Maastricht is a city and municipality in the province of South Limburg. The city is situated on both banks of the Maas river in the south-east of the Netherlands, near the borders of Belgium and Germany. As of latest measurement the city of Maastricht has a population of 120 thousand people.
Observatory, or “Obs” as most locals refer to it, is one of the Southern Suburbs, located south of Table Mountain, bordering Mowbray and Salt River. It has a large student population, due to its location near the University of Cape Town (UCT) Medical School, and the campus itself.
Obs used to be notorious for the high crime rate, but recent developments, such as the renovation of the main square and a cleaning out of its streets and parks, have improved the entire suburb.
One of the main attractions during the day is the famous Grootte Schuur Hospital. Grootte Schuur is a stately Victorian hospital, built by Cecil Rhodes. Christian Barnard performed the first heart transplant ever over 40 years ago, and a small museum dedicated to this fact, and to the Hospital’s history, is open for those interested in both medical history and architecture.
On the other side of the suburb, on the east side, you can find the Royal Observatory, which gave the suburb its name. Twice a month in the weekend, it opens for visitors who like to get a clearer view of the South African night sky.
The Suburb itself is not frequented constantly by tourists, although a number of lively backpackers’ and cheap short-term accommodation are available throughout the year.
Obs’ main street features many organic food stores and alternative music and fashion shops, as well as a rapidly changing restaurant scene. Obz Cafe is the largest restaurant/cafe, and, like many of the smaller cafes and restaurants, it features wireless internet access and all-day breakfast specials. Occasional live music performances are held in its small theater section. Cafe Ganesh is a more chaotic and flamboyant place to eat, and one of the several places specializing in vegetarian dishes.
The other main appeal of the suburb is its nightlife scene. Like the restaurants, clubs appear, disappear and change appearance quite frequently, but Roots, a beach themed bar, Gandalf’s, an alternative rock club and Stones, the pool bar, are the most established ones.
Guayaquil or officially Santiago de Guayaquil is the largest and most populous city in Ecuador, also the country’s main port. The city is located on the west bank of the Guayas River, which connects to the Gulf of Guayaquil and Pacific Ocean. Because of the location, its Ecuador’s important center for manufacturing and fishing industries. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 2.3 million people.
Taxi’s to get around in the city are widely available also known as “taxi amigos” though meters are not the standard. Being a tourist gives you disadvantage, an over charge will be paid. Therefore always agree upon a price before you get into the cab.
The city of Guayaquil is a easy to like city, it has been watched by travelers worldwide lately as it’s been going through massive renovation for the past 12 years, and has opened new tourist opportunities in the port area and on the sides of the Guayas river. In Latin America it’s unique that this port has been designed by London University of Oxford, besides the fact its one of the top 10 ports to see and enjoy.
Guayaquil’s nightlife is most active throughout Ecuador. The guayaquileños or locals enjoy to party until the sun comes up. A large amount of discotheques, bars, pubs and restaurants are spread all over the city, there’s no center of nightlife as Cuenca in Quito. Although some club entries may sound expensive, about $10 to $15 US it’s being compensated with the cheap prices of alcohol and liqueur.
Travelers to Guyaquil or elsewhere within Ecuador do not need visa as long their visit does not exceed 90 days. Passports, of course and a return ticket are required to visit Ecuador, immigration officers may ask you for proof of traveler’s economic means.
The Company Gardens are more than just an urban park; they are the oldest garden in the country, created years ago by Jan Van Riebeeck as a tranquil asset and vegetable garden bordering his lawn “Town house” or Tuynhuys as it is known currently. The former Riebeeck estate is currently the official President’s house in Cape Town, and it is well-guarded and gated, although the garden and many of the other colonial-era buildings have opened up for the public. Between 7AM and 7PM, the gates to the park will remain open.
Even though the Garden area is a well-known and popular tourist destination, locals enjoy the fresh air and peaceful surrounds equally, and can be found throughout the Company grounds. The surrounding area contains both the professional business district and the Parliament houses, and lunch breaks cause the Gardens to overflow with Capetonians. Other locals enjoying the park are the many squirrels you will undoubtedly meet on a walk through one of the two parallel lanes.
For visitors, aside from the views of Table Mountain, the Cecil Rhodes statue and the appeal of the large fountain in the center of the park walkway, the several museums within and just outside the Company Gardens are the main attractions. Unlike the park, these museums will require an entrance fee on any day of the week apart from Thursdays, when there is free admission.
The South African National Gallery is worth a visit by any art-lover. The permanent collection of the Gallery includes contemporary as well as colonial art from renowned European and African artists. Recently, the SANG has made an effort to showcase more South African art, such as bead work and apartheid-era paintings which have been censored in the past.
Opposite the Gallery you can find the South African Museum, the oldest museum South of the Sahara. A highly popular destination, the museum has a large collection of natural historical items as well as cultural and anthropological gems on display, specifically from South Africa, although Africa in general is well represented.
As the name suggests, Long Street is one of the longest streets, with a length of 3.8 kilometers, in Cape Town, found in the city center and stretching between the Waterfront and Gardens areas of the city. As you enter the street, the first impression is the lively atmosphere and architectural splendor, with elaborate Victorian designs and colorful balconies attached to most of the larger buildings.
It is not only a popular tourist site, but also a place where locals shop for antiques, clothing and (second-hand) books, and visit other specialized retail stores. Travel agencies, banks with foreign exchange counters and internet cafes are all to be found along the line. A number of cafes and restaurants are spread out among the shops, although these are generally more expensive than usual.
Just off Long Street you can find Green market Square, a tourist hub where traditional African merchandise is sold in market stalls. Wooden masks, drums, T-shirts and other souvenirs are sold here during the day, and you will find that the vendors are friendly, although insistent. Haggling is advised if you are set on buying your souvenirs here.
One of the most celebrated restaurants on Long Street is Mama Africa, where traditional African meals are accompanied by live music, and at night there are often high quality music performances by Cape Towns top jazz and African musicians and collectives. Night life on Long Street has always been vibrant and the large and diverse set of clubs, pubs, cafes and lounge bars attract people from inside and outside of Cape Town with different lifestyles and backgrounds.
Hip-hop and R&B have gained significant popularity recently among the local city dwellers. Jo’burg is one of the busiest venues for this scene. Electronic music is also on the rise, and several clubs have caught on and play the latest psytrance, fidget, electro, wildbeat, drum ‘n’ bass, dubstep, and more. Rhino Room and Fiction are two most prominent electro clubs. For a more relaxed night out, the Irish pub the Dubliner and the mellow alternative balcony-clad Neighborhood provide the perfect setting for a drink and the chance to meet other people.
Antwerp is a Belgium city and municipality, as well the capital of the Antwerp province. It’s situated on the right bank of the river Scheldt, which is linked to the North Sea. Antwerp has a long history of being a important city in the Benelux as well economically and culturally. As of latest measurement Antwerp has a population of 490 thousand people.
Antwerp has an international reputation for being the “world’s leading diamond city” as more than 70% of all diamonds are traded in Antwerp. It’s also a popular travel destination for many travelers, the overwhelming friendliness of the Belgium locals, and their urge for a quality living and food, combined with an overall low stress lifestyle, makes it a relaxing and desirable travel destination.
In the heart of Antwerp lies a irregularly shaped square named Grote Markt which is being surrounded by decorative guild buildings aging from the 16th century. The Grote Markt is home to the statue of Brabo, according to the 16th century legend, his actions led to the city’s name. It’s said that Silvius Brabo had flung the hand of Antigonus, a giant who terrorized ships passing by. Antwerp’s city hall is located right on the square, which has great Italian and Belgium characteristics. Furthermore the city of Antwerp has several historical sightseeing including museums and churches, as well fine dining opportunities with both local and international cuisine.
Travelers to Antwerp need a valid passport and return ticket. For stays that do not exceed 90 days a visa is not required. English is not widely spoken in Antwerpen, might as well bring yourself a French dictionary or pick up a few French lines. The best time to visit Antwerpen is during the summer months from July till August.
Hong Kong (香港) meaning “fragrant harbour” is one of the two Special Administrative Regions in China, with the second one being Macau. Hong Kong consists of 236 islands situated on China’s south coast, enclosed by the Pearl River Delta and South China Sea. Hong Kong has developed itself to a globe’s top financial center with a capitalist economy. It’s skyline and harbor are breath taking. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 7,1 million people.
Hongkong today is one of the most important and popular travel destinations in China. The city has absorbed people and cultural influences from places all over the world and therefore its also a unique travel destination which is often referred to as a center the city “where east meets the west” which reflects in its daily life, streets, cuisine, music and traditions.
Aside from its chaotic traffic scene, busy streets, gigantic sky scrapers and thousands of bright advertising signs the city of Hong Kong can also be hushed and peaceful with fine dining experiences trying Chinese cuisine, excellent transport network around town, massive and sublime shopping malls, quiet temples and spacious parks and gardens. Another Hong Kong sightseeing include the vantage point at Vicoria Peak overlooking the world’s busiest deep water port which is outstanding and breathtaking.
Getting round in the city, it’s easiest method is the subway system. All of the signs are in English language as well, though metered taxi’s are widely available. According to South Asian standards, not the cheapest of them all though a 20 minute taxi from center Hong Kong to Victoria Peak (20 minutes) cost us about $6 US. Taxi’s are the most expensive (public) transportation available in the city.
Travelers to Hongkong need a valid passport and visa. While the city is relatively safe, the common travel concerns include presence of pickpockets, thieves and thick city smog. The best period to visit Hongkong is between May and September when there’s the best temperature. On average it does rain more in these months than in periods throughout the year.
The island and city of Macau (澳門) also known as Macoa is a Special Administrative Region of China. In total there’s two SAR regions in China, with the second being Hong Kong. Macau is situated on the west side of the Pearl River Delta bordering the Guangdong province in the north, facing the South China Sea in east and south. The city of Macau is driven mainly on tourist industry, but also includes exporting textiles, electronics and toys.
As the city of Macau is located in China but has their own responsibility towards their territory, it can make their own laws and legal system, police force and immigration policy. Allowing the city to turn in any possible direction they are willing go for, giving gambling, prostitution, nightlife and foreign investors a chance to play open card. Some already say it’s the Las Vegas of the Orient.
The reasoning that people call it Las Vegas of Asia is because all the main hotels located on the strip of Vegas are situated in the center of Macau including the Wynn, Venetian, MGM Grand and the Sands mixed in between buzzing night and sex clubs and other gigantic Casino’s which are 24 hours in business. You might wonder yourself, why not just go to Vegas? The answer lies in the history and culture of the Chinese city.
Macau today is still as mysterious as it once was, streets are filled up fortune tellers, Buddhist monks, tea houses and traditional massage parlors. It’s sightseeing includes breathtaking ruins, churches, museums and acient markets. A famous and oldest temple in town is the Á Ma Temple founded in 1488. World class museums like the Museum of Macau, Maritime Museum Grand Prix Museum and Macau Museum of Art are often visited by curious tourists and can break the day nicely. For a visit to the Ruins of St. Paul’s and St. Dominic Church make sure to bring along your camera.
Travelers to Macau need a valid passport and visa. While the city is relatively safe, the common travel concerns include presence of pickpockets and thieves. The best period to visit Macau is between May and September when there’s the best temperature. On average it does rain more in these months than in periods throughout the year.
Santiago de Cuba is the capital city of the Santiago de Cuba Province in the south east of the island nation Cuba. The city of Santiago de Cuba has a long history, plus its the second largest and important city after the capital city Havana. It’s situated on a bay facing the Caribbean Sea, it’s port is an important income source for the city. As of latest measurement it has a population of 500 thousand people.
Surrounded by impressive mountains linked to the Sierra Maestra at sea side, Santiago de Cuba is a city of hills and inclined streets, with plenty of tourist attractions and historical sightseeing. It also shows the city that brings the people of African and Spanish origin together, along with descendants of immigrants from the French West Indies. This makes Santiago de Cuba a melting pot colorful carnivals and festivals together with French tumbas, Chinese trumpets and all sort of national dancing and revels. Another fact this city is famous for is the sensual and hospitable locals, simply they enjoy and love their lives, therefore it’s referred by some tourists as the Capital of the Caribbean.
Throughout the city there’s several small restaurants and pubs several Cuban cuisine as well as international foods. Drinks are widely available, and don’t forget to pick your Cuban cigar from the restaurants menu prior to dinner. A by travelers recommended place to, some even say “The best place to eat in Santiago de Cuba” is “Salon Tropical” in the downtown area.
American citizens must be licensed by the Department of Treasury in order to travel to Cuba. Any national need either a visa or tourist card, which allows a maximum stay of 30 days in Cuba, the visa can be extended for another 30 days. The costs of visa is about $30 us and can be easily obtained at an Cuban Embassy or directly at a travel agent. All travelers are required a return ticket and proof of booked hotel room for a minimum of three nights.
Yokohama (横浜市) is the capital city of the Kanagawa Prefecture in Japan and is situated on the Tokyo Bay just 20 miles south of Tokyo. In the Kantō region region nearby the main island of Honshū. It’s a important commercial hub of the Greater Tokyo Area. As of latest measurements Yokohama has a population of 3.6 million people.
Yokohama was once a mere village that grew into a large Asian port. Today can be described modern international city. The port city Yokohama has a interesting history and sightseeing, many of the sights are located near the waterfront. Minato Mirai is its futuristic heart of the city, the every changing and evaluating area is rich of shops, museums, restaurants and modern art. On walking distance you can find the Akarenga, a pair of red-brick 20th century warehouses which have been converted into dining places and boutiques. When visiting the city Yokohama the much hyped and crowded Chinatown, Chukagai in the old city center. Although nowadays it’s more of a modern district, it still offers it’s historical Chinese temples mixed in between a triangle of popular restaurants.
When visiting Yokohama, a visit to the Sankei-en must be added to your list, it’s a heaven of silence and peace in the massive city. Basically, it’s best described as a spacious park which consists of a collection of historic buildings moved from all over Japan to the city. Surrounding landscapes, as well as the buildings and the park can be best seen in springtime.
Visitors to Yokohama need a valid passport and visa. European and American citizens will receive a 90 days visa upon arrival. Generally seen the city is safe for tourists, regular travel rules apply so have a close look after your belongings. The best period to visit Yokohama is in the summer months from June till August.
