Where to go in winter to have a quality rest
The warm sea and hot sun are what a good half of the inhabitants of our country dream about during the long winter months. If your vacation fell on these frosty weeks, you are in luck - it's time to go to exotic countries where the thermometer does not drop below +25 degrees. There are a great many countries suitable for winter holidays, and we will help you choose the resort that will leave an unforgettable experience for a long time.
Cuba
The Republic of Cuba is one of the largest islands in the world and the largest in the West Indies. The famous Freedom Island covers an area of about 111 thousand square kilometers, has its own unique history and combines things that seem to be completely incompatible, because here the poor of urban quarters adjoin with their wretched dwellings and people who can hardly make ends meet, but at never lose heart, colorful colonial buildings, vintage cars and gorgeous beaches that fully meet the needs of the sophisticated tourist.
Dozens of pretty hotels have been built on the coast, they receive guests from all over the world - young people who come to Cuba for entertainment, discos and romantic relationships, and older people, they are interested not only in beach holidays, but also in the dramatic history of the state, which was given the title of the Island of Freedom at a price bloody wars. Everyone who is interested in this topic will find something to do - interesting excursions and sightseeing.
The flora and fauna can be described in one word - exotic. Literally at every step you will meet representatives of flora and fauna, which, for sure, have only been seen on TV. Evergreen palms, shrubs, cacti, mango bushes, picturesque valleys - all this creates a unique landscape of Cuba.
Of course, first of all, everyone strives to get into the main treasury of the history of the island state, its capital, Havana. Tourists sometimes have the feeling that they are in the past, so colorful is the colonial architecture belonging to different eras and styles. Compatriots are especially interested in the theme of the Cuban revolution and sightseeing tours to the tobacco and rum factory. Hemingway fans will certainly be imbued with the study of his life on the island. Havana has a wide selection of restaurants and cafes, but the famous Tropicana cabaret show is especially famous.
Varadero, perhaps the main tourist center of Cuba, is a snow-white sand spit about 120 meters in length, extending into the sea. This truly heavenly place is famous for its crystal clear water, azure sky and developed infrastructure. A favorite place for guests of Varadero can be called boat trips, spear fishing and a trip to the local dolphinarium.
Morocco
Morocco is one of the most ancient states, it was here that the first human settlements were found; over the centuries, many conquerors wanted to take possession of these territories, but still they had to recognize its independence.
Morocco is a separate world, with its own laws and Muslim customs, which are difficult for an ordinary tourist to understand, it is not for nothing that a special set of rules of conduct has been created for the guests of this country, taking pictures without consent, molesting women or cheeky attitude towards locals will be perceived as a personal insult. At the same time, Moroccans are quite friendly, be sure to accept the treats and drinks they offer as a sign of respect.
Morocco is a country filled with unique charm, nature generously rewarded it with its riches: the desert here gives rise to evergreen oases, the sea and the sky merge together, and the bright shades and colors of ocher, silver and copper of cliffs, beaches and lagoons create the harmony of life.
The Kingdom of Morocco is located at the junction of several civilizations, primarily Arab and European, this fact is reflected in culture, architecture and even cuisine, because for a long time the state was a French colony.
The country combines a rich architectural heritage, it is impossible not to admire luxurious palaces and mosques, decorated with exquisite tiles, and a well-organized tourist business, which attracts not only Europeans, but also compatriots who are tired of standard vacation spots.
The study of Morocco should start with a tour of its capital Rabat, this city will convey the flavor of the entire Muslim state with its spicy aromas, ancient snow-white buildings and modern buildings. Be sure to visit the old city of Rabat - Medina, where the oldest mosque is located, and the city of Sale, the main place of pilgrimage for Muslims.
If your goal is a quality beach vacation, then head towards the main resort of the country - Agadir, known for its fashionable hotels, chic restaurants, well-equipped beaches and developed infrastructure. This place is not like other regions of Morocco - the city “looks” very European, you will not find women in burqas on the streets, but there are many foreign tourists here.
Chile
The Latin American state of Chile is considered the southernmost country. Its location and unusual elongated shape allows it to have a wide range of climatic zones and an abundance of unique objects and attractions.This corner of the world is also interesting and attractive for the tourist business that two mountain systems stretch across the country at once - the Andes and the Cordillera.
Chile beckons guests from all over the world with a large selection of entertainment - here and a unique beach vacation, diving, ski resorts and ascents to the highest peaks, as well as the country is famous for its historical heritage, because it is here that the famous and mysterious Easter Island is located.
Lovers of lazing on the ocean coast will find resorts for every taste - and with developed infrastructure, crowded and remote, almost wild. Both those and others will enjoy the rest in full, all the beaches are clean and suitable for tourists.
The main beach resort of Viña del Mar is famous for its pristine white sand beaches, exotic landscapes, banana oases, magnificent colonial mansions and museums. No less famous is the city of Valparaiso, located just 20 km from Viña del Mar, as well as the resorts of Antafagasta and Arica. Anakena Beach is for those who prefer to merge with nature to hectic fun.
It takes about 6 hours to get to Easter Island from Santiago, but it's worth it, the local views are simply amazing. Well, the Playa Blanca beach next to the Atacama Desert can be called quite wild, if you are not afraid to be left without the benefits of civilizations and be alone with nature, this is the place for you.
Chile is a country famous for its ski slopes; some sports teams have long chosen them for their training. It is worth noting the Valle Nevado resort near Santiago and Portillo.There are many tracks of various difficulty classes suitable for both beginners and professionals.
As for the sights, there are a great many of them in the country. While in the capital of Chile, be sure to climb Mount San Cristobal, there is a huge statue of the Virgin Mary, patroness of Santiago, and a beautiful park and nature reserve is spread around it.
A truly amazing and mystical corner of our planet is the Rapa Nui Island in the Pacific Ocean, the so-called Easter Island, known for its statues made of volcanic ash, moai. In modern terms, moai are sculptural busts that depict the head and neck on a plinth. According to legend, the power of the ancestors is contained in the statues.
Indonesia
Indonesia is called the state of thousands of islands, in fact, there are about thirteen thousand of them, this is the largest island country in the world, it is not for nothing that boats and boats are considered the main means of transportation here, which constantly ply between the main islands. The location of Indonesia makes it very attractive for tourists - the country's borders almost cross the equator and are located near two oceans, the Pacific and Indian. The main islands of the archipelago are known to many, these are Sumatra, Bali, Java, New Guinea, Sulawesi and Kalimantan, but mostly these are small islands, some of them are completely uninhabited. There are still indigenous tribes in the republic that live according to their own laws and customs, regardless of technical progress.
What is Indonesia from the point of view of an ordinary tourist? There is really something to see here - exotic flora and fauna, impenetrable jungle, endless rice fields, coconut palms, tea plantations and smoking volcanoes. This is a country of incredible intertwining and harmonious existence of ancient civilizations, different languages and beliefs, a country of the richest cultural heritage and colorful national festivals. Each guest of Indonesia takes with him a piece of this magical land, because on the archipelago, the hands of local craftsmen make original and high-quality things from bone, wood, clay and other materials, buying souvenirs for yourself and loved ones turns into an exciting adventure.
Volcano excursions are one of the popular local attractions. The most famous of all - Kelimutu, in the crater of which multi-colored lakes were formed, an amazing sight, especially if you know the legends associated with these reservoirs.
The number of mosques and temples in Indonesia is countless; you should definitely visit the island of Java to see firsthand the largest Buddhist temple complex Borobodur, as well as the unique construction of the Istiklal Mosque in Jakarta, the capital of the republic.
The best place for a beach holiday the island of Bali is considered, where the main resorts of the country are concentrated. White sandy beaches are side by side with black, volcanic ones. Ancient temples, blue lagoons, year-round sunshine and surfing opportunities - if heaven exists, it is definitely Bali.
Turkey
The peculiarity of the location of the Turkish state is that it is located in Asia and Europe at the same time, washed by 4 seas at once - the Black, Aegean, Marmara and Adriatic. The republic is the successor to the Ottoman Empire and is considered the owner of the oldest cultural heritage of several civilizations, some architectural monuments date back to the 7th century BC, that is, they are older than even the famous Egyptian pyramids.
It is difficult to say what attracts tourists most to Turkey - natural beauty, beaches of the four seas with numerous comfortable hotels and an all-inclusive system, or full-fledged excursion programs, which, as a rule, originate in the ancient city of Istanbul.
"Beach" Turkey- these are, first of all, relatively inexpensive youth resorts Alanya and Kemer, more suitable for family holidays Side and Belek, Antalya, famous for its luxury hotels and secluded Fethiye. But you should not ignore the historical part of the trip, it is after studying it that the country will open up to you in a new way, it is simply impossible to tell about all the iconic places of Turkey, it is better to see everything with your own eyes.
The city of Istanbul is a real legend, the cradle of ancient civilizations, divided by the Bosphorus into European and Asian parts. The city has absorbed all the best from them, there is a huge concentration of mosques, temples, palaces, old quarters with noisy markets, but at the same time Istanbul is built up with modern skyscrapers, banks and shopping centers.
The famous thermal resort of Pamukkale, created by nature itself, seems to have descended from the pages of fairy tales, because of the deposition of salts, the healing springs look like snow-white terraces.
In the east of the country is the highest point of Turkey - Mount Ararat, according to the biblical legend, this is where Noah's Ark arrived. On the slopes of the mountain there are several glacial caves, parks, picturesque valleys and museums.
The ancient city of Ephesus is a real open-air museum, its history begins in the 5th century BC, in the 15th century it was almost completely destroyed, it was restored for a long time so that tourists could have an idea of the greatness of the complex.
Armenia
Armenia is one of the most ancient states, it is known that these territories were developed during the heyday of Ancient Greece, the first mentions of it date back to the 7th century BC. Now, at the first mention of Armenia, associations certainly emerge - Mount Ararat, the cognac of the same name, the famous Lake Sevan and numerous Christian monasteries.
Until a certain point, Armenia as a tourist route was not in demand by compatriots, military actions with neighboring Azerbaijan played a decisive role here, however, Lake Sevan was known no less than the Black or Caspian Sea. Now the conflict is frozen, the tourist infrastructure is developing and the guests of the country are slowly exploring the territory where the most ancient Christian culture was born, where high mountain ranges rise majestically among apricot groves and ancient monasteries.
In Armenia, there are about 4000 thousand cultural monuments, including the ruins of ancient cities, and the number of monasteries, temples and Christian monasteries here is so great that a trip to this country is more like a pilgrimage. The most famous of them are:
- Khor Virap monastery, built on the site of the ancient capital Artashat;
- Erebuni fortress - the most ancient part of the capital of Armenia, Yerevan;
- Geghard monastery;
- Blue Mosque - the cathedral mosque of the capital;
- the Noravank monastery is the pearl of the temple architecture of Armenia.
Trips to Armenia by most tourists are informative, but the excursion program can be combined with sunbathing and swimming in Lake Sevan. This volcanic lake is surrounded by a snow-capped mountain range, which makes it look like an incredibly beautiful blue bowl.
Sri Lanka
If you look at Sri Lanka from above, it will seem like only a small dot in the middle of the ocean, in fact it is a rather vast island state located in South Asia.
The entire island can be conditionally divided into two parts - the northern plain, and the southern, on the territory of which the most beautiful mountain range stretches. Sri Lanka is a real kingdom of the tropics, lush vegetation and jungle. Nature has endowed the island with bright colors, seething waterfalls and tropical fruits. The republic is famous all over the world for its spices, all kinds of teas (the former name of the island of Ceylon) and spicy dishes, handicrafts and gemstones. Local folklore is rich in legends and mystical legends, they will allow the guests of this country to get to know its friendly hosts better.
Tourists will certainly be interested in a trip to the national parks of the island - Vilpat and Inginyala, as well as the most famous Dehiwala Zoo. The national reserve in Yala will allow you to get acquainted with the fauna of Sri Lanka, the roads here are specially equipped so that guests can personally see elephants, leopards, monkeys and rare species of birds.
Fans of golden beaches, clear ocean water and surfing in Sri Lanka will definitely not get bored, the island has a large selection of resorts:
- Bentotota - in the south-west of the republic, newlyweds like to relax, because everything here is set in a romantic mood. The infrastructure is well developed, there are many cafes, restaurants and an open-air shopping center.
- Koggala is hiding in a thicket of tropical plants and is considered one of the best resorts in the world. Nearby is the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, where you can see the local temple and palace.
- Hikkaduwa is a youth resort with many nightclubs and water sports.
- Jungle Beach is ideal for families with children, thanks to the bay there are almost no waves here.
Israel
Israel- a small state in southwestern Asia with access to the Red Sea, bordered by one of the most famous rivers, the Holy Jordan. Christians are sure that it was here that Jesus received the rite of baptism, therefore the waters of the river are able to regenerate the soul of a person, heal and wash away all sins. The country's territory is relatively small, but it is distinguished by a variety of natural landscapes, most of Israel is occupied by desert lands, and in the north there are mountain belts covered with greenery.
All guests of the country tend to visit one of the local natural attractions - the Dead Sea, which is located between Israel and Jordan. This is a truly unique reservoir, its name speaks for itself, because of the high concentration of salt in this sea, neither fish nor plants can exist. However, the mud from the bottom of the Dead Sea is considered curative, which made it possible to create a resort on its shores.
For believers, Israel, and especially its capital Jerusalem, is a real find. Thousands of people around the world come to the pilgrimage center to visit the famous Christian shrines, and there are a great many of them in the country. The iconic place is considered to be the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Church of the Resurrection and the Church of St. Helena.
Tel Aviv is considered one of the most popular resorts; it is a modern city, a real pearl of the Mediterranean Sea. A large selection of coastal accommodation, cozy cafes and huge shopping centers - all this in Tel Aviv is abundant. You should definitely visit the colorful Arab quarter called Jaffa.
India
India is a state located in the south of Asia. For many centuries, civilizations were born and died here, it was on these lands that religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism arose, as well as many philosophical movements that later spread throughout the world. For the sophisticated tourist, this exotic country offers a range of unique wellness programs, hiking, shopping, jeep riding and all kinds of sea adventures. India is a whimsical interweaving of interesting traditions and the cradle of many types of art, a riot of colors of nature, spices, famous centers of medical practices and, of course, incredibly beautiful beaches.
India- the country is many-sided, on some beaches you can enjoy world-famous parties, show programs and have plenty of fun at discos; in small villages, lovers of a relaxing holiday will find romance and unity with nature.
It is best to study the history of the ancient state in the capital of India, Delhi, one of the most colorful cities in the world. On the narrow streets of Old Delhi, you can admire fortresses, mausoleums, mosques for a long time, taste the atmosphere of noisy Indian bazaars, see with your own eyes the magnificent Qutab Minar minaret and walk in the Mughal gardens of the Presidential Palace.
The Arabian Sea and manicured sandy beaches are what most tourists go to Goa for. The state of Goa is divided into northern and southern parts, according to the type of recreation they are radically different from each other.
Tourism in the state originated in North Goa, it has long been chosen by young people, hippies, musicians and freaks of all stripes. This state in the state is distinguished by an abundance of bars and discos, the prices for accommodation here are very democratic. The most famous local beaches are Calangute, Bata, Anjuna, Candolim and Vagator.
South Goa has a quieter atmosphere, spacious golden sandy beaches and comfortable hotels. The audience here is usually more respectable, mostly married couples with children. A whole strip of beaches called Majordia is considered the best in the state, going down to the sea, tourists find themselves in palm and coconut groves.
Thailand
Thailand Is another exotic country in Southeast Asia, where the swimming season lasts literally all year round. This is a country of paradise golden beaches, impenetrable jungles, turquoise lagoons with perfectly clear clear water, a "land of smiles" and friendly residents, and a huge number of ancient Buddhist temples cannot be seen even during several visits to Thailand: the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the Temple of Truth , White Temple - all these grandiose complexes were created in different centuries, but they are equally striking in their majesty and skill of execution.
Bangkok is the industrial center of the country, you need to visit it at least for the sake of grandiose modern structures and skyscrapers. The most famous of them, Bayoke Sky Tower is located in the heart of the city, it is the tallest building of 84 floors with a luxurious hotel, multi-storey parking and observation platforms from which a picturesque view of the surroundings opens.
Resorts of Thailand are comfortably located on the shores of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, many of which meet the requirements of the most sophisticated tourist.
The small town of Pattaya along the Gulf of Thailand is very popular with Russian tourists. There is a place to have a beach vacation here, but the coast is not very clean, so guests prefer to relax on the islands, a ferry runs daily between them and the city. Most vacationers in Pattaya are nocturnal, visiting numerous bars and erotic shows on Volkin Street, the city's main street.
Phuket Island in the southern part of Taya is perfect for the sophisticated tourist and quality beach holidays. Tropical natural beauty, white sand and the opportunity to explore the underwater world are all expensive, but an exotic paradise is worth the cost.