Beyond Xperience Vol 09 by Farooq Rana

xperience 1

Vol. 9 May 2012

www.beyondxperience.com

BAR CODE International Xperience

Xperience

The Grand Canyon Xperience Eternal Fire

Regional Discovery

UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grand Canyon

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Contents 6

26 Xperiences

Regional Discovery

The Great Migration ��6 Wadi Bih ��32 The City of Angkor ��9 Xperience Eternal Fire �� 10 Reader’s Xperience ��12 The salar of Uyuni ��14

International Discovery

Features

Funny, Frightening and Freezing Festivals ��18 Unique Bridges ��21 Dramatic & Dynamic Dwellings ��39

Culinary

Bosnia & Herzegovina ��26 Dine in Nature ��36

Editor’s Note

Editor in Chief: Mukesh Bhawnani Managing Editor: M. Khalid Shuja editor@beyondxperience.com Photography/Illustrations/Design: Muhammad Farooq farooq@beyondxperience.com Editorial Contributors: Michelle Mcgill Kavya Chawla Kenneth Gabac Contributing Photographer: Navin Vaswani Publisher: Media 4 FZE Fujairah Tower PO Box: 4422, Fujairah, UAE. Marketed by: Winds Advertising & Publishing PO Box: 25271, Abu Dhabi – UAE Tel: +971 (2) 677 3330 Fax: +971 (2) 679 3339 Email: tradewin@eim.ae Marketing Associates: Mashood Ali (Middle East) Jennifer Tina (United Kingdom) United Kingdom Representative Fast Track Travel 6 Way Land, Hayes UB32QU London, UK Disclaimer: While every effort and care has been made to ensure accuracy of information contain in this publication, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions it may contain. To read detailed stories about the Xperiences published in this edition please visit: www.beyondxperience.com

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Editor’s Note We remain grateful to all our readers and fans for their plentiful support and I am sure our reader’s passion and our team’s undaunted efforts will help us bring more unique and distinctive xperiences in time to come. Special Feature on Bosnia-Herzegovina A long name to match the country’s long list of attributes, Bosnia-Herzegovina or as it is known in more simpler terms, Bosnia, is a country located in Southeastern Europe. It has arose from its turbulent past and is continuing to shine with a wondrous array of elements which are just becoming known to travellers In this issue we at Beyond Xperience tried to provide our readers something amazing and baffling, this issue of beyond Xperience will take our readers on journey where they can Xperience The Great Migration in Africa as essential part of travel, ranging from the The City of Angkor in Cambodia to The Grand Canyon in USA, and from the Yanar Dag in Azerbaijan to The Salar of Uyuni in Bolivia a replica of Antartica., then all the way to Chicago to witness yourself in a classy coolest experience and try the glass box balcony of the Willis Tower in Chicago. After Chicago we invite you to Xperience something sensational, something incredible! it exemplifies raw human determination! You will be mystified forever after the previous edition you were presented with four of the world’s most extraordinary bridges. Now to extend further onto the next four dazzling crossings in our Special Report on Brilliant Bridge. We welcome you all to May 2011 edition of beyond Xperience, please do let us know about your opinion, your feedbacks gives us strength to do more, to explore the un explored…

Letters

Letters to the Editor

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beyond xperience l May 2012

xperiences

The Great Migration Rainy months from November to May hundreds of thousands of wildebeests and Burchell’s zebra gather in the open grass plains. Towards the end of May, the wildebeests start to congregate. After several dummy runs, the animals begin their trek several miles long to the permanent waters in the north of the Park. After moving westwards, the migration divides: one to the north-east and the other due north. The zebra join in the migration, in family units each with a dominant stallion. Lion, cheetah, hyena and hunting dog follow the wildebeest and zebra, making sure that only the fittest survive. In November, after grazing in the North this army of animals surges back to the now green pastures of the south, where they calve and mate before starting the entire cycle again. January and February is the best time to see the animals here. Heading north into the Park, gazelles, and small groups of topi, kongoni,

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ostriches and secretary birds could be seen. Hyraxes, lizards play on the rocks whilst birds fill the air with their songs. Giraffes nibble the tender leaves of acacias, buffalo lumber along, and Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles, impala, topi and kongoni nervously graze. The Grumeti River supports black and white colobus monkeys while large crocodiles take to its waters. In open clearings and on hills, a herd of roan antelope or Patterson’s eland sometimes appear. To the north, the landscape gradually becomes the elephant country, while buffalo, zebra, giraffe and gazelles abound.

This 12,950 sq. km area is all but a unique combination of diverse habitats adopting more than 30 species of large herbivores and nearly 500 species of birds with small rivers, lakes and swamps scattered throughout, making

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it the most complex, least disturbed ecosystem on Earth.

xperiences

The Grand Canyon The mystery of natural world cascades in the ever magnificent and enthralling sight of Arizona’s Grand Canyon. Nearly five million people see the 1 mile deep Grand Canyon each year. Most of them see it from their car at overlooks along the South Rim (this includes Grand Canyon Village, Hermits Rest, and Desert View). The South Rim is the most accessible part of the park and is open all year. Few people see the Canyon from the North Rim, which rises a thousand feet higher than the South Rim, and is much less accessible. The Inner Canyon includes everything below the rim and is seen mainly by hikers, mule riders, or river runners. There are many opportunities here for adventurous persons who want to backpack, ride a mule to Phantom Ranch, or take

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a river trip through the Canyon on the Colorado River (which can take anywhere from a few days to three weeks - there are no one-day river trips through Grand Canyon). When hiking across the canyon, South Kaibab Trail crosses the Colorado River on a narrow foot bridge 70 feet above the water. It is a 21 mile hike to go “Rim To Rim,” with a vertical descent - followed by a climb - of 1 mile that

makes this an overnight hiking trip for most of the hikers. There is no longer an airstrip on the North Rim of the park. That means that the North Rim village may only be reached by driving all the way around - or by hiking across the canyon. The sceneries make you breathless and gasp for more exhilarating experience of the Canyon you wouldn’t want to deprive yourself of. Simply beautiful and majestically grand of nature mystic perfect for anyone’s insatiable thirst for uniqueness!

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Regional Discovery

ungle Safari

Chase the Rhinos in Nepal

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The City of Angkor Even the remnants of the old civilizations are wonderful pieces of art and craft that you marvel. The city of Angkor is the best example to justify the statement. This historical city is located in Cambodia. The city of Angkor is the legacy of Khmer Empire in Asia. Angkor, the capital city was built between 879 AD and 1191 AD. The unique about the city of Angkor are the temples in numbers of thousands. Angkor Wat which is a complex of temples is considered to be the largest single religious monument in the world. The city has a developed infrastructure because it was the largest city of the world before industrial revolution. The urban sprawl of the city is spread over 1000 sq. km considered as the main area of the city has the great connectivity infrastructure. This historic city was lost in jungle and remained lost for 1000 years. City was rediscovered in 1860 by a French explorer. The main attractions of the Angkor region are temples of Angkor Wat. These complexes of century- old temples are great masterpieces of stone carving.

This great city has four gateways in the city face wall from east, west, south and north and lead to the geometric centre of the city called Bayon. Each gateway tower has a giant face which sees all four cardinal points. The gateways are decorated with three headed carved stone elephants. These temples are masterpieces of stone carving and everyone must see that how beautifully the stones have been carved. This is one of the major tourist attractions in Cambodia. No doubt this historical religious site draws huge number of visitors nostalgic of Khmer civilization one canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help but be fascinated. Angkor City is one valuable heritage spot in the world.

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xperiences

Yanar Dag

Xperience Eternal Fire In 1958, seeping subterranean gases were accidentally caught on fire and continued to burn day and night. Fifty years later and the fire still burns. Upon first seeing the flames, there is a truly surreal feeling. There are just these

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flames burning on a side of a hill. They are not spreading they merely are. in fact these flames have been on the Earth longer than I have. There are some steps to side that allow for a decent view of the surrounding Absheron Peninsula. It would be great to return here in the late evening sometime, it would be a little freaky with the quiet surroundings and also when it is raining.

While Yanar Dag is not a reason in and of itself to visit Azerbaijan, if you are already here it is worth the short trip from Baku to visit it if you are exploring Absheron.

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Reader’s Xperience

Deep in the Heart of Africa For the first time on the African continent, and deeply excited, we started our safari from the largest town in the North of Tanzania – Arusha. Picked up by a local driver with a privately booked Land Rover safari car with an open roof, we felt instantly in the safari mood. First stop was the beautiful Lake Manyara National Park, renowned for the flamingo-filled lake, its huge elephant population and tree climbing lions as well as an everchanging scenery of all kinds of flora and fauna. Apart from the great colors of our surroundings, we’ve nearly seen all animals the North has to offer in one day: Baboons, lions in trees, elephant families, blue monkeys, hippos, zebras and giraffes. The following day we continued a spectacular drive through the rainforests along the Ngorongoro Crater to Lake Ndutu, located in the southwest sector of Serengeti. Lake Ndutu becomes alive with animals during the migration because it is sur-

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rounded by the Ndutu woodlands and the Short Grass Plains, which provide ample cover and food. Driving through different scenery of giant, flat-topped acacias, with elephants, giraffes, gazelles and a variety of birds, we found our first group of lions resting on the path just in front of our car. We were not allowed to step out of the car, yet could see that they are used to tourists passing through and did not feel threatened by our presence. This is the same case with elephants drinking from water ponds next to the road or zebras resting their heads on top of each other’s backs. A night in a luxury camp site featuring a bonfire and animals passing through was an unexpected highlight of our experience in Lake Ndutu National Park. Just when we thought we saw it all and nothing can possibly top our impressions so far, we started our drive to Serengeti National Park on the third day. A full day in this park is hard to capture in words – the never ending

scenery changes within the hour, from flat steppes to rich savannas and grass valleys, forests and rock areas. We were lucky to see lions hunting, leopards resting in trees, vultures, hyenas and jackals fighting for leftovers, hippos diving in huge water ponds and most impressively – a migration herd of zebras and wildebeests crossing the road. This is when we decided to have lunch just in the middle of the migration, watching a never-ending line of animals trusting their individual wildebeest leader to

cross the road safely! Enriched with this unbelievable day, we set sail for the last stop of our safari on day four: the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO heritage site and also known as “the cradle of mankind”. This former volcano is a heaven for researchers, due to the 3 million years history of the crater. Footprints of our ancestors were eternalized after rain on the fresh ash of the crater outbreak millions of years ago. The crater forms a “natural enclosure” for all kind of animals, so our drive through was marked by very close-up encounters. Amazingly,

Readers Xperience

we saw the “Big 5” in only one day– elephants, rhinos, leopards, lions and buffalos. Just before leaving the park, we had the incredible luck of being used as a sun shade for a family of eight lions resting beneath our car! The scarred bodies of these predators made us once more realize that we are not in a zoo but in the middle of a violent yet balanced ecosystem. This 4 day safari is the experience of a lifetime and highly recommendable for adventurers, animal and nature lovers alike!

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xperiences

The Salar of Uyuni Antarctica might look somewhat like this at a glance, but it doesn’t have the sheer flatness over an area of 10,000 sq. km or perhaps an extra-terrestrial planet with any people. But no – this vast expanse is right here on earth in one of South American countries, Bolivia. It is Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flats – and one of the most amazing sights in the world.

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About more than 30,000 years, there was one big lake, Lake Minchin. It changed through different geological processes and ended up as two freshwater lakes and two saltwater lakes, one being Uyuni. As time went by, Uyuni developed a thick salt crust of brine on top composed of lithium, magnesium and table salt. Half of the world’s lithium is to be found in the brine under Uyuni’s salt flats. Tourists get to stay in salt hotels. Big blocks of salt became the bedrock of the hotels as this was the most readily available building material around. There are several lakes in the Salar de Uyuni that flood during the rainy season, that when covered in a sheet

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of water becomes the largest mirror in the world! It is one of the highest and largest flats on earth, and is smoothed from flooding every season – dissolving bumps and interference – so is ideal to use for calibrating the location of satellites. When the sun slowly sets on the flats, golden colours shimmer back from the ground, making the whole lake look like a nymphs’ party ground with fairy lights everywhere. It is a remarkable sight that is seen nowhere else in the world, even in the universe. Consisting of some 4,633 square miles of salt and a train graveyard, The Salar de Uyuni--one of the most wonderful sights!

Regional Discovery

Nepal

Khatmandu - Nagarkot - Bhaktapur

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Xperiences

The Crooked House in Poland Being unique is exceptional. One cannot help but be captivated at the sight of a single thing that is done out of normalcy. Though it looks like something out of a surrealist painting or a Disney cartoon – this is a real building. Located in Sopot, Poland this is an extension of the already existing shopping and service centre which main entrance is at Haffnera 6 Street. Most of all, this popular walking promenade is a meeting place of the Tri-City Bohemia, people looking for fun and joy. There is a variety of romantic cafes, fancy restaurants, valuable shops and cool entertainment centres in this area. Szotynscy Zaleski designed the Krzywy Domek w Sopocie on Bohaterów Monte Cassino Street in Poland. It was based on children’s book illustrator Jan

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Marcin Szancer and Swedish painter Per Dahlberg. Green shades cover sheet metal on the curved roof. The surrealist three-story building assumes the scale of surrounding restaurants, shops, and houses at the Rezydent shopping centre, and then distorts at the central lobby entrance. Opened in 2004, arguably the most photographed object in Sopot, Centrum Rezydent’s 4,000m2 of luscious curves are topped with a roof of blue-green enamelled shingles designed to give the impression of a dragon.

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Colourful stained glass entrances, stone elevation decors and windows framed with sandstone make a great impression to one’s keen eyes. There is also an unusual roof covered with sheet metal with enamel roof tiles coloured with green shades of blue and Parisian blue, which in the whole creates an illusion of dragon scales. The warped building promises more from the outside than it actually delivers once you have entered. Do as the tourists do and take a memento picture before moving onto one of the other choices on the strip.

Xperiences

Glass Box Balcony If you are hesitant more so afraid of heights and have phobias because of it, then its high time you should overcome it and be a conqueror! This time contain yourself in a classy coolest experience and try the glass box balcony of the Willis Tower.

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same height on the same mast point out the use of a diplexer into the sameshared antenna. So get yourself up and try the awesomeness of this glass sky decks until you can shout at the top of your lungs and holler this phrase from the Film Director James Cameron â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am King of the Worldâ&#x20AC;?! You are.

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The Willis Tower, formerly named, and still usually referred to as, the Sears Tower is a 108 story, 1,451 foot (442 m) very tall building in Chicago, Illinois. We may name the Sears Tower, in Chicago as the tallest buildings of America. The landlord of this tower has installed few glass box balconies at 103 floor of the building, which are fixed out of the building. If you wish to view Chicago city at one site you should see the strangest glass box balcony at Sears Tower. Viewers will not disappoint themselves by trying this one of a kind

height experience as the urban sprawl before your very eyes. When this tower was established in 1973, it was the tallest building in the world, being greater the World Trade Centre towers in New York, and it held this rank for nearly 25 years. The Willis Tower is the tallest building in the United States and the seventh-tallest freestanding structure in the world. Several broadcast station transmitters are situated at the highest place of the Willis Tower. Each list is ranked by height from the top down. Stations at the

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Funny, Frightening and Freezing Festivals From barrels of laughs to frightening fun to white wonderlands, these three festivals are all very different. However, they do share one great attribute....they all intrigue. So prepare to laugh, scream and gasp as we delve into this edition’s Festivals......

Fringe Festival, Edinburgh Everyone enjoys a good laugh, so what better way to get yourself into a giggling frenzy than to visit Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival. Known as the world’s largest arts festival it features performing arts, theatre and of course its main attraction, comedy. It takes place for

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over three weeks every August and invites anybody to perform. There are thousands of registered shows and tens of thousands of individual performances. So a constant stream of diverse performances keeps the onlookers buzzing. So how did it all start? In 1947

the Edinburgh International Festival was set up in an attempt to perk up post war Britain. The Fringe Festival then seized the opportunity to run along side it, giving chances to less established artists to exhibit their talent. In 2011 Fringe sold 1,877,119 tickets for 41,689 performances of 2,542 shows, in 258 venues, over 25 days. A great deal of numbers indeed, meaning a great deal of laughs and smiling faces. The Fringe Festival is famous around the globe and has spawned similar celebrations in other destinations. However the Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival still stands as number 1. Do you reckon you have some talent in performance? Then why not reveal it at this special event?

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Lake Tahoe Snow Festival Enter a Winter Wonderland at this festival in Sapporo, Japan. Here you will be awestruck by the showcase of hundreds of snow and ice sculptures which span several blocks, ranging from basic to extremely intricate and inspiring, some sculptures even stand over 30 feet tall! Two million people from around the world come to visit this event and it is renowned for promoting international relations. This event takes place annually for only seven days in February when Sapporo is turned into a crisp white, mystical dreamland. Then the area begins to melt back to reality. Get your woolies on and get into the winter festivities at Sapporo Snow Fest. http://destinationmarketing.com.au/wp-content/ uploads/2011/04/Japan-Sapporo-Snow-Festival.jpg

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Regional Discovery

ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE - BOLOGNA - PADUA - MONTEPULCIANO - VENICE

Romance with

Italy

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Report Bridges

Brilliant Bridges In the previous edition you were presented with four of the world’s most extraordinary bridges. Now to extend further onto the next four dazzling crossings.

Aiola Island Bridge http://re-actor.net/uploads/posts/2011-03/1299902869_ millenium3.jpg

This bridge certainly makes an enjoyable crossing. An Island on a bridge where you can stop to enjoy more than just a scenic crossing. Quench your thirst inside its trendy bar, get your coffee fix in its coffee house, enjoy the open air theatre, watch your kids gleefully clamber around the playground or simply relax in the sun at the sunbathing area. Yes, all this in a bridge. So where can you enjoy these over water amenities? Right in the centre of Mur River in Graz, Austria is where you will find this extraordinary bridge. Its not just the great facilities that attract the

people, photo buffs will love the sight of its unique structure. It takes on a futuristic and intricate design credited to the New York artist Vito Acconci. The idea behind Acconci’s bridge was to create an ‘artificial joint’ that links nature with the city, and opens the middle of the Mur River into an accessible and useful part of city life. At night the Island becomes even more dramatic looking with the glowing neon lights amplifying its already dynamic appearance. Aiola Island Bridge was opened in 2003 and since then has become a popular local attraction.

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Magdeburg Water Bridge Take a close look at this bridge and you will be more than intrigued. A bridge filled with water, over water is noteworthy, but this masterpiece, which forms a water intersection is the biggest water crossing in Europe and the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest water bridge; so it goes beyond just noteworthy. The dazzling design opened in October 2003 backed by five years of construction and a whooping 500 million euro cost. It joins the two German shipping canals Elbe-Havel Canal and the Midland Canal and provides a ship crossing over the River Elbe. However useful and practical it may be, its interest lies mainly on its unique aesthetic. http://images.stuffofawesome.com/the-magdeburg-waterbridge-1317020402-5041.jpg

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Millau Viaduct, France Have a fear of heights? If you answered ‘yes’ then this bridge will not be an easy one to cross. The Millau Viaduct in France is the world’s tallest bridge. A panoramic view will have you trembling, it contains a series triangular masts which are likened to the Eiffel tower, but even taller! The cable stayed road bridge which spans the deepest valley in France, the River Tam near Millau was opened on 14 December 2004. British master-architect Lord Foster designed the bridge in collaboration with French bridge engineer Michel Virloguex. The initial blueprints of the bridge caused a great deal of sceptical ideas to be raised. People questioned whether the bridge’s mighty creation was possible. Yet, through all the harshest of elements it constructors and engineers pushed themselves past boundaries to finish the amazing construction. It stands proudly now in the midst of fluffy white clouds, demonstrating that nothing is completely beyond our reach.

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Amman - Jerash - Gadara

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Navajo Bridge, Arizona In contrast to some of the very futuristic bridges, this ranking pick takes

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on a more antiqued look. With the red, yellows and burnt orange hues

contrasted by the deep blue skies the setting itself is incredible. Looking over the canyon you will notice it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just one bridge but two symmetrical bridges spanning Marble Canyon. Viewing the bridge to the east you will see the original 1929 bridge and to the right the one opened in 1995. The reasoning behind the two connections was due to the original one being deemed unable to support the heavy flow of traffic in 1990. The first solution that was proposed was to simply widen the original bridge, however this would still not bring it up to federal highway standards. So replacement was the only option, the old bridge was simply closed and a replica built next to it. Besides being one of the most fascinating bridges to look at, it is also one of the top bungee jumping sites. Its superb elevation and beautiful natural surroundings make for an adventurous drop.

beyond xperience l May 2012

International Discovery

Bosnia & Herzegovina The heart-shaped land A long name to match the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long list of attributes, Bosnia-Herzegovina or as it is known in more simpler terms, Bosnia, is a country located in Southeastern Europe. It has arose from its turbulent past and is continuing to shine with a wondrous array of elements which are just becoming known to travellers. So lets begin with the aspects which have enriched its current state. With people from around the globe populating the country - including Italy, Spain, Africa, Asia, Syria, Egypt and Palestine - the country started out as an exciting assortment of cultures. From being ruled by the Romans, conquered by Croatia, Byzantium, Duklja and Hungary, raided by the Turks, occupied by Austria-Hungary to becoming Yugoslavia, and influenced by other nations and multiple religions, the result is a

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CAPE TOWN - OUDTSHOORN - GEORGE - PLETTENBERG BAY - KNYSNA - GEORGE - GAUTENG MPUMALANGA - HAZYVIEW - KRUGER NATIONAL PARK - GAUTENG

7 Nights / 8 Days

USD

Inclusive Accommodation in 4 * Deluxe Hotel Transfers - Full Board Basis

2506

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International Discovery

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country which bestows a diverse range of cultures and religions. Never truly a tourist hot spot, the country’s age-old cultures, fantastic mountain landscapes, the great outdoors streaming with adventure and its charming towns have slowly illuminated its sincere and spectacular vista. The capital city Sarajevo must be credited for its outcome. It is vibrant and full of vitality, never would you guess people had once suffered tragic ordeals or how they were on the brink of obliteration in the 1990’s. It stands defiant, cluttered with charm and history and in no way dampened by depression. Here tourists flock to

beyond xperience l May 2012

examine the numerous mosques, churches, cathedrals, synagogue and other fine constructions built by the Turks and Austria-Hungarians. Recent tragedy is apparent but the atmosphere is far from bleak. With a frenzy of people clambering upon the rattling trams on their way to trade, drink coffee, enjoy an authentic meal, dally in the souvenir shops or admire the many artisan workshops which are dotted throughout the city - the aura is set to perfection. Even though it is small enough to be covered entirely by foot your trip to the city will have you yearning for more time to explore and enjoy. Sarajevo is a city where you feel at home, yet are overcome with excitement as you encounter new and

arresting sights. And that’s just the capital, BosniaHerzegovina is woven with places of incredible beauty and charisma. If you venture southwest of Sarajevo you will fall upon Mostar, which is famous for Stari most, or Old Bridge. Old Bridge collapsed in 1993 due to tank shelling and it still brings back tearful memories. The bridge was a symbol for both the city and country as a whole so it was a great tragedy when it crumbled into the bottom of Neretva River. It was reconstructed and now arches over the river’s wild waters again in its former glory. Mostar is probably the country’s most beautiful city and its not hard to see why. Edging the bridge is the old

International Discovery

cobbled Ottoman Quarter, where the city’s artists and craftsmen gather to display intriguing works. You will find an array of bustling cafes, old style houses, restaurants overlooking riverbanks offering spectacular views, and superb buildings which offer stories from Austria-Hungarian times. Even though many buildings were destroyed in the war, efforts are being made to restore them back to their earlier significance.

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For sea lovers the country doesn’t boast a vast amount of coastline, but the 20Km it does offer is superb. Neum, a town nestled in a small cove and overlooking the Adriatic Sea is one of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s gems. The glittering bay is an attractive spot to enjoy some sunbathing or if you are keen to pump up adrenaline through water sport opportunities such as scuba diving, parasailing, boating and jet skiing are available. If it’s not the saltwater that gets you high then perhaps the freshwater will. Konjic is a town surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty. The turquoise waters of the Neretva River that rage through the centre of Prenj Mountain dominate Konjic. The river is teeming in wonderful canyons, large rapids and endemic plants and animal species. Here you will really appreciate the natural allure, but if you really want to engage in some adventure, the rapids will satisfy your buzz craving. The town itself offers pleasant areas to stroll and stunning views. The towns people are renowned for their friendly attitude so any questions such as directions or other information will be answered with a smile. Borako Lake also offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. First follow the road signs for ‘rafting’ up the long and winding mountain road for approximately 30 minutes. Here you will find Borako Glacier Lake snuggled in between Prenj, Bjelasnica and Visocica Mountains. Its time to nestle down to a barbecue, go for a swim or enjoy the shade.

beyond xperience l May 2012

Malaysia Truly Asia

Maldives

not just islands ...

USD

569

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3 Nights / 4 Days For more information contact 0529178991

Inclusive Accommodation in 4 * Deluxe Hotel Transportation - BB Basis - Xcursions/Xperience

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7 Nights / 8 Days Inclusive Accommodation in 4 * Deluxe Hotel Transportation - BB Basis - Xcursions/Xperience

USD

949

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Kuala Lampur

Langkawi

Penang

Genting Highland

Bosnia-Herzegovina boasts one of UNESCO listed sites, the unique settlement of Pocitelji. Here you will be awed by the stunning oriental architecture of the town. The town is built into a hill with a castle sitting high up on the edge of a cliff. Its setting, architecture and atmosphere make it a perfect day trip, especially since its only 20km from Mostar. However it isn’t just its aesthetics that entice, the town also hosts the longest operating art colony in southeast Europe. Here you will find an abundance of glossy red pomegranates and figs growing on the hills, their fetching appearance draw in artists from around the world. A sight which won’t be missed in the area is the Sahat-kula, a remarkable silo-shaped fort that towers from the top of the hill above the town. Here watchmen and military guarded against possible invasion from the Neretva Valley. For a place to suit all travellers tastes head to Jajce. Famous for its gushing waterfall, but treasures a great deal more. Venture through medieval catacombs, marvel at the hilltop citadel, explore the defensive towers and prehistoric temple, take shots of the massive polystrene statue of Tito or head to the elegant lakes. Jajce is brimming with sights. If you are journeying to Jajce from Sarajevo it is also worth while to make a stop in the town Travnik. Flanked by Vlasik Mountain to the south and Mount Vilenica to the south, its backdrop will make a welcomed stop. The main sight of interest in this town is the Travnik Fortress, the most impressive fortress of its time, still standing brilliantly preserved. Bosnia-Herzegovina is also a great place to destine for a ski holiday. In 1984 it hosted the Winter Olympics so it obviously boasts exciting slopes with perks such as, breathtaking surrounding, reasonably priced accommodation and a vibrant mix of nationalities. The time to hit the slopes in BosniaHerzegovina is from December to April,

International Discovery

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high season from January to mid-February. All ski levels are catered for, and resorts offer a range of facilities such as ski shops, various restaurants and ski and snowboard rental. Jahorina Ski centre offers the best in regard to slopes and facilities. Its highest slope reaches 1.910m and provides spectacular views towards Sarajevo as you climb upwards on the ski lift. Hitting the slopes in this wonderful country will add to your dynamic experience. So there you have it, a few of the many places which are worth exploration in Bosnia-Herzegovina. However it wouldn’t be right to finish here, especially on an empty stomach. Food is a very popular aspect when reviewing a country’s elements so without further delay let me dish you out a a few facts on the nation’s cuisine. With a variety of international influences Bosnian dishes are far from bland and can tantalize a wide variety of taste buds. Many spices are used in moderate quantities to provide a distinct flavour. Most

meals are light, as they are cooked in lots of water. If you were to compare it to another cuisine it would probably be more closely related to Turkish, Greek, and other former Ottoman and Mediterranean cuisines. The country’s largest meal is lunch, so if holidaying make sure you do as the locals do and treat yourself to an extra large lunch. If you really want to immerse yourself in tradition, then try the Bosnian bosanki Ionic, this is a slow roasted pot of meat and vegetable, made up of cabbage rolls stiffed with a savory filling. Bosnia-Herzegovina is full of other delights that have not been covered in this article. To fully experience all there is available on the ruggedly beautiful land one must venture there. It is a country which many people know from making headlines from its heartbreaking civil war but today it is becoming more known for its intriguing atmosphere, rich history, warm people and fascinating sights. A beautiful nation amidst all the lingering scars.

beyond xperience l May 2012

Regional Discovery

UAE’s Grand Canyon A Spectacular Adventure - Beyond Xperience The Wadi Bih region is one of the UAE’s most unique spots for excursions. Dubbed as the Grand Canyon of the UAE, the versatility of its topography attests perfectly to its moniker. Rising to a spectacular 1,000m, Wadi Bih is considered to be the ‘Grand Canyon’ of the UAE. This coast-to-coast route is simply one of the most dramatic drives in the country. You actually pass through two wadis, each with their own distinct feel; Wadi Bih on the West Coast and the narrower Wadi Khab Al Shamis on the East Coast. Over recent years, this trip has become easier as the route is now tarmac all the way to the Emirati checkpoint. Look forward to majestic views and the outdoors at its best.

beyond xperience l May 2012

Their are quite some spots where one can camp, its a spectacular adventure staying over night in these mountains but traveller should keep some camping equipment with them to avoid any disappointment. The real beauty of UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grand Canyon can be more appreciated during sunrise. The light rays lightens the whole area, the deep gorges and sheer height of these mountain will bound to give adventure seekers time to remember all his life. Wadi Bih Run also boast yearly marathon,Held every year since 1993 the Wadi Bih Run is the oldest regular

Regional Discovery

expatriate sporting event in the UAE. The route for the relay run varies depending on the road condition & situation at the UAE - Oman border post. In the past the run has gone from Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) to Dibba on Asphalt roads and graded gravel tracks through the spectacular Hajar mountains and is an uplifting (literally about 900m of ascent & descent!) Therapeutic experience to escape the urban mayhem of the modern UAE. Currently because of border restrictions the run will start and finish in Dibba, Sultanate of Oman. The run is for teams of 5 runners, with each runner completing about 15km to give a total distance

of about 72 km. Each team of five shall comprise of at least one female. Hardy individuals can run the entire distance alone.

beyond xperience l May 2012

i s r e b ack m m u ... S with a twist!

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Maldives

Regional Discovery

not just islands ...

USD

1280 Inclusive Accommodation in 5 * Deluxe Resort Sea Plane Transfers - BB Basis - Island Xperience

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3 Nights / 4 Days

Buy this deal only at

Inclusive Accommodation in 3 * Resort Speed Boat Transfers - Full Board Basis - Island Xperience

4 Nights / 5 Days

USD

689 beyond xperience l May 2012

Culinary Xperience

Dine in nature

beyond xperience l Dec 2011

Culinary Xperience

Spicily delicious! While in Indonesia, it would be a good idea to pop by Kampung Daun for lunch or a dinner. We headed to the much raved about Kampung Daun for Dinner. Kampung Daun is like a mini tropical forest sanctuary, where you get to dine in little huts and enjoy the sound of water streaming and the fresh air. Decorated in Sundanese style, this restaurant provides several types of saung (hut) with different capacities. Sundanese, Indonesian, Western, and Italian food can be found here. Kampung Daun can be reached in about an hour driving from Bandung City Centre (considering the congested traffic, mainly on the weekends). A Sudanese Indonesian treat that is famous in Bandung. Fried fish dumplings topped with peanut sauce with some chilli sauce, lime juice and drizzled with kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) all over. The bebek bertutu (grilled duck) is so fragrant from its marinate. Grilled in such a way that the duck is so tender and comes off the bone so easily. A surprise that Kampung Daun gives is that all the rice on the plate taste different from each other. They really take the initiative to pay attention to the details and ensure that each plate is unique in their own ways. You'll probably be budgeting around Rp 60,000 - Rp 100,000 per person to dine here but it is worth it. Extremely crowded on weekends, you might consider a reservation in advance, unless if you prefer to wait in line. This place is simply perfect in terms of ambience, and food. If you're ever in Bandung, don't forget to pop by.

beyond xperience l May 2012

Report Hotels

Dramatic & Dynamic Dwellings This issue we would like to take our readers on a journey where they will be delighted to stay. In this section Astonishing accommodation will baffle your mind and will force you to take one of them soon. Enjoy these one of its kind places to spent you night or a day.

Tea Factory Hotel, Sri Lanka

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ancy a cup of tea? Yes? Then you will be interested in this stay. The Tea Factory Hotel located in Sri Lanka offers you the opportunity to step into the Colonial era where you are surrounded by lush green landscapes and the chance to experience life as tea picker first hand. Not only that, the hotel itself boasts 57 luxurious colonial style rooms where you can rest your weary head after a day picking or sit down to dine in one of their fine restaurants which strictly follow a unique Third Dimension Food philosophy which is based on taste, presentation and health. To add, the hotel possesses a world class top chef so you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be left gastronomically unsatisfied. The tea factory and all its surrounding plantations makes a different and very unique experience for its guests.

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Report Hotels

Molja Lighthouse, Norway

ight up your night with a stay in a lighthouse. The Molija Lighthouse in Aalesund, Norway provides an interesting nights stay. Here you can check into one of the most important landmarks of Aalesund. In collaboration with famous architects Snøhetta the well known landmark was converted into a very special hotel. Located in the middle of town so you have access to other amenities yet still retaining that aspect of isolation and peacefulness as you listen to the waves crash, break and retract into the ocean. Look out your window to watch boats bob and ships sail by. It is certainly an unforgettable getaway. The interior of the dwelling also contains a great balance

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between history and the modern age. It has all the modern facilities without overriding its authentic charm. The lighthouse is still very much active so the rustic feel throughout is untouched.

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Bubble Tree, Hotel

kay so this may not be a hotel as such, but it is accommodation. Imagine being encapsulated in a bubble surrounded by the beauty nature has to offer. The bubble tree, described as ‘Unusual huts for unusual nights’ was developed by a French design and manufacturing company. Not much of a tree but more of a massive bubble where you can step inside and feel like you are looking out on the world from another dimension. From complete exposure and maximum interaction with your chosen environment in the Crystal Bubble range to a more private abode with the Bubble Room your ideal nature retreat can be met. The Bubble Tree designs are remarkable inventions but they do come with a price so steep

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your bubble may just burst. From 7796 euro for its cheapest bubble to 12,900 for the most lavish lodging. They do however achieve what they describe, offer the opportunity for an unusual night. An experience of life in a bubble surrounded by Mother Nature is without doubt extraordinary.

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his drifting abode is not to be confused with your average houseboat. Overflowing in opulence it definitely surpasses the regular houseboat. Located in Adaleide and on the River Murray the hotel exudes fascination. Evolving from many years experience holidaying on houseboats, the boatel was designed. Architects who specialise in high quality hotel design took on the challenge and have managed to create a living space where you can be at one with nature yet still lap up the life of luxury. So row, row your Boatel down the Murray River... life is just a dream....

beyond xperience l May 2012

Maldives Indian Ocean

Famous for its 1,200 tropical islands, snowwhite beaches, swaying palm trees, and richly colored coral reefs, the Republic of Maldives stretches across more than 600 miles. With 80 percent of the country less than 3.3 feet above sea level, rising ocean levels and a potential increase in the intensity of tropical storms pose a serious threat.

beyond xperience l May 2012

Xperience it before it disapppears

Regional Discovery

Enjoy.

Regional Discovery

A contemporary hotel at the heart of the Dubai, located minutes away from The Dubai Mall along with the most inspiring views of the world tallest building, Burj Khalifa. Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown offers 242 guestrooms including 22 suites, 2 excellent dining venues, 9 state-of-the-art meeting rooms, Free high-speed Internet access and 100% Guest Satisfaction Guarantee. All you need for a stylish stay...

+971 4 450 2000 info.downtown.dubai@radissonblu.com

radissonblu.com/hotel-dubaidowntown beyond xperience l May 2012

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