Jesse Russell

Jordan. Travel Guide. It's easy to see why Lawrence of Arabia was so taken with Jordan. Probably the most appealing destination in the Middle East, this ancient Arab kingdom is a hospitable land packed with epic scenery and momentous relics. Many travellers visit Jordan with its history in mind, and understandably so. The country is steeped in stories from the distant past, with the ruins to prove it. There's the 2,000-year-old "lost city" of Petra, carved from rose-red sandstone cliffs by the Nabateans, and the legendary Lawrence of Arabia trail, which takes visitors from his crumbling fort at Azraq to the magnificent deserts of Wadi Rum. Important biblical sites abound; visitors can trek along pilgrimage routes mentioned in the Old Testament, take in views of the Promised Land revealed to Moses and visit Bethany-by-the-Jordan where John baptised Jesus. If Jordan's overwhelming historical sites begin to wear you out, take a restorative dip in the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, go scuba diving over coral reefs in the Red Sea or stay in the desert with Bedouins, who offer travellers a glimpse into their traditional way of life. For all its history and natural beauty, though, Jordan looks forward. Its relatively stable economic and political position in the Middle East has fuelled modernisation, particularly in the capital Amman. With new upmarket hotels, restaurants and bars, the city is no longer just a base from which to explore the ancient sites, but a destination in its own right. In Jordan, hospitality is king. Everywhere you visit you will hear heartfelt words of welcome, and will often be invited into shops or peoples' homes for a glass of sweet tea and a conversation. In other places this might prelude a hard-sell campaign of carpet-flogging, but in Jordan, it's almost always borne simply of an interest to engage with a visitor. As the Jordanians say; "Ahlan wa sahlan" come in and make yourself at home.

Chile. Tourism Guide. The northern part of the country is characterized by large deserts. Arica is the north-most city in Chile. The old city is full of buildings constructed during the colonial period, and Plaza de Armas Square is the location of the most famous sight of Arica St. Marcus Cathedral. There is also an old Spanish fortress built in the middle of the 19th century in the city. Nowadays, the fortress is used to hold the exhibition of the Museum of History and Arms. Nearby mountains hide another landmark of the region Fort Alacran that is built on the rock. There are also unusual cultural places of interest in the city, for example, the Museum of Mummies. Some exhibits of the museum are several thousand years old. The city of La Serena is a popular tourist destination that never ceases to amaze guests. Tololo Observatory has become the symbol of the city. This is the largest observatory in the Southern Hemisphere. Besides that, there are several old wineries, gold mines and beautiful churches in La Serena. Visitors are usually charmed with St. Francisco Church that was built in 1844. The amazing Rio Elqui Valley, which is completely used for fruit plantations, has become a true landmark of the country. The same applies to Atacama Desert that amazes tourists with its severe beauty. Archaeological excavations never stop in the desert. Guests are welcome to visit these sites, participate in jeep safari and various interesting excursions. Despite harsh weather conditions, there are more than 200 species of animals there. Of course, cacti are the most famous plant in Atacama there are more than 150 types of them in the desert. Many places of interest and historic landmarks have survived in San Pedro de Atacama. Most of the landmarks belong to the Incan civilization and chinchorro tribe. Naturally, the capital of the country, Santiago de Chile, is home to many places of interest. The best way to explore the capital is to start from Plaza de Armas. The square is surrounded by many beautiful buildings the Municipality building, Governor House, the Royal Audiencia, the cathedral, Fernandez Concha Portal, the old Post office and La Moneda Palace. Vina del Mar is a popular resort in Chile. Because of lush greenery, the city is often called "the garden city". Travellers will find here beautiful beaches, spacious parkways, banana tree groves and botanic gardens. There are also several museums in Vina del Mar, namely the Museum of Fine Arts, museums of history and culture.

Many of Christopher Nolan’s films ironically both embrace the tradition of surrealist and Avant-Garde filmmaking while simultaneously providing (at least tacit) support for the Anglo-American liberal world order. For Nolan, this world order, which relies on global capitalism, technocratic supremacy, and ultimate control of world cultural production, is a much greater alternative to either left- or right-wing challenges to this liberalism. In Nolan’s films, this liberalism must occasionally use violence and violate some of its core principals of privacy and freedom to maintain its dominance. Nonetheless, Anglo-American liberalism, in Nolan’s vision provides a world that is freer, more humane, and more prosperous than other anarchic, Marxist, or fascist alternatives. Finally, (and perhaps most importantly for Nolan) the security, wealth, and freedom of this liberal world order enables the world of art and film to blossom, and the opportunity for Christopher Nolan to create (post-) ironic dream worlds or, in the words of Jean Baudrillard, a “hyperreality”.

Mauritius Travel Guide. Holiday Destination. Besides beautiful nature, the island of Mauritius attracts guests with its fascinating architectural landmarks and great choice of entertainment to fit any taste. Several important landmarks are located in the capital of the island, the city of Port Louis. There is a beautiful building of Government House, and one of local medieval houses has been turned into the Museum of Natural History. Racing has become a very popular entertainment on weekends. The event traditionally takes place on Champ de Mars. The suburbs of the capital are the location of a popular place Domaine Les Pailles, where visitors will enjoy many interesting excursions. Tourists are offered to make a ride on jeeps in the piedmont region, explore local nature in a miniature train and have a dinner in one of cosy local restaurants with spacious terraces. The local botanic garden is also worth visiting as many trees that grow there are several centuries old. You will also find huge water lilies and other exotic plants in the garden. Among the main architecture landmarks of the area it's simply impossible to fail to mention Eureka Colonial House & Port, which is surrounded by a beautiful park. Don't forget to visit Mahebourg as there are buildings that date back to the 16th century in this small town. Moreover, there are several large nature parks near the town, the biggest ones being Domaine du Shasseur and Grand Bassin. During an excursion in these parks one will see many interesting animals wild boars, deer, monkeys and more than a hundred species of birds. The village of Chamarel has become a true diamond for geologists as the soil near the village is coloured in the most unusual colours. Tourists will also enjoy Rochester Waterfalls and Gris Gris Beach

Panama Travel and Tourism. Tourist Guide. Think Panama and what springs to mind? The canal? Cigars? Straw hats? Probably all three. However, for those in the know, this slender Central American nation is much more than that; it is a land of wildlife-rich rainforests and remote indigenous communities; Miami-esque promenades and paradisiacal beaches; verdant volcanoes and the impenetrable wilderness of the Darien Gap. Firstly, the canal. Though considered to be the star attraction (thousands flock here to watch container ships passing through the locks) the wild landscapes it scythes through are an altogether more exciting prospect. Here you can hike volcanoes, zip-wire over forest canopies, raft down rapids and meet one of the country's largest indigenous groups, the Kunas, who eke out simple, traditional lives on the sumptuous San Blas Islands. The Caribbean coastline features another facet of Panamanian culture. Jamaicans and Barbadians, drafted in to build the canal, ended up settling here and an Afro-Caribbean vibe endures to this day. The nearby Bocas del Toro islands, meanwhile, are the definition of Caribbean island ideal with their palm-fringed beaches, limpid lagoons and sleepy eco-lodges. The wildlife is also spectacular. Whale watching in the Golfo de Chiriqu is a must and you never forget scuba diving or snorkeling alongside turtles in the Coiba National Marine Park. Its birdlife surpasses neighbouring Costa Rica and the most treasured sightings are the iconic harpy eagle, Panama's national bird, and the endangered great green macaw.

Uruguay Travel. Information Tourism. Uruguay has just recently become popular with tourists from Europe and Russia. This is a very interesting and original country, a vacation in which will leave many unforgettable memories. The capital of the country, the city of Montevideo, is famous primarily for its architectural landmarks. This is a place where travelers are able to see buildings that belong to the colonial epoch, as well as beautiful old houses that border with modern buildings, office centers and banks. There are several parks and large squares in the city, where on any time of the day one can see unhurriedly walking local people and guests of the city. The Independence Square is considered the largest square in Montevideo. The main place of interest in the city, Artigas Mausoleum, is also located there. There is one more sight right in front of the historical landmark. This is Palacio Salvo, the highest building in South America. Travelers are also recommended to visit Plaza Constituci n square as near it they will find such a famous landmark as Iglesia Matriz de El Salvador church that was built in the eighteenth century. There are also many museums in Montevideo, the most famous being Museo del Gaucho y de la Moneda and the National Museum of History. Fans of shopping are recommended to make a walk to Mercado del Puerto district. This old port district is the location of numerous trading centres and markets.

Moldova Travel Guide. Tourism Information. Picturesque and charming country, a vacation in which will leave many pleasant memories, Moldova has much to offer to its guests. Travelers will find here interesting excursions to various historic places and beautiful nature parks. There are small villages and modern metropolises, restaurants and casinos, and many other places worth visiting in this wonderful country. The oldest city in Moldova, Orheiul Vechi, is a must visit place for all travelers. The city is located in a small ravine. First settlements appeared on the site of the city yet during the prehistoric era. Nowadays, visitors can learn more about that period by observing rock drawings and carvings in local caves. The city got its current name after the Orheiul Fortress that was built on the highest hill in the 15th century. The city looks more like a giant architectural complex, every building in which was a witness of important historic events. The Monastery of Dormition of the Mother of God is an interesting place recommended for visiting. The monastery was built in the 12th century and is considered one of the most beautiful medieval sights. There are more than one hundred museums and galleries in Moldova, but travelers are recommended to start from the Museum of National Crafts located in the village of Ivancea. Organized in an old mansion, the museum got its first artefacts in the middle of the 19th century. Nowadays, the exhibition of the museum features traditional Moldovan crafts ceramics, wooden artworks, stone carvings and a large collection of national costumes and musical instruments.

Mexico Travel Information. Tourism. A country with rich history, Mexico is home to unique sights of ancient civilizations. The country attracts not only fans of hot countries and beach rest, but also people who are keen on history, numerous scientists and archaeologists. In Mexico you can see the internationally famous Mayan pyramids, Aztec monuments and ancient settlements mentioned in many legends and mysterious stories. Those, who want to see settlements of old tribes with their own eyes, should definitely make a trip to pyramids of Teotihuacan. The largest two pyramids are located in this "ghost city". These are the pyramids of Moon and Sun, the height of which estimates 150 and 225 metres respectively. The temple of Quetzalcoatl, the most powerful and honoured god according to Maya, is located nearby. One more ancient building that is worth visiting is located in Cholula. This is Cholula Pyramid, which size once exceeded the size of the pyramid of Cheops. The Cholula Pyramid was partially destroyed, but it looks very impressive even nowadays. Several interesting buildings can be found in the cities of Chichen Itzā, El Tajin, Palenque, Tikal, Xel-Ha, Xcaret and Uxmal. Mexico City, which was founded in 1325, is a true open air museum. Nowadays, there are as many as 1400 historic landmarks in the city. Its territory is home to 10 archaeological zones and more than 80 museums. Start your observation of the city with a visit to El Zocalo Square to enjoy numerous old houses, mansions of the colonial period and buildings of the Aztec times that have miraculously survived till our days. The Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the most beautiful buildings of the medieval period. This is the largest church of its type in whole Latin America. The National Palace is a well-known masterpiece of architecture. The fa ade and halls of the palace are decorated with beautiful frescos

Maldives Travel Guide. Tourism. Maldives have always been associated with upscale vacations. Archipelago located in the Indian Ocean includes1190 atolls, where top-class hotels and resorts are situated. Each atoll is the focus of unique natural attractions and charming beaches. Pristine natural beauty can be called the main feature of the archipelago. It's worth noting that local beauty isn't limited to terrestrial landscapes, as the underwater world is also extraordinarily beautiful. That's why fans of diving and snorkeling prefer resting on Maldives. With regard to traditional tours and scenic walks, guests of elite resorts won't be disappointed. A significant part of historical attractions are concentrated in the capital of the archipelago, the city of Male. The starting point for many excursions is the main square of the capital, Jumhooree Maidhan. Its construction began only recently, in 1988. Today the picturesque square is one of the busiest places of the archipelago. Amazing shops and restaurants are concentrated around it, as well as picturesque streets ideal for walks. Hukuru Miskiiy is among the most notable historical sights. The age of mosque is almost a thousand years. This beautiful old building has perfectly preserved to this day. During the tour you can see symbolic drawings carved in stones; those were created by masters in the 13th century. Next to the old mosque there is a cemetery, which also has great historical value. Its territory features the tomb of Sultan Abu Al Barakat and other rulers famous for their great deeds. However, the biggest religious building is Old Friday Mosgue. It's a large architectural complex including Islamic center and the mosque itself with luxurious golden domes. The mosque can accommodate 5,000 worshipers at the same time. Old Friday Mosque is the most sacred place for locals, so it is a must see place

Morocco Travel. North Africa Tourism. An amazing country, which miraculously mixes traditions of Islam and European culture, Morocco never ceases to amaze travelers with its unforgettable places of interest. Simply every city in this ancient country keeps numerous mysteries and secrets. The capital of the country alone is home to more than a hundred of interesting buildings, bazaars and museums. Tourists are recommended to visit such sights as Kasbah of the Udayas, Mulay Slimane Mosque and Moulay El Mekki Mosque, ruins of Yaqub al-Mansur Mosque, the Royal Palace and tombs of Kings Hasan II and Mohammed V. When it comes to culture facilities of the country, the most famous ones are the Museum of Ancient History, the Museum of Moroccan Art, the Museum of Archaeology, Ethnographic Museum, the Museum of Natural History and the Art Gallery. The city of Marrakech is an important tourist destination. The so-called historic part of the city is naturally the most attractive one for tourists. The central part of the city is the location of the Koutoubia Mosque, the building of which took place in the 12th century. The beautiful minaret, the height of which is 77 metres, remains the main peculiarity of this mosque. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is located right in front of it. All biggest streets of Marrakech start from the square. During a walk here you will see beautiful palaces, museums and mosques, but large and bustling bazaars still remain the main distinctive feature of the city. Local bazaars are usually bound to a specific type of a product, and one can find virtually anything there. There are bazaars that specialize in spices, leather goods, markets for historical artefacts and clothes, and, of course, food bazaars. The city of Casablanca is a wonderful place where visitors will find different entertainment. This is a large port center and a famous historic region. The square of United Nations is considered the heart of the historic district. Old main historic landmarks are located around the square. These are Notre Dame de Lourdes Church, Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Big Mosque of Hasan II. Don't forget to visit numerous parks, during a walk in which you will be able to see tenths of wonderful mosque

Lithuania Travel Guide. Vacation, Honeymoon Business Guide. Lithuania never ceases to amaze its guests with magnificent nature landmarks. The country is home to approximately 200 parks, 50 nature reserves and as many as 2500 lakes. Simply every park of the country is perfect for rest, where you can relax under the crone of centuries old trees, enjoy the crystal clean water in a lake or walk in a beautiful garden. The historic heritage of the country is no less interesting, and the best way to start your exploration of Lithuania is to visit its capital, Vilnius. The capital is famous for its magnificent religious complexes such as St. Anne's Church, one of the most famous churches in Vilnius. The building is made in gothic style and its facades are decorated with amazing patterns made with bricks of different colour. The three altars and an ancient organ are the most precious elements of the inner design. The church got its current look in the middle of the 16th century. Before that there was a small wooden bell tower on the site of the modern church. Vilnius is home to the National Museum, the oldest museum in the country. It was founded yet in 1855. Museum collections are dedicated to history and culture of the country. Yet in the 19th century a part of the collection was transferred to Moscow; currently, the exhibition of the museum includes approximately 800 thousand items. Visitors will see large collections of paintings, weapons, work tools, utensils, jewellery, furniture, medals, historic documents, maps and other ethnographic and historic items. The Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania is an amazing example of medieval architecture. The building of the castle was started in the 15th century and lasted a few hundred years. The castle changed its owners several times, that's why it took so long to finish the construction. Today, the palace features amazing combination of renaissance and gothic styles, and visitors are welcome to see its beautiful halls and rooms, and listen to many interesting stories about the past of the building.

Madagascar Travel Guide. Africa Tourism. A beautiful island, Madagascar attracts visitors with its unforgettable nature, dense forests, clean lakes and spectacular waterfalls, many species of rare birds and animals, and shockingly amazing butterflies. From the historic point of view, the city of Mahajanga is the most interesting destination in Madagascar. There are several important landmarks in the old part of the city, such as several buildings of the colonial period, mosques and trading squares. The Rova Fortress, which is located on a hill, is also worth attention of travellers. Long time ago the fortress-palace belonged to the royal family, but now it's possible to see only several towers and a segment of a protective wall. Madagascar is famous for its magnificent waterfalls, the highest of which is the cascade of the Sakaleona River. The height of this waterfall is 200 metres. Several beautiful waterfalls can be seen in Montagne d'Ambre (Amber Mountain) National Park. However, the Dead Lake remains the biggest attraction of the island. The lake is located among high rocks in the vicinity of Antsirabe. Quite an interesting fact the lake is completely uninhabited despite the fact that its parameters and the temperature of water should perfectly fit the majority of local fish and seaweed. There are many legends connected with the lake. For example, locals say that no one can cross the lake by swimming even though the size of the lake is quite modest 100 x 50 m. Kirindy Forest remains one of the most visited places in Madagascar. Lemurs are the main inhabitants of this forest. The territory of the nature reserve is home to several rare types of baobabs, bushes and flowers. During a walk in the reserve, you will feel how hundreds of tiny eyes are watching you there are really many birds and animals in Kirindy.

Hungary Travel Guide. Tourism. Culturally and linguistically distinct from all of its immediate neighbours, Hungary is very much the 'odd one out' in Central Europe, but for all the most honourable reasons. This is a nation whose capital, Budapest, can hold up a mirror to classical Vienna; it's a world of well-preserved castles, seductively good wines and quiet stoic pride; a landscape of low-lying mountains, oak forests and thermal springs. The Romans were the first to make use of the hot waters, originally for medicinal purposes. Today, the pursuit is relaxation and over time the bathhouses have grown into splendid architectural affairs, most notably in Budapest. The capital is an elegant, stylish and lively city made up of two separate settlements clustered on either side of the Danube River: hilly Buda has a wealth of graceful Habsburg and neoclassical buildings, while sprawling Pest is its commercial centre with a generous scattering of art nouveau architecture and an ad-hoc party scene. The city has long been the focus of Hungary's artistic, musical and literary community and is by far the best place in the country for a choice of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Smaller cities are equally architecturally fascinating and deserving of a visit in their own right: P cs for its museums; Eger for it's fortifications and infamous Bull's Blood Wine; and Gy r whose grand Basilica houses the golden herm of L szl . Beyond these urban centres, Hungary's bathes in natural delights. South west of Budapest is Lake Balaton, Central Europe's largest body of freshwater, where locals spend hot summers cooling off in waters that average 20 C (68 F). In winter, Hungary freezes, and thrill seekers head north to the Bakony Hills for the chance to ski through the forests before unwinding with a dip in the thermal spa. It may be landlocked, but Hungary is a country content on ploughing its own furrow no matter what seeds its neighbours are sewing and is all the better for it

Italy Travel. Tourism Information. Italy Travel Guide. Nearly every city in Italy is a large historic center with numerous places of interest. Rome, Milano, Venice and Florence remain major tourist destinations, and all of them are totally worth visiting. Rome is one of the oldest cities in the world. Almost every building in this city has historic or architectural value. The magnificent Coliseum was built almost 2 thousand years ago. Before that, the site of the Coliseum was the location of Nero's Palace and a big artificial lake. The building of the Coliseum was joyful for inhabitants of Rome because it was much more pleasant to see a beautiful forum rather than a tyrant's palace. Circus Maximus is another large and unusual landmark. According to some experts, Circus could provide seats for 200 thousand visitors. The venue was used to host competitions of carts and other important public events. Mons Palatinus is an interesting place from the historic point of view. According to scientists, homes of first settlers of Rome were located there. Later, noble Romans built their houses on Mons Palatinus. There were many temples in that area and many important celebrations took place there. Milan is a beautiful city with many wonderful landmarks like Duomo Cathedral that is considered one of most beautiful churches in the city. Its building started in the end of the 14th century and lasted till 1965. The mural painting "The Last Supper" by Leonardo da Vinci is the main decoration of the shrine. Other interesting landmarks are La Scala Theatre, The Pinacoteca di Brera, Francesco Emmanuelle Gallery and Castello Sforzesco. Grand Canal has become the signature landmark of Venice. All most beautiful palaces and castles are located along the canal. Palazzo Ducale is often called the most beautiful castle in Venice. This is a wonderful historic building, which halls have retained their original look of past centuries.

Vietnam Travel. Tourism Information. Vietnam is a perfect country for those who want to feel real Asia. Even though big cities of the country rapidly transform into modern metropolises, travelers will still find there stunning exotic nature, rice fields, traditional water markets, gorgeous highlands and motorcycles used to transport ripe fruit and vegetables. Hanoi is a busting modern city, but traditions are greatly valued there. Start your observation of the city from the Old Quarter as the majority of sights, such as Bach Ma Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake, are located there. Ho Chi Minh City, which is also known as Saigon, is the second largest city in Vietnam and another popular destination. In Saigon, old palaces and pagodas border with modern skyscrapers, making the city look very original. The most well-known places of interest there include Giac Lam Pagoda and the Reunification Palace. During your stay in Vietnam, don't forget to include Hoi An in your "must-visit" list. This old city is sometimes compared with Venice because of its long canals. The city of Hue, which once was the imperial town, is rich in architectural landmarks, among which travelers are particularly recommended to visit the Tombs of Emperors and the Citadel. After observing grandiose buildings, enjoy some walk along the bank of the Perfume River.