Monthly Archives: October 2014

The Surreal and the Subtle Offerings of Pakistan-A Day in Islamabad

What could be a better way to witness the true charm of a country than to alight from flights right at its capital city? Islamabad does justice to Pakistan by offering tourists an authentic and quintessentially Pakistani experience. For those who wish to spend a day exploring the exquisite and the esoteric wonders of Islamabad, this guide is sure to come handy.

Waking up to the Muezzin’s Call is Truly Divine 

If you have booked tickets to spend a day in Islamabad, then the muezzin’s call from the largest mosque in Pakistan, the Faisal Mosque, is bound to offer a soothing acknowledgement of your visit to the incredible country. The melodious rendition implores travellers to start their explorations as a new dawn settles in.

Faisal Mosque

Faisal Mosque

A Fresh Morning Calls for Some Fresh Air and a Hearty Breakfast!

Gear up all the morning energy and head on to the lush landscapes of the Margalla Hills. Enjoy breathtaking views from the gardens of Daman-e-Koh, a famous viewpoint tucked atop the hills. And the strolling and trekking has fuel your hunger pangs, you can surely dive into some delicious offerings of the Pir Sohawa, a resort which also houses one of the most picturesque restaurants in Pakistan.

Time for Some Dedicated Sightseeing

Avid travellers are not only good at netting the best deals on flights tickets; they are also good at indulging in immersive travel. And one cannot fully immerse oneself in a place without witnessing its culture, artistry and heritage. Head on with gusto to the Lok Virsa Museum, an institution that exhibits the creative and crafty side of Pakistan with its multifarious visual delights.

Monument-in-Islamabad

Witness the Contrast of the Past and the Present

Located close to the popular Shakarparian Hills, the Pakistan Monument resembles both the glory of the nation and the nuances of a colonial past. After feasting your eyes on the brilliant architecture, you may head towards the Saidpur Village, which stands in stark contrast of the yesteryears with its modernist renovations and classy venues.

A Serene Evening is always a Memorable One

Hop on a boat and let the tranquillity of the Rawal Lake calm your senses before you board your return flights and bid a fond goodbye to Islamabad.

A Quick Look at Fascinating Facilities at San Francisco International Airport

Ultra-modern infrastructure, smooth connectivity, comfy transfers and an attractive array of modern amenities are just a few components that make San Francisco International Airport (IATA: SFO) a world-class aviation hub. About 16kms south of San Francisco city centre, the airport offers almost everything a modern traveller may ask for. After all, it is one of the largest airports in the USA, both in terms of size and connectivity. Here is a sneak preview of the amenities and services offered at this prominent international gateway to the city of San Francisco as well as the rest of California State.

Places to Eat & Drink

With a broad choice of trendy bars, chic cafes and inviting bistros at both transfer and passenger zones, SFO spoils epicureans between choices of the famous authentic cuisines and various intercontinental delicacies. Whether you seek a quick snack or a leisure meal with family and friends; there is something for all at this state-of-the-art aviation hub. Amoura Café near Gate A3, Andalé Mexican Restaurant at Terminal 3 Boarding Area and Burger joint near Boarding Area A are some popular eateries where people booking tickets for flights to and from SFO can enjoy delectable meals. Coffee-lovers would have a gala time at several cafés like Buena Vista Cafe and Emporio Rulli Gran Caffe.

sanfrancisco

San Francisco

Tax-free Shopping

San Francisco International Airport boasts various retail stores that offer everything from gifts to books and designer brands to luxury boutiques. Most of these goods are available at duty-free rates, allowing passengers to enjoy shopping before or after their scheduled flights. Outlets are located mainly at Terminal 1, 2 and 3 as well as in baggage claim hall. Many local retailers in main shopping area sell authentic San Francisco souvenirs and that to at reasonable rates. Art enthusiasts should visit the SFO Museum and the San Francisco Art Commission for a peek into region’s interesting art and history.

Easy transfers

Getting to and from SFO is easy and hassle-free, thanks to the excellent transport system that connects it with San Francisco and the surrounding areas. BART rapid rail is perhaps the most convenient and fastest mode that links the airport with San Mateo County, San Francisco and the East Bay. SanTrans buses also offer frequent services to and from this swanky aviation hub in the USA. People looking for comfy ride can hire a car from SFO’s Rental Car Centre.

Drive along the Scenic Beauty of Australia at Ningaloo Reef and Shark Bay!!

Australia’s fly drive tours are hugely popular amongst global holidaymakers planning to grab air tickets onboard flights for vacationing in the nation. Such adventurous trips allow travellers to hire a four-wheel-drive for driving around Australia’s knotty highways and exploring the spellbinding local delights. Most visitors love to experience the authentic charms of the Ningaloo Reef and Shark Bay, one of the most loved fly drive tours of Australia. Read on for a superb tour idea that’s sure to offer you a gratifying experience in the gorgeous land of kangaroos!

Fly-Drive Options

Explore the western part of Australia that unfolds as a paradisiacal stretch of land that never fails to impress nature and marine life lovers. The entire stretch boasts a company of wild whale sharks, manta rays, dugong, and bottlenose dolphins swimming freely in their natural habitat. The trip starts at Exmouth, which impresses the visitors with its memorabilia of exciting sightseeing wonders. Keen explorers on this trip ensure their chances of a pleasing rendezvous with superb outback views just before turning towards Monkey Mia to experience one of Australia’s thrilling wildlife encounters.

Ningaloo Reef

Ningaloo Reef by Robert Young/ CC BY

From Exmouth, head south to start exploring the revelries of Cape Range National Park and crisscross through pristine coastlines featuring glittering beaches that front Ningaloo Reef. Holidaymakers may even wander around like locals, and check out some prominent attractions of the region which includes the Heritage-listed lighthouse, the only kerosene-burning light station of Australia. Further, return to Exmouth and head towards Coral Bay, a quite relaxed hamlet boasting a gorgeous coast with Ningaloo Reef. Adventure lovers taking the tour may hire a snorkel and float through the stunning corals to relish a memorable experience.

Cape Cuvier is the next halt of this tour. It allows the travellers to witness a remarkable winter feeding frenzy, with whales and sharks forcing shoals of fish against the cliff-lined coast. For those who wish to continue their drive further south, they can head to Carnarvon to Steep Point and even further to Hamelin Pool to Monkey Mia.

Add a German Tinge to your Australian Holidays with Brisbane Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest by digital cat/ CC BY

October does not only mark the commencement of the last quarter of the year but this is the month when German cultural fiesta ‘Oktoberfest’ becomes a rage in several countries. Splendour of this beer festival is spread as far as Australia, and Brisbane flaunts the most extravagant facet of Australian Oktoberfest. This year i.e., in 2014, Brisbane Oktoberfest is scheduled to create a splendid German-styled aura on 10th-12th and 17th-19th October. Let’s check a few popular highlights of this festival.

German Cultural Impressions

Since this Oktoberfest is a cultural import from Germany, visitors get an opportunity to dance to German beats, wear traditional dresses and gorge on authentic delicacies. Moreover, one can be a part of various competitions that are popular in Germany for years and win prizes. Tickets for the fest are available online however, if you want to take part in competitions, you need to register in person at dedicated counters.

Miss Oktoberfest Brisbane

The competition’s name might sound like a beauty pageant but it is a little different. Besides beauty, contestants also need to prove to their physical strength as well. They need to carry as much steins as they can. On top of it, participants need to wear traditional dress called dirndl. To clinch the coveted title of Miss Oktoberfest you need to be between 18-35 years of age. And to be a winner, you must know about various aspects of Oktoberfest. Want to be a part of this fun-filled contest, mark 11 October 2014 in your calendar!

Bavarian Strongmen

This is one of the most popular competitions taking place in this fiesta of Brisbane. As the name suggests, this competition is for strongmen but in a team of three. Bavaria is the state in Germany where Oktoberfest originated in 19th century. And teams need to prove their strength in various Bavarian skill tests such as Bavarian-style wheelbarrow race, keg rolling and nailing. Jam doughnut eating competition always remains on the top of lists of spectators.

Other Highlights

Travellers boarding flights to enjoy October holidays in Brisbane must have Oktoberfest on their travel plan not only to catch the action of various competitions but also to indulge in various other activities. Few popular ones are powerful musical performance by Münchner Buam, an Oktoberfest band from Munich. Car lovers must buy tickets for this annual festival and check the collection of spectacular German cars at Autofest.

Popular Guided Tours in Hong Kong for First-Timers

hongkong

The populous and bustling city of Hong Kong features on the itineraries of many travellers who wish to net tickets to China to explore its myriad oriental charms. However, for first-timers who alight from their flights in Hong Kong, venturing into the break-neck pace of the city-life may seem too daunting a task to undertake. Unless, of course, some well planned and carefully executed tours come to the rescue of bewildered travellers.

Explore Hong Kong from its Watery Lanes- Boat Tours for Amateurs

The Container Port in Hong Kong is the third busiest port in the world. Many guided tours start off from this point as the area is an ideal place to witness the transformational outlook that the city has donned over the course of time. With frequent stops at places like Aberdeen Harbour, Deep Water Bay and Stanley, paying for tickets aboard one of the boat cruises leads to some exquisite chances to witness the eventful life of the fishing communities, exotic markets and food stalls that line that the waterfront.

Splurge To Your Heart’s Content with Shopping Tours

Many travellers who board flights to Hong Kong are keen to explore its exhaustive array of offerings that one can purchase from the city’s multifarious shopping venues. Shopaholics can find their haven in many places like Causeway Bay, Island Beverly Center and Harbour City. Hong Kong has something to offer to varied shoppers, be it classy and pricy designer creations or the insanely affordable and cheaper versions of the same. In Hong Kong, with innumerous mind-boggling options, it is quite easy to end up spending the money reserved for the purchase of return tickets!

Gastronomic Sojourns for Foodies are Possible with Food Tours

Gourmands from all parts of the world admit to the fact that Hong Kong is one of the places in the world that is rightly acclaimed as a ‘food paradise’. However, for first timers, it may be quite cumbersome to find the best dimsum joint and wonton soup cart. The guided food tours not only bring out the best of culinary outcomes that Hong Kong has to offer, but also enlighten tourists about the significance of food-culture in the city.

Four Most Stunning Architectural and Historical Sites in Pakistan

Pakistan is a treasure trove of historical monuments and architectural wonders, and one can spend months unearthing its glorious historical gems, which range from royal palaces to brawny forts and admirable ruins. If you too are a history-buff and are on a quest for cheap flights tickets’ to this Asian country, here is a list of four must-visit attractions for you!

Lahore Fort

Lahore-FortDating back to the 16th century, this wonderfully-preserved historical fort is a reminder of the grandeur and opulence of Mughal emperors. It is located in the heart of Lahore and contains several imposing structures including Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas and Naulakha Pavilion, all offering a peek into the city’s rich history and culture. Very close to the fort is famous Badshahi Mosque, another must-visit attraction for history-enthusiasts boarding flights to Lahore.

Jinah Mausoleum

Jinah-MausoleumSituated in Karachi, Pakistan’s cultural capital, the mausoleum is where Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan was buried. Now it’s popular tourist spot and attracts a good number of holidaymakers, especially those inclined towards history, netting tickets to visit Karachi. Inside the mausoleum is a small museum that displays various artefacts depicting the life of Muhammad Ali Jinnah!

Ruins at Moenjo-daro

Discovered in 1922, Moenjo-daro is a world-famous archaeological site that symbolises the great Indus Valley civilization. People who visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which carries more than 5000 years of intriguing history on its shoulders, are blown away by its well-planned street grids and an intricate drainage system. The Indus River flows close by the ruins, adding more to its grandeur that draws archaeologists from across the globe, encouraging them to spend on travel tickets and holiday deals for Pakistan.

Buddhist Ruins of Takht-i-Bahi

About 80kms from Peshawar, this Buddhist monastic complex is a wonderful showcase of elaborate Buddhist architecture. Apart from the Court of Stupas, there is a temple and a tantric monastic complex that give flights to the fancies of history enthusiasts and Buddhists. Nestled on a high hill, the ruins are among the most imposing relics of Buddhism. Not too far away from the site is Sahr-i-Bahlol, a tiny fortified town dating back to the 1st century.

Best Places to Relish Ethnic Shopping in Delhi, India’s Cultural Hub!

Delhi, India’s colourful capital, boasts a cultural diversity like no other city in the world. From diverse dining to deep-rooted history and multi-hued festivals, Delhi beckons you to soak in its cultural ecstasy till you feel satiated to the core! Among the many prerogatives that culture-vultures enjoy after de-boarding their flights in the metropolis, ethnic shopping, to bring back home some exquisite souvenirs and exotic memories, is the most enchanting one. In fact, buying interesting local items from the city’s fine markets is a highlight of all Delhi tours. Check out these popular shopping spots where one can get the best ethnic deals!

Dilli Haat, INA

Delhi Haat by meenakshi madhavan/ CC BY

Delhi Haat by meenakshi madhavan/ CC BY

Located in South Delhi, this wonderful cultural quarter is a haven for souvenir hunters and epicureans, alike. Plenty of stalls and shops here offer rich picking for ethnic Indian apparel, interesting paintings, jewellery, arts and crafts and several other Indian indigenous goods. Moreover, there are great Indian delicacies to savour – North Indian, South Indian, Rajasathani, Mughlai… the list goes on. Not surprisingly, Dilli Haat has been a big hit with culture-vultures who spend on flights’ tickets and holiday deals for the Indian capital.

Janpath, Central Delhi

The vibe of this heritage market is appealing and so is the range of products on offer! The many shops here sell a broad array of ethnic stuff, ranging from clothes to footwear and bags to decorative artefacts, and attract shopaholics from far and wide. Bibliophiles will surely love this place; books from virtually all genres are sold here at highly affordable rates. Also, with Palika Bazaar, the famous underground market in Connaught Place, just a stone’s throw away, budget shoppers arriving here will surely get the maximum bang for their money invested on flights, hotels and other holiday essentials!

The Hauz Khas Village

Qutub-MinarNestling in the shadow of the soaring Qutub Minar, the Hauz Khas Village blends history with creativity. After a tryst with the 12th century tall minaret, depicting the rich Mughal history in India, you can head to the special boutiques and galleries in the village selling some of the best brands in designer wear and exquisite old textiles. Several bars and restaurants in Hauz Khas Village are also to be found, which catch the fancy of most epicureans buying air tickets for holidaying in Delhi. Popular venues to shop here include Nalini Malhotra’s A Touch of Gold, Ashish Anand’s Delhi Art Gallery and Krishna at Chaupal.