14 Reasons Everyone Should Visit England at Least Once

For such a small country, England packs a big punch. With jaw-dropping beautiful countryside, award-winning beaches and a whole lot of character, England should top everyone’s must-visit bucket list. Still not convinced? Here are 14 reasons why you need to book that trip to the UK’s shining star, England….

The coastline is unbelievably stunning

From Northumberland’s majestic wild and unspoilt coastline to the breathtaking beauty of Cornwall’s beaches, England has the most incredible shorelines you’ll ever see. It’s also home to many seaside towns bursting with charm, from the traditional delights of Whitby to the cool vibe in Brighton.

You won’t find anywhere as peaceful as the English countryside

Calling England the ‘green and pleasant land’ is an understatement. Boasting idyllic rolling hills as far as the eye can see, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with the lush green landscape. From the north to the south of the country, you’ll find stunning countryside just waiting to be discovered.

The lakes will take your breath away

The Lake District, a National Park in the North West of the country, is the definition of rugged beauty. With glistening lakes surrounded by craggy hilltops and mountains, it’s impossible not to be swept away by the dramatic romance of the region. Get your walking boots on and explore some of the best vistas in the world.

It’s amazing, whatever the season

England has a bit of a bad reputation when it comes to weather, but one of the joys about the country is that is does the seasons very well. Spring is full of new life, with daffodils blooming and Easter egg hunts. In summer it’s all about eating ice cream at the beach and picnics in the countryside. Autumn dazzles when the trees turn bright red and orange, and winter brings snow, sledging and cosy nights in front of a roaring fire. What’s not to love?

There’s a sense of history all around

It may be small in size, but England’s history is world-famous and celebrated across the country. Whether it’s a visit to the awe-inspiring Tower of London, a walk around the atmospheric ruins of ancient castles, exploring prehistoric Stonehenge or checking out the Victorian village of Saltaire, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

England really knows how to party

The English love to have a good time and will jump at any excuse for a celebration. From street parties for the Queen’s birthday and the old-school charm of Henley Regatta, to the world’s best music festival – Glastonbury – and the vibrant, colourful Notting Hill Carnival, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to joining in the party!

It’s heaven for art lovers

With a thriving art scene, England is up there as one of the ultimate destinations for culture-vultures.  Tate Modern has one of the best collections of contemporary art in the world, while The National Gallery is the place to head for classic work by the Old Masters. The country is home to some of the coolest street art, as well as some amazing outdoor sculptures by Henry Moore and Antony Gormley, including the magnificent Angel of the North.

No one does ‘weird traditions’ quite like the English

Where else in the world do people chase a cheese down a steep hill for fun?! England is wonderfully eccentric and a country that really embraces its quirkiness. There’s the Apple Wassail, a mind-boggling ceremony that blesses apple trees into producing a good crop for cider making, as well as the uniquely English tradition of Morris Dancing. Come and see it for yourself!

The people are awesome

What makes England so special are the people who live here. The country is a melting pot of different cultures, religion and class, but you’d be hard pushed to find a friendlier nation. The English pride themselves on having a wicked sense of humour, as well as being ridiculously polite – have you seen the queuing etiquette?!

You’ll want to eat everything

England can boast some of the best restaurants in the world, but it’s not just Michelin-star meals on the menu here. No visit would be complete without a full English (the ultimate breakfast to set you up for the day), afternoon tea (delicate trays of finger sandwiches, cakes, scones and a pot of tea) and the nation’s ultimate food – fish and chips. Even better when eaten straight from the paper.

English pubs are the best in the world

You won’t find anywhere in the world quite like a traditional English pub. The heart of the community, visit one and enjoy a drink and chat with friends. Every pub has its own charm, whether it’s a huge fireplace to warm up next to after a long walk, or a beautiful beer garden to enjoy the best of the English summer.

You’ll be amazed by the wildlife

Foxes, squirrels, hedgehogs, badgers and otters – England is home to some of the most endearing wildlife in the world. There are plenty of organised tours for the best chance to see these animals, as well as a staggering number of species of birds, in their native habitat, but what’s so amazing is that here, wildlife really is everywhere you look.

The villages are picture-perfect

Stone cottages, cobbled streets, thatched roofs; England’s villages really are as picturesque as they come. Whether it’s the pretty chocolate-box villages of the Cotswolds, Norfolk’s tranquil coastal villages or the quintessentially English villages of North Yorkshire, to name just a few, no visit to the country would be complete without experiencing the beauty of these little communities.

And the cities are buzzing

You’ll find some of the very best cities in the world right here. There’s Manchester, with its cool music scene, historical Oxford, the Georgian masterpiece of Bath and lively Newcastle, but it’s England’s capital city, London, which must be experienced. Iconic, cultural, inclusive and beautiful, London has it all.

CR;https://theculturetrip.com/europe/united-kingdom/england/articles/14-reasons-everyone-should-visit-england-at-least-once/

March 10, 2018 ·   0

13 Reasons Why You Should Visit Cambodia at Least Once in Your Lifetime

Cambodia has got the lot, and its enchanting landscapes, rich history and culture and the innate hospitality of the people keep visitors coming back for more. Here are a few reasons why the country should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Angkor Wat

Cambodia’s biggest draw is undoubtedly Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Standing at the centre of national pride – Cambodia and Afghanistan are the only countries that bare buildings on their state flag – the religious structure dates back to the 12th century, and it was once at the centre of the glorious Angkor Empire. The sprawling temple complex is an architectural feat and home to a series of stunning structures and religious monuments.

Friendly faces

Cambodians are renowned for their hospitality, and upon entering the Kingdom, visitors will be overwhelmed with the abundance of warm welcomes and smiles. The gentle nature of Khmers can be found in tuk tuk drivers, service staff, tour guides, stall owners and passersby on the street. Visitors should note that anger doesn’t bode well in Cambodia, and a bit of patience goes a very long way.

Remote islands

While the masses flock to neighboring Thailand’s islands, Cambodia’s alternatives are often wrongly forgotten. That makes them unspoiled options, with the majority maintaining their authenticity and remaining off the mass tourism map. Koh Rong holds the crown as the party island, with nearby Koh Rong Samloem boasting pristine powder sands flanked by tropical flora. Other remote jewels include Koh Thmei, Koh Ta Kiev and Koh Totang.

Authentic travel

Today’s travelers are seeking out authentic experiences over a couple of weeks lazing in the sun, and Cambodia has this by the bucket load. You can take in everything from community home stays, spending a few days trekking through the jungle soaking up the rare flora and fauna and cycling through the pristine countryside to learning how to cook Cambodian food and immersing yourself in the abundance of festivities that dot the calendar.

Wildlife

Cambodia is home to an abundance of wonderful wildlife. Phnom Tamao Rescue Center, on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, boasts an array of creatures that they have rescued from the clutches of poachers and the illegal trade, and they rehabilitate the animals before releasing them back into the wild. The centre has tigers, elephants, sun bears, gibbons and other animals.

Sam Veasna Center offers a range of birding and wildlife tours in Siem Reap province, and visitors will find elephant sanctuaries in Mondulkiri. Plus, various treks through the Cardamom Mountains showcase the country’s unique flora and fauna.

Jungle

The Cardamom Mountains, which sit in the northwest of Cambodia, are one of Southeast Asia’s most species-rich and intact natural habitats. While trekking through the dense jungle – one of the region’s largest remaining rain forests – remains relatively off the beaten track, for now, a rising number of tours take visitors camping, kayaking, cycling and hiking through this unique tropical jungle.

Rich culture

The Kingdom of Wonder comes coupled with a rich culture and heritage that runs through the veins of Cambodians. From magical apsara dancers, traditional music, elaborate ceremonies and stage shows, there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant local scene. Sovannaphum Theatre in Phnom Penh puts on regular performances, with workshops in shadow puppetry available. Cambodian Living Arts also produces a series of traditional dance shows.

History

History buffs will be in their element in Cambodia, with the great Khmer Empire remaining at the centre of national pride. From wandering around the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and discovering more about the kings who created them to the country’s switch from Hinduism to Buddhism and through to its recent violent past, the Kingdom holds a strong and fascinating history.

Art

Despite lacking a national art gallery, the art scene is thriving in Cambodia, with a wave of young contemporary artists leading the way. Galleries sit throughout the capital and Siem Reap, as well as the artistic capital of Battambang and a handful in Kampot. Phnom Penh’s Sa Sa Bassac, Java Café and Gallery and Meta House often show the work of budding artists. In Siem Reap, Theam’s House, Constable Gallery at Large and The 1961 Coworking Space and Gallery are must-visits.

Markets

If you like to drive a hard bargain, then get your haggling hat on and head to the nearest market. They are central to life in Cambodia and are bustling early in the morning as people clamour to buy the freshest foods for the day. Russian Market, Central Market and BKK1 Market in Phnom Penh flog everything from clothes, souvenirs, music and DVDs to food, household goods and vehicle parts. In Siem Reap, Angkor Night Market and the Old Market are hot spots.

Celebrations

The Cambodian calendar is full of public holidays, with celebrations taking place regularly throughout the year. The main holiday is Khmer New Year, which falls on April 14 to 16 in 2018, with another favourite festival, Pchum Ben, taking place September 19–21, 2017. The religious festival sees Cambodians remember the dead, with offerings given to monks. Water Festival, which lands on November 2–4, 2017, sees people flock to the riverside in Phnom Penh to watch the colourful display of boat races that take place on the Tonle Sap River.

Food

From the country’s signature fish amok and beef lok lak to crab and Kampot pepper and the mass of noodle and rice dishes that are eaten on a daily basis, exploring the flavours of Cambodia is essential. A range of food tours and cookery classes are available to take visitors on a journey through the tastes of the Kingdom. The more adventurous can sample popular snacks such as deep-fried tarantulas, crickets and other grub.

Inspiring landscapes

Whether it be tranquil views of a turquoise sea from powder white sand shores, looking over emerald green paddies or out across a deep jungle, Cambodia is full of breath-taking landscapes that will make any visitor stop and stare. Make sure you keep your camera fully charged for all of those Insta-worthy snaps. 

CR:https://theculturetrip.com/asia/cambodia/articles/13-reasons-why-you-should-visit-cambodia-at-least-once-in-your-lifetime/

March 10, 2018 ·   0

21 Things You Definitely Didn't Know About London

Think you know everything there is to know about London? Think again! Here’s a list of 21 things you definitely (probably) didn’t know about our great capital.

1. More people have fallen or jumped from the Monument, built to commemorate those who perished in the Great Fire of London, than actually died in the fire.

2. There is a 19th century time capsule buried under the base of Cleopatra’s Needle, the 68 foot (21 meters) obelisk on the Victoria Embankment. The capsule contains a variety of keepsakes, including a railway guide, a Bible and 12 portraits of attractive English ladies.

3. The smallest house in London is 3.5 feet wide, barely a meter. It is now part of Tyburn Convent in Hyde Park Place.

4. Until 1916, Harrods stocked Ryno’s Hay Fever and Catarrh Remedy, which was almost purely cocaine. Shoppers could also pick up a gift set for “friends at the front,” which contained cocaine, morphine, needles and syringes.

5. Many pubs in Smith field Market, such as the Fox and Anchor, and in Borough Market, such as the Market Porter, are licensed to serve alcohol with breakfast from 7 am. This is to accommodate market porters’ working hours.

6. One theory about the nursery rhyme Pop Goes the Weasel says that it’s actually about needing to pawn your suit after blowing all of your money in the pubs.

7. The clock that sits at the entrance to the Horse Guards Parade at Buckingham Palace has a black mark by the II to commemorate the time that King Charles I was executed in 1649.

8. In 1842, before the 170-foot statute of Nelson was constructed on the Trafalgar Square column, 14 members of the memorial committee that commissioned the piece held a dinner party on the plinth.

9. The Albert Bridge has signs that order troops to break step while marching over it to avoid damaging the structure with resonating vibrations.

10. There is only one place in London where cars are required to travel on the right-hand side of the road—Savoy Court in Strand. Originally, this allowed theatregoers to decamp from their carriages and go directly into the Savoy Theatre.

11. The world’s first traffic light was erected outside the Houses of Parliament in 1868. It blew up the following year.

12. One historian has estimated that up to 20% of all women in 1700s London were prostitutes.

13. Royal Navy ships entering the Port of London are still required by law to give a barrel of rum to the Constable of the Tower.

14. When London hosted the Olympics in 2012, the organisers asked the manager of The Who if drummer Keith Moon was available to play with the band at the opening ceremony. The manager informed them that Moon had been dead for 34 years.

15. Bethlem Royal Hospital, also known as Bedlam asylum, was a popular tourist attraction in 18th century London. Visitors paid to ogle the sick and distressed patients.

16. In 1251, Henry III was given a polar bear as a present from the King of Norway. He kept it in the Tower of London, attached to a long chain so it could swim in the Thames and catch fish.

17. When British Airways had trouble erecting the London Eye, Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group, which includes Virgin Atlantic Airlines, had a blimp fly over the site with a red sign that said, “BA Can’t Get It Up!!”

18. According to popular belief, the Trafalgar Square statue of George Washington, whose great-grandfather immigrated to The States from England, is built on soil imported from the U.S. because Washington once claimed he would never again set foot on English soil.

19. To get a license to drive a classic London taxi, you have to prove that you know every street and landmark in London as well as the back of your hand. This extensive set of information is known as The Knowledge, and it takes three to four years to memorise.

20. It’s against the law to die in the Houses of Parliament.

21. Great Ormond Street Hospital owns the rights to the Peter Pan story .

CR:https://theculturetrip.com/europe/united-kingdom/england/london/articles/21-things-you-definitely-didnt-know-about-london/

March 09, 2018 ·   0

The 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Cambodia

Few travelers are immune to Cambodia’s beguiling charms, which are made all the more poignant by the country’s resilience in recovering from its dark past. All kinds of travelers, from backpackers to luxury tourists, continue to flock to see legendary Angkor Wat , but this iconic attraction is only the beginning of Cambodia’s beauty. From pristine beaches and untouched jungles to stunning architectural feats, here are some of the most beautiful places in Cambodia that you need to visit.

1. Angkor Wat

Siem Reap’s legendary temple complex needs little introduction. This attraction is the single impetus for many travelers to visit Cambodia. The largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat was originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, before being converted into a Buddhist temple in the 14th century. Be sure to check out the temple’s thousands of Apsaras carvings, or nymphs, each of which is astoundingly unique. While the eponymous Angkor Wat is the most impressive and well-preserved of the temples in the complex, it’s worth checking out some of the lesser-known temples where you can appreciate Khmer architecture minus the crowds.

2. Koh Ker

Koh Ker is an intriguing archaeological site dating back to the area’s brief stint as a Khmer capital from 928 to 944 AD. Although the site was neglected and abandoned for centuries, the wildlife encroaching on these ancient monuments only adds to their sense of mystery. Once inaccessible, Koh Ker can now be reached in a day-trip from Siem Reap via a new toll road. The area consists of more than 42 structures, but one of the highlights is Prasat Thom, a seven-tier sandstone temple pyramid. Standing 98-feet tall with a mythical half-man half-bird guarding the top, this unusual temple looks more similar to Mayan ruins than typical Khmer architecture.

3. Koh Rong

Koh Rong is easily one of the most beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand, with white sands and turquoise-green waters that could go toe-to-toe with any of Thailand’s tropical paradises. In the evening, you might catch a glimpse of bio-luminescent plankton creating a haunting illumination in the dark night-time waters. In addition to the sandy beaches lining the coast, the island’s interior is filled with relatively pristine forests where you’ll find birds and other wildlife. Although diving, snorkeling, and trekking can all be arranged, the island is still fairly peaceful and undeveloped.

4. Koh Tonsay

Koh Tonsay is simple, untouched and secluded. It’s only a 20-minute boat ride away from Kep, but it feels completely removed from civilization. The island is dotted with a few rustic bungalows and open-air restaurants, making it the perfect place to lose a few days lounging in hammocks, swimming, and strolling along the tree-lined beach. The island’s name comes from its shape, which locals say resembles a rabbit. It’s possible to walk all the way around this rabbit-shaped circumference in a single day. With no television, Wi-Fi, or air-conditioning, Koh Tonsay is one Southeast Asia’s few remaining island paradises.

5. Kratie

Occupied by the Khmer Rouge early in their campaign, Kratie managed to escape the destruction that occurred in the 1970s. As a result, worn but beautiful French colonial buildings still stretch along the town’s charming riverfront, which also happens to boast some of the region’s the most spectacular sunsets over the Mekong River. In addition to providing a glimpse of Cambodia’s tranquil, rural landscape, Kratie is known as one of the best places in the country to spot freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins, which live in the Mekong River about 9 miles north of town.

6. Mondulkiri

Mondulkiri is a wild, sparsely populated area of Cambodia, dotted with rolling hills, jungles, waterfalls, and valleys. The region is home to some of the country’s most rare and endangered wildlife, including leopards, water buffalo, and elephants. Almost half of Mondulkiri’s population belongs to the Bunong minority group, who hunt for most of their food. It’s a fantastic region for visiting traditional villages and interacting with elephants in their natural habitat. The cool climate, stunning scenery and wildlife-viewing opportunities make it a perfect area for trekking and hiking.

7. Phnom Penh

Beautiful might not be the first word to come to mind when one thinks of Phnom Penh, but with lovely colonial buildings and a picturesque riverside promenade, the city is just that. Phnom Penh’s beauty shines even brighter when you recognize how this hardy city has emerged from the damage of war to reinvent itself once again as the ‘Pearl of Asia.’ From the glittering Royal Palace and crowded markets to sophisticated contemporary bars and restaurants, Phnom Penh’s loveliness is complex and reveals itself slowly to visitors.

8. Popokvil Waterfall

Set in Bokor National Park, Popokvil Waterfall is a stunning two-tiered waterfall, which looks particularly gorgeous during the rainy season. Although the appearance of the surrounding rainforest has been somewhat marred by the construction of a huge casino on the hill summit, the area is still quite pretty. The waterfall takes its name from an expression meaning ‘swirling clouds’, perhaps due to the ever-present mist that surrounds it. It’s a great place to stop for a refreshing swim and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the endangered animals that live in the area, such as the pig-tailed macaque and the Malayan sun bear.

9. Preah Vihear

Preah Vihear is a striking Khmer temple, dramatically set on a 1,722-foot cliff in the Dângrêk Mountains. The views from the top expand over lowland Cambodia, with the peak of Phnom Kulen watching silently in the distance. Spread over more than 2,000 feet, the temple’s five Gopuras are comprised of four levels and four courtyards, all of which are decorated with intricate carvings. Constructed mainly between the 11th and 12th centuries, the temple was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Set on the border between Cambodia and Thailand, ongoing territorial disputes between the two countries have closed access to the temple from the Thai entrance.

Ream National Park

Located 16 miles north of Sihanouk Village , Ream National Park encompasses more than 81 square miles of natural beauty. The park includes mangrove forests, miles of unspoilt beaches, two islands, coral reefs, and tumbling waterfalls. More than 200 bird species inhabit the park, including endangered species like the white-bellied sea eagle and Brahminy kite. The park is an ideal spot for forest treks, boat trips, or simply admiring the scenery. Like many of Cambodia’s untouched natural attractions, Ream National Park faces constant threat from developers, so it’s best to visit sooner rather than later before serious changes begin to take place.

cr: https://theculturetrip.com/asia/cambodia/articles/the-10-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-cambodia/

March 09, 2018 ·   0