A little sand, a little surf, and a lot of golf. That's the recipe for the week of April 14-20th 2008 on Hilton Head Island, otherwise known as Verizon Heritage week around these parts. If your are headed this way as a Heritage player or spectator, let it be known that Hilton Head knows what hospitality and a good time is all about - on and off the greens. Check out this guide to the best of Hilton Head Island, and let the good times roll!
The Verizon Heritage Golf Tournament has been played on the famed Harbour Town Golf Links at the Sea Pines Resort in Hilton Head Island, SC every year since 1969. The host course was designed by Pete Dye, with input from Jack Nicklaus. Known to locals as "The Heritage", South Carolina's only PGA TOUR event has been scheduled during the week following the Masters since 1983. This year's Verizon Heritage will be April 14 -20, 2008.
The tournament's Pro-Am is a great way to entertain clients as well as spend time with a PGA professional. The price for the Pro-Am event includes a free round of golf, eight clubhouse badges, weekly parking pass, gift packages, and much more. The Heritage Classic Foundation is the general sponsor of the tournament. The local support of generous sponsors, helpful volunteers, and countless spectators make this a must attend event every year. Since it was founded in 1987 as a not-for-profit organization, the Foundation has helped thousands of people in need throughout the area and state. In 2007, the Heritage Classic Foundation was honored to donate $1.8 million dollars, bringing the total to more than $16.6 million since it was organized. Past winners of the Heritage include Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, Payne Stewart, Greg Norman, Nick Price, Hale Irwin, Davis Love III, and Jack Nicklaus. A record purse of $5.5 million dollars, with $990,000 going to the winner, makes this year's tournament win more sought after than ever.
If you've never played at Harbourtown, give yourself a treat and come in a few days early or stay a few days after the tournament to get in a round at this much hailed course. Just walking up the green on the 18th will make you feel like tipping your hat to the invisible crowd.
But, contrary to popular belief, man (and woman) cannot live by golf alone. Hilton Head Island has made it pretty easy to enjoy every moment you are here on our little paradise, from relaxing in great accommodations to hopping on a dolphin tour to getting a champion level massage. So during your trip to experience the Heritage, experience some of these offerings also:
Hilton Head Accommodation Options
Hilton Head Island is a highly sought after resort destination, so it goes without saying that there are plenty of great places to stay, but I will say it anyway - there are plenty of great places to stay on Hilton Head Island. Luxury Hotels, golf villas, ocean front homes, whatever your style, it can be found here.
For great ocean front hotel accommodations, there is the Westin Resort and Spa, the Hilton Oceanside Resort and the Marriott Resort and Spa, along with a host of several smaller or less expensive choices for your stay. The Holiday Inn Oceanfront is a nice choice for families, with plenty of white sand beach on which to run and play, while claiming one of the more famous watering holes on the island - namely the Tiki Hut. For a more quiet and yes, romantic respite, the Main Street Inn is quaint, beautifully decorated and brimming with hospitality. Hotel rooms are at a premium during the Heritage, and as expected the prices are higher as well. Don't let that scare you - it's not that much more. Besides, you deserve it.
A vacation rental home or villa in Hilton Head is another great way to go when visiting the island during the Heritage. It affords you some additional privacy, extra space, and amazing luxury, if you choose. If you are all about golf, choose a villa on your course of choice. Go watch the pros, then come back to your villa, unpack the cooler, and head out to apply all you learned to your own game. There are also stunning ocean front homes to consider, especially if you are bringing the gang. Private pools and hot tubs, designer decor, gourmet kitchens plus private chefs and maid service are just some of the amenities awaiting you and your very best friends or favorite family members. The island has numerous rental management companies from which to choose, some of the most reliable being Island Getaway, Resort Rentals of Hilton Head Island, The Vacation Company, ResortQuest, Coastal Home and Villa Rentals and 800BeachMe.
Probably your best bet would be to go to the most popular web site for vacation rentals which features the top one thousand rental homes and condos on Hilton Head Island, Hilton Head Rentals, and let the experts do the work for you. A stress-free Heritage experience is what you are looking for, right?
Dining Tips on Hilton Head
You've got a great place to stay during the Heritage, now, what to eat... while at the tournament, there will be quite a few delectable dining opportunities for you, but face it, you're either in a tent or standing up while you eat. So, here are some options:
Breakfast
Palmetto Bay Marina Sunrise Cafe - like the name says, they open at sunrise, making this a perfect place for the tournament early bird. They make their own Hollandaise Sauce (this is important to me) and the view isn't bad either. Just around the circle from sea Pines Plantation is Skillets, located in Coligny Plaza. Open at 7 am, and offering a nice menu of your breakfast favorites, Skillets is a great place for a hearty start to your day on the course. If you're really hungry, try "The Kitchen Sink" - no, it's really, really good. If you really want to eat like a local, try Harold's Diner midway down the island right on William Hilton Parkway. I can't really explain Harold's, you just need to go there and eat for yourself.
Lunch
Conveniently located in Sea Pines at the Sea Pines Center, Calibogue Cafe & Trading Co. is a good lunch joint, and a great place (the deli part) to grab a few goodies for snacking on later. Feel like one of the "Brat Pack" at Frankie Bones, located on Main Street on the north end of Hilton Head Island. Great themed menu items, a full bar and really fun atmosphere make for a nice getaway from the golf course. The Boathouse II serves up an American and Seafood menu, but it's really all about the view here. No greens, just miles and miles of intra coastal waterway to gaze at while you dine.
Dinner
For an old tried-and-true favorite, Alexander's in Palmetto Dunes is a great choice for American, Seafood, and a fantastic view. Aqua Grille and Lounge is new school, serving up beautiful seafood dishes in a trendy atmosphere (Guess the color scheme.) In the mood for a great steak? Crane's Tavern on New Orleans Road has been doing it right for a long time now. Nearly every restaurant here is casual, even if the menu is not - no need for the tux. Just make sure to bring something besides shorts to wear.
The choices for dinner dining are nearly endless, from ethnic to seafood to fast food. However, this is a resort town, and we tend to see a lot of comings and goings on the restaurant scene. I don't want to get you all excited about some place, then you find it no longer exists when you get here. Needless to say, something just as yummy usually takes its place, so no need to worry, you definitely won't go hungry on Hilton Head.
Hilton Head Golf
If watching all that championship golf has you itching to get out there and hit a few yourself, Hilton Head Island has around 30 courses to help you scratch it. Here is just a sampling:
The Heritage Collection features 4 locations and a total of 9 courses for you to play. Palmetto Hall has two championship courses, Oyster Reef - one, Port Royal has three and Shipyard has three 9 hole courses (in case you only have time for 9 since you are here for the Heritage, aren't you?) all are only a short distance apart and are impeccably maintained. Sea Pines Resort offers the Sea Marsh and Ocean Courses, just down the way from Harbourtown. Hilton Head National has challenging 9 hole courses and is off the Heritage beaten path a bit just over the bridge in Bluffton. Everyone is going to try and squeeze a round in while they are here, so try to decide where you want to play before you get here and book as early as they will let you. Don't worry if it rains - you won't melt.
Water Activities
Hilton Head Island is well known for it's championship golf courses, but heck, did you check the name? It is an ISLAND, so you better believe there are plenty of opportunities to grab some sun, surf and fish while you are here. Outside Hilton Head offers everything from Kayak tours to charter fishing excursions. These guys are all about the great outdoors, especially the part that is all wet, and can even plan a day long excursion for groups or families. Commander Zodiac will give you the coolest dolphin tour ever, as you speed along in these cool little red boats designed for water rescue operations. Great guides, and a fun ride between dolphin sightings. They also rent jet skis and offer indulgent kids programs as well.
There are just a million and one things to do on the water, including sitting on one of the white sand beaches and just looking at it. Be careful, you may never get back to the tournament.
World Class Tennis Courts
For as much as we love our golf here on Hilton Head Island, we really do love our tennis too. You won't need to travel far to find one of hundreds of the well maintained tennis courts here. Shipyard Plantation is home to world renown Van Der Meer Tennis Academy, so everyone can look good on the court. Palmetto Dunes as well as Port Royal also sport beautiful tennis facilities. Clay or hard court, day or night, we have a tennis court for you. Yes, we take tennis pretty seriously here, we even have a court named after the great (and now local) Stan Smith. That doesn't mean you can't have a little fun and play a match or two. Just don't let Stan see you, could get embarrassing.
Nightlife
After a day in the sun at Harbour Town, a fun night on the island is around every corner (wait, islands don't have corners, do they?) Anyway, the choices for your night time activities is endless on Hilton Head. There are several sports bars to relive the day's tournament activities and have a cold Barley Pop (that's beer for you non-midwesterners) For some sweet sounds, check out the Jazz Corner in the Village at Wexford. My choice for people watching is the upscale Metropolitan, where the Martini is king and golf shirts are not, or the gritty Ryders, where the abundance of leather clothing and vodka shots will make you not mind the really loud music. Shelter Cove has a number of places right on the water that you can walk to. And if you are feeling a little on the wild side, check out the area fondly known as the Barmuda Triangle - just outside the gates of Sea Pines. You can catch a local band or guitar strummin singer almost any night of the week, inside or out.
There are three movie theaters on the island for a more subdued evening out, and feel downright cultured with tickets to a local theatrical production. The South Carolina Repertory Company, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina and Main Street Youth Theater are all here, and at least one of them will have something entertaining for your to view during your Heritage visit.
Plus, there is always just taking a stroll on the beach - it's a lot less crowded than during the day, and the sound of the tides is the perfect lullaby. Just remember napping on the beach is all right - making it your hotel room is not.
Tourist Attractions
Well, let's see... we have a big ocean, and lots of white sand beaches, and dolphins and championship golf courses. Do you need anything else? Here are some options in case you are one of those hard to please sorts.
You really should check out the unofficial symbol of Hilton Head Island, the Harbour Town Lighthouse while you are at the Heritage. It's just down the road, and it doesn't take all that long to climb to the top and check out the amazing view of beach, ocean and greens. Neat little gift shop to wander through at the top as you try to hide while you catch your breath. The Liberty Oak Tree is a fabulous spot for a photo, and during the summer is the place to be with the kids for fun filled concerts. There may well be some entertainment under those century old boughs during the Heritage also - check it out when you get here.
The Coastal Discovery Museum is small, but is a great place for all you out-of-towners to learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as island history. There are signs of the Hilton Head's involvement in the Civil War, and the Gullah influence, in several areas on the island. For a deeper understanding of how it's roots, make sure to take one of the many tours offered. Plus, the Museum's nature tours are not to be missed. Unless you're playing golf, of course. We know your priorities.
Take in the island beauty and see inside many of the "Plantations" (communities ) as you bicycle through the 45 miles of trails that weave in and around the island. Ride though Pines, Palmettos and Spanish Moss draped Live Oaks, as well as gorgeous marshes and lagoons. The terrain is easy on the legs, even little guys with little bikes can handle it. If you are feeling really adventurous, historic Savannah, Georgia is only about an hour's drive (go during the off hours) from the island. A taste of the true south, you can stroll by stunning architecture, moss draped oaks and monuments to the town's history. If you go, make time for a cemetery tour in this very haunted city and take lots of pictures. You never know what you might capture on film...
For an attraction that requires no walking, listening, dancing or learning of any kind, visit the Salty Dog in South Beach Marina. Push yourself and read about Jake, the bravest dog south of the Mason-Dixon line, while you drink some fruity concoction or lick up the drips of your ice cream cone.
For the ultimate in relaxation, do what I said at the beginning and just head to the beach. Chances are, you will have access from your hotel or ocean front home. If you are in a golf villa, head to Coligny Circle or Folly Field Road for the largest parking facilities. Just don't forget your sun screen, your sun glasses or your ability to sit in wonderment and awe at one of nature's finest creations. (That would be the Atlantic Ocean, not the girl 50 feet away in the white bikini.)
ENJOY THE HERITAGE AND MOST OF ALL HILTON HEAD ISLAND!
Monday, April 28, 2008
The Heritage Legacy Of India
Rich Heritage is the primarily legacy of any country portraying the cultural and traditional aspect. Heritage is a profound amalgamation of ancient historical sites and rich traditions. One thing that India is certainly famous for is its rich heritage of forts and palaces, historical monuments, traditional folk dances, religious rituals, festivals and above all the people that certainly made the heritage of India more popular and world renowned. Among all, the famous heritage palaces of erstwhile maharajas and rulers hold the most powerful grip. These palaces are now chosen as the most luscious way of spending the holidays amidst luxury and kingly comfort, many of these royal sites are now converted into heritage palace hotels. Now with the world constantly updating itself with the resonance of good hotel accommodation, India too has risen in this stride and has emerged as a forerunner in best hotel accommodation and staying options. The sightseeing in India is the best in the world and the heritage monuments add further excitement making India the most ideal destination for tourists who have keen interest in the ancient tradition and heritage of India. Our ancestral remains actually makes it very simple for us in our motive to stand upright in the global platform of excellence that has made India, a destination most cherished by all.
In-fact, India is one country that has heritage monuments in every nook and corner. It may be the Qutub Minar in the North, or the Sun Temple in the East, the Charminar in South, or the Ajanta caves in the west. Everywhere you go in India there are innumerable heritage monuments that you can explore and this is what generates a huge clientele for India. Moreover, India's ability to convert heritage monuments into luxury hotel accommodation has also paved the way for its success in drawing of huge number of tourists to India. So, great tributes goes to the contribution of Rajes and Maharajas of India for having built those marvelous forts and palaces that today has stood up the test of time and has become a boon for Indian Tourism Industry.
Alone Rajasthan is a great destination for this state has innumerable heritage forts and palaces that makes this state magnetic enough so as to flood this desert state with enormous number of tourists from world over. Tourists coming to this state has increased manifold and now has crossed the 2 million mark. One reason why this desert state of India has seen such a boost in the tourist influx is obviously the heritage forts and palaces apart from the other marvelous sightseeing and tour of the state. Almost every vital place of Rajasthan has a palace or a fort that has been converted to hotels and that has made the destination a highly sort after place in India. It’s not the case with just Rajasthan. Other states too have lived up to this trend of providing some exceptional staying accommodation. It won't be uncanny to name a few of the palaces in Rajasthan like Umaid Bhawan Palace - Jodhpur, Lake Palace - Udaipur, Bhanwar Niwas Palace - Bikaner that are very famous for their intricate décor and luxurious interiors.
Besides Indian Tourism industry has also seen a boom for there are some very unique concepts that can be found only in India. The Vythiri tree resort in Kerala is one such innovation that has generated a huge clientele along with sightseeing options of some the best heritage places in Kerala. Other neighbouring countries now has started to follow the footprints of India and are promoting their respective heritage monuments with the belief that it will draw in tourists to their country.
This phenomena is very unique and is to be found in India only. This feature of India reigns over all other dominant features and so tourism has flourished in such a big way in India. The reason behind it is our great ancestors contribution towards the growth of this Nation. The Indian so take pride in taking forward this ancestorial trend and in further improving upon it for the sake of a vibrant and affluent tourism industry.
In-fact, India is one country that has heritage monuments in every nook and corner. It may be the Qutub Minar in the North, or the Sun Temple in the East, the Charminar in South, or the Ajanta caves in the west. Everywhere you go in India there are innumerable heritage monuments that you can explore and this is what generates a huge clientele for India. Moreover, India's ability to convert heritage monuments into luxury hotel accommodation has also paved the way for its success in drawing of huge number of tourists to India. So, great tributes goes to the contribution of Rajes and Maharajas of India for having built those marvelous forts and palaces that today has stood up the test of time and has become a boon for Indian Tourism Industry.
Alone Rajasthan is a great destination for this state has innumerable heritage forts and palaces that makes this state magnetic enough so as to flood this desert state with enormous number of tourists from world over. Tourists coming to this state has increased manifold and now has crossed the 2 million mark. One reason why this desert state of India has seen such a boost in the tourist influx is obviously the heritage forts and palaces apart from the other marvelous sightseeing and tour of the state. Almost every vital place of Rajasthan has a palace or a fort that has been converted to hotels and that has made the destination a highly sort after place in India. It’s not the case with just Rajasthan. Other states too have lived up to this trend of providing some exceptional staying accommodation. It won't be uncanny to name a few of the palaces in Rajasthan like Umaid Bhawan Palace - Jodhpur, Lake Palace - Udaipur, Bhanwar Niwas Palace - Bikaner that are very famous for their intricate décor and luxurious interiors.
Besides Indian Tourism industry has also seen a boom for there are some very unique concepts that can be found only in India. The Vythiri tree resort in Kerala is one such innovation that has generated a huge clientele along with sightseeing options of some the best heritage places in Kerala. Other neighbouring countries now has started to follow the footprints of India and are promoting their respective heritage monuments with the belief that it will draw in tourists to their country.
This phenomena is very unique and is to be found in India only. This feature of India reigns over all other dominant features and so tourism has flourished in such a big way in India. The reason behind it is our great ancestors contribution towards the growth of this Nation. The Indian so take pride in taking forward this ancestorial trend and in further improving upon it for the sake of a vibrant and affluent tourism industry.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Places Marked By UNESCO Of Heritage Importance
Magnificent, unique monuments. Streets that carry you back in time. In Spain you will find unique places where you will live art and history at each step. These are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Exploring them you will enjoy a privileged journey back in time, where you can discover Spain's important cultural heritage.
There is lots to see in Spain. It is no coincidence that Spain is the country with the second largest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Presented here in no particular order other than roughly north to south, you will discover outstanding examples of Spain's rich, varied cultural treasures.
In each location you will find a beautiful "urban museum", packed with history, offering a range of superb monuments in different artistic styles. Just one piece of advice: take your time. Take a relaxed stroll through the streets and let each city captivate you with its own special magic.
We start in the northwest in Santiago de Compostela. With its majestic Cathedral, it is the final destination for thousands of people who go on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route every year.
In the west central region not far from the border with Portugal, you will come to the historic city of Salamanca where you will find unique places like its University, one of the world's oldest and its emblematic Plaza Mayor Square.
Further south along the Portuguese border, is Caceres with its amazing succession of historic buildings and palaces, especially when they are illuminated by night.
In central Spain grouped around Madrid are five more UNESCO Historic Sites.
Segovia has some of the best-conserved Romanesque monuments in Europe. You will be left speechless when you see its Roman Aqueduct, a truly stunning feat of engineering.
In Avila you will feel like a medieval knight - here you can imagine what towns were like in the Middle Ages. Its defensive wall is the best conserved in Europe and its Gothic Cathedral is Spain's oldest.
Alcala de Henares on the road to Guadalajara from Madrid, is the model of a university town that was exported to Europe and America. Its University is not to be missed, of course, along with Calle Mayor Street and the house where Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote, was born.
Toledo was a melting pot of cultures for centuries. Go on an adventure and search out the legacy of Muslims, Jews and Christians, who once lived together in these narrow city streets.
Cuenca's unique historic center looks out over rocky canyon walls in the heart of the Cuenca mountains in the region of Castile-La Mancha. Its famous "hanging houses" are an example of architecture and nature in perfect harmony.
In southern Spain you will find the historic old town of Cordoba. Here you will see the splendour of ancient Moorish culture, with the Great Mosque - considered the most important Islamic monument in the Western World - being the prime example.
Not forgetting Ibiza in the Balearic Islands also has UNESCO's prestigious designation: for its biodiversity and archaeological heritage. The same is true of the town of San Cristobal de la Laguna in the Canary Islands, whose architecture displays the origins of Latin American urban development.
There is lots to see in Spain. It is no coincidence that Spain is the country with the second largest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Presented here in no particular order other than roughly north to south, you will discover outstanding examples of Spain's rich, varied cultural treasures.
In each location you will find a beautiful "urban museum", packed with history, offering a range of superb monuments in different artistic styles. Just one piece of advice: take your time. Take a relaxed stroll through the streets and let each city captivate you with its own special magic.
We start in the northwest in Santiago de Compostela. With its majestic Cathedral, it is the final destination for thousands of people who go on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route every year.
In the west central region not far from the border with Portugal, you will come to the historic city of Salamanca where you will find unique places like its University, one of the world's oldest and its emblematic Plaza Mayor Square.
Further south along the Portuguese border, is Caceres with its amazing succession of historic buildings and palaces, especially when they are illuminated by night.
In central Spain grouped around Madrid are five more UNESCO Historic Sites.
Segovia has some of the best-conserved Romanesque monuments in Europe. You will be left speechless when you see its Roman Aqueduct, a truly stunning feat of engineering.
In Avila you will feel like a medieval knight - here you can imagine what towns were like in the Middle Ages. Its defensive wall is the best conserved in Europe and its Gothic Cathedral is Spain's oldest.
Alcala de Henares on the road to Guadalajara from Madrid, is the model of a university town that was exported to Europe and America. Its University is not to be missed, of course, along with Calle Mayor Street and the house where Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote, was born.
Toledo was a melting pot of cultures for centuries. Go on an adventure and search out the legacy of Muslims, Jews and Christians, who once lived together in these narrow city streets.
Cuenca's unique historic center looks out over rocky canyon walls in the heart of the Cuenca mountains in the region of Castile-La Mancha. Its famous "hanging houses" are an example of architecture and nature in perfect harmony.
In southern Spain you will find the historic old town of Cordoba. Here you will see the splendour of ancient Moorish culture, with the Great Mosque - considered the most important Islamic monument in the Western World - being the prime example.
Not forgetting Ibiza in the Balearic Islands also has UNESCO's prestigious designation: for its biodiversity and archaeological heritage. The same is true of the town of San Cristobal de la Laguna in the Canary Islands, whose architecture displays the origins of Latin American urban development.
Rich Heritage Of India Through Tourism
Rich Heritage is the primarily legacy of any country portraying the cultural and traditional aspect. Heritage is a profound amalgamation of ancient historical sites and rich traditions. One thing that India is certainly famous for is its rich heritage of forts and palaces, historical monuments, traditional folk dances, religious rituals, festivals and above all the people that certainly made the heritage of India more popular and world renowned. Among all, the famous heritage palaces of erstwhile maharajas and rulers hold the most powerful grip. These palaces are now chosen as the most luscious way of spending the holidays amidst luxury and kingly comfort, many of these royal sites are now converted into heritage palace hotels. Now with the world constantly updating itself with the resonance of good hotel accommodation, India too has risen in this stride and has emerged as a forerunner in best hotel accommodation and staying options. The sightseeing in India is the best in the world and the heritage monuments add further excitement making India the most ideal destination for tourists who have keen interest in the ancient tradition and heritage of India. Our ancestral remains actually makes it very simple for us in our motive to stand upright in the global platform of excellence that has made India, a destination most cherished by all.
In-fact, India is one country that has heritage monuments in every nook and corner. It may be the Qutub Minar in the North, or the Sun Temple in the East, the Charminar in South, or the Ajanta caves in the west. Everywhere you go in India there are innumerable heritage monuments that you can explore and this is what generates a huge clientele for India. Moreover, India's ability to convert heritage monuments into luxury hotel accommodation has also paved the way for its success in drawing of huge number of tourists to India. So, great tributes goes to the contribution of Rajes and Maharajas of India for having built those marvelous forts and palaces that today has stood up the test of time and has become a boon for Indian Tourism Industry.
Alone Rajasthan is a great destination for this state has innumerable heritage forts and palaces that makes this state magnetic enough so as to flood this desert state with enormous number of tourists from world over. Tourists coming to this state has increased manifold and now has crossed the 2 million mark. One reason why this desert state of India has seen such a boost in the tourist influx is obviously the heritage forts and palaces apart from the other marvelous sightseeing and tour of the state. Almost every vital place of Rajasthan has a palace or a fort that has been converted to hotels and that has made the destination a highly sort after place in India. It’s not the case with just Rajasthan. Other states too have lived up to this trend of providing some exceptional staying accommodation. It won't be uncanny to name a few of the palaces in Rajasthan like Umaid Bhawan Palace - Jodhpur, Lake Palace - Udaipur, Bhanwar Niwas Palace - Bikaner that are very famous for their intricate décor and luxurious interiors.
Besides Indian Tourism industry has also seen a boom for there are some very unique concepts that can be found only in India. The Vythiri tree resort in Kerala is one such innovation that has generated a huge clientele along with sightseeing options of some the best heritage places in Kerala. Other neighbouring countries now has started to follow the footprints of India and are promoting their respective heritage monuments with the belief that it will draw in tourists to their country.
This phenomena is very unique and is to be found in India only. This feature of India reigns over all other dominant features and so tourism has flourished in such a big way in India. The reason behind it is our great ancestors contribution towards the growth of this Nation. The Indian so take pride in taking forward this ancestorial trend and in further improving upon it for the sake of a vibrant and affluent tourism industry.
In-fact, India is one country that has heritage monuments in every nook and corner. It may be the Qutub Minar in the North, or the Sun Temple in the East, the Charminar in South, or the Ajanta caves in the west. Everywhere you go in India there are innumerable heritage monuments that you can explore and this is what generates a huge clientele for India. Moreover, India's ability to convert heritage monuments into luxury hotel accommodation has also paved the way for its success in drawing of huge number of tourists to India. So, great tributes goes to the contribution of Rajes and Maharajas of India for having built those marvelous forts and palaces that today has stood up the test of time and has become a boon for Indian Tourism Industry.
Alone Rajasthan is a great destination for this state has innumerable heritage forts and palaces that makes this state magnetic enough so as to flood this desert state with enormous number of tourists from world over. Tourists coming to this state has increased manifold and now has crossed the 2 million mark. One reason why this desert state of India has seen such a boost in the tourist influx is obviously the heritage forts and palaces apart from the other marvelous sightseeing and tour of the state. Almost every vital place of Rajasthan has a palace or a fort that has been converted to hotels and that has made the destination a highly sort after place in India. It’s not the case with just Rajasthan. Other states too have lived up to this trend of providing some exceptional staying accommodation. It won't be uncanny to name a few of the palaces in Rajasthan like Umaid Bhawan Palace - Jodhpur, Lake Palace - Udaipur, Bhanwar Niwas Palace - Bikaner that are very famous for their intricate décor and luxurious interiors.
Besides Indian Tourism industry has also seen a boom for there are some very unique concepts that can be found only in India. The Vythiri tree resort in Kerala is one such innovation that has generated a huge clientele along with sightseeing options of some the best heritage places in Kerala. Other neighbouring countries now has started to follow the footprints of India and are promoting their respective heritage monuments with the belief that it will draw in tourists to their country.
This phenomena is very unique and is to be found in India only. This feature of India reigns over all other dominant features and so tourism has flourished in such a big way in India. The reason behind it is our great ancestors contribution towards the growth of this Nation. The Indian so take pride in taking forward this ancestorial trend and in further improving upon it for the sake of a vibrant and affluent tourism industry.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Great Places to Visit in Argentina
Argentina is home to some of the best tourist attractions in South America, and with its rich Spanish culture, you will find it a culturally rich destination when it comes to music, dance, architecture and most especially food. Here, because of its diverse climate, you can do a myriad of things from hiking in the rainforests to skiing or trekking the glaciers, from immersing yourself in culture and history to taking part in eco-tours, from enjoying the rich food and night life to nights of camping and days of diving. Here are 10 things you can do or go to in this fabulous country:
1.) Buenos Aires
The first Argentina destination you would probably find yourself in is this vibrant city offers much when it comes to entertainment. It has Spanish inspired-architecture and culture to the beat of the nightlife or the exotic delicacies. Here, your senses will definitely be stretched to the fullest in this magical city.
2.) Cordoba
Come to this other great city in Argentina. Here, you will feel like you have traveled back in time as you immerse yourself in the colonial architecture. Its history is also known as one of the greatest western cities of the past.
3.) Pampas
Pampas gives you a glimpse of the wild wild west as it was during the past. Here, you will see Gaucho cowboys living much like the cowboys of old. You can also see the flamingos in the great salt lakes of Argentina.
4.) Tiera del Fuego
In this southernmost of cities at the edge of the world, you will experience a breathtaking myriad of flora and fauna never seen in other places. The marine life here is also something to behold as you go kayaking, fishing or just plain sightseeing. Because of this, a lot flock to this area yearly.
5.) Patagonia
Patagonia is home to the route of the great southern whale as it returns every year to the coast of the Peninsula Valdez. You can also visit one of UNESCO's world heritage sites, Alto Valle Rio Pinturas. You can also see the paintings of the river valley in Santa Cruz where ancient paintings adorn the cave walls.
6.) Iguazu Waterfalls
Found in Iguazu National Park, it is one of the most powerful waterfalls of the world. The park itself is home to a wide variety of subtropical plants and animals. So strap on your backpack and get ready for a wonderful trip through nature.
7.) Mendoza
This is the center of commerce of an area blessed with vineyards and snow. Here, you can ski to your heart's content at such international ski centers such as Las Lenas and Los Penitentes while sipping homegrown wine fresh from the fields. In this place, you can also go kayaking, bicycling or hiking through nature.
8.) Talampaya
Home to the long extinct dinosaurs and some of the first men who walked the earth, Talampaya is found on the southern part of La Rioja. Today, this place is a hotbed of archaeological and paleontologic finds. In this remote dessert, you will indeed be at awe at the majestic geological formations that dots the landscape.
9.) Valdez Peninsula, Chubut
The Valdez Peninsula in Chubut serves as a refuge for armies of extraordinary animals such as elephant seals, different species of penguins, and the Austral Right Whales. Moreover, you can also relax in the hot baths or perhaps trek in the glaciers of San Rafael. You will definitely not run out of things to do and see here.
10.) Puerto Madryn
It is located north of Trelew. This beach and tourist paradise offers diverse activities such as yachting, windsurfing, sport fishing, and diving. More than that, it is also home to some of the best hotels and restaurants in the country where they serve delectable seafood and bars where dancing can go on all night.
1.) Buenos Aires
The first Argentina destination you would probably find yourself in is this vibrant city offers much when it comes to entertainment. It has Spanish inspired-architecture and culture to the beat of the nightlife or the exotic delicacies. Here, your senses will definitely be stretched to the fullest in this magical city.
2.) Cordoba
Come to this other great city in Argentina. Here, you will feel like you have traveled back in time as you immerse yourself in the colonial architecture. Its history is also known as one of the greatest western cities of the past.
3.) Pampas
Pampas gives you a glimpse of the wild wild west as it was during the past. Here, you will see Gaucho cowboys living much like the cowboys of old. You can also see the flamingos in the great salt lakes of Argentina.
4.) Tiera del Fuego
In this southernmost of cities at the edge of the world, you will experience a breathtaking myriad of flora and fauna never seen in other places. The marine life here is also something to behold as you go kayaking, fishing or just plain sightseeing. Because of this, a lot flock to this area yearly.
5.) Patagonia
Patagonia is home to the route of the great southern whale as it returns every year to the coast of the Peninsula Valdez. You can also visit one of UNESCO's world heritage sites, Alto Valle Rio Pinturas. You can also see the paintings of the river valley in Santa Cruz where ancient paintings adorn the cave walls.
6.) Iguazu Waterfalls
Found in Iguazu National Park, it is one of the most powerful waterfalls of the world. The park itself is home to a wide variety of subtropical plants and animals. So strap on your backpack and get ready for a wonderful trip through nature.
7.) Mendoza
This is the center of commerce of an area blessed with vineyards and snow. Here, you can ski to your heart's content at such international ski centers such as Las Lenas and Los Penitentes while sipping homegrown wine fresh from the fields. In this place, you can also go kayaking, bicycling or hiking through nature.
8.) Talampaya
Home to the long extinct dinosaurs and some of the first men who walked the earth, Talampaya is found on the southern part of La Rioja. Today, this place is a hotbed of archaeological and paleontologic finds. In this remote dessert, you will indeed be at awe at the majestic geological formations that dots the landscape.
9.) Valdez Peninsula, Chubut
The Valdez Peninsula in Chubut serves as a refuge for armies of extraordinary animals such as elephant seals, different species of penguins, and the Austral Right Whales. Moreover, you can also relax in the hot baths or perhaps trek in the glaciers of San Rafael. You will definitely not run out of things to do and see here.
10.) Puerto Madryn
It is located north of Trelew. This beach and tourist paradise offers diverse activities such as yachting, windsurfing, sport fishing, and diving. More than that, it is also home to some of the best hotels and restaurants in the country where they serve delectable seafood and bars where dancing can go on all night.
Tunisia is a kind of paradise
No matter which season it is, Tunisia is a kind of paradise thanks to its coast as a Mediterranean land. Tunisia has very nice places to see. Here you can enjoy yourself with charming sea, discover the numerous sites, cities and museums. Sousse, Monastir, Hammamet and Nabeul, Djerba and Tabarka are the well known resorts.
Combination of sand beaches with perfect water is so inviting for travelers. The place is appropriate not only for swimming but also for kinds of sea sports. Also, short boat rides are available.
In southern resort areas, sea sports can be practiced for most of the year. Riding, hiking, tennis, hunting are additional ones. For the amateurs, lessons are available at a
reasonable cost.
Accommodation does not create any problems due to comfortable hotels that are next to. As a visitor you may choose either International Cuisine or Tunuisian Cuisine. Summer is the most crowded season but also is the most available time for maximum activities. Festivals of summer provide you a chance to know Tunisian local folklore.
Having a historical past, visitors can experience more than one culture in Tunisia such as Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Turks, Spanish and French. As a result, well preserved museums are also places to visit in Tunisia.
Though the modern structure of Tunis, the capital of Tunusia, it is not a typical tourist site.You can have one day trip. Bardo museum with its selection of mosaics and the very well kept zoo are nice places to see in Tunisia. Zitouna is the main mosque of Tunis. It also has an historical heritage as well as its being a house of worship. Named and known also as "Gate to the Sea" or "Porte de France". Bab el Bahr is a kind of symbol becuse of its being a gate between the oriental part and the European part of Tunis. Bardo Musem with its selection of mosaics and the very well kept zoo are nice places to see in Tunis, too
The coastal resorts of Hammamet, Nabeul, and Sousse are for travelers who would like to spend time on beaches.The best Roman ruins are in Dougga, about 100 km inland and uphill from Tunis. Each July and August, there is Dougga Festival of classical drama. The Dar Charait Museum is the second freqently visited museum in Tunisia after Bardo Museum.
The Tunisian City Matmata is where Star Wars desert scenes were shot, With its fame, curious travelers and fans of the movie visit Matmata. Matmata's fame also comes from the unusual houses that were dugged vertically to the ground.
Combination of sand beaches with perfect water is so inviting for travelers. The place is appropriate not only for swimming but also for kinds of sea sports. Also, short boat rides are available.
In southern resort areas, sea sports can be practiced for most of the year. Riding, hiking, tennis, hunting are additional ones. For the amateurs, lessons are available at a
reasonable cost.
Accommodation does not create any problems due to comfortable hotels that are next to. As a visitor you may choose either International Cuisine or Tunuisian Cuisine. Summer is the most crowded season but also is the most available time for maximum activities. Festivals of summer provide you a chance to know Tunisian local folklore.
Having a historical past, visitors can experience more than one culture in Tunisia such as Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Turks, Spanish and French. As a result, well preserved museums are also places to visit in Tunisia.
Though the modern structure of Tunis, the capital of Tunusia, it is not a typical tourist site.You can have one day trip. Bardo museum with its selection of mosaics and the very well kept zoo are nice places to see in Tunisia. Zitouna is the main mosque of Tunis. It also has an historical heritage as well as its being a house of worship. Named and known also as "Gate to the Sea" or "Porte de France". Bab el Bahr is a kind of symbol becuse of its being a gate between the oriental part and the European part of Tunis. Bardo Musem with its selection of mosaics and the very well kept zoo are nice places to see in Tunis, too
The coastal resorts of Hammamet, Nabeul, and Sousse are for travelers who would like to spend time on beaches.The best Roman ruins are in Dougga, about 100 km inland and uphill from Tunis. Each July and August, there is Dougga Festival of classical drama. The Dar Charait Museum is the second freqently visited museum in Tunisia after Bardo Museum.
The Tunisian City Matmata is where Star Wars desert scenes were shot, With its fame, curious travelers and fans of the movie visit Matmata. Matmata's fame also comes from the unusual houses that were dugged vertically to the ground.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Heritage Places In India - Cultural And Traditional Aspects
Rich Heritage is the primarily legacy of any country portraying the cultural and traditional aspect. Heritage is a profound amalgamation of ancient historical sites and rich traditions. One thing that India is certainly famous for is its rich heritage of forts and palaces, historical monuments, traditional folk dances, religious rituals, festivals and above all the people that certainly made the heritage of India more popular and world renowned. Among all, the famous heritage palaces of erstwhile maharajas and rulers hold the most powerful grip. These palaces are now chosen as the most luscious way of spending the holidays amidst luxury and kingly comfort, many of these royal sites are now converted into heritage palace hotels. Now with the world constantly updating itself with the resonance of good hotel accommodation, India too has risen in this stride and has emerged as a forerunner in best hotel accommodation and staying options. The sightseeing in India is the best in the world and the heritage monuments add further excitement making India the most ideal destination for tourists who have keen interest in the ancient tradition and heritage of India. Our ancestral remains actually makes it very simple for us in our motive to stand upright in the global platform of excellence that has made India, a destination most cherished by all.
In-fact, India is one country that has heritage monuments in every nook and corner. It may be the Qutub Minar in the North, or the Sun Temple in the East, the Charminar in South, or the Ajanta caves in the west. Everywhere you go in India there are innumerable heritage monuments that you can explore and this is what generates a huge clientele for India. Moreover, India's ability to convert heritage monuments into luxury hotel accommodation has also paved the way for its success in drawing of huge number of tourists to India. So, great tributes goes to the contribution of Rajes and Maharajas of India for having built those marvelous forts and palaces that today has stood up the test of time and has become a boon for Indian Tourism Industry.
Alone Rajasthan is a great destination for this state has innumerable heritage forts and palaces that makes this state magnetic enough so as to flood this desert state with enormous number of tourists from world over. Tourists coming to this state has increased manifold and now has crossed the 2 million mark. One reason why this desert state of India has seen such a boost in the tourist influx is obviously the heritage forts and palaces apart from the other marvelous sightseeing and tour of the state. Almost every vital place of Rajasthan has a palace or a fort that has been converted to hotels and that has made the destination a highly sort after place in India. It’s not the case with just Rajasthan. Other states too have lived up to this trend of providing some exceptional staying accommodation. It won't be uncanny to name a few of the palaces in Rajasthan like Umaid Bhawan Palace - Jodhpur, Lake Palace - Udaipur, Bhanwar Niwas Palace - Bikaner that are very famous for their intricate décor and luxurious interiors.
Besides Indian Tourism industry has also seen a boom for there are some very unique concepts that can be found only in India. The Vythiri tree resort in Kerala is one such innovation that has generated a huge clientele along with sightseeing options of some the best heritage places in Kerala. Other neighbouring countries now has started to follow the footprints of India and are promoting their respective heritage monuments with the belief that it will draw in tourists to their country.
This phenomena is very unique and is to be found in India only. This feature of India reigns over all other dominant features and so tourism has flourished in such a big way in India. The reason behind it is our great ancestors contribution towards the growth of this Nation. The Indian so take pride in taking forward this ancestorial trend and in further improving upon it for the sake of a vibrant and affluent tourism industry.
In-fact, India is one country that has heritage monuments in every nook and corner. It may be the Qutub Minar in the North, or the Sun Temple in the East, the Charminar in South, or the Ajanta caves in the west. Everywhere you go in India there are innumerable heritage monuments that you can explore and this is what generates a huge clientele for India. Moreover, India's ability to convert heritage monuments into luxury hotel accommodation has also paved the way for its success in drawing of huge number of tourists to India. So, great tributes goes to the contribution of Rajes and Maharajas of India for having built those marvelous forts and palaces that today has stood up the test of time and has become a boon for Indian Tourism Industry.
Alone Rajasthan is a great destination for this state has innumerable heritage forts and palaces that makes this state magnetic enough so as to flood this desert state with enormous number of tourists from world over. Tourists coming to this state has increased manifold and now has crossed the 2 million mark. One reason why this desert state of India has seen such a boost in the tourist influx is obviously the heritage forts and palaces apart from the other marvelous sightseeing and tour of the state. Almost every vital place of Rajasthan has a palace or a fort that has been converted to hotels and that has made the destination a highly sort after place in India. It’s not the case with just Rajasthan. Other states too have lived up to this trend of providing some exceptional staying accommodation. It won't be uncanny to name a few of the palaces in Rajasthan like Umaid Bhawan Palace - Jodhpur, Lake Palace - Udaipur, Bhanwar Niwas Palace - Bikaner that are very famous for their intricate décor and luxurious interiors.
Besides Indian Tourism industry has also seen a boom for there are some very unique concepts that can be found only in India. The Vythiri tree resort in Kerala is one such innovation that has generated a huge clientele along with sightseeing options of some the best heritage places in Kerala. Other neighbouring countries now has started to follow the footprints of India and are promoting their respective heritage monuments with the belief that it will draw in tourists to their country.
This phenomena is very unique and is to be found in India only. This feature of India reigns over all other dominant features and so tourism has flourished in such a big way in India. The reason behind it is our great ancestors contribution towards the growth of this Nation. The Indian so take pride in taking forward this ancestorial trend and in further improving upon it for the sake of a vibrant and affluent tourism industry.
The Rich And Historical Heritage Of China
With history and culture as old as civilization itself, China is as complex as the DNA code of each of the 1.3 billion (and counting) Chinese populating the earth. Hence, we will not attempt on a crash course of the Chinese menu, but we will have a taste of its popular and most sought-after offerings.
Forbidden City
Constructed during the Ming and Qing dynasty eras, native Chinese call it Gu Gong while the tourism board and guests alike now call it the Palace Museum. It holds the record for being the largest palace complex in the world, sprawling over 74 hectares of property located at the very heart of Beijing.
A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 1987, it served both as a residence and as a seat of power to a total of 24 emperors, fourteen from the Ming dynasty and ten from the Qing dynasty. An imperial palace for a period of almost five centuries, it is composed of two divisions, namely, the Inner Court and the Outer Court. The former is located in the northern half of the compound and used as the royal residence of the emperor and his family while the latter is the southern half and served as the seat of imperial power of the ruler of China.
The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is an ancient fortress with its own history of construction that spans across dynasties from the Western Zhou dynasty in 1100 BC to the Qin dynasty in 206 BC. The citadel that meanders through 6,700 kilometers of mountains and valleys, and grasslands and deserts from west to east, was refurbished and fortified by the Ming dynasty from 1368 to 1644.
A UNESCO World Heritage since 1987, it is one of the world's greatest wonders and believed to be the only human construction on earth that is visible from outer space. A tourist who has never set foot on the Great Wall has never been to China.
Stone forest
Sculpted by nature's own hands, the enchanting Stone Forest located in Lunan Yi Nationality Autonomous County is acclaimed as the First Wonder of the World. It is a group of several patches of limestone formations interspersed with scenic oasis spots covering an area of 96,000 acres.
The fabled Stone Forest has a rich collection of legends and myths pertaining to its origin. However, geologists simply say that it used to be an expansive sea which dried up and the result of millions of years of erosion.
Forbidden City
Constructed during the Ming and Qing dynasty eras, native Chinese call it Gu Gong while the tourism board and guests alike now call it the Palace Museum. It holds the record for being the largest palace complex in the world, sprawling over 74 hectares of property located at the very heart of Beijing.
A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 1987, it served both as a residence and as a seat of power to a total of 24 emperors, fourteen from the Ming dynasty and ten from the Qing dynasty. An imperial palace for a period of almost five centuries, it is composed of two divisions, namely, the Inner Court and the Outer Court. The former is located in the northern half of the compound and used as the royal residence of the emperor and his family while the latter is the southern half and served as the seat of imperial power of the ruler of China.
The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is an ancient fortress with its own history of construction that spans across dynasties from the Western Zhou dynasty in 1100 BC to the Qin dynasty in 206 BC. The citadel that meanders through 6,700 kilometers of mountains and valleys, and grasslands and deserts from west to east, was refurbished and fortified by the Ming dynasty from 1368 to 1644.
A UNESCO World Heritage since 1987, it is one of the world's greatest wonders and believed to be the only human construction on earth that is visible from outer space. A tourist who has never set foot on the Great Wall has never been to China.
Stone forest
Sculpted by nature's own hands, the enchanting Stone Forest located in Lunan Yi Nationality Autonomous County is acclaimed as the First Wonder of the World. It is a group of several patches of limestone formations interspersed with scenic oasis spots covering an area of 96,000 acres.
The fabled Stone Forest has a rich collection of legends and myths pertaining to its origin. However, geologists simply say that it used to be an expansive sea which dried up and the result of millions of years of erosion.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Family Heritage And Tradition
Ethnic traditions, customs, and attitudes carry forward our family values. Paying tribute to family heritage and tradition also gives our children a strong sense of family ties. Our roots make us what we are, and showing respect for ancestral traditions gives the interior of your home a special individuality.
Vernacular Heritage
Regional architecture, called the vernacular, designs structures to harmonize and blend with the environment. Designed to reflect the past, using historical influences, vernacular houses complement rather than dominate their settings. These homes recreate the traditional neighborhoods of the past with a strong sense of place.
Many vernacular structures provide friendly zones and foster a relaxed lifestyle. For instance, Santa Fe stucco and adobe block homes often have central courtyards. Friendly porches customarily found on Florida cracker houses invite neighborly chats. Key West’s wood-framed "conch houses" and North Carolina’s "low country" houses feature broad verandahs and large windows to take advantage of the area’s cooling breezes.
Vernacular homes provide sheltering transitional space from the outside to the inside, but homes without such transitional spaces can benefit greatly when structural or landscaping details are added to bring the private interior space of the home into harmony with the outside world. If your home lacks a covered entry, consider adding a wood or iron framework or an awning to create a feeling of protection and shelter.
Ethnic Influence on American Architecture and Furnishings
Since Americans have always constructed houses that mimicked their native homelands, it’s not surprising that Italian and Mediterranean villas, grand English country houses, and simple French farmhouses can be found across the United States. From the earliest days of our nation, Americans have taken design details from all over the world and copied, adapted, and redesigned their ethnic patterns and furnishings.
Patterns originating in Africa, such as animal prints and intricate geometrics, have been duplicated in many ways. Mexican antiques, Danish and Swedish furniture, and Oriental-influenced accessories have intermingled in our homes. From New England Cape Cods to Santa Fe adobes, our diverse heritage has influenced American architecture and interior design, while log cabins, rustic western interiors, and American folk art have suggested distinct American origins.
Style and Emotional Ambience
Style is the end decorating result of the combination of detail characteristics reminiscent of an era, an artistic movement, or a particular region, such as the Victorian era, Art Nouveau period, or Midwestern Prairie style. Mood or emotional ambiance is the personal interpretation of style to evoke feelings, whether they are cleanly slick, elegantly formal, cozily informal, or romantically eclectic.
Architectural Styles: Structure and Furnishings
Rooms all of one period or style are best left for museums or exhibitions. Eclectic rooms mix furnishings from different periods, such as a contemporary sofa, a silver maple Chippendale side table, and a gilded Louis XVI mirror. The beautiful and the bizarre, the exquisite and the commonplace, mixed with frivolity and delight, create joyful homes.
Architectural style may refer to a structure or to a type of furnishing. Mixing period styles with today’s lifestyles is called New Traditionalism. Combinations of styles with a light– hearted flair create elegant, unpretentious rooms. A few grand pieces, interspersed with simple furnishings, will bring informality to an otherwise stodgy home.
Architectural style also influences interior design. Understand the architectural style of your home and use it as a reference point for your decorating. In my own case, our modern furniture looked totally out of place in our 1878 home, so we traded our glass dining table for a traditional wood one, and replaced a modular sofa with a squishy antique one.
Some Victorian homes look magnificent when furnished with contemporary furniture, but this is harder to accomplish than the reverse, which is a contemporary house, furnished with antiques. Grand old houses decorated with modern furnishings look better with plain, simple wall finishes and un-frilled window coverings.
Juxtaposing styles from your heritage with other styles that suit your fancy makes for interesting rooms and homes. Not all rooms in your home need to incorporate the same style, but some blending from room to room ensures harmony. Mixing heritage styles according to those who share your home also creates a harmonizing aura.
Your Personal Style
If you have a strong affinity for a particular architectural style, incorporate it into your total design plan. Encourage respect for your family traditions by surrounding yourself with ethnic furnishings and family heirlooms. Any style can be adapted to your way of living, whether it’s serenely sleek, traditionally formal, or casually informal, by either dressing up or paring down your decorating embellishments.
Vernacular Heritage
Regional architecture, called the vernacular, designs structures to harmonize and blend with the environment. Designed to reflect the past, using historical influences, vernacular houses complement rather than dominate their settings. These homes recreate the traditional neighborhoods of the past with a strong sense of place.
Many vernacular structures provide friendly zones and foster a relaxed lifestyle. For instance, Santa Fe stucco and adobe block homes often have central courtyards. Friendly porches customarily found on Florida cracker houses invite neighborly chats. Key West’s wood-framed "conch houses" and North Carolina’s "low country" houses feature broad verandahs and large windows to take advantage of the area’s cooling breezes.
Vernacular homes provide sheltering transitional space from the outside to the inside, but homes without such transitional spaces can benefit greatly when structural or landscaping details are added to bring the private interior space of the home into harmony with the outside world. If your home lacks a covered entry, consider adding a wood or iron framework or an awning to create a feeling of protection and shelter.
Ethnic Influence on American Architecture and Furnishings
Since Americans have always constructed houses that mimicked their native homelands, it’s not surprising that Italian and Mediterranean villas, grand English country houses, and simple French farmhouses can be found across the United States. From the earliest days of our nation, Americans have taken design details from all over the world and copied, adapted, and redesigned their ethnic patterns and furnishings.
Patterns originating in Africa, such as animal prints and intricate geometrics, have been duplicated in many ways. Mexican antiques, Danish and Swedish furniture, and Oriental-influenced accessories have intermingled in our homes. From New England Cape Cods to Santa Fe adobes, our diverse heritage has influenced American architecture and interior design, while log cabins, rustic western interiors, and American folk art have suggested distinct American origins.
Style and Emotional Ambience
Style is the end decorating result of the combination of detail characteristics reminiscent of an era, an artistic movement, or a particular region, such as the Victorian era, Art Nouveau period, or Midwestern Prairie style. Mood or emotional ambiance is the personal interpretation of style to evoke feelings, whether they are cleanly slick, elegantly formal, cozily informal, or romantically eclectic.
Architectural Styles: Structure and Furnishings
Rooms all of one period or style are best left for museums or exhibitions. Eclectic rooms mix furnishings from different periods, such as a contemporary sofa, a silver maple Chippendale side table, and a gilded Louis XVI mirror. The beautiful and the bizarre, the exquisite and the commonplace, mixed with frivolity and delight, create joyful homes.
Architectural style may refer to a structure or to a type of furnishing. Mixing period styles with today’s lifestyles is called New Traditionalism. Combinations of styles with a light– hearted flair create elegant, unpretentious rooms. A few grand pieces, interspersed with simple furnishings, will bring informality to an otherwise stodgy home.
Architectural style also influences interior design. Understand the architectural style of your home and use it as a reference point for your decorating. In my own case, our modern furniture looked totally out of place in our 1878 home, so we traded our glass dining table for a traditional wood one, and replaced a modular sofa with a squishy antique one.
Some Victorian homes look magnificent when furnished with contemporary furniture, but this is harder to accomplish than the reverse, which is a contemporary house, furnished with antiques. Grand old houses decorated with modern furnishings look better with plain, simple wall finishes and un-frilled window coverings.
Juxtaposing styles from your heritage with other styles that suit your fancy makes for interesting rooms and homes. Not all rooms in your home need to incorporate the same style, but some blending from room to room ensures harmony. Mixing heritage styles according to those who share your home also creates a harmonizing aura.
Your Personal Style
If you have a strong affinity for a particular architectural style, incorporate it into your total design plan. Encourage respect for your family traditions by surrounding yourself with ethnic furnishings and family heirlooms. Any style can be adapted to your way of living, whether it’s serenely sleek, traditionally formal, or casually informal, by either dressing up or paring down your decorating embellishments.
Culture & Heritage Products
Every time you are invited to a kid's birthday, you get into the dilemma of selecting a perfect gift. A gift,that appeals to the refined sensibilities of modern day kids and also suits the strictly defined parameters of parents regarding the 'right gift' for their precious child. And, then you have your noble wish of presenting a gift that is meaningful and memorable too!! If you find yourself in such a precious condition, Indian culture and heritage product is something you should definitely give a try.
Containing the wisdom of 5,000 years old civilization, our rich Indian culture is full of knowledge and education. There are folklores that entertain, expand the vision and at the same time impart values. Many Indian companies are now bringing up products that incorporate the virtues of Indian tradition and package them in a manner that suits the fantasies of modern day kids exposed to internet, video games and hi-fi electronic gadgets.
Some wonderful gift ideas readily available in the market our VCDs and DVDs on Ramayana, episodes of Mahabharata, Lord Krishna, Jataka Tales and kids' favourite Lord Hanuman. Most of these VCD ROMs depicts Indian folklore through animation and multi-media effects. Language of these animated movies is simple and suitable for today's kids.
For children fond of reading, there are comic series on Tenalirama, Panchatantra, Akbar-Birbal and Vikram-Betal stories. Many of us have grown up reading these fabulous tales but somewhere down the line our kids lost interest in them in preference for more westernized cartoon characters. Thankfully, many companies are re-discovering the inherent virtues in our own traditional kids' stories and converting them in beautiful comics and colorful books.
Jostling for space in the fast expanding video-game market, several companies are now coming up with game CDs revolving around Indian mythological characters. Many indoor games also feature images related to Indian traditional folk stories.
So, now when you look for a meaningful gift idea for little kids in the family on festivals or important occasions you have plethora of options to choose from. So happy gifting!!
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