianden there is a castle of the 12th-17th centuries, which constitutes the most beautiful feudal complex in Luxembourg, with its walls, the knights’ room and the curious decagonal chapel, with a Romanesque portico and crypt (beginning of the 13th century). The so-called Hockelsturm is an ancient guardhouse. In the chapel of the Trinity convent (1248) there are ancient sepulchres (15th-16th centuries).

In Clervaux there is an old castle (12th-13th centuries until the 17th) with massive towers; the Benedictine abbey of S. Maurizio elevated in 1909-1912 in a severe neo-Romanesque style contains some beautiful German altarpieces of the century. XV. The new castle was built in the ancient deer park of the century. XVIII.

In Echternach, the Benedictine monastery, established in 698 by St. Willibrord, dates back in its present structure to 1732, while the abbey church of the century. XI (1017-1031), restored, is a Romanesque basilica with 13th century Gothic additions, with crypt and towers; inside it has alternating pillars with columns. The old Town Hall dates back to 1530; we also remember the town with five towers (11th century), the bridge with Roman substructures (4th century), the graceful Louis XV style pavilion and the picturesque church of San Pietro (1220).

Luxembourg Arts

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Holidays in Egypt https://www.thesciencetutor.org/holidays-in-egypt.html Fri, 20 May 2022 08:18:44 +0000 https://www.thesciencetutor.org/?p=1269 The question – where to relax in Egypt – is asked by a huge number of Russian tourists every year. And no wonder – this country regularly occupies the leading lists of the countries most visited by our tourists. A rich historical heritage and modern resorts with favorable prices for tours are doing their job, and Egypt is again ahead of its closest competitors.

Pros and cons of Egypt

Advantages

  • Possibility of recreation all year round
  • Acceptable combination of price and quality of service
  • Chance to see the legendary pyramids
  • Diverse nature – deserts, oases and beaches of several seas

Disadvantages

  • Too hot in summer
  • The mentality of the locals
  • Outright unsanitary conditions in large cities
  • A large number of scammers

Climate

According to toppharmacyschools.org, Egypt belongs to those African countries that occupy two climatic zones. The north of the country is a subtropical sea belt, the rest is the desert tropics. In winter, it is slightly cooler than in summer, especially at night, but in general there are no clear seasons across the country.

Resorts

Hurghada is the Egyptian resort most beloved by Russians, combining a relatively high level of service, reasonable prices and opportunities for both a quiet family vacation on the beaches and extreme sea sports.

Cairo is the historical heart of modern Egypt, a city of noisy markets, world museums and a starting point for visiting the main historical sights of the country – the ancient pyramids, for which hundreds of thousands of people come here every year.

Sharm el-Sheikh – if you want to stay in the country of the East, but at the same time find out what a modern holiday is, Egypt gives this opportunity right here. Surrounded by the desert, built in an oasis, the resort town is a godsend for those who love the exotic.

Safaga is one of the youth resorts in Egypt, focused on fans of extreme sports. Even the entrance to the sea here cannot be called “childish”, not to mention the entertainment that the regulars of the resort prefer.

How to get there

By plane

To date, the plane is the only acceptable way to get to the Egyptian resorts. Russian airports send both regular and charter flights to Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, Cairo or Alexandria. From each of the arrival airports, a transfer is organized to a specific resort – by bus or taxi.

Transport

It is best to travel in Egypt on the transport provided by the travel agency – most often these are minibuses. In the resort towns, all the infrastructure is within walking distance, and you can walk safely, but only until dark.

It is advisable to travel between cities by bus; cases of luggage theft are frequent on trains. It is worth choosing an air-conditioned bus, because on a hot afternoon it is too difficult to ride in stuffy transport, especially for older people.

Taxi in Egypt is owned by private companies, often the taxi driver is the owner of his “company”. Local Arabs do not know about any taximeters – the cost of the trip should be negotiated with a witness, or better with a policeman, so that he defiantly writes down the number in case of extortion by the driver.

Money

The official currency in the country is the Egyptian pound, EGP. 1 pound is equal to 100 piastres. In addition, American dollars are in use, less often – euros. You can pay with them even in the markets, but in mid-range stores it is best to have local money.

It is strictly recommended to exchange currency in Egypt only in bank branches that are open from 8:30 to 13:30 on weekdays. You should politely refuse the offer to change money at the hotel – you will probably be shortchanged, referring to the “commission” of the institution.

Kitchen

Do not believe the signs of Egyptian restaurants and cafes that say that the local cuisine honors the traditions of the pharaohs. The most “ancient” dish, the recipe of which has been preserved unchanged, dates back to the 19th century. Otherwise, Egyptian culinary traditions are borrowed from Saudi Arabs, African neighbors and Turks. But there is still something here.

  • Kushari is the most famous “Egyptian” dish, actually invented in the colonial era by British soldiers. This is such a variant of naval pasta, only instead of meat, tomato paste and an arbitrary set of cereals are used – chickpeas, lentils and rice.
  • Fulmedames is the only authentic Egyptian dish to date. How it was prepared for the pharaohs, no one knows, but now it is beans baked in clay pots. There is a meat option, and there is a vegetarian option.
  • Fatta is the main delicacy of many restaurants in Egypt. This is a layered dish of thin flatbreads, rice or other cereals with beef and tomato sauce.
  • Taro – a dish invented by the Copts – a soup on the broth of taro tubers – the Egyptian “potato”.
  • Mulukiya is a soup with jute seeds and a range of meat ingredients.

Frequently asked Questions

Question:

Is it necessary to haggle in Egyptian markets?

Answer:

Definitely needed. Bargaining in any Arab country is part of local etiquette, and Egypt is no exception. It is customary to inflate the price of absolutely any product by 3-5 times, so feel free to bring down the cost while maintaining a straight face, even if the seller starts to emotionally prove something to you.

Question:

Is it true that there are no mosquitoes in Egypt?

Answer:

There are mosquitoes in Egypt, and there are a lot of them, especially in the evening and at night. For this reason, all travel agencies are strongly advised to stock up on repellents.

Question:

What are the basic safety rules about food in Egypt?

Answer:

The first rule is never drink tap water, even in an expensive hotel. No filters will guarantee that the water will not be infected. When buying fruits and vegetables, wash them with soap and peel them. You can eat in street cafes, but look at the cleanliness of the staff.

Question:

Can my number be robbed, and how often does this happen in Egypt?

Answer:

Unfortunately, such cases do happen, but not too often. The rooms of inexpensive hotels are most often “furnished” by their own employees, sometimes in retaliation for the boorish behavior of the guest. In expensive hotels, each room has a safe, the code for which you can come up with yourself, so it is better to store securities and documents there.

Holidays in Egypt

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