The Atomium was originally built for the 1958 World Fair and since its construction it has become the symbol of Belgium. The 102-metre-tall steel and aluminum structure is meant to be a symbol of the atom concept, increased by 165 billions times! It offers a superb panoramic view of Brussels and its surroundings.joi, 27 decembrie 2007
The Atomium
The Atomium was originally built for the 1958 World Fair and since its construction it has become the symbol of Belgium. The 102-metre-tall steel and aluminum structure is meant to be a symbol of the atom concept, increased by 165 billions times! It offers a superb panoramic view of Brussels and its surroundings.
marți, 18 decembrie 2007
The Plaza
The famous Plaza Hotel is scheduled to reopen at the end of 2007 with a 100 year anniversary celebration. This $350 million renovation will contain 130 rooms and 152 condo-hotel units. Prices for the 152 condominium suites range from $1.6 million to more than $9 million, which works out to $3,800 to $6,000 per square foot. Mike Naftali of Elad Properties, which is redeveloping the Plaza Hotel, is focusing on the most expensive condos with prices starting at $1.6 million for a one-bedroom suite. Elad is betting that the top end of the market will remain very strong with record Wall Street bonuses and high hedge-fund performance that could continue into 2009. Furthermore, there’s a tremendous pool of buyers from the business and financial world, prosperous retirees empty nesters and baby boomers. The hotel portion, to be managed by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, will have HDTV’s wireless Internet access and a touch-screen for ordering room service, retrieving a car from the valet and making dinner reservations.
In addition, the completely-renovated Plaza will contain 182 unfurnished private residence condominiums starting at $2.5 million and high-end retail stores. The fabled food and beverage outlets: the Palm Court, the Oak Bar and Oak Room and the Edwardian Room will be restored including a replica of the original stained glass ceiling in the Palm Court. A 1921 addition to the hotel blocked the natural light and the skylight itself was removed during World War II to prevent it from being a beacon during air raids. The new plan calls for artificial lights above the glass ceiling to created the impression of sunlight.
Hopefully, these renovations will restore it to its original grandeur when it opened on October 1, 1907. The Plaza Hotel was designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, who was already well known for the Dakota Apartments, one of the first luxury apartment buildings in New York. The Plaza had 800 rooms, 500 bathrooms, large private suites, 10 elevators a two-story ballroom and the Palm Court with a Tiffany leaded glass-domed ceiling. On this same site, an earlier Plaza Hotel opened in 1890 with 400 rooms but was demolished 17 years later for the 18 story current Plaza Hotel.
The New York Landmarks Preservation Commission recently recommended the approval of a waiver that will allow 39,000 square feet of commercial space. It gave permission to make changes to the exterior of the building including adding a new entrance for the stores. The commission also bestowed landmark status on eight of the hotel’s famous public rooms, adjacent corridors and vestibules, including murals, chandeliers and decorative metalwork. The rooms include the Palm Court, the setting for a scene from the movie “The Great Gatsby”; the Terrace Room, where Marilyn Monroe’s dress strap once slipped off her shoulder during an interview; the Oak Bar, where Cary Grant’s character was kidnapped in Alfred Hitchcock’s “North by Northwest”. Walter Matthau in “Plaza Suite” and Barbra Streisand in “The Way We Were” used the Plaza as a stage set. The Plaza in 1930 was the backdrop in a scene for “No Limit”, the first talking picture filmed on location in New York City. Its star was the famous “It Girl”, Clara Bow.
Of all the show people who have been part of the Plaza’s history, only one has a permanent monument there. He’s an American theatrical icon named George M. Cohan who was an actor, composer, playwright, producer, theater owner and a legend; the only person ever awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for a song, the World War I favorite “Over There”. The Plaza is the only 10 minutes away from Broadway and it was a convenient place for him to unwind before the curtain went up on the evening performance. From 4 PM to 7 PM each day, he had pre-theater cocktails in the Oak Room where his reserved table was a booth in the northwest corner. After he died in the early ‘40’s, the Lambs Club put a bronze plaque on the wall above his booth which reads, “Here in this corner where he spent many happy hours, the Lambs have placed this tablet in honor of the most brilliant and versatile gentleman in the theatre of his day, George M. Cohan”. The Plaza, then owned by Conrad Hilton, officially named the Oak Room’s northwest corner, “The Cohan Corner”. In 1959, the municipal statue of Cohan was finally erected in Duffy Square on Broadway between forty-sixth and forty-seventh streets- the same site that had earlier been proposed for General William Tecumsah Sherman’s monument which now stands in Grand Army Plaza opposite the Plaza Hotel. Will “The Cohan Corner” survive the current renovation?
For nearly 40 years, the Persian Room, a legendary nightclub at the Plaza, presented the most talented live performers. It opened on April 1, 1934, four months after the repeal of Prohibition, in the southern half of the Fifth Avenue dining room. It was designed in Art Deco style by the Viennese designer Joseph Urban with murals by Lillian Gaertner Palmedo. Until it closed in 1975, the Persian Room featured such stars as Liberace, Carol Channing, Burl Ives, Eddy Duchin, Kitty Carlisle, the Mills Brothers, Bob Fosse, Victor Borge, Marge and Gower Champion, Eddie Fisher, Xavier Cugat, the McGuire Sisters, Dinah Shore, Vic Damone, Bob Hope, Robert Goulet, Frankie Laine, Ethel Merman, Eartha Kitt, Henny Youngman and Hildegarde, among others.
In 1943, the Plaza was sold to Conrad Hilton for $7.4 million after thirty-six years of continuous original ownership. Hilton made important physical changes:
Removed the brokerage firm of E. F. Hutton from its ground-floor office (monthly rent $416) and converted it to the Oak Bar
Converted a basement storage area (once the Grill Room) into the Rendez-vous supper club
Mezzanine writing rooms overlooking the lobby were converted into private meeting rooms
Vitrines were installed throughout the lobby.
The leaded-glass dome over the Palm Court was removed.
Hilton sold the Plaza to the Boston industrialist A.M. Sonnabend for $15 million in 1953, whose Hotel Corporation of America (HCA) kept the legend alive until 1975. Harry Mullikin of Western International Hotels (later Westin) bought the Plaza from HCA in 1975 for $25 million after owning the 1000 room Savoy-Plaza Hotel until it was demolished to make way for the General Motors Building on the east side of Fifth Avenue at 59th Street. Incidentally, the Savoy Plaza was built in 1927 on the site of the old Savoy Hotel which was designed by McKim, Mead & White in 1890.
In 1988, Donald Trump purchased the Plaza for $390 million. Trump said “This isn’t just a building, it’s the ultimate work of art- it’s the Mona Lisa. I’m in love with it.” With his then-wife, Ivana, Trump revitalized the hotel with careful renovation of the lobby, banquet rooms and certain suites.
In 1995, Trump sold the Plaza to Prince Alwalid bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Saud, partial owner of Fairmont Hotels and CDL Hotels for $325 million.
As Curtis Gathje wrote in “At the Plaza: An Illustrated History of the World’s Most Famous Hotel” (St. Martin’s Press, New York 2000) “Thanks to a number of serendipitous events- a prime location, visionary builders and management, and most recently, the movies—the Plaza has become the most famous hotel in the world. That it has maintained its dignity and reputation over the century is the most remarkable thing about it.”
Will the new Plaza continue to be the most famous hotel in the world?
In addition, the completely-renovated Plaza will contain 182 unfurnished private residence condominiums starting at $2.5 million and high-end retail stores. The fabled food and beverage outlets: the Palm Court, the Oak Bar and Oak Room and the Edwardian Room will be restored including a replica of the original stained glass ceiling in the Palm Court. A 1921 addition to the hotel blocked the natural light and the skylight itself was removed during World War II to prevent it from being a beacon during air raids. The new plan calls for artificial lights above the glass ceiling to created the impression of sunlight.
Hopefully, these renovations will restore it to its original grandeur when it opened on October 1, 1907. The Plaza Hotel was designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, who was already well known for the Dakota Apartments, one of the first luxury apartment buildings in New York. The Plaza had 800 rooms, 500 bathrooms, large private suites, 10 elevators a two-story ballroom and the Palm Court with a Tiffany leaded glass-domed ceiling. On this same site, an earlier Plaza Hotel opened in 1890 with 400 rooms but was demolished 17 years later for the 18 story current Plaza Hotel.
The New York Landmarks Preservation Commission recently recommended the approval of a waiver that will allow 39,000 square feet of commercial space. It gave permission to make changes to the exterior of the building including adding a new entrance for the stores. The commission also bestowed landmark status on eight of the hotel’s famous public rooms, adjacent corridors and vestibules, including murals, chandeliers and decorative metalwork. The rooms include the Palm Court, the setting for a scene from the movie “The Great Gatsby”; the Terrace Room, where Marilyn Monroe’s dress strap once slipped off her shoulder during an interview; the Oak Bar, where Cary Grant’s character was kidnapped in Alfred Hitchcock’s “North by Northwest”. Walter Matthau in “Plaza Suite” and Barbra Streisand in “The Way We Were” used the Plaza as a stage set. The Plaza in 1930 was the backdrop in a scene for “No Limit”, the first talking picture filmed on location in New York City. Its star was the famous “It Girl”, Clara Bow.
Of all the show people who have been part of the Plaza’s history, only one has a permanent monument there. He’s an American theatrical icon named George M. Cohan who was an actor, composer, playwright, producer, theater owner and a legend; the only person ever awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for a song, the World War I favorite “Over There”. The Plaza is the only 10 minutes away from Broadway and it was a convenient place for him to unwind before the curtain went up on the evening performance. From 4 PM to 7 PM each day, he had pre-theater cocktails in the Oak Room where his reserved table was a booth in the northwest corner. After he died in the early ‘40’s, the Lambs Club put a bronze plaque on the wall above his booth which reads, “Here in this corner where he spent many happy hours, the Lambs have placed this tablet in honor of the most brilliant and versatile gentleman in the theatre of his day, George M. Cohan”. The Plaza, then owned by Conrad Hilton, officially named the Oak Room’s northwest corner, “The Cohan Corner”. In 1959, the municipal statue of Cohan was finally erected in Duffy Square on Broadway between forty-sixth and forty-seventh streets- the same site that had earlier been proposed for General William Tecumsah Sherman’s monument which now stands in Grand Army Plaza opposite the Plaza Hotel. Will “The Cohan Corner” survive the current renovation?
For nearly 40 years, the Persian Room, a legendary nightclub at the Plaza, presented the most talented live performers. It opened on April 1, 1934, four months after the repeal of Prohibition, in the southern half of the Fifth Avenue dining room. It was designed in Art Deco style by the Viennese designer Joseph Urban with murals by Lillian Gaertner Palmedo. Until it closed in 1975, the Persian Room featured such stars as Liberace, Carol Channing, Burl Ives, Eddy Duchin, Kitty Carlisle, the Mills Brothers, Bob Fosse, Victor Borge, Marge and Gower Champion, Eddie Fisher, Xavier Cugat, the McGuire Sisters, Dinah Shore, Vic Damone, Bob Hope, Robert Goulet, Frankie Laine, Ethel Merman, Eartha Kitt, Henny Youngman and Hildegarde, among others.
In 1943, the Plaza was sold to Conrad Hilton for $7.4 million after thirty-six years of continuous original ownership. Hilton made important physical changes:
Removed the brokerage firm of E. F. Hutton from its ground-floor office (monthly rent $416) and converted it to the Oak Bar
Converted a basement storage area (once the Grill Room) into the Rendez-vous supper club
Mezzanine writing rooms overlooking the lobby were converted into private meeting rooms
Vitrines were installed throughout the lobby.
The leaded-glass dome over the Palm Court was removed.
Hilton sold the Plaza to the Boston industrialist A.M. Sonnabend for $15 million in 1953, whose Hotel Corporation of America (HCA) kept the legend alive until 1975. Harry Mullikin of Western International Hotels (later Westin) bought the Plaza from HCA in 1975 for $25 million after owning the 1000 room Savoy-Plaza Hotel until it was demolished to make way for the General Motors Building on the east side of Fifth Avenue at 59th Street. Incidentally, the Savoy Plaza was built in 1927 on the site of the old Savoy Hotel which was designed by McKim, Mead & White in 1890.
In 1988, Donald Trump purchased the Plaza for $390 million. Trump said “This isn’t just a building, it’s the ultimate work of art- it’s the Mona Lisa. I’m in love with it.” With his then-wife, Ivana, Trump revitalized the hotel with careful renovation of the lobby, banquet rooms and certain suites.
In 1995, Trump sold the Plaza to Prince Alwalid bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Saud, partial owner of Fairmont Hotels and CDL Hotels for $325 million.
As Curtis Gathje wrote in “At the Plaza: An Illustrated History of the World’s Most Famous Hotel” (St. Martin’s Press, New York 2000) “Thanks to a number of serendipitous events- a prime location, visionary builders and management, and most recently, the movies—the Plaza has become the most famous hotel in the world. That it has maintained its dignity and reputation over the century is the most remarkable thing about it.”
Will the new Plaza continue to be the most famous hotel in the world?
sâmbătă, 15 decembrie 2007
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty was presented by the people of France to the people of the United States in 1886 to honor the friendship between the two nations. Today, it is recognized as a symbol of liberty throughout the world.
It was established as a national monument in 1924 and placed under the management of the National Park Service (NPS) in 1933. It underwent an extensive $86 million renovation, just in time for the Statue's 100th birthday in 1986. More than 5 million people visit the statue each year.
For 91 years, the NPS has endeavored to preserve America's parklands for generations to come. The NPS and concessioner Evelyn Hill, the concessioner, work to provide everything you may need for a memorable visit.
This American Park Network guide to the Statue of Liberty is provided to enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of the monument.
It was established as a national monument in 1924 and placed under the management of the National Park Service (NPS) in 1933. It underwent an extensive $86 million renovation, just in time for the Statue's 100th birthday in 1986. More than 5 million people visit the statue each year.
For 91 years, the NPS has endeavored to preserve America's parklands for generations to come. The NPS and concessioner Evelyn Hill, the concessioner, work to provide everything you may need for a memorable visit.
This American Park Network guide to the Statue of Liberty is provided to enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of the monument.
The World's Promise of Freedom
Nowhere else on earth is there a symbol that expresses the concept and ideals of personal freedom as dramatically as the Statue of Liberty.
Perhaps it is fitting that hundreds of thousands of ordinary people on both sides of the Atlantic contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to her construction and that millions more contributed millions of dollars to ensure her continued existence.
The Statue of Liberty may have been created by the genius of a few visionaries, but the concept she represents speaks to the minds and resonates in the hearts of ordinary men and women everywhere
Nowhere else on earth is there a symbol that expresses the concept and ideals of personal freedom as dramatically as the Statue of Liberty.
Perhaps it is fitting that hundreds of thousands of ordinary people on both sides of the Atlantic contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to her construction and that millions more contributed millions of dollars to ensure her continued existence.
The Statue of Liberty may have been created by the genius of a few visionaries, but the concept she represents speaks to the minds and resonates in the hearts of ordinary men and women everywhere
About the Statue of Liberty
Size and Weight: Statue: 151 feet tall, nearly 225 tons, copper over steel. Pedestal: 89 feet tall, granite.
Designers: Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi, born in Colmar, France, in 1834. The interior iron framework was designed by Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel, also designer of the Eiffel Tower. The statue's pedestal was designed by American architect Richard Morris Hunt.
Exhibit: A permanent exhibit in the museum at the base of the statue details the statue's origin and construction as well as the story of her evolution into an international symbol of liberty.
Size and Weight: Statue: 151 feet tall, nearly 225 tons, copper over steel. Pedestal: 89 feet tall, granite.
Designers: Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi, born in Colmar, France, in 1834. The interior iron framework was designed by Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel, also designer of the Eiffel Tower. The statue's pedestal was designed by American architect Richard Morris Hunt.
Exhibit: A permanent exhibit in the museum at the base of the statue details the statue's origin and construction as well as the story of her evolution into an international symbol of liberty.
joi, 6 decembrie 2007
Tower of Pisa
This is the monument that, among the others of the "Piazza dei Miracoli", stirs the imagination of everybody, from the old to the young. Firstly we like to give you some information and events regarding its long history.
The construction of this imposing mass was started in the year 1174 by Bonanno Pisano. When the tower had reached its third storey the works ceased because it had started sinking into the ground. The tower remained thus for 90 years. It was completed by Giovanni di Simone, Tommano Simone (son of Andreo Pisano), crowned the tower with the belfry at half of 14th century.
The top of the Leaning Tower can be reached by mounting the 294 steps which rise in the form of a spiral on the inner side of the tower walls.
This very famous work is of Romanesque style, and as already stated dates back to the year 1174. Cylindrical in shape it is supplied whit six open galleries. A cornice separates these galleries one from the other and each presents a series of small arches fitted on the capitals of the slender columns. In the base there is a series of big blind arcades with geometrical decorations. In the belfry there is the same design of arcades as that of the base, with the difference that here, there are, apart from the reduced proportions, the housings of the bells.
The construction of this imposing mass was started in the year 1174 by Bonanno Pisano. When the tower had reached its third storey the works ceased because it had started sinking into the ground. The tower remained thus for 90 years. It was completed by Giovanni di Simone, Tommano Simone (son of Andreo Pisano), crowned the tower with the belfry at half of 14th century.
The top of the Leaning Tower can be reached by mounting the 294 steps which rise in the form of a spiral on the inner side of the tower walls.
This very famous work is of Romanesque style, and as already stated dates back to the year 1174. Cylindrical in shape it is supplied whit six open galleries. A cornice separates these galleries one from the other and each presents a series of small arches fitted on the capitals of the slender columns. In the base there is a series of big blind arcades with geometrical decorations. In the belfry there is the same design of arcades as that of the base, with the difference that here, there are, apart from the reduced proportions, the housings of the bells.
Louvre
The Louvre, in its successive architectural metamorphoses, has dominated central Paris since the late 12th century. Built on the city's western edge, the original structure was gradually engulfed as the city grew. The dark fortress of the early days was transformed into the modernized dwelling of François I and, later, the sumptuous palace of the Sun King, Louis XIV. Here we explore the history of this extraordinary edifice and of the museum that has occupied it since 1793. 
During the forty-three-year reign of Philippe Auguste (1180–1223), the power and influence of the French monarchy grew considerably, both inside and outside the kingdom. In 1190, a rampart was built around Paris, which was Europe’s biggest city at the time. To protect the capital from the Anglo-Norman threat, the king decided to reinforce its defenses with a fortress, which came to be known as the Louvre. It was built to the west of the city, on the banks of the Seine.
duminică, 2 decembrie 2007
Niagara
The world has been beating a path to the Buffalo Niagara region since shortly after Father Louis Hennepin became the first European to describe the "prodigious cadence of water" that is the mighty Falls in 1678. That early trickle of tourists became a steady stream after the completion of the Erie Canal in 1825 and a torrent when the railroad linked Western New York with points east. Today, millions of tourists from around the world continue to come by plane, train and automobile to experience the grandeur of Niagara Falls.
World-class attractions like the Maid of the Mist and the Cave of the Winds await the visitor who makes the short 20-minute drive from downtown Buffalo to Niagara Falls.
You'll savor the spectacular views, the thundering roar, the delicate mists and shimmering rainbows of this true national treasure.
Take a family photo overlooking the Falls at Terrapin Point in Frederick Law Olmsted's lush, beautiful and natural Niagara Falls State Park. Amid the distractions and developments of modern life, the Park still provides a glimpse of the original splendor that awaited the first visitors to the region. This is the Falls at its best.
Step aboard the legendary Maid of the Mist and experience the power and majesty of the combined waters of four Great Lakes. You'll be ferried to the base of the Horseshoe Falls and feel the rush of the water as it pounds the rocks below. From the moment you put on your giant blue poncho you'll know you're having a one-of-a-kind experience.
World-class attractions like the Maid of the Mist and the Cave of the Winds await the visitor who makes the short 20-minute drive from downtown Buffalo to Niagara Falls.
You'll savor the spectacular views, the thundering roar, the delicate mists and shimmering rainbows of this true national treasure.
Take a family photo overlooking the Falls at Terrapin Point in Frederick Law Olmsted's lush, beautiful and natural Niagara Falls State Park. Amid the distractions and developments of modern life, the Park still provides a glimpse of the original splendor that awaited the first visitors to the region. This is the Falls at its best.
Step aboard the legendary Maid of the Mist and experience the power and majesty of the combined waters of four Great Lakes. You'll be ferried to the base of the Horseshoe Falls and feel the rush of the water as it pounds the rocks below. From the moment you put on your giant blue poncho you'll know you're having a one-of-a-kind experience.
Next, be sure to visit the awe-inspiring Cave of the Winds. As you make your way to the Hurricane Deck, you'll get an up-close-and-personal view of the roaring waters pouring over the precipice of Bridal Veil Falls. On a hot summer day, this is the ultimate run-through-the-sprinkler.
Nearby, you'll find all manner of ways to experience this world wonder: Helicopter rides, balloon rides, observation decks and towering vantage points that will give you a bird's eye view of one of nature's universally-acclaimed masterpieces. Bring plenty of film or an extra memory card. You'll need it.
Nearby, you'll find all manner of ways to experience this world wonder: Helicopter rides, balloon rides, observation decks and towering vantage points that will give you a bird's eye view of one of nature's universally-acclaimed masterpieces. Bring plenty of film or an extra memory card. You'll need it.
luni, 26 noiembrie 2007
Mykonos - the most famous island in the Cyclades
Mykonos is the most famous island in the Cyclades. Its re-putation has spread during the last years due to its unique lan-dscape, its archeological sites, its cosmopolitan environment and its magnificent seas. Mykonos is an island that is full of contradictions. The contradicting elements that are apparent in this small stretch of land, give the island a distinct eccentricity.
Mykonos sways between the traditional and the contemporary, from the simple to the complex, and from the accustomed and unaccustomed elements.
Santorini
Santorini, a wild beauty created from a cosmogony by a volcano that lies in the middle of the bay. On top of it, in the edge of the rock is the reconciliation of the wild and the weird.
The terrain is volcanic and from the side of the volcano is rocky.
The climate is cool because of the northeast winds. The winter is mild with lowest temperature of 10C.
During wintertime, rain is more frequent but non-existent during summer time.
The fertile ground helps the cultivation of vines and tomatoes.
The island is dry with only a few springs.
joi, 22 noiembrie 2007
Hotel Occidental Miguel Angel & Urban Spa
Hotel Occidental Miguel Angel & Urban Spa is located on the axis of 'Castellana', the centre of Madrid and the most elegant and sophisticated area of the capital. It is 5 minutes from the Palacio de Congresos and 15 minutes from IFEMA Exhibition Centre. The hotel was renovated in 2000.Occidental Miguel Angel Hotel has a total of 257 rooms and 6 suites. The Hotel offers an Executive floor called the Royal Club: with 86 elegant rooms divided into Standard Club, Premier, Junior Suite, Senior Suite and Presidential. The working area of each room, was specifically designed to fit your demands, equipped with scanner, photocopier, color printer, fax and e-mail service. The Business Centre area is also at your disposal.
The Hotel also has a Spa called The Lab Room, where you can get different treatments for different needs.
Services and Facilities:
*Mini-bar.
*Safe box.
*Air Conditioning.
*Central heating.
*TV with Canal +.
*Telephone.
*En-suite bathroom with hair dryer.
*Ironing board.
*Internet connection.
*Lobby Bar.
*Restaurant 'El Arco'.
*Restaurant 'Jardin Florencia'.
*Restaurant 'La Broche'.
*Spa treatments: stone massage, jet lag massage, Swedish or Thai massage.
*Fitness Studio.
*Excursions and trips.
*Museum visits.
*Tickets for entertainment and shows.
*Reservations for the best restaurants.
*Breakfast: € 25.00 + 7% VAT (per person and per day).
*Baby cot (on request) free of charge.
1 Child under 12 years old stay free of charge (sharing with 2 adults), on request.
Local Attractions:
ABC Serrano: 19th century building, there is a modern shopping centre.
Teleferico: See the whole city from the viewing tower at Casa de Campo.
Casa de Campo: provides the city with a combined zoo and aquarium.
Location:Occidental Miguel Angel Hotel is located on the axis of 'Castellana', the centre of Madrid and the most elegant and sophisticated area of the capital. It is situated at 5 minutes from the Palacio de Congresos and 15 minutes from IFEMA Exhibition Centre.
How to get there:
Flights:
Barajas International Airport is connected with the city centre via metro, car and taxi. You can take the Metro from the airport to 'Nuevos Ministerios' station.
Trains:
International as well as national trains that arrive from east, west and south, including the AVE arrive at Atocha Station (metro Atocha Renfe). The trains that arrive from the north stop at Charmartin station (metro Chamartin) and many go on to stop at Atocha as well.
Bus:
There are buses which transfer visitors from the airport to the Plaza Colon every 10-15 minutes. The journey takes between 30 and 45 minutes.
Cars:
Large car rental agencies can be found at the airport.
luni, 19 noiembrie 2007
South Africa
South Africa is a world beater in accommodation and many of the country’s accommodation providers have won leading international awards.
Whether you choose to stay in an internationally recognized South African hotel, bed and breakfast, lodge, guest house or resort you are assured of excellent service, good food and sound sleep.
The Singita Game Reserve hotel, Malamala Game Reserve hotel, Londolozi Private Game Reserve hotel and Phinda Private Game Reserve hotel have beaten world leaders such as the Ritz Carlton in many international travel publications readers’ surveys.
Come to South Africa and enjoy your stay
Singita and Community Touris
ed by the young children.
Although it has a reputation for family holidays, another wonderful establishment in KwaZulu-Natal is the Umngazi River Bungalows on the Wild Coast. This resort is known for its rugged beaches and scenic vistas, and now boasts a health spa as part of the package. Whilst not at the high-end of the accommodation scale, Umngazi offers all the basic luxuries - and rustic views you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
When high-end-design meets cutting-edge contemporary style and the ultimate bush location, what do you get? Singita Lebombo. This lodge, situated on a private concession in the Kruger National Park has become a sought-after spot for honeymooners… for good reason. The suites are modelled on the theme of an eagle’s nest and wall-to-ceiling glass guarantees almost 360 degree views of the wilderness landscape. Lebombo has been recognised by Tatler magazine as an ‘architectural masterpiece’ and this lodge is unique in every sense.
Boutique hotels are certainly different in terms of hotel accommodation, they are generally small yet highly-specialised operations that offer exceptionally high standards of hospitality. It’s that exclusive touch, that attention-to-detail and privacy guarantee that makes a boutique hotel so special.
South Africa has a number of top properties available. So for those who love superb architecture, Afro-chic décor and that feeling of staying in a home-away-from-home…read on.
However, it must be said - in Mpumalanga there is game lodge accommodation for every budget.
Whether you choose to stay in an internationally recognized South African hotel, bed and breakfast, lodge, guest house or resort you are assured of excellent service, good food and sound sleep.
The Singita Game Reserve hotel, Malamala Game Reserve hotel, Londolozi Private Game Reserve hotel and Phinda Private Game Reserve hotel have beaten world leaders such as the Ritz Carlton in many international travel publications readers’ surveys.
Come to South Africa and enjoy your stay
Singita and Community Touris
Singita has two lodges, Ebony and Boulders, on an 18 000 hectare concession in the renowned Sabi Sand Reserve adjoining Kruger National Park. It has another two within the Kruger National Park, both low-impact lodges on raised decks, called Lebombo and Tsweni.
 Boulders Lodge in the renowned Sabi Sand Reserve adjoining Kruger National Park offers outstanding game viewing, a wellness centre and superlative cuisine. | ||
The game viewing is outstanding – guests will almost certainly see the Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) and all sorts of other wild animals in the wooded savannas from the back of comfortable game drive vehicles, guided by experienced field rangers.
Pampered in the Bush
Visitors are pampered from the minute they arrive. Apart from exquisite décor, the lodges have wellness centres where you can enjoy a variety of massages, reflexology, manicures, facials and aromatherapy.
The cuisine is world-class. You may be offered, depending on where you stay, dishes like African peanut butter and butternut squash soup; ostrich fillet with cinnamon espresso jus; chermoula marinated tiger prawns with avocado salsa; or springbok fillets with papino, dill and ginger relish.
But similar claims could be made by a number of other luxury bush lodges in South Africa. So what sets Singita apart?
Involving the Community
Over several years the Singita Group has reached out to the village communities on the borders of the Sabi Sands, mainly the little settlement of Justicia,where most of their staff live.
This community outreach has helped set up small businesses. One of the most successful is a community tour, operated by Zamani Mathebula, who started at Boulders as a waiter. He says he realised the potential because so many guests would ask him about his background and everyday life. He now takes them to see his village, Justicia, home to 15 000 people.
Township Tour
Typically, guests are welcomed by the Justicia Big Boys, who serenade guests with their traditional scathamiya music. After that they go to a pre-school, where they are entertain
 On a typical tour of Justica township guests are entertained by young children from the local primary school. | ||
Then there’s a visit to a typical household, where the family introduces the guests to Shangaan ways of food preparation, including crushing corn and the many uses of maize. Here visitors try foods that grow in the area such as monkey oranges, wild spinach and marula nuts.
Good Neighbours
Singita has helped to uplift Justicia in many ways, and it’s mostly children that have benefited. Classrooms and toilets have been built at the local primary and high schools; and chairs, blankets and toys have been donated to the little pre-primary school. It has supported the Literacy Centre at Mketsi Primary School by paying trainers’ salaries, as well as supplying training materials and chairs.
Singita has also helped repair boreholes at Justicia, facilitated more water accessibility for households, and fenced the local vegetable garden, which supplies much of Singita’s fresh produce needs.
In addition, Singita has teamed up with other neighbouring lodges (Nyati, Londolozi and Ulusaba) and the Dell computer group to set up a centre for disabled children, which will provide educational development as well as physiotherapy, speech and occupational therapy. Once it is up and running, the Tshemba Hosi Disabled Centre will be formally handed over to the community.
Guests make a difference
Most heart-warming is the impact guests have made in Justicia. Over the years they have donated many boxes of stationary to the pre-school; contributed to the costs of building two classrooms at Mketsi Primary School; donated a piano to Madlala High School; and given books to the value of R40 000 to Mketsi andBabati Primary Schools.
Guests can also sponsor disabled children to attend the Tshemba Hosi Disabled Centre. In fact, much of the community upliftment programme is guest-driven, says the group’s general manager Mark Witney.
He was quoted in a local newspaper as saying: ‘After our guests began to show a growing awareness about responsible tourism, we realised that our daily business practices, community projects and the local Shangaan culture are of great interest to the consumer. That’s why we decided to apply for Fair Trade in Tourism certification.’
Fair Tourism
Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa is the only Fair Trade label in the world linked to tourism. It is a World Conservation Union (IUCN) initiative that has been running since 2003, and which accredits tourism operators that pay staff a fair wage, support neighbouring communities in various ways, have ethicalbusiness practices, respect the environment, and promote local tourism attractions.
South Africa offers a wide diversity of honeymoon locations, whether it’s a quiet country retreat, a luxury bush lodge or a beachfront boutique hotel. Here’s a brief look at a few favourite honeymoon locations…
Beach Bliss
South Africa is home to some of the best beaches in the world, and therefore the perfect spot for ‘barefoot luxury’ holidays. Thonga Beach Lodge is situated in the ISimangaliso Wetlands Park, formerly St. Lucia (KwaZulu-Natal) and is only accessible by 4x4 vehicle - which means that privacy and exclusivity are guaranteed. Found along the pristine shores of the coastline, there are only 12 thatched chalets (linked by wooden walkways). Every effort has been made to make the ‘great outdoors’ part of the interior living space and chalets have been built around the ocean and beach (with as little environmental impact as possible). Thonga is known as an excellent snorkelling and scuba diving location.
 Honeymoon spaces made in heaven | ||
If you have your heart set on the Western Cape as the ideal honeymoon destination, then Birkenhead House in Hermanus offers the ultimate in luxury from the gorgeous Hemel ‘n Aarde (heaven and earth) Valley. This boutique hotel has fantastic sea views of the ocean and you can often glance Southern Right Whales frolicking in the distance during whale season. Birkenhead House has won numerous international awards for excellence.
Honeymoon-on-Safari
 The romantic candle-lit bathroom at Singita Lebombo | ||
Other superbly romantic bush lodges include Sediba Private Game Lodge in the Welgevonden Game Reserve, Tuningi Safari Lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve, Thanda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal and a variety of high-end lodges in the exclusive Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve.
[Note that many of these exclusive lodges will assist in organising an intimate wedding celebration, which means you can get married and go on honeymoon in one location.]
Rooms with a View
Not too far from Cape Town’s City centre, you’ll find Cape Cove – a privately owned guest lodge situated at the foothills of Lion’s Head. Located in the suburb of Fresnaye, close to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and the glorious beaches of Clifton, this guest-house has exquisite views of both the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. Six en-suite rooms, each with their own private balcony and an eclectic collection of European and African artefacts offer a funky decorative style with a very localised feel. While the hours away at one of the two rim-flow pools that overlook the ocean.
Another notable honeymoon spot is Les Cascades de Bantry Bay, also in close proximity to the Mother City. The lodge has 10 rooms offering a mixture of contemporary art, private balconies and views of the Cape’s version of St Tropez. This establishment is close to all the restaurants and entertainment facilities of the city, yet offers a feeling of privacy and exclusivity.
Of course, if you really want movie-star treatment on your honeymoon, why not book the Penthouse Suite at the world-famous Mount Nelson Hotel, with its lush acres of green lawn, colonial-meets-African atmosphere and tradition of excellence.
Between Forest and Coast
Another extremely popular honeymoon destination is the Garden Route. There are a number of hotels, bed & breakfasts and guesthouses along this scenic coastline that stretches from Mossel Bay (Western Cape) to Storms River (Eastern Cape).Milkwood Bay Guesthouse is a Mediterranean-styled home-away-from home set along the Knysna Estuary and is a great base from which to explore the Garden Route… and of course, celebrate your new life together.
Other notable establishments in the area include The Penthouse in Plettenberg Bay, Milkwood Manor (also in Plettenberg Bay), and Tsitsikamma Lodge on the outskirts of the Tsitsikamma forest.
Country Retreats
The Coach House and Agatha Spa near Tzaneen (in Limpopo) offers forest-like surroundings combined with the ultimate in luxury. Imbibe in the gorgeous views of the Drakensberg mountain range from your private verandah, spend some time exploring the enchanted garden or head out for the hills with a picnic basket and absolutely no agenda. The Coach House gourmet meals are renowned in this part of the world, as is the excellent service.
Another notable country retreat is Highgrove House in Hazyview, Mpumalanga, consisting of just 8 suites nestling in gorgeous gardens. This country retreat has won numerous awards for its fantastic service, cuisine and exquisite location. The Orchid Suites set in a private garden complete with sauna and swimming pool offer the perfect opportunity for rest and relaxation. Day drives to the Kruger National Park (amongst other activities) are a popular option.
If you’re thinking about honeymooning in the Western Cape winelands, Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse (between Wellington and Tulbagh) is a romantic hideaway in a fynbos nature reserve. The charming Victorian farmhouse is set against the backdrop of a mountain range and allows the perfect respite for those couples wanting some quality time away from the noise of the world.
SA’s Top Class Boutique Hotels
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South Africa has a number of top properties available. So for those who love superb architecture, Afro-chic décor and that feeling of staying in a home-away-from-home…read on.
Ellerman House
One of South Africa’s most exclusive properties, Ellerman House is where Sting, Bono and Oprah Winfrey stay when they are in Cape Town. This signature Relais & Chateux property is situated in Bantry Bay - overlooking the exquisite Atlantic Searboard. Original artworks and a vintage wine collection are all to be enjoyed in an exclusive setting that guarantees privacy and the ultimate sophistication.
The Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa
Situated just a few minutes from the Sandton CBD, Fairlawns has secured its reputation as one of Johannesburg’s favourite boutique hotels. 19 highly individualised luxury suites are on offer, and the hotels rolling gardens guarantee tranquillity (not too far from the entertainment heartland of Sandton). If you need further distressing, there are a number of spa packages available. Try out the all-new Balinese Spa garden.
Quarters Hotel
The Quarters Hotel in Durban is a delightful combination of four restored Victorian homes. Situated along Florida Road (a popular restaurant/entertainment strip) - personalised service is the name of the game at this fantastic hotel. Because numbers are limited, privacy is always guaranteed. Quarters is situated just 5kms from the beach and from the city centre, but why go anywhere else when trendy Florida Road is on your doorstep?
Metropole Boutique Hotel
Enjoy the authenticity of this gracious Victorian property. The Metropole, situated in Cape Town is a wonderful mix of age-old style and modern contemporary finishes. The wonderful urban feel of this hotel just begs one to try and exotic cocktail at the M-Bar or to enjoy delectable cuisine at the Veranda restaurant. A member of the internationally acclaimed - Design Hotels.
Mut Hut Boutique Hotel
You’ll find this ‘African Tribal Palace’ in the Northern suburbs of Cape Town. This rather ‘different’ establishment boasts an African theme and all the modcons and luxuries of a top boutique hotel. Nine executive rooms, access to internet and email facilities and the fun Ol’ Times restaurant and bar are all on offer. Your choice of accommodation is not ordinary – would you like to stay in the Warrior’s Nest, the Tribal Cave or the Chief’s Kraal? The Honey Tower and its spectacular views is also an option.
The Peech
You’ll find this rather peachy property in the exclusive suburb of Melrose, Johannesburg. One of the city’s newest boutique hotels, the rooms are decorated with an indigenous African feel and include the famous ‘raindance’ showers. Close to restaurants and nightlife of Melrose Arch. The hotel offers WiFi, iPod Sound and a temporary gym membership to the nearby Planet Fitness.
Hippo Boutique Hotel
So much has been written about this exclusive hotel in the hub of Cape Town. We are talking about seamless service and superb accommodation in this hotel that is all sleek lines and city slick. Rooms are self-catering with kitchen units equipped with fridge, microwave and filter coffee machine. State-of-the-art technology and a state-of-the-art entertainment centre are all at your disposal.
Cape Cadogan
This 12-suite hotel is found in the Gardens region of Cape Town (not too far from the government buildings and the famous Mount Nelson hotel). Referred to as ‘Bohemian chic’ this property offers a laid-back atmosphere with all the trimmings. Situated in an elegant Georgian and Victorian building the essence of this home-away-from home is discretion and quality. The boutique hotel is situated within walking distance of many of the Cape’s hottest restaurants.
Out Of Town:
If you enjoy the Boutique Hotel atmosphere, then consider the following properties around the country. These exclusive guesthouses offer the same attention-to-detail an individualised service as their city counterparts.
• Falcons View ManorThis gorgeous property is found in Kynsna, along the famous Garden Route - situated above the Knysna lagoon.
• HousemartinSituated in the village of De Rust in the Klein Karoo, this property is a gem. Housemartin is not pretentious in any sense and epitomises the charm and hospitality of the area.
• Hunter’s Country HouseYou’ll find Hunters 10km outside the resort town of Plettenberg Bay. You’ve got the beaches of Plett on one hand, and the forests of Kynsna on the other.
• Ivory Heights guesthouseFound in Somerset West region – this graceful property is out of the Cape Town city centre, but not too far away from the urban buzz. Golf courses and beautiful mountain ranges add to the experience.
Exclusive Game Lodges of Mpumalanga
The Kruger National Park is one of South Africa’s biggest tourism draw-cards.Not too far from the Kruger, you’ll find the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, home to the Beverly Hills of luxury game lodges
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So what exactly can you expect from a visit to a game lodge? According to the AA Travel Guides, the game lodge experience can be defined as follows: ‘Luxurious accommodation. The game experience is central to the guests’ stay. Generally within a reserve, offering game drives and all meals as part of the inclusive rate.’
Sabi Sand Game Reserve
The Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a 65 000 wildlife sanctuary that shares an unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park. Valuable water supplies are provided to the area by the Sabie River and the Sand River, which attracts a high level of bio-diversity and fantastic game viewing. Here, you are almost always guaranteed of seeing the Big Five. Luxurious lodges can be found in the Sabi Sand region, offering the ultimate in comfort. International publications such as Travel and Leisure (US), Tatler (UK) and Conde Nast Traveller (both US and UK) regularly acknowledge these superior establishments. It must be said that lodges such as Singita, Mala Mala, Sabi Sabi, Londolozi and the like, do come with hefty price tags attached to them.
Best of the Best:
Mala Mala consists of 3 camps: Rattray’s on Mala Mala, Sable Camp and Mala Mala Main Camp. The camps offer all the luxury one could imagine, including exquisite cuisine, game drives with a private guide, bush walks and luxurious accommodation. It’s not surprising then that Mala Mala was voted as ‘One of the Top Hotels Worldwide’ by Fodor’s for 2006. This was followed by the Travel & Leisure magazine award (2nd Place) for Best Service for Africa and the Middle East.
Londolozi Private Game Reserve is one of the most progressive eco-tourism locations in Africa. There are 5 camps to choose from at Londolozi – Pioneer camp, Founders camp, Bataleur camp, Tree camp and Londolozi Safari Lodge. Guests can enjoy interpretive Big Five Safaris and day and night safaris. Again the accommodation, cuisine and service is top-notch. An added bonus is that Londolozi offers some of the best leopard viewing in Africa.
One cannot mention the top game lodges in South Africa, without speaking of Singita in the same breath. Singita has 5 spectacular lodges on offer: Ebony, Boulders, Lebombo, Sweni and Castleton Camp. The décor, attention-to-detail, personal service and sheer beauty of the various locations has also won multiple awards for Singita including the Conde Nast Traveller UK Awards for ‘Best Hotel in the World’ for 2004 and Travel & Leisure Magazine’s ‘World Best Service Awards’.
Other notables:
- Lion Sands Ivory Lodge in the Sabi Sand neighbourhood, has also been lauded by international magazines and was a finalist in Tatler Magazine UK’s Hotel of the Year Awards for 2006.
- Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge. The Spa at Earth Lodge is a fore-runner of the African spa philosophy - using nature in healing and therapeutic treatments.
- Ulusaba Rock Lodge. This lodge has every comfort one can imagine, which is not surprising as Virgin’s Richard Branson owns the place.
- Jock Safari Lodge – consisting of 12 luxury suites with great views and an excellent bush spa. Jock’s is part of the renowned Mantis Collection properties.
As you can see, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to luxury lodges in Mpumalanga, so make sure you explore your options beforehand.
India
By 6th century BC, the Magadh rulers dominated the Northern plains. It was also the time when new thinking emerged in the form of Buddhism and Jainism to challenge Hindu orthodoxy. The Magadh rule was followed by the rule of Chandragupta Maurya (322-298 B.C.), one of India's greatest emperors. The Mauryan reign peaked under the reign of Ashoka the Great who extended his empire from the Kashmir and Peshawar in the North to Mysore in the South and Orissa in the East. Not only was Ashoka a great ruler, he was one of the most successful propagators of Buddhism in the country. After Ashoka's death in 232 B.C. the empire began to disintegrate and the country was repeatedly raided and plundered by foreign invaders, leaving India disunited and weak for the next 400 years. Stability returned with the reign of Chandra Gupta I (380-412 A.D.). His rule is considered the golden period in Indian history when art and culture flourished and the country prospered. Unlike the North of India, foreign invasions had little impact on life in South India which also saw the rise and decline of many empires. These included the Cholas whose rule extended to Sri Lanka and South East Asia, the Pandyas, the Cheras, the Pallavas and the Chalukyas. Under the various rulers, arts and craft in the South also saw the emergence of various styles of architecture and some of the grandest architectural accomplishments in the South - the most famous being the exquisitely crafted Chola bronzes. These were followed by the Hoysala and the Vijaynagar empires - among the greatest Hindu empires. The first Muslim invasions of the country started with the Mahmud of Gazni, who plundered the sub-continent for its riches between 1001 and 1025. Later Mohamed Ghori defeated Prithviraj Chauhan, the Tomar ruler of Delhi and left it in charge of his deputy, Qutub-ud-din, the man who built the Qutub Minar in Delhi. His rule was followed by that of the Khilji, Tughlaq, Sayyid and Lodi dynasties. Known as the Sultanate of Delhi, it was during this period that the Muslim rulers introduced Islamic concepts of society and governance to most of the sub-continent, though the South remained largely untouched.
Over the centuries India had always been attractive to traders, and one of the first Europeans to come to India was the Portuguese trader Vasco da Gama who landed at Calicut, sailing via the Cape of Good Hope in 1498. The Portuguese established their colony in Goa in the 16th Century but they did not expand it though their rule continued till 1961. Vasco da Gama was followed by the French, the Dutch and the English, all of whom were lured by the commercial interests that India offered. By the last quarter of the 18th century the English established themselves as the dominant power in India and they set about making revolutionary changes in the social, political and the economic life of the country. The disintegration of the Mughal empire, fighting among the Maratha rulers and inability of the various rulers across the country to unite against a common enemy saw the British consolidate their position in the country. However, the 19th century saw a revival of national pride and social reform and the Indians began to tire of the suppressive British rule. Things reached a flash point in the second half of the 19th century when the first war of independence in 1857 broke out in Meerut. It was sparked off by the introduction of a new rifle and cartridge by the British in the Army. The cartridges which soldiers had to bite off, allegedly contained pork and beef tallow, which offended the religious sentiments of both Hindus and Muslims. The soldiers rebelled, reached Delhi and proclaimed Bahadurshah Zafar the sovereign ruler of India. They were eventually overpowered by the British.
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Indian history dates back to 3000 BC. Excavations in Punjab and Gujarat reveal that the Indus Valley civilisation was a highly developed urban civilisation. In fact the two cities of Harappa and Mohenjodaro, situated on two sides of the river Ravi, are known to have been built on a similar plan. But that only meant a new wave of urbanisation was taking place along the Ganges around 1500 BC. This has been recorded in the Rig Veda - the earliest known literary source composed in this period that sheds light on India's past. 
In 1525, Babur, a descendant of Timur, as well as Genghis Khan invaded Punjab and eventually founded the Mughal empire in India. His rule was followed by that of his son Humayun. Humayun was ousted by Afghan chieftain Sher Shah but resumed power after Sher Shah's death. Sher Shah is, however, remembered as the one to build the Grand Trunk road spanning from Peshawar to Howrah. Humayun's reign was followed up by his son Akbar who actually consolidated power and extended the empire across North India and parts of South India. One of India's wisest rulers and most able administrators, Akbar's reign is considered to be one of the best the country has known. Akbar was succeeded by Jahangir, followed by his son Shah Jahan - best known as the builder of the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid. Shah Jahan's reign was followed by Aurangzeb's. The death of Aurangzeb saw the decline of the Mughal rule in India.
But there was no looking back for the Indians who wanted social reform and freedom. The Indian National Congress was set up and educated Indians started formulating strategies to assert their birthright to independence. The anti-British sentiment became a mass movement with the arrival of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi who devised a unique strategy for India's freedom struggle based on non-violence and civil disobedience. He conceived and led the non-cooperation movement in 1922, the Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942. All of which pushed the British into agreeing to transfer power on August 15, 1947, the day that is now celebrated as India's Independence Day. Today, India is the world's largest democracy with a federal form of government.
vineri, 16 noiembrie 2007
Burj Al Arab
Burj Al Arab is located in the Jumeirah Beach area of Dubai, 15 km from the main city centre and 25 km from Dubai International Airport. It is well served by taxis and has its own fleet of 10 chauffeur driven Rolls-Royces. In addition to a dining and living area, each suite has an office area complete with laptop, internet access, private fax, printer and copier. Hidden network of advanced technology - lighting, curtains and air-conditioning at the touch of a button.
Dubai: The World Islands
The same company that brought us The Palm Islands, Al Nakheel Properties (Nakheel Corp), have done it again expanding their portfolio of man-made islands with this latest Dubai island project shaped like the continents of the world. The World will consist of between 250 to 300 smaller private artifical islands divided into four categories - private homes, estate homes, dream resorts, and community islands. Each island will range from 250,000 to 900,000 square feet in size, with 50 to 100 metres of water between each island. The development is to cover an area of 9 kilometers in length and 6 kilometers in width, surrounded by an oval shaped breakwater. The only means of transportation between the islands will be by marine transport.
Construction has begun on the $US 1.8 billion project which is set to be completed by the end of 2005. It will be located 4 kilometers off the shore of Jumeirah, close to the The Palm Jumeirah, between Burj Al Arab and Port Rashid of Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Each island will be sold to selected private developers and are expected to have pricing beginning at Dhs. 25 million (US$ 6.85 million).
Theatre of Marcellus
The exterior is of travertine, formed by 41 arches framed by pilasters, whereas the radial walls and the ambulatories were built in square work, consisting of blocks of tufa, cement work and reticulated work. Today only the two lower stories in Doric and Ionic style are preserved. The stage was flanked by two rooms with apsis followed by a large exedra with two little temples. It was originally 32 mt high and could hold about 15000 spectators.In the Middle Ages it was transformed into a fortress. In the 1500's the noble family of Savelli transformed it into a palace (which was built by Baldassarre Peruzzi). The building passed then to the Orsini family in the 1700's.
The Flavian Amphitheatre (the Colosseum)
The Flavian Amphitheatre, better known as the Colosseum, is probably the most famous monument in the world: this elliptical colossal construction, with a height of 48mt, has impressed and fascinated men of all Ages. It was with no doubt the most favourite place by the Romans, who came to prefer above all other entertainment the slaughter of men armed to kill and be killed for their amusement. The amphitheatre consisted of four floors. The first floor was 11,50mt high adorned by halfcolumns of the Doric order . The second floor, in the Ionic order, was 11,85mt high. The third floor, in the Corintian order, was 11,60 mt high. The fourth floor consisted of a plain wall with projecting corbels which supported the bases of the masts to which on days of strong sun were attached the strips of giant awning which sheltered the spectators. Staircases and galleries led the crowd to the different tiers of seats.
Tour Eiffel
A Bit of History The Eiffel Tower was built for the International Exhibition of Paris of 1889 commemorating the centenary of the French Revolution. The Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII of England, opened the tower. Of the 700 proposals submitted in a design competition, Gustave Eiffel's was unanimously chosen.
However it was not accepted by all at first, and a petition of 300 names - including those of Maupassant, Emile Zola, Charles Garnier (architect of the Opéra Garnier), and Dumas the Younger - protested its construction.
At 300 metres (320.75m including antenna), and 7000 tons, it was the world's tallest building until 1930. Other statistics include:
- 2.5 million rivets.
- 300 steel workers, and 2 years (1887-1889) to construct it.
- Sway of at most 12 cm in high winds.
- Height varies up to 15 cm depending on temperature.
- 15,000 iron pieces (excluding rivets).
- 40 tons of paint.
- 1652 steps to the top.
It was almost torn down in 1909, but was saved because of its antenna - used for telegraphy at that time. Beginning in 1910 it became part of the International Time Service. French radio (since 1918), and French television (since 1957) have also made use of its stature.
During its lifetime, the Eiffel Tower has also witnessed a few strange scenes, including being scaled by a mountaineer in 1954, and parachuted off of in 1984 by two Englishmen. In 1923 a journalist rode a bicycle down from the first level. Some accounts say he rode down the stairs, other accounts suggest the exterior of one of the tower's four legs which slope outward.
However, if its birth was difficult, it is now completely accepted and must be listed as one of the symbols of Paris itself.
Notes
The tower has three platforms. A restaurant (extremely expensive; reservations absolutely necessary), the Jules Verne is on the second platform. The top platform has a bar, souvenir shop, and the (recently restored) office of Gustave Eiffel.From its platforms - especially the topmost - the view upon Paris is superb. It is generally agreed that one hour before sunset, the panorama is at its best.
Musée du Louvre
The Louvre has three wings: the Richelieu, Sully, and Denon. They are North, East, and South of the Pyramid respectively.
Treasures of The Louvre
Scrapbook
A collection of images of the Louvre - contributions welcome, attribution freely given.
The Cour Napoléon; Day - Collage; Norman Barth 1995.
The Cour Napoléon; Night - Collage; Norman Barth 1995.
Jardins des Tuileries; Erica Vinson 1995.
Jardins des Tuileries; Norman Barth 1995.
The Sully Wing; Norman Barth - 1995
The Salon Carré - canvas, 1861, Castiglione.
The library of Charles V - installed in one of the towers of the original fortress of Philippe August - was eventually dispersed. François I began a new collection of art with 12 paintings from Italy. These included works by Titian, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci, the most famous being the Joconde - or Mona Lisa. The royal collection grew and by the reign of Louis XIII, numbered roughly 200 pieces. Henri II, and Catherine de Médicis continued to enlarge the collection, as did others. When Louis XIV died in 1715, there were 2,500 pieces of art and objects.
Until the Revolution, this collection was strictly for the private pleasure of the Court. Finally, the idea of a museum (originating with Louis XVI) was realized on 10 August 1793, when the Musée de la République opened to the public.
Napoléon greatly increased the collections by exacting tribute from the countries he conquored, but most of these were returned in 1815 after his defeat at Waterloo. Under Louis XVIII the Venus de Milo was aquired (for 6000F) shortly after it was rediscovered on the Island of Melos in 1820.
In 1848 the museum became the property of the State. With an annual budget devoted to aquiring new art, the collections continued to grow. Private donations also augmented the Museum's holdings.
In 1947 the impressionist paintings were moved to the Jeu de Paume and l'Orangerie. (In 1986 these were transfered to the Musée d'Orsay.)
Today, the catalogue lists nearly 300,000 works, only a fraction of which are on display at any one time. Le Grand Louvre - begun in 1981 is transforming the museum once again enlarging it substantially. The Richelieu Wing - which had ``temporarily'' housed part of the Ministry of Finance since the 18th century - was opened in 1993.
In the coming years the organization of the museum and how the collections are displayed will be changed signficantly. However, Le Grand Louvre promises to put more works on display than ever before.
Louvre BasicsThe Louvre has extensive collections organized into seven departments. These are housed in the three wings of the museum: Sully, Denon and Richelieu. These wings are respectively to the west, south, and north of the Pyramid. The Hall Napoléon is the name used to denote the space beneath the Pyramid which is now the official entrance to the Louvre. In the image below, the Richelieu Wing is to the left of the Pyramid; the Sully Wing to the right.
Each of the wings has 3 stories (i.e. ground, first, and second). There is also an `Entresol' - below ground - level.
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1. Looking through the Eastern arch leading to the Cour Carée; Pyramid beyond.
2. Eastern façade of the Cour Carée/Sully Wing.
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It isn't always sunny in Paris;
3. The Pyramid by IM Pei and Richelieu Wing in the background.
4. Richelieu and Sully Wings to the left and right of the Pyramid.
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5. Inside of the Pyramid - The Hall Napoléon - the main entrance to the museum.
Arc de Triomphe
Commissioned in 1806 by Napoleon, shortly after his victory at Austerlitz, it was not finished until 1836. There are four huge relief sculptures at the bases of the four pillars. These commemorate The Triumph of 1810 (Cortot); Resistance , and Peace (both by Etex); and The Departure of the Volunteers, more commonly known by the name La Marseillaise (Rude). La Marseillaise by François Rude; One of four reliefs on the pillars of the Arch. The day the Battle of Verdun started in 1916, the sword carried by the figure representing the Republic broke off. The relief was immediately hidden to conceal the accident and avoid any undesired associations or interpretations as a bad omen.
Engraved around the top of the Arch are the names of major victories won during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic periods. The names of less important victories, as well as those of 558 generals, are to found on the inside walls. Generals whose names are underlined died in action.
Beneath the Arch is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and eternal flame commemorating the dead of the two world wars.
Notes
Inside the Arch there is a small museum documenting its history and construction (price included in the FF31 to the top of the Arch).From the roof of the Arch there are spectacular views of Paris. Looking eastwards, down the Champs Elysées, toward the Louvre, there is the Place de la Concorde,, the Tuileries Gardens, and the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel. In the opposite direction - westwards - in the distance is its larger and newer cousin, La Grande Arche de la Défense.
View from the roof of the Arc de Triomphe toward the Eiffel Tower and Tour Montparnasse.
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