Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa

The  Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is one of the most visited attraction in Iceland. The Spa is located in lava field in Gridvaik on the Reykjanes Peninsula, southwestern Iceland. Blue Lagoon is situated approximately 20 km from the and 39 km  Keflavik International Airport and 39 km from the capital city of Reykjavik. It can also be reached from Reykjavik with a number of tours and combined with activities.

Short Description

The  warm waters are rich in minerals like silica and sulfur and bathing in the Blue Lagoon is reputed to help some people suffering from skin diseases such as psoriasis  is. The water temperature in the bathing and swimming area of the lagoon averages 37 – 39 degree Celsius. The Blue Lagoon also operates a research and development facility to help find cures for other skin ailments using the mineral – rich water.

The lagoon is a man – made lagoon which is fed by the water output of the nearby geothermal power plant Svartsengi  and  is renewed every two days. Super heated water is vented from the ground near a lava flow and used to run turbine that generate electricity. After going through the turbines, the steam and hot water passes through a heat ex charger to provide heat a municipal water heating system. Then the water is fed into  the lagoon for recreational and medicinal users to bathe in.

The rich mineral content is provided by the underground geological layers and pushed up to the surface by the hot water used by the plant. Because of its mineral concentration, water can not be recycled and must be disposed of in the nearby landscape, a permeable lava field 50 cm to 1 m thick. The silicate minerals is the primary cause of that water’s beautiful milky blue shade  assuring  the touristic resort’s success. After the minerals have formed a deposit, the water rein filtrates the ground, but the deposit renders it impermeable over time. Hence the necessity for the plant to continuously dig new ponds in the nearby lava field.

The Blue Lagoon was used as the pit stop for the first leg of the Amazing race 6. The Blue Lagoon was used for the thermal spa scenes in the filming of Hostel; Part II. It was also shown in the Incubus documentary Look Alive, when the band visited Iceland, as well as in the fifth cycle of Britain’s  Next Top Model which used as photo shoot location. The Blue Lagoon is situated close to the world’s first renewable methanol plant, which uses Carbon Recycling international’s carbon dioxide to methanol fuel process.

In 1976 a pool formed at the site from the water of the geothermal power plant that had just been built there. In 1981 people started bathing in it after the discovery of its heating powers of psoriasis. In 1992 the Blue Lagoon Company was established and the bathing facility was opened to the public.

Matterhorn, Switzerland

Situated in the Pennine Alps on the border between Switzerland and Italy, is one of the most famous and distinctive of all Alpine peaks. The Matterhorn is a pyramidal – shaped colossus standing at a skyline – dominating 4478 m.  Its four step faces  rise above the nearby glaciers and face the four compass points north east south and west. Although not the highest peak in the Alps its fame is due to its almost impossible shape; an unusual landform with a summit that appears  to extend over its north face, making it look like a cobra about to strike.

The History of Matterhorn

The formation of the Matterhorn ( and the rest of the Alps) began some 50 to 60 million years ago, when  the African and  Euorasian  tectonic plates collided and layers of sedimentary rock that had formed in the seas between them were thrust up above sea level. Experts suggest that the Matterhorn began as a round hill, but gained its distinct pyramidal shape as a result of natural erosive forces over the last million years.

The first successful ascent of this iconic peak was on   July 14 1865 by a team led by English climber and explore Edward Whymper. He had previously made several  attempts on the summit. The climb was marred by tragedy as four team members lost their lives in a fall just below the summit during the descent. The second ascent occurred  just three days after Whymper’s triumph, from the Italian side. The mountain’s difficult north face was not climbed until July 31 and August 1, 1931.

The Matterhorn’s north face overlooks the Swiss Zmutt Valley, whilst the south stands guard  over the Italian Ski resort  village of  Breuil – Cervinia . The Theodul pass a trade route used by ancient Romans and Celts as early as 100 BC connects the two destinations. Unknown to most the Romans originally named the Matterhorn, “Mans Silvius”, in fact it was not until sometime during the 1550’s that Germans named the mountain Matterhorn, derived from “mate” meaning meadow and “horn” meaning peak.

Climbing Matterhorn

 The climbs are long and demanding an dit is essential that climbers have previous alpine mountaineering experience. The usual route is up the North – East ridge. This is the central ridge that can be seen from the village of Zermatt at the foot of the mountain. The ascent starts at Hornli Hut a mountain hut situated at 3260 m above sea level. It involves 1219 m climbing and takes around six hours up and five hours down. There are fixed ropes on some parts of the climb. Although this is considered the easiest, it has on AD ( fairy difficult) rating. Other routes on the mountain include the Zmutt  ridge, the north face and the Italian ridge ( South – West, or Lion ridge), which was the route taken by the party that reached the summit three days after Whymper.

When to Visit Matterhorn

If you are attempting to climb the Matterhorn the best times are from mid – July to mid – September, depending on the amount of snow on the mountain. However it’s important to bear in mind that the weather on the mountain is dangerously unpredictable and changes commonly occur throughout the day.

How to get to Matterhorn

International flights into Switzerland arrive at either, Geneva, or Zurich airports, with both providing easy access to Zermatt through the Swiss rail network. Train is the most convenient way to get to Zermatt as it is a car – free village. Only electric cars are allowed to operate within its boundaries.

Uluru ( Ayers Rock),Australia

Uluru or as is often known Ayers Rock, is a large sacred sandstone structure  in central Australia. At 348 m high and 9.4 km in circumference, it is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most recognizable landmarks. Throughout the day, Uluru appears to change color ranging in hue from brown and pink to delicate mauve, and sometimes even fiery red. Impressively the visible part of Uluru is just the tip of an enormous underground stab.

The   History of   Uluru.

Steeped in history archaeological evidence suggests that Uluru has been home to aboriginal people for at least 20.000 years. It’s long been an area  of great cultural significance to its indigenous owners, the Anangu. The Anangu  believe that they are the direct descendants of those who created all the distinct features and living things in the desert landscape you see today. As such they firmly regard themselves as responsible for the protection and maintenance of these ancestral lands.

In 1873  William Gosse named Uluru Ayers Rock aster the Chief Secretary of South Australia at  the time, Sir Henry Ayers. Many years later in 1950 the Ayers rock – Mount Olga National Park was formed. Then in 1985 the Australian government handed the title back to its rightful owners, the Anangu on the provision that it would be leased back for a period of 99 years and jointly managed. This led to the adoption of a dual naming policy in 1993, resulting in the now official name of Uluru/ Ayers Rock.

Climbing Uluru

Climbing  Uluru is undoubtedly a contentious issue as the route follows the sacred path taken by the ancestral Mala. The indigenous aboriginal owners of Uluru, the Anangu specifically request that visitors respect their culture and avoid climbing the rock. Further the Australian government discourage the climb due to the  dangerous involved.  People have died attempting to climb and many more have suffered injuries. That being said, the law does not currently prohibit the climb an dmany choose to disregard the Anangu’s request. If you decide to climb know that despite a chain rope path to help, the climb is strenuous and will take around two hours to complete. As such you should only attempt to climb if you  are fit and healthy. If you are visiting Uluru for the sole reason of climbing, you should bear in mind that is often closed as a result of strong winds or high temperatures. In fact if at any point the temperature exceeds 36 degree Celsius, climbing is prohibited for the remainder  of the day. As  a result  of the extreme heat  during the daytime climbing at down is most popular. Regardless  of what time of day you climb , wearing a hat and using plenty of sun cream is necessary, because between the wind and sun reflections on the rock you will burn a lot quicker than you’d ordinarily expect.

However if you brave the heat and manage to reach the summit, you will be greeted with an exhilarating breathtaking panorama, which many regard as the highlight of their whole Australia experience. If you choose to respect Tjukurpa and Anangu  wishes there are several walks available as an alternative to climbing Uluru. Perhaps the most popular is the magnificent 3.5 – hour 10.6 km Uluru base walk, which takes you around the entire circumference of the rock. Bear in mind that some sacred sights along the way are fenced off from the public domain. The Mala walk provides an interesting alternative offering an opportunity to experiencing several caves and a variety of rock art. For a shorter trip the 1 km Kniya walk takes you to the Mtijulu waterhole where you can experience the Anangu people telling creation stories firsthand. If you’re looking for somewhere to watch the sunset  take a 4 km Lungkata walk, which offers you a fantastic location  close to the rock. Lastly base  of Uluru along which you will often see colorful flowers if it’s  recently rained.

How to get to Uluru

In order to get to Uluru you have to first to fly to Alice Springs from any major Australian airport once in Alice Springs you can  either take a 45 – minute flight to Ayers Rock Airport, or take a 4.5 – hour drive  across Australians outback. Buses from Alice Springs to Uluru are also available. but will inevitably take considerably longer.

Best time to visit Uluru

Uluru is part of the Uluru – Kata Tjuta Natiomnal Park, which is open all year round; though opening times vary. The summer (December – February) will bring extreme heat, whilst the winter weather (June- August) is a lot cooler. If you are planning to climb Uluru or do any of the walks then avoiding the heat and visiting in the cooler months is highly recommended. However if you  just want to see the rock nd take photographs anu time of year would be suitable.

Where to stay near  Uluru

The Ayers Rock resort is situated just 6 km from the Ayers Rock Airport and offers five different accommodation options    at various price points. The choice is between the sails in the Desert Hotel, Emu Walk Apartments, Desert Gardens Hotel, Outback  Pioneer  Hotel &  Lodge and the Ayers roick Campground. Whether you are looking to luxurious accommodation, or just somewhere to lay your head for the night, your preference will be catered for.’

Penon de Ifach

Penon de Ifach

The enigmatic Penon de Ifach stands proudly of 320 m at the head of Calpe surrounded  by the shimmering blue of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a huge calcareous  rock, joined to the mainland a detritic isthmus. With a protected  surface area of just 45 ha, Pennon de Ifach is one of the smallest nature reserves in Europe. Despite  its size the reserve attracts approximately 100.000 visitors each year.

History of Penon de Ifach

Throughout history pennon de Ifach has served several purposes. In the 4^th to 3^rd centuries before Christ there was an Iberian village at the foot of the rock on its western side. Later  in roman times the settlement move to isthmus join  the rock to the mainland, though finding confirm that the sides of the rock were once again inhabited throughout the Middle Ages

Penan de Ifach once served as a landmark for mariners. It was then used as watchtower with is its lofty height  of 332 m providing  a superb vantage point  to spot approaching pirates and invaders. Despite best efforts, continuing attacks from the sea forced inhabitants down to the village  of Calpe. Originally the municipality of Cape owned Penon de Ifach. However in 1872 it  become privately owned. After having several different private owners it was purchased by the Geneeralitat Valenciana Authority, before being declared a nature reserve in 1987.

Flora and Fauna

Pennon de Ifach is home to a diverse colony of  endangered species. Toward its      base there are many varieties of plants common to the Mediterranean, but t higher elevations they become more Alpine in nature species such as the nearly extinct Silene Hifacensis, Rock Scabious and Thymus Webbianus grow in crevices and ledges on the sheer rock face. With regards yo fauna there can be as many as 60 birds species nesting and congregating at different times on the year, including the winter wren, shag, pallid , swift and peregrine falcon. Other species include reptilian inhabitants such as ocellated lizards  and Montpellier snakes, as well as mammals, such as the hedgehog, shrew and rabit. 

Walking up Penon de Ifach

The walk up Penon de Ifach is accomplished by following a pathway called the Red Route. The walk begins at the information center, and progresses up the north side of the rock. Along the  path eight designated paints of interest, including several scenic overlooks offering stunning panoramic views over Calpe.

The walk can be split into two main sections,   the winding path that leads to the tunnel and then the walk from the tunnel onwards. The walk to the tunnel is steep, but  features even ground. In comparison to the  walk starting at the tunnel, it’s a reasonably easy walk. However in summer it can get very hot and humid due to the tree cover. This path featured two named vantage points; the western vantage point     near the start and the Botanist Cavanilles Vantage Point, a bit further up. Both offer views to the  west and overlook the coast and the surrounding area. You will also pass the remains of an Iberian village, dating back to the 4^th – 3^rd century BC, as well as the windblown pines, which are trees growing  in unusual shape as a result of the wind. The trail features a lush shady landscape dominated by  a various lichens.

At the end of the winding pathway hikers will encounter a tunnel that passes through Penon de Ifach exiting on its northeast side. To continue through the tunnel you will need appropriate footwear.

Hiking boots or trainers  are recommended, as the rocks are very slippery. Just outside the tunnel exit, there is a small vantage point that offers a spectacular view of Fossa beach.

The path from here onwards features narrow slippery, rocky paths, which can be hazardous. The next point of  interest is where the trail splits called the Fork. One path leads to the Guard Past vantage Point, whilst the other leads to the summit. The Guard Post Vantage  point is a small lookout platform that offers beautiful panoramic ocean views. This is a shorter and easier path to follow, so it is recommended if you find the walk from the Foprk requires traversing the most difficult part of the trail.

However reaching the summit certainly offers the grandest reward; breathtaking views that span the horizon from Serra Gelada to Calpe, all the way to the Punta de Moraira.

When is the best time of day to walk up Penon de Ifach?

It is advisable to walk up pennon de Ifach in either the morning or evening in order to avoid the midday heat. This is particularly thee case in summer aas the wweather in Cape can be very hot.

Climbing Penon de Ifach

In addition to the Red Route for walkers Penon de Ifach offers various different impressive sport routes for climbers of a variety of grades. The most popular routes are climbed frequently and are reasonably well geaved. There may be loose rock, so climbers are advised to take caution and to wear a helmet.

How to get   to  Penon de Ifach?

Pennon de Ifach is easily accessible by car, via N – 332 trunk road and A7 motorway, taking the Benissa and Altea turnoffs upon reaching Calpe, Penon de Ifach is very well signposted.

There is car parking available at the base of the rock and at  the nearby harbor. Calpe is also well served via public transport, with both buses and trains operating at numerous different times throughout the day.

Rules and Safety recommendations.

There are several rules and safety recommendations that you should be aware of prior to your trip to pennon de Ifach, which are follows.

Use marked paths.

Use proper footwear. Hiking boots are recommended. Do not pass further than the tunnel with unsuitable footwer.

Observe plants and animals without disturbing. Do not fed the animals.

No camping, fires or smoking.

Be responsible for your pet – keep it on a lead and clean up the park, clean up its excrement.

Do not litter – keep the park clean and use the waste bins provided.

Be respectful of others and don’t make lot of noise, listen to the silence and sounds of the natural environment.

Respect opening   times. Do not enter the park after the dusk.

Yosemite Falls, California

Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls is a three – tiered 739 m situated in Yosemite   national Park, California. If the three tiers are considered as a hole, Yosemite Falls is the highest   waterfall   in North America and the 5^th  high in the world. The three tiers include the Upper Fall 435 m, Middle Cascades 205 m and Lower  Falls    97  m.

Section of Yosemite Falls.   Upper Yosemite

Water drops 435 m   at the Upper Falls, which means that even individually, it would place among the top 20 highest waterfalls in the world. Unlike the Lower Falls, the Upper Falls are not easy to access. In fact reaching the Upper falls requires   taking   11.5 km round trip with 822 m elevation gain. The majority of the route is exposed to sun, and therefore it is recommended to start early in order to avoid the midday heat.

Middle Cascades

The Middle Cascades are located between the Upper and Lower Falls and can not be seen from the majority of vantage points.  In a series of five smaller cascades water descends a total of 205 m.

Lower Falls

At the Lower Falls water descends 97 m almost twice the drop of Niagara Falls. It is the easiest section to access, with only a short walk from the  Yosemite Lodge to the base of the falls required. If visiting in spring, then be aware that the viewing area will receive a lot of spray from the falls. However by the middle of summer the spray is replaced by calm, cold air and possibly a little mist.

When is the best time of year to visit Yosemite falls

Timing is key; there is no guarantee that the Yosemite falls will actually be falling as the waterfall is fed almost entirely by snow  melt. Flow reaches its peak in may and early June, often reaching 30.4 m per second, though typically slows dramatically in mid – summer and completely dries up by August. Yosemite Falls  once again begins to  flow in winter but only enough to build a 45 – 91 m “ice cone”  formed from frozen mist and fallen blocks of ice, at the base of  the Upper Falls. If you visit the fallsss at night in April and May when thereis a full moon, spray from the waterfall creates spectacular glistening.

Jeita Grotto,Beirut, Lebanon

Jeita Grotto the longest cave in the Middle East is situated approximately 18 km north of Beirut. It consists of two separate but interconnected caves and boasts  a length of 9 km. One of the world’s most amazing agglomerations of stalactites and stalagmites, Jeita Grotto is widely considered to be the pride of Lebanon and featured as a finalist in the New Seven Wonders of Nature competition.

History of the Jeita Grotto

The caves were inhabited by prehistoric man, with evidence suggesting that   they were previously used  to produce swords. Reverend William Thompson an American missionary is credited with the modern discovery of the caves in 1836. Thompson is said to have advanced 50 m into the cave before firing his gun. The resultant  echoes assured him that the caves were to be of significant importance.

Jeita Grotto was not explored further until 1870’s when Maxwell and Huxley of the Beirut Water Company carried out extensive expeditions of the caves, reaching 1060 m inside  the  Grotto.

Lebanese explorers have ventured deeper into the cave since the 1940’s and have so far exposed 9 km of Jeita Grotto. The caves were initially known as the Grottoes of Nahr – al – Kalb after the underground river that runs through the Grottoes. Several names were subsequently used including Djaita, Jehita and finally Jeita.

 Jeita is derived from the town in which the cave entrance is situated and is loosely translated in Armaic as the “ noise” of water.

Lower Grotto

A tour of the Lower Grotto involves a 500 m electric boat trip along a subterranean  black lake. At first you are met with resonant sounds of rushing water and cool air but as the boat ventures further into the cave profound silence is experienced. The boat tour provides a marvelous    sample of the enormous 6.200 m  Lower  Grotto. The experienced is enhanced by a lighting system which illuminates the columns and structures within.

Upper Grotto

Unlike the Lower Grotto the Upper Grotto can be visited on foot. Access is via a specially  conceived 117 m long concrete walkway.     Only 750 m   of  the 2130 m cave is accessible for visitors. The Upper Grotto  features a large concentration  of crystallized formations such as stalagmites, stalactites, ponds, mushrooms, columns, curtains and draperies. Three chambers are accessible to visitors. The first is the White Chamber which features the caves most impressive formations. It is home to the words longest stalactite, which measures 8.2 km in length. The second is the red Chamber, which is named due to its color. The Red Chamber Towers to 106 m high and is between 30 to 50 m wide. The third chamber is the third chamber is the highest of the tree, at a height of 120   m.

Tourist    Attractions   at  Jeita Grotto.

Jeta Grotto is one of the main tourist attractions in Lebanon and as such it has developed numerous additional features for visitors, including a train rope ways miniature Zoo and many sculptures. There bare also numerous souvenir shapes featuring handmade Lebanese products   as well as several restaurants serving traditional Lebanese  cuisine.

How to get to Jeita Grotto

The best way to get to Jeita Grotto is to drive from Beirut .The caves are only 18 km  north    of Beirut.  Another option would be to take a minibus from Dawra to the Jeita Grotto, turn off on the Beirut Jouniech   highway, Here  are taxis waiting who can take you the remaining 5 km to Jeta Grotto. Alternatively you can take  a taxi directly from Beirut.

When to visit Jeita Grotto

The caves are open for the vast majority of the year very day of the week apart from Monday. Opening hours vary depending on the time of year thus it is advised to check the official website prior to organizing your trip. Each year the caves close from around 4 weeks from late January until early February.

During winter the Lower Grotto is often closed when the water level become too high. The temperature in the caves remains constant at 16 degrees Celsius   throughout s the year.

Where to stay at Jeita Grotto

Unfortunately there is nowhere to stay overnight at the caves. However there is a range of accommodation options available in Beirut.

Meteora, Greece

The Meteora are a collective of natural sandstone rock pillars, which served as places of worship throughout modern history. With an average elevation of  313 m  the Meteora stand proudly at the center of an extraordinarily beautiful Greek landscape, housing 24 monasteries in total, of  which 6 remain active.

History of Meteora  

The name Meteora stems from the Greek adjective meteoros, which means “middle of the sky”. Aptly named the rock formations of   Meteora   jut out of the ground like giant fingers made of stone, allowing the various monasteries to sit,   suspended in the air. It has taken millions of years for various forces of   nature to sculpt out these unique rock pillars. Geologists believe that this process began approximately 60 millions years ago during the Paleocene period.

As early as the 11^th century monks occupied the caverns of  Meteora. However monasteries were not built until  the 14^th century, when the monks sought somewhere to hide in the face of an increasing number of Turkish attacks on Greece. At this time access to the top was via removable  ladders or windlass. Nowadays getting up is a lot simpler due to steps being carved into the rock during   the   1920’s.  From 24   monasteries only 6 are still functioning with each housing less than 10 individuals.

Climbing Meteora

Meteora is not only a paradise for walkers but for climbers too. In total there are 700 different routes encompassing 120 rock towers of the Meteora and catering for climbers of  all  skill  levels. If you are travelling with the intention of climbing, the best times to visit are between mid – March and mid – June, or between mid – August and mid – November.

Best time to visit Meteora

Given the cultural significance and popularity of Meteora there are visitors all year round. Between December and March the weather is cold and wet, whilst  the months in – between July and October attract the  longest crowds and peak season rates. Therefore the  best time to visit Meteora is May or June in order to benefit from smaller crowds, pleasant weather  and off – season rates.

How to get Meteora

The Meteora rocks are situated right in the heartland of central Greece  ( Thessaly), near the town of  Kalampaka. To get to Kalampaka from Athens you have the option of  travelling  by bus, car or train. If you have a car driving is probably the best way to get to Meteora and should take approximately 4 hours not with standing any traffic. If driving is not an option, you can take a direct high – speed train from Athens to Kalampaka, which will take around 5 hours. Finally and as a last resort, there are buses that can take you from Athens to Kampaka. These depart from Terminal B on Liasson   street and take 7 – 8 hours to arrive.

Things to consider prior to visiting

The monasteries of Meteora operate strict dress codes, meaning that you will not be permitted entrance if  wearing  sleeveless  clothing, or shorts.

The monasteries of Meteora are independent of one another and thus operate different opening times. It is therefore highly recommended that you check in advance.

There is nowhere to buy food around monasteries so remember to bring snacks and fluids.

Walks differ in terms are difficulty and accessibility wear appropriate footwear and make an honest assessment of your fitness level before embarking on a journey too strenuous   for you to enjoy. All of the   Monasteries have a small entrance fee.

24 fascinating country facts from around the world

Here is a list of 24 fascinating facts about various countries in the world today

 1) Most People Behind Bars – United States:  When it comes to incarcerating its population, the united States is the world’s uncontested leader. The U.S. has 5%   of the world’s population but 25% of the world’s incarcerated population at 2,2 million people behind bars. China comes in second place at 1.5   million and Russia comes third at 870,000. It should be noted though that China has about 1.3 billion people, so it’s not too surprising that they’d also have one of the world’s largest number of people behind bars. Russia only has 141 million people so their percentage of incarcerated people isn’t that far off the .S. rate.

 2) Most overweight population – Nauru: With over 95% of its population overweight, the small island nation of Nauru is by the fattest country on Earth and presumably has the highest sale rates. Its obesity epidemic is primarily attributed to the importation of western fast food that coincided with an increased standard of living in the 20^th century due to the global popularity of its phosphate exports. However in truth it’s not really fast food. It’s because they’re choosing to eat more than their body needs given their level of   daily exercise, which  triggers it to store more pounds of fat than had eaten more pounds of fat than had they eaten more moderately.

 3) Most Likely to Disappear Beneath the Waves – Maldives: With all the talks of global warming and rising sea levels, it’s the residents of the Maldives that have the greatest reason to fear. With an average height of around 1.8 meters above the sea levels their nation basically screwed unless they adopt the Venice.

 4) Covers the Most Time Zones – France :  If you count everything including overseas territories, then France claims the little by covering 12 time zones. The United States would be the runner – up with 11 and then Russia with 9.

5) Road Made of Coral – Guam:  Because Guam have not  any natural sand, but rather coral, the island nation makes its asphalt using a mix of ground coral and oil rather than importing sand from abroad.

 6) Most Lakes in the World – Canada: With over 3 million lakes 9% of Canadian territory is actually fresh and over 60% of all the lakes in the world are found within its borders.

 7) Country Covered with the Highest Percentage of Desert – Libya:  With 99% of the country covered in desert, Libya is one of the most places in the world and in some regions decades may go by without a single drop of rain.

 8) World’s largest Producer of Opium – Afghanistan:  Producing a whopping 95% of the world’s opium

 9) Country that produces More Oxygen than Any Other – Russia: Siberia is home to approximately 25% of the world’s forests that span an area larger than the continental United States, making Russia the largest converter of  CO2 Into breathable compounds. You win this round Russia.

 10) Almost Entirely Treeless – Haiti: On the opposite end of the spectrum is Haiti, a country that has been so badly deforested that you can tell where it   borders   the Dominican Republic by looking at a satellite image.

 11)  Last Peaceful Nation in the World – Somalia: Although for the last three years Iraq has been ranked as the least peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index Somalia overlook  it this year for the top spot. This couldn’t be surprising peace and war numbers through history, in terms of the number of states/tribes/ etc.  At war or at peace  tend  to correlate well the amount of protein and food available to the populace and Somalia’s not exactly known for its food reserves and population able to afford said food. The  best way to stop revolution and war is to put food in the populace’ bellies and a roof over their heads. It’s as true today as it was 1000 years ago.

12) Most Educated People – Canada: they aren’t just about their lakes, bacon and flannels, with 50 % of its population having been educated at the post secondary level, Canada easily has the most educated populace in the world. It is followed by Israel at 45% and Japan at 44%.

Largest Country with no Farms – Singapore: Although there  are a number of small nations in the world that show no hint of having an agriculture based economy, Singapore is the largest of these urban city – states.

13) Most Languages Spoken – Papua New Guinea: Although English is its official language, only 1 – 2% of the population   actually speak it. As the most linguistically  diverse country in the world , over 820 languages are spoken in Papua new guinea or 12% of the world’s total.

14) Most Sheep per Capita – Flakland Islands (UK)  With only about 3,000 people the Flakland islands are home to approximately half – a million sheep. Not surprisingly, wool is a major export.

15) Least Densely Populated – Mongolia: At four people per square mile, Mongolia is the least densely populated country on Earth. Compare this to the Mong Kok district of Hong Kong that has the highest population density in the world with over 340.000 people per square mile.

16) Most Tanks – Russia: it is a strange title to hold, but Russia has by far the most tanks of any army in the world (21,000). Unfortunately for the motherland most of these outdated machines are tributes to its past, and although outnumbered (16,000), the United States has a much advanced tank inventory.

17) Least Rivers – Saudi Arabia: Sounds a bit strange doesn’t it?  For a country as a big as Arabia there has to be at least some sort of flowing water. Well, there isn’t.  Most of their fresh water  comes from desalinization plants underground reservoirs.

18) Youngest Population of Any Country – Niger: generally the worlds youngest country is determined by calculating the portion of the population that is younger than 15. Presently it is Niger that holds this distinction with a roughly half of its population having barely reached puberty (49%). As about 801% of it’s landmass is covered in desert, apparently the only thing to do  these days is make babies.

19) Highest Percentage of Land Covered in Jungle – Suriname: With 91% of its land covered in jungle Suriname’s half – a – million residents live primarily along the coast near the capital. Only 5%  of  the population live in land.

20) Most of its Citizens Living Abroad – Malta: After some rough economic times coupled with an increased birth rate, Malta experienced significant   emigration. It was so significant that are now more Maltese living abroad that within the country itself.

21) Smaller than Central Park in New York City – Monaco:  Although Vatican City is smaller than Monaco, unlike Monaco it doesn’t have any permanent residents which leaves as the smallest permanently inhabited nation in the world smaller than Central park.

22)Fastest Disappearing Nation – Ukraine: With a natural decrease in population of 8% annually, between now and 2050 Ukraine is expected lose around 30% of its people.

23)Oldest Sovereign State – Egypt: This largely depends upon your definition of a sovereign state but if you are going by first acquisition of sovereignty then Egypt would be the first  country in the world to achieve sovereignty based upon the formation of the first dynasty in 3100 BC.

24)Most Diverse Country – India:  In almost every category – culturally, economically, climatically, racially, linguistically, ethnically, and religiously India is either the most diverse country in the world, or the runner – up.

Venice, Italy

Venice is a city in northeastern Italy sited on a group of 118 islands separated by canals and linked by bridges. It is located in the marshy Venetian Lagoon which stretches along small   shoreline, between the mouths of   the Po and Piave Rivers.  Venice is renowned for the beauty of its setting. Its   architecture   and   its    artworks. The city in its entirety  is listed as a World Heritage Site along with its lagoon.

Venice is the capital   of Veneto region.  The name is derived from the ancient Venetian People who inhabited the region by the 10yh century BC. The city historically was the capital of the Republic of Venice. It has been known as the   “La Dominante”, “Serenissima”, “Queen of the Adriatic”, “City of Masks”, “City of Water”, “City of Bridges”, “The Floating City”, and “The City of Canals”. Venice is one of the most romantic cities of Europe.

The republic of Venice was a major maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance and a staging area for the Crusades and the Battle of   Lepanto, as well as  a very important center of commerce and art in the 13^th century up to the 17^th century. This made Venice a wealthy city throughout most of the history. it is also known for its several important artistic movements, especially the Renaissance Period. Venice has played an important role in the history of symphonic and operatic music, and it is the birthplace of Antonio Vivaldi.

Although there   are no historical   records that   deal   directly   with the    founding of  Venice, tradition  and  the  available evidence have led several historians to agree that the original population of Venice consisted of refugees from Roman cities near Venice and from the undefended countryside, who were fleeing successive wave of Germanic and Hun invasions. Some late Roman sources reveal the existence  of fishermen on the islands in the original marshy lagoons.

Beginning in 166 – 168 the Quadi and Marcomani destroyed the main center in the area, the current   Oderzo. The Roman defenses were again overthrown in the early 5^th century by the Visigoths and some 50 years later by the Huns led by Attila. The last and most enduring immigration into the north of the Italian peninsula was that of the Lombard in 568, leaving the Eastern Roman Empire a small trip of   coast in the current Veneto, including Venice. The Roman Byzantine territory was organized as the Exarchate of Ravenna, administered   from that ancient port and overseen by a viceroy appointed by the Emperor in    Constantinople, but Ravenna and Venice were connected only by sea routes and with the Venetians  isolated position came increasing autonomy. New ports were built. In 726 the soldiers and citizens of the Exarchate rose in a rebellion over the iconoclastic controversy at the urging of poe Gregory II. In 751 the Lombard king Aistulf conquered most of the Exarchate of Ravenna, leaving Venice a lonely and increasingly autonomous byzantine outpost. During this period the seat of the local Byzantine governor was   in   Malamocco.

In 828 the new city’s prestige was raised by the acquisition of claimed relics of St Mark the Envagelist from Alexandria which were placed in the new basilica. The patriarchal seat was moved to rialto. As the community continued to develop and Byzantine power waned, it led to the growth of autonomy and eventual independence.

From the 9^th century to the 12^th century Venice developed into a city state. Its strategic position at the head of the Adriatic made Venetian  naval and commercial power almost invulnerable. With the elimination of pirates along the Dalmatian coast the city became a flourishing trade center between Western Europe and the rest of  the world.

The Republic of Venice seized a number of places on the eastern shores of the Adriatic before 1200, mostly for commercial reasons., because pirates based there were a menace to trade. The Doge already carried the titles of Duke of Dalmatia and Duke of Istria. Later mainland possessions, which extended across Garda Lake as far west as the Adda River, were known as the “Terraferma” ,and were acquired partly aas a buffer against belligerent neighbors, partly to guarantee Alpine trade routes, and partly to ensure the supply of mainland wheat, on which the city depended. In Building its maritime commercial empire, the Republic dominated the trade in salt, acquired control of most of the islands in the Aegean including Cyprus and Crete and became a major power – broker in Near East.

Venice remained closely associated with Constantinople, being twice trading privileges in the Eastern  Roman Empire.  It became an imperial power following the fourth Crusade, which having veered of course  culminated in 1204 by capturing and sacking Constantinople and establishing the Latin Empire.

Situated on the Adriatic Sea, Venice always traded extensively with the Byzantine  Empire and the Muslim world. By the late 13^th century,Venice was the most prosperous city in all of Europe. At the peak of its power and wealth it had 36,000 sailors operating 3,300 ships, dominating Mediterranean commerce.

The Republic of Venice lost independence   when Napoleon   Bonaparte conquered Venice on 12 May 1797 during the First Coalition.  French conqueror brought to an end the most fascinating century of its history. During 18^th century Venice became   the most elegant and refined city in Europe.

Venice became Austrian territory when Napoleon Bonaparte signed the Treaty of campo Formio on 12 October 1797. The Austrians took control of the city on 18 January 1798.it was taken from Austria by the Treaty of Pressburg in  1805 and became part of napoleon’s Kingdom of Italy, but  was returned to Austria following Napoleon’s defeat in 1814, when it became part of the Austrian – held Kingdom of Lombardy – Venetia. In 1848 – 1849 a revolt briefly reestablished the Venetian Republic and Venetia became part of the newly created Kingdom of Italy.

Venice is one the most important tourist destinations in the world  for its celebrated art and architecture. The  city has an average  of 50,000 tourists a day.

Glamis Castle, Scotland

Glamis Castle is situated beside the village of Glamis in Scotland. It is the home of the Earl and Countess of Strathmore and King Horne. It is open to the public.

Glamis Castle has been   the home of the Lyon family since the 14^th century, through the present buildings dates largely from the 17^th century. Glamis was the childhood home of   Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother    wife of   the King George VI. Their daughter Princess Margaret was born there.

The castle is protected as a category a listed building and the grounds are included on the Inventory gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland, the national listing of significant gardens.

In 1034 AD King Malcolm II was murdered at Glamis, were there was a Royal Hunting   Lodge. By 1376 a castle had been built at Glamis,since in that year it was granted by King Robert II to Sir John Lyon, husband of the king’s daughter. Glamis has remained in the Lyon family since this time. The castle was rebuilt in the early 15^th   century.

The title Lord Glamis was created in 1445 for Sir Patrick Lyon,   grand son of Sir John. A legend tells of the 15^th century   “Earl Beardie”, who has been identified with both Alexander Lyon, 2^nd Lord Glamis (died 1486) and with Alexander Lindsay 4^th Earl of Crawford (died 1453).

John Lyon 6^th Lord Glamis, married Janet Douglas, daughter of the Master of Angus at a time when King James V was feuding with the Douglases.  In December 1528 Janet was accused of treason for bringing supports of the Earl of Angus to Edinburgh. She was then charged with poisoning her husband Lord Glamis, who had died on 17 September 1528.Eventually she accused of with craft,  and was burned at the stake at Edinburgh on 17 July 1537.James  V subsequently seized Glamis living there for some time.

In 1543 Glamis was returned to John Lyon, 7^th Lord Glamis. In 1606 Patrick Lyon 9^th Lord Glamis, was created Warl of King Horne. He began major works on the castle.

During the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland   soldiers were garrisoned at Glamis.I n 1670 Patrick Lyon 3^rd Earl of Strathmore and King Horne returned to the castle and found it uninhabitable. Restorations took place until 1689, including the creation of a major baroque garden. John Lyon 9^th Earl of Strathmore and King Horne   succeeded in 1753 and 1767 he married Mary Eleanor Bowes, heiress to a coal – mining fortune. He set   about improving the grounds of the castle in the picturesque style in the 1770s .the south – west wing was rebuilt after a fire in the early 19^th century.

Glamis is currently the home of Michael Bowes – Lyon 18^th Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne,a former army officer, who succeede to the earldom in 1987.

Burton Castle, Spain

Butron is a castle located in Gatika   in northern Spain. It dates originally from the Middle Ages, although it owes its present appearance to an almost complete rebuilding begun by Francisco de Cubas in 1878.

The castle has a fairy – tale   look about it inspired by Bavarian castle models. The present building was  created  as a hobby for its then owner and to create something which is visually spectacular rather than to produce something in which people  could actually live.

In fact it would be quite inconvenient as a home as the towers have little useful space and various parts of the castle have exterior connections which are   not   particularly apt for the wet Basque weather. The building is surrounded   by a park   which includes palms and exotic plants. This castle is the largest   existing   medieval castle in the world.

It fell into disuse and was later renovated and opened to the public. This proved to be unsuccessful and the building was closed to visitors although   the grounds remained open.