TIBET OVERVIEW

The Tibet Flag was introduced in the year 1912. In the Tibet Flag there is a magnificent snow mountain in the centre, which represents Tibet, the Land of Snow Mountains. The Flag of Tibet exhibits six red rays of light radiating from a golden disk in the sky which stands for the six original tribes of Tibet, namely; the Se, Mu, Dong, Tong, Dru and Ra. The colored jewel symbolizes all the people of Tibet, who are enjoying equally the light of freedom, spiritual and material happiness and prosperity. The Tibet flag displays two courageous snow lions representing the temporal and the spiritual power. In the Tibet flag the two lions are taking the wheel of the Ying Yang. The Ying Yang symbol represents spiritual energy. Upon Ying Yang, there are the 3 jewels of Buddhism, namely Buddha, the dharma, and the sangha, which means the law serving monks.

The 13th Dalai Lama, made the flag of Tibet in 1912, to unite the various army provinces of the region. The flag of Tibet has a rich symbolism to it. The six red bands represent the original ancestors of the people and are painted against the backdrop of the blue of the sky that shows the protection of spiritual teachings. The white triangle in the lower part of the flag represents the Himalayan Mountains, the land of the people. The rising sun is the sign of equal enjoyment of privileges by the people of Tibet. The snow lions on the slopes of the mountain represent fearlessness and unified secular values. The three-coloured jewel held by the lions represents the three spiritual teachings in which the people of Tibet take refuge. The rotating jewel held by the lions represents the correct ethical behaviour of the people along with the correct codes of moral conduct as is laid down by the Buddha. The yellow line that forms the perimeter of the flag stands for the spread of the pure gold like teachings of the Buddha. The flag has a ratio of 2:3

Vacation:
Tibet tours are more than just a hike outside. The travel to Tibet is an inner journey with seeing and understanding the culture and the life of the people. One can see the great Tibet plateau. In Tibet treks are the way to get across the rugged countryside. In Tibet trips are organized to many a Tibetan monastery. Tibetan Buddhism provides soul food for the travelers who come from far-off places to find peace in this land.

Culture and life:
Tibetan prayer flags slowly fluttering in the wind and slow Tibetan music being played on traditional instruments such as the Tibetan singing bowl are the signs of the peaceful Tibetan community. The people are a spiritual and secular lot who try to be at peace with themselves and the world according to the teachings of the Buddha and the spiritual leadership of the Dalai Lama. The country has many artifacts such as Tibetan carpet, Tibet rugs and Tibetan Thangka paintings.

Peaks and Monasteries of the Tibet/Bhutan - Tibet/Sikkim border country

China and India are finally coming to terms with one another. As these two great Asian powers realize it is better to trade than fight with one another, new areas on both sides of the border are opening to tourism. The Tibet/Bhutan and Sikkim/Tibet border country is just such an area. The section of border that this walk concerns itself with stretches east from the Buddhist stronghold of Lhodrak near the 7,538 meter summit of Kula Kangri, to the 7, 364 meter of summit of Jomo Lhari (above) in the west. The intervening valleys, peaks and plateau stretches approximately 150 km. The border is cleanly demarcated here by some of the grandest Himalayan summits which, oddly, remain little known to the outside world. From Jomo Lhari, we cross the Chumbi Valley and reach the northern Sikkim/Tibet border country. Some of the last unclimbed 7,000 meter giants form the international boundary in this region. The last tourists in this region were the 1930s Everest expeditions. The Chorten Nyima peaks and the many Buddhist hermitages that dot this amazing landscape are our destination. This trek also includes tours of Lhasa and can include a stop at Everest basecamp. Contact us for more information.

HAWAII COUNTRY

The Hawaiian Islands are of volcanic origin and are edged with coral reefs. Hawaii is the largest and geologically the youngest island of the group, and Oahu, where the capital, Honolulu, is located, is the most populous and economically important. The other principal islands are Kahoolawe, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and Niihau. The Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, consisting of uninhabited islets and excluding Midway, stretch more than 1,100 mi (1,800 km) from Nihoa to Kure. Most of islets are encompassed in the Hawaiian Island National Wildlife Refuge; the surrounding waters and coral reefs are in the vast 84-million-acre (34-million-hectare) Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Reserve. Palmyra atoll and Kingman Reef, which were within the boundaries of Hawaii when it was a U.S. territory, were excluded when statehood was achieved.

The only U.S. state in the tropics, Hawaii is sometimes called “the paradise of the Pacific” because of its spectacular beauty: abundant sunshine; expanses of lush green plants and gaily colored flowers; palm-fringed, coral beaches with rolling white surf; and cloud-covered volcanic peaks rising to majestic heights. Some of the world's largest active and inactive volcanoes are found on Hawaii and Maui; eruptions of the active volcanoes have provided spectacular displays, but their lava flows have occasionally caused great property damage. Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are volcanic mountains on Hawaii island; Haleakala volcano is on Maui in Haleakala National Park.

Vegetation is generally luxuriant throughout the islands, with giant fern forests in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Kahoolawe, however, is arid, and Niihau and Molokai have very dry seasons. Although many species of birds and domestic animals have been introduced on the islands, there are few wild animals other than boars and goats, and there are no snakes. The coastal waters abound with fish.

More ethnic and cultural groups are represented in Hawaii than in any other state. Chinese laborers, who came to work in the sugar industry, were the first of the large groups of immigrants to arrive (starting in 1852), and Filipinos and Koreans were the last (after 1900). Other immigrant groups—including Portuguese, Germans, Japanese, and Puerto Ricans—came in the latter part of the 19th cent. Intermarriage with other races has brought a further decrease in the number of pure-blooded Hawaiians, who comprise a very small percentage of the population.

TAIWAN TOUR

Taiwan Travel Guide

Taiwan lies like a spindle in the southeast of Asia. It is a rare tropical mountain-island in the world, two thirds of which is covered with high mountain ranges. The most famous of the mountains, Ali Mountain, is the symbol of charming Taiwan.

Located in the subtropical ocean, Taiwan offers tourists comfortable weather and has no winter all the year round. With the pleasant climate, Taiwan can sustain vast biology resources. It is worth to visit Taiwan for its natural sights, such as the high and steep mountains and the dense atmosphere of seashore holidays. The island has another Portuguese name, Formosa, which means 'beautiful island'. In addition, Taiwan has many wonderful man-made tourist recourses, such as the famed Matsu Temple and Taipei National Palace Museum.

Overlooked from Fujian Province, Taiwan is neighbored by Japan in the north and Philippines in the south. Unsurprisingly, the island has become a hub for travel between places in Asia and is one of the tourist destinations with the most convenient transportation in the world.

Concurrently home to different groups mainly from the southern Fujian Province, Hakka and the local people, Taiwan also features various colorful human cultures. You will detect the harmonious and prosperous atmosphere in Taiwan's religions, architectures, languages and dining. Tourists should take special care not to miss the dainty dishes here - in fact, Taiwan is dubbed the 'Kingdom of Delicacies' by gourmets.

During the past decades, Taiwan's economy emerged as a miracle. As of today, it is the primary source of foreign capital for South-East Asian countries, thus allowing them to provide complete and high-quality tourist services and facilities.

If you have an opportunity to visit the southeast of Asia, make sure to include Formosa in your travel plan. The beautiful island will offer you an appealing trip that you will find it hard to tear yourself away from.

Taiwan is called Treasure Island for its beautiful natural sights and abundant products.

With a fluctuant landform and its characteristic landscapes, the island has become a highly popular destination and is especially renowned for its grand mountains. If you will visit just one of these mountains, you should make it Mt. Yushan (Jade Mountain), which has the highest peak in the northeastern Asia. Seashore sightseeing is an activity not to miss in Taiwan. The surf and wind have eroded the seaboard bays and capes, wind has blasted rocks, and marine erosion has shaped the landform; together creating glamorous seashores for tourists' aesthetic enjoyment. Additionally, the various cultural relics, many theme parks and bathing beaches enrich the sightseeing resources even further. Apart from the majestic mountains, green forests, bright sunshine, beautiful seacoast and splendid cultural and historical sights, you can also enjoy a modern Taiwan and its friendly people, comfortable weather, convenient transportation and superior tourist facilities.

JAPAN COUNTRY

Japan Information and History

Japan, a country of islands, extends along the Pacific coast of Asia. The main island is Honshu, and the country has three other large islands—Hokkaido to the north and Shikoku and Kyushu to the south. More than 4,000 smaller islands surround the four largest. A modern transportation system connects the main islands, including the Seikan Tunnel linking Honshu to Hokkaido—the world's longest railroad tunnel at 54 kilometers (33 miles). Japan's high-speed trains (known as shinkansen, or bullet trains) connect major urban areas.

About 73 percent of Japan is mountainous, and all its major cities, except the ancient capital of Kyoto, cling to narrow coastal plains. Only an estimated 18 percent of Japan's territory is suitable for settlement—so Japan's cities are large and densely populated. Tokyo, the capital, is the planet's largest urbanized area at 35 million people. However, Tokyo has a worrisome environmental history of destructive earthquakes and tsunamis (seismic sea waves). A major earthquake in 1923 killed an estimated 143,000 people.

One of the most traditional and isolated societies on Earth when Commodore Matthew C. Perry sailed an American fleet into Tokyo Bay in 1853, Japan is democratic and outward-looking today. Among the top three exporters of manufactured goods, the nation has the second largest economy after that of the U.S.

Aggressive expansion across the Pacific led to war with the U.S. in 1941. Defeat ended Japan's dream of ruling Asia, and the U.S. occupation imposed a parliamentary constitution, free labor unions, and stringent land reform. Despite a lack of raw materials, the economy was revived with the help of U.S. grants, high rates of labor productivity, personal savings, and capital investment.

Emperor Hirohito's death in 1989 marked the start of an era in which Japan faces the challenges of an aging population, rising inequality of wealth, the changing role of women in society, and growing concern about security and the environment. Current problems include unemployment—the highest since the end of World War II—and low economic growth. Relations with North Korea are tense because of that country's nuclear weapons program and its abduction of Japanese citizens in the 1970s and 1980s. Japan's ties with Russia are hampered because of some small islands east of Hokkaido known as the Northern Territories—the Habomai Islands, Shikotan, Kunishiri, and Etorofu (called Iturup by Russia). Japan still claims these Russian-held islands that were taken at the end of World War II.

ECONOMY

Industry: motor vehicles, electronic equipment, machine tools, steel and nonferrous metals.
Agriculture: rice, sugar beets, vegetables, fruit; pork; fish.
Exports: motor vehicles, semiconductors, office machinery, chemicals.

Text source: National Geographic Atlas of the World, Eighth Edition, 2004

Japan Flag and Fast Facts
	Population 127,728,000 Capital Tokyo; 35,327,000 Area 377,887 square kilometers (145,902 square miles) Language Japanese Religion Shinto, Buddhist	Currency yen Life Expectancy 81 GDP per Capita U.S. $28,700 Literacy Percent 99

Japan Features

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Journey through Japan, where afternoon tea breaks, fresh fish, and ritual meditation are a way of life.

TOKYO From the neon lights to the frigid wholesale fish markets, explore the fast-paced life of Japan's largest city.

Visit with Japan's most revered bird, the crane, as it performs its mating dance in the snowy fields of Hokkaido.

Find out where to get handmade treasures from local artisans throughout Asia and the Pacific.

Japan Overview:

Japan, a country of islands, extends along the Pacific coast of Asia. The main island is Honshu, and the country has three other large islands—Hokkaido to the north and Shikoku and Kyushu to the south. More than 4,000 smaller islands surround the four largest. A modern transportation system connects the main islands, including the Seikan Tunnel linking Honshu to Hokkaido—the world's longest railroad tunnel at 54 kilometers (33 miles). Japan's high-speed trains (known as shinkansen, or bullet trains) connect major urban areas.

About 73 percent of Japan is mountainous, and all its major cities, except the ancient capital of Kyoto, cling to narrow coastal plains. Only an estimated 18 percent of Japan's territory is suitable for settlement—so Japan's cities are large and densely populated. Tokyo, the capital, is the planet's largest urbanized area at 35 million people. However, Tokyo has a worrisome environmental history of destructive earthquakes and tsunamis (seismic sea waves). A major earthquake in 1923 killed an estimated 143,000 people.

One of the most traditional and isolated societies on Earth when Commodore Matthew C. Perry sailed an American fleet into Tokyo Bay in 1853, Japan is democratic and outward-looking today. Among the top three exporters of manufactured goods, the nation has the second largest economy after that of the U.S.

Aggressive expansion across the Pacific led to war with the U.S. in 1941. Defeat ended Japan's dream of ruling Asia, and the U.S. occupation imposed a parliamentary constitution, free labor unions, and stringent land reform. Despite a lack of raw materials, the economy was revived with the help of U.S. grants, high rates of labor productivity, personal savings, and capital investment.

Emperor Hirohito's death in 1989 marked the start of an era in which Japan faces the challenges of an aging population, rising inequality of wealth, the changing role of women in society, and growing concern about security and the environment. Current problems include unemployment—the highest since the end of World War II—and low economic growth. Relations with North Korea are tense because of that country's nuclear weapons program and its abduction of Japanese citizens in the 1970s and 1980s. Japan's ties with Russia are hampered because of some small islands east of Hokkaido known as the Northern Territories—the Habomai Islands, Shikotan, Kunishiri, and Etorofu (called Iturup by Russia). Japan still claims these Russian-held islands that were taken at the end of World War II. —National Geographic Atlas of the World, Eighth Edition, 2004

ENGLAND OVERVIEW

Blenheim Palace

England’s eventful history and scenic diversity render it one of the world’s most popular visitor destinations. United as a single nation over 1000 years ago, its origins go back to the dawn of civilization, and the variety of interest it offers reflects this.

From prehistoric Stonehenge to 21st-century attractions like the London Eye, its inhabitants have contributed much to the appeal of the UK’s largest constituent country. This is not restricted to a material legacy either – England’s cultural mix is rich, thanks to the many invaders, settlers and immigrants who have arrived on its shores through the millennia. Countless others around the globe share aspects of customs, language and history with the English themselves.

England’s heritage, and therefore its appeal as a destination, is many-faceted and deeply rooted, ranging from the literary genius of Shakespeare to ‘everyday’ pageantry in the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace.

The variety and contrast in the nation’s countryside is enormous too, and is often a source of surprise to many visitors venturing beyond the cities for the first time – as is the vast range of visitor attractions, resorts and sights to see and enjoy. England is a country of patchwork landscapes: from the rugged coastlines and golden beaches of Devon and Cornwall, to the craggy mountains of the Peak District, the ancient forests riddled with folklore, to the picturesque Lake District, to great cities and to centuries-old villages. Woven into its fabric lies a rich-veined ‘Englishness’, earthed in a heritage of stone circles, Arthurian legend, Shakespeare, the triumphalist ego of a crumbling aristocracy, and the cocky independence of an island nation.

England today is welcoming, friendly, fascinating and fun, where pomp and circumstance balance the often bizarre idiosyncrasies of its people, and a sense of humor is the passport to certain acceptance.

Geography
Much of the countryside is relatively flat, consisting of fertile plains and gentle hills. Mountains, moors and steeper hills are found mainly in the north and the west; the Lake District (Cumbria) and the northwest are divided from the Yorkshire Dales, and the northeast, by the (relatively) high-rising Pennines, ‘the backbone of England’. The eastern part of the country, particularly East Anglia, is the lowest lying. The coastline is varied, and ranges from long stretches of sandy beaches to steep cliffs and isolated rocky coves.

PHILLIPINE TOUR

Sugar Beach, Sipalay

Although composed of 7107 islands (7108 at low tide), with a total coastline longer than that of the USA, most of the population of The Philippines lives on just 11 of them.

The earliest inhabitants of the Philippines were the Negritos. Other tribes later arrived from Malaysia and Indonesia. The islands were occupied by the Japanese between 1942 and 1945, during World War II, only achieving independence in 1946. During the next two decades, there was a succession of presidents who maintained strong links with the United States.

In 1965, Ferdinand Marcos of the Nacionalista party won the Presidential elections and began a program of rapid economic development. By 1972, Marcos had instituted martial law and suppressed all political opposition. He also set about large-scale looting of the country’s finances to fill his and his family’s own foreign bank accounts.

By the mid-1980s, the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party, was able to sustain a major insurrection right across the country in both rural and urban areas. The turning point for the regime came after the assassination of Benigno Aquino upon his return from exile in 1983. Public opinion rallied behind his widow, Corazon Aquino in a massive campaign of demonstrations and non-violent protest, popularly dubbed ‘People Power’. Then, US President Ronald Reagan withdrew his backing from Marcos. The Filipino military, Marcos’ last bastion of support, followed suit and Marcos left for Hawaiian exile in February 1986. He died there in September 1989.

Even though the current president, Gloria Arroyo – daughter of Diosdado Macapagal, the president during the early 1960s, has promised to create jobs and to improve living standards, poverty and the country’s debt burden are still very high. This explains the high number of Filipinos residing abroad. Called balikbayans, these prove a steady source of incoming tourists in the country, representing approximately 8 per cent of all visitors. Aware of this situation, WOW Philippines, the cornerstone program of the Department of Tourism, is proving to be successful in attracting both domestic and foreign visitors to the country.

With a fresh mandate given to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2004, infrastructure projects involving airports, expressways, inter-island transport and even the currently almost non-existent railway system are part of the 10-point development agenda for the presidency until 2010. Travel and tourism will surely benefit, as airports nationwide are being constructed or renovated to accommodate larger planes and more visitors, attracted by the country's warm tropical waters, coral gardens with beautiful marine life and dramatic drop-offs on the sea bed.

Inland, the rich history and culture of the Filipino people, the dramatic landscapes and thriving cities will fascinate the visitor. Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is also its heart and soul. It sets the rhythm of life in this archipelago and is a pulsating hub that blends the Oriental with the Occidental, the traditional with the modern, the mundane with extraordinary.

Geography
The Philippines lie off the southeast coast of Asia between Taiwan and Borneo in the Pacific Ocean and South China Sea. They are composed of 7107 islands and islets (7108 at low tide), 2773 of which are named. The two largest islands, Luzon in the north and Mindanao in the south, account for 65 per cent of the total land area and contain 60 per cent of the country’s population. Between the two lie the Visayas Islands.

Source : www.iexplore.com/dmap/Philippines/Overview

INDIA TOUR

INDIA...a land for all seasons

The subcontinent of India lies in south Asia, between Pakistan, China and Nepal. To the north it is bordered by the world's highest mountain chain, where foothill valleys cover the northernmost of the country's 26 states. Further south, plateaus, tropical rain forests and sandy deserts are bordered by palm fringed beaches .

Side by side with the country's staggering topographical variations is its cultural diversity, the result of the coexistence of a number of religions as well as local tradition. Thus, the towering temples of south India, easily identifiable by their ornately sculptured surface, are associated with a great many crafts and performing arts of the region.

In the desert of Kutch, Gujarat, on the other hand, a scattering of villages pit themselves against the awesome forces of nature, resulting in Spartan lifestyles made vibrant by a profusion of jewelry and ornamental embroidery used to adorn apparel and household linen. In the extreme north is the high altitude desert of Ladakh. Local culture is visibly shaped by the faith - Buddhism -as well as by the harsh terrain. Yet another facet of Indian culture is observed in the colorful tribal lifestyles of the north eastern states of Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura and Manipur with their folk culture.

In the central Indian states of Orissa and Madhya Pradesh tribal village life has resulted in a variety of artistically executed handicrafts.

India's mountains provide heli skiing, river running, mountaineering and trekking. Its beaches provide lazy sun-bathing as well as wind surfing and snorkeling, and its jungles provide shooting wildlife -with a camera.

India's history goes back to 3,200 BC when Hinduism was first founded. Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism. Judaism. Zoroashtrianism, Christianity and Islam all exist within the country today. As a consequence of India's size, the history of the country has seldom been the same for two adjoining territories, and its great natural wealth has lured a succession of traders and foreign influences to it, each having left their imprint in the country, however faint or localized. Thus, Chinese fishing nets in Kerala are a throwback to that country's ancient maritime trade, while in the north, terra-cotta figurines of the centuries BC bear distinctly Greek traces.

Modern India is home alike to the tribal with his anachronistic lifestyle and to the sophisticated urban jetsetter. It is a land where temple elephants exist amicably with the microchip. Its ancient monuments are the backdrop for the world's largest democracy where atomic energy is generated and industrial development has brought the country within the world's top ten nations. Today, fishermen along the country's coastline fashion simple fishing boats in a centuries old tradition while, a few miles away. motor vehicles glide off conveyor belts in state-of-the-art factories

Source : www.tourindia.com

FRANCE OVERVIEW

Versailles

It is nigh impossible not to like France. As the late French president Charles de Gaulle once remarked, ‘How could one describe a country which has 365 kinds of cheese?’ There are myriad attractions in this deeply compelling and multifaceted land that draw millions of visitors back year after year.

France’s charms are manifest, whether it is the chic boulevards of Paris, the sparkling ski slopes of the Alps, sunlit vineyards and sun-baked beaches, a dusty game of boules, or coffee and croissants in an undiscovered village. Or perhaps a tour of the majestic chateaux of the Loire, the glamorous jet-set lifestyle of the Mediterranean, or a relaxing picnic in Provence, where the air is fragrant with wild herbs and lavender?

Consider also the delights of other lesser-known regions such as Franche-Comté, Gascony or Berry, deep in the green heart of France - regions firmly rooted to the land, whose sleepy villages offer visitors a chance to sample life in provincial France, and the unspoilt and rugged atmosphere of the island of Corsica, described as ‘a mountain in the sea’.

Eager to avoid a repeat of the destruction caused by two world wars, France was a founding member of the European Union. It continues to be a driving force behind the EU’s progress towards economic and political harmonization and is still active in almost every other part of the world. This arises from a combination of historical reasons (its colonies and self-image as a nuclear and world power), coupled with a desire to confront America-centric global dominance. France also proudly covets its title of the world’s number one tourist destination, and this uniquely appealing country has little trouble in tempting first timers back for numerous repeat visits.

Geography
France, the largest country in Europe, is bordered to the north by the English Channel (La Manche), the northeast by Belgium and Luxembourg, the east by Germany, Switzerland and Italy, the south by the Mediterranean (with Monaco as a coastal enclave between Nice and the Italian frontier), the southwest by Spain and Andorra, and the west by the Atlantic Ocean. The island of Corsica, southeast of Nice, is made up of two départements. The country offers a spectacular variety of scenery, from the mountain ranges of the Alps and Pyrenees to the attractive river valleys of the Loire, Rhône and Dordogne and the flatter countryside in Normandy and on the Atlantic coast. The country has some 2,900km (1,800 miles) of coastline.

sourece : www.iexplore.com/dmap/France/Overview

SWITZERLAND ATTRACTIONS

Switzerland Tourist Attractions

Switzerland-The Dream Holiday

Switzerland is a dream destination in Europe. Famous for its stunning Alpine scenery, Switzerland has been immortalized in movies such as the evergreen musical film - The Sound of Music. Other than the spectacular Alps, Switzerland has many attractions. These include forests with nature trails and hiking paths, lovely lakes, ancient cities, which are beautifully preserved, scenic countryside with picturesque meadows and farms. The architecture and culture of Switzerland have been influenced by the heritage of France, Italy and Germany. This can be seen in the monuments, palaces and castles on journeys through Switzerland with Switzerland Flexi Tours.

The Swiss Alps are visited by tourists and mountaineers from around the world. Towering at heights of over 4,000m the Swiss Alps have some of the best known peaks in the world including The Matterhorn. Snow capped peaks, icy glaciers, rocky crags and awesome spires can be seen in the Swiss Alps. Thick forests and woods with fir and pine and other coniferous trees extend to the edge of calm lakes. Soft sandy stretches invite tourists to plunge in and enjoy a swim in a mountain lake. Rushing streams ripple down hillsides and cascade along the sheer face of steep mountains. Cable cars and quaint cogwheel trains carry tourists along spectacular mountain scenery. Meadows filled with wildflowers entrance the eye of the passer by. Tourists can stay at picturesque chalets and beautiful wayside inns in the Swiss countryside on tours of Switzerland with Switzerland Flexi Tours.

In the Southern areas of Switzerland between the Alps and the Jura Mountains, the climate is pleasanter and similar to the warm Mediterranean weather. Here tourists can see green meadows with well-fed cows, large farms with picturesque flower gardens, busy cities such as Basel, Bern and Zurich, where medieval architecture and modern lifestyles combine. Switzerland is famous for its banks, shopping arcades, fashionable stores and tourist friendly cities. The countryside with its stone churches, lovely landscape and forest-clad hills make a tour of Switzerland quite unforgettable with Switzerland Flexi Tours.

The cities of Switzerland display a range of architecture from the medieval to the modern. Heritage churches and cathedrals, medieval forts and castles, baroque monuments, sleek modern steel and glass construction, all come together in a juxtaposition of styles in Switzerland's stylish cities. Rolling vineyards, castles, chalets, quaint villages and the beautiful city of Geneva surround Lake Geneva in the heart of Switzerland. Here the Alpine scenery meets the Mediterranean landscape in a uniquely Swiss combination. The Jura Mountains or Waatland Alps are also nearby and provide tourists a refreshing tour on their Swiss itinerary.

Travel through the different regions and scenic attractions of Switzerland with Switzerland Flexi Tours and have a memorable journey. Some of the tourist attractions of Switzerland are:

source : www.switzerlandflexitours.com

BRUNEI TOUR

BRUNEI CULTURAL HERITAGE TOUR

This compact tour will introduce you to the nation, its history and the significant cultural, leadership and religious influences.

Brunei is a country without equal. A small nation governed by the longest serving family monarchy in the world and financially secure with its oil and gas resources. This independence helps guarantee lifestyle choices and a benevolent provision of services, education and housing.

With Malay traditions, Islamic religion and an international perspective, Brunei is a unique cultural blend; aptly named the Abode of Peace.

Visit the Brunei Museum with its impressive Bornean collection and the local Malay martial culture and the Islamic influence. Call in at the impressive Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque (closed all day Thursday and until 16.30 hrs Friday)

Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

as well as the Palaces of both the current and previous Sultans - the 1788 room Royal Palace is the largest occupied Palace in the world; The Royal Regalia Centre, housing the royal ceremonial costumes gives an insight to the wealth of this oil rich and ancient sultanate. There is an optional lunch at the Royal Brunei Yacht Club (additional charge), and a visit to the Tamu (local market) and the water village, where more than thirty thousand people live on their ancestral sites. This water village of Kampong Ayer, has all the modern amenities, including schools, clinics, police station and a fire brigade. You will be able to have morning or afternoon tea with local cakes at a home in the Water Village.

Note that there are three departures of this tour each day which will suit any itinerary. The "day tour" starts at 0915 hrs finishing at 1515 hrs, the morning tour begins at 0815 hrs and concludes at 1230 hrs (if the RBYC lunch option is taken, the tour will conclude at about 1315 hrs), and the afternoon tour begins at 1315 hrs and concludes at 1745 hrs (if the RBYC lunch option is taken, the tour will begin at about 1230 hrs).

This tour can be linked with the Mangrove Safari tour later in the day

THAILAND TOUR

:: About Thailand

Full Country Name: Thailand (Prathet Thai, meaning "land of the free")
Capital: Bangkok (Krung Thep, meaning "city of angels")

Geography: The kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia, making it a natural gateway to Indochina, Myanmar and Southern China. Its shape and geography divide into four natural regions : the mountains and forests of the North; the vast rice fields of the Central Plains; the semi-arid farm lands of the Northeast plateau; and the tropical islands and long coastline of the peninsula South. The country comprises 76 provinces that are further divided into districts, sub-districts and villages. Bangkok is the capital city and centre of political, commercial, industrial and cultural activities. It is also the seat of Thailand's revered Royal Family, with His Majesty the King recognised as Head of State, Head of the Armed Forces, Upholder of the Buddhist religion and Upholder of all religions. Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, or King Rama IX, the ninth king of the Chakri Dynasty, the present king. The King has reigned for more than half a century, making him the longest reigning Thai monarch. Thailand embraces a rich diversity of cultures and traditions. With its proud history, tropical climate and renowned hospitality, the Kingdom is a never-ending source of fascination and pleasure for international visitors. Neighboring Countries: 1) Myanmar - west and north, 2) Lao P.D.R. - north and northeast, 3) Cambodia - southeast and 4) Malaysia - south. Area: 513,115 sq. km. Topography: Thailand is divided into 4 natural regions: The mountainous North, with its profusion of multi-coloured orchids, fascinating native handicrafts and winter temperatures are sufficiently cool to permit cultivation of temperate fruits such as strawberries and peaches; The high Northeast Plateau, which still jealously guards its many archaeological and anthropological mysteries; The Central Plain, one of the world's most fertile rice and fruit-growing areas with colourful traditional culture and way of life as well as the sandy beaches of the East Coast and vibrant cosmopolitan Bangkok; The peninsular South where the unspoiled beaches and idyllic islands complement economically vital tin mining, rubber cultivation and fishing. Population: Thais are well-known for their friendliness and hospitality. A large majority of over 62 million citizens of Thailand are ethic Thai, along with strong communities whose ethnic origins lie in China, India and elsewhere. About 7 million people reside in the capital city of Bangkok. People: Thai (80%), Chinese (10%), Malay (3%), and the rest are minorities (Mons, Khmers, hill tribes) Ethnic Thais form the majority, though the area has historically been a migratory crossroads, and has thus produced a degree of ethnic diversity. Integration is such, however, that culturally and socially there is enormous unity. Language: Spoken and written Thai is largely incomprehensible to the casual visitor. However, English is widely understood, particularly in Bangkok where it is almost the major commercial language. English and some European Languages are spoken in most hotels, shops and restaurants in major tourist destinations, and Thai-English road and street signs are found nationwide. Religion: Buddhism (95%), Muslim (4%), others (1%) Government: Thailand has had a constitutional monarchy since 1932. Parliament is composed of 2 houses, The House of Representatives and the Senate. Both representatives and senators are elected by the people. A prime minister elected from among the representatives leads the government. The country is divided into 76 provinces. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration comes under an elected governor. Appointed provincial governors administer the other 75 provinces (Changwat), which are divided into districts (Amphoe), sub-districts (Tambon) and villages (Mu Ban). Head of State: H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX of the Chakri Dynasty) Head of Government: Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont Administration: 76 provinces, each subdivided into amphoe (district), tambon (sub-district) and muban (village) National Flag: The red, white, and blue stripes symbolize the nation, Buddhism, and the monarchy, respectively. Time: The time in Thailand is seven hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+7 hours GMT). Climate: Thailand enjoys a tropical climate with three distinct seasons-hot and dry from February to May (average temperature 34 degrees Celsius and 75% humidity); rainy with plenty of sunshine from June to October (average day temperature 29 degrees Celsius and 87% humidity); and cool from November to January (temperatures range from 32 degrees Celsius to below 20 degrees Celsius with a drop in humidity). Much lower temperatures are experienced in the North and Northeast during nighttime. The South has a tropical rainforest climate with temperatures averaging 28 degrees Celsius almost all year round. Electricity: The electric current is 220 volt AC (50 cycles) throughout the country. Many different types of plugs and sockets are in use. Travellers with electric shavers, hair dryers, tape recorders and other appliances should carry a plug adapter kit. The better hotels will make available 110-volt transformers. Tap water: Tap water is clean but drinking from it directly should be avoided. Bottled water is recommended Clothing : Light, cool clothes are sensible and a jacket is needed for formal meetings and dining in top restaurants. Shorts (except knee length walking shorts), sleeveless shirts, tank tops and other beach-style attire are considered inappropriate dress when not actually at the beach or in a resort area. Weights & Measures : The metric system is used throughout Thailand. Numerals on vehicle speed ohmmeters, highway markers and speed limits all indicate kilometres. Business hours : Most commercial concerns in Bangkok operate on a five-day week, usually from 8 am to 5 pm. Many stores open seven days a week from 10 am to 10 pm. Government offices are generally open between 8.30 am and 4.30 pm with a noon to 1 pm lunch break, Monday to Friday except on public holidays. Banks are open Mondays to Fridays from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm except on public holidays. Postal Services : Thailand's mail service is reliable and efficient. Major hotels provide basic postal services on their premises. Provincial post offices are usually open from 8.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. International Roaming Mobile Phone : A Subscriber Identity Module Card (SIM Card) is now available for Thai and foreign customers who are travelling around for work. The SIM Card must be used in conjunction with a Digital GSM mobile phone within the 900-MHz range or a Digital PCN mobile phone within the 1800-MHz range. Fax and E-Mail : All of Thailand's leading hotels offer facsimile (fax) and e-mail services. Numerous private businesses offer such facilities, most often in conjunction with translation services. Internet Services : Thailand has been expanding its information service for residents and tourists alike through the Internet system. Services are now available at Thailand's leading hotels and at the many " Cyber-Cafes " that are cropping up in all major tourist destinations. source : www.tourismthailand.org