I believe that the world is a book, and those who don't travel read only a page. Through this blog, I take you on a special journey to see magnificent places around the globe. I hope you find it marvelous as I did.

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

Enchanting Places in Norway

From its majestic mountains and famous fjords to its modern yet picturesque cities, Norway is simply one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Picture-perfect landscapes beg to be explored by foot, car, bike or boat. Whether taking in the breathtaking wonder of the northern lights or the summer sun glistening on a massive glacier, Norway is a great adventure in any season. A nation with a rich and storied past, Norway invites cultural expeditions too. Some of the best places to visit in Norway offer architectural gems in rural villages to historical artifacts in metropolitan museums.


Western Fjords



Norway’s famous fjords are found throughout the country and not limited to a particular region or location. However, the most dramatic and famous fjords are largely found in West Norway, approximately from Stavanger to Molde. Although the western fjords vary slightly in appearance they are generally relatively narrow, surrounded by steep rock faces, tall mountains and extremely deep. The most famous fjords include Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord.

Trondheim


There’s something for everyone in the northern city of Trondheim. Founded in 997, Norway’s third largest city was the country’s capital during the Viking Age and the nation’s religious center during the Middle Ages, making it the ideal destination for those who want to explore Norway’s history. From Sverresborg, a restored 12th century castle, to the Nidaros Cathedral, the northernmost Medieval cathedral in the world, the city abounds with remnants of the past.

Svalbard

Svalbard is a group of islands located between the Arctic Ocean, Barents Sea, Greenland Sea, and the Norwegian Sea. The islands are under Norwegian rule since 1920. Its settlements are the northernmost permanently inhabited spots on the planet, far more northerly than any part of Alaska and all but a few of Canada’s Arctic islands. The combined permanent population is less than 3000, nearly all of which is concentrated in the main settlements of Longyearbyen and Barentsburg on Spitsbergen. Svalbard’s visitors come mostly to experience Arctic nature at its rawest and most powerful. The islands feature untouched glaciers and craggy mountains, but also polar bears, caribou, reindeer, polar foxes, whales, seals and walruses.


Landmarks of Saudi Arabia

Many landmarks in Saudi Arabia are little known to the outside world, and, unfortunately, many amazing attractions are deliberately destroyed. Nevertheless some Saudi Arabian landmarks are world renowned and one - Kaaba in Masjid al-Haram, Makkah - is one of most important places in world.

Islamic sites:

Mecca

Mecca is a city located in the Makkah province and considered the capital of the region. It is also commonly deemed the world’s most holy and significant Islamic site. Islam dictates that all Muslims who are of able body and have financial means should make at least one pilgrimage to Mecca during their lifetime. Only Muslim visitors are permitted entry to the city.
Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah


Al Madinah is the administrative center of the province as well as the most important Islamic city. It is a city of peace and tranquility and a place of numerous historical and archaeological sites, including those that stood during many historical battles. Madinah is rich with cultural heritage, museums, vast date palm groves and traditional old markets that stand side-by-side with the most modern of shopping malls and arcades.

Taif


Taif is famous for its salubrious climate, scenic beauty and variety of fruits that attract tourists from the rest of the Arabian Peninsula, Taif also has a very old history.

Buraidah City


Buraidah is a beautiful city located in Qassim region and you will be amazed with its diversity, history and culture. To the south of Buraidah is Al-Sibaq, where old farms are distinguished for their palm trees and various crops. Visitors are invited to tour the many orchards and buy vegetables directly from the farmers. A shopping visit to the Qassim dates market is an unforgettable experience, especially when you go during the harvest season in August and September. The date city has the main market in Buraidah, where the Dates Annual Festival is organized.