Via Luigi Negrelli 30038 Spinea Venezia Italy
http://cispinea.wordpress.com/
Aeroporto Marco Polo, Via Galileo Galilei, 30/1, 30100 Venezia, Italy
East Accademia along Gran Canal, 30123 Venice, Italy (Dorsoduro)
167 Via Vecchia Ferriera, Vicenza, Vi 36100 Italy
Everyone wants to go to France, Maldives or the US for a vacation but if you would like to experience something slightly different from touristy destinations, we've collated quite a few amazing places that you could explore! Pristine, secluded beaches, historically rich cities, and a diverse range of terrains in one place – this list has got it all! Keep reading to find out what are the 10 most unusual travel destinations off the beaten path. 1. Red Beach, Panjin, China Credit: Wikipedia Yes, you read that right – Red Beach – also referred to as “ Red Carpet Beach” by locals. The Red Beach national corridor is one part of the Liaodong coastline extending for 118kms. It garners more than 2 million tourists annually, so why not be one of that 2 million and enjoy the absolute splendour of this magical landscape. The vibrant red colour is given by the seep weed which grows from summer to autumn. Panjin is a coastal town with a lot to offer to travellers – beautiful countryside, hot springs and ancient towns offer much for sight seeing and leisure. You can get to this scenic coastal town by a long distance bus. You can even take a train from Beijing to Panjin. There are a few halal restaurants within the province such as Ming Mings Dumplings, Yifeng Moslam park and many more. Check the China foreigners guide for more restaurants. 2. Popeye Village, Malta Credit: @popeyemalta on Facebook This fun, quirky town was originally a film set for the famed “Popey” Musical starring the ever wonderful Robin Williams. So, this should be one of the top destinations to visit on your list! Located next to the turquoise sea, this colourful town is for the young at heart, especially for all you Popeye the Sailor-man fans. The town hosts many events throughout the year and has many guided tours. You can find accommodation at Melliha, there are many hotels and getting from there to Popeye village is very easy, you could just walk the 2Km distance or take a bus from there. The bus routes tend to change in Malta so refer the Malta Transport website for all the information you need. There are many Halal restaurants scattered around the islands and it is very easy travel in Malta, since the islands are small and the distances aren’t that long. There are many Turkish restaurants and a few Indian restaurants which are Halal friendly. 3. Pamukkale, Turkey Credit: @Pamukkale.Hierapolis on Facebook Located in the picturesque southwest of Turkey, this pristine white locale is the stuff of dreams. From the white terraces to the crystalline green pools, Pamukkale, Turkeyis a dreamscape worth experiencing. Pamukkale translates to “Cotton Castle” and rightly so, it is also the home of the well preserved ancient Graeco-Roman city of Hieropolis. An all in one location with its travertine limestone formations, hot springs, ancient temples, bathouses and necropolis all rolled in to one, this is a definite once in a lifetime adventure you should take. Bathe in the beautiful warm pools like the Romans once did, and explore the remains of a once great spa city. The easiest way to get there is to board a flight from Istanbul to Denizli Cardak Airport, Turkish Airlines offers flights to Denizli. Denizli is 65km away from Pamukkale, you can opt for an airport shuttle, or you can get a bus from the Denizli bus station – the ride is 40mins. There are many hotels in the city that suit all budgets, as well as many Halal friendly restaurants in the area, so you can easily find food without having to worry about Halal authenticity. Some of the best restaurants are Mhemet’s Heaven, Cadde Grill House and Yildiz restaurant; you can do a quick Google search and find many Halal friendly restaurants easily. 4. Giethoorn, Netherlands Image by Michel van der Vegt from Pixabay Beautiful, serene, quiet, green, these are a few words that describe Giethoorn, a water village also referred to as ‘Dutch Venice’, however minus the crowds and commercialisation. It is an idyllic village setting, with fewer roads and more canals, most areas are not accessible by car – it is either by foot or by boat. The canals are lined with pretty, traditional Dutch thatched roofed houses and almost each house has their own boat, even the mail man uses a boat! It is best explored by joining a canal cruise or by opting for a guided tour with the help of local skippers. You can get to Giethoorn from Amsterdam in one and half hours if you are going by car, you can opt to hire a cab or rent a car and drive by yourself. There is no direct way you could get to the village by public transport, if you really want to however, you could get the train from Amsterdam to Steenwijk, and then catch a bus from Steenwijck to Giethoorn – this trip will take two hours. Accommodation wise, there are a number of hotels within the village, or you could even opt to stay just outside the village. It may be a little difficult to find Halal friendly places in this area, however, there are a few restaurants scattered around the Overjissel province where Giethoorn is located. 5. Socotra, Yemen Image by danielshimmin0 from Pixabay An island that is a part of an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, a surreal, alien landscape that is sure to leave you mesmerised. It was recognised by UNESCO as a world heriatage site in 2008, and is referred to as “the most alien looking place on Earth”. It is so isolated that it’s wildlife is unique to the island and have evolved to adapt to its dessert environment, it is home to a very distinct species of tree known as the Dragon’s Blood Tree, aptly named as it oozes blood red sap. The Bottle Tree is a quirky tree that looks like the foot of an elephant with pink flowers on the top, referred to as desert rose. The island has its own version of birds, such as the Socotra Sunbird, Socotra starling and Socotra grosbeak. The only native mammal on the island is the bat. It is best to book a tour to better explore the island and get more insight. You can reach the Island via Sanaa, the capital of Yemen; get a flight to the Sanaa Airport and from there a get flight to Socotra. You could even go for a direct flight to the island through the Arab Emirates, Felix Airways has scheduled flights from Sharjah to Socotra and back. Don’t expect luxurious resorts and hotels here, it is mostly eco-friendly and you will find five hotels, one eco lodge and many eco-camp sites. Since the island belongs to Yemen, their cuisine is mainly Halal, so you don’t have to worry about trying to find authentic Halal fare. 6. Taha’a, French Polynesia Credit: Tahaa Whilst Bora Bora garners most of the crowd, Taha’a is almost overlooked, but that doesn’t mean this flower shaped island has nothing to offer. If you are looking for a romantic escape or just a few days of pampering, Taha’a will definitely fulfil your dreams. A true island paradise with rolling hills, and valleys covered with banana, watermelon and coconut groves. It is the home of the world’s most priced Tahitian Vanilla, making up for 80% of the export from French Polynesia. The whole island is intoxicated by the scent of vanilla and will draw you in with its white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and absolute seclusion. The only way to access Taha’a is by boat from her sister island Raiatea. You will have to take a flight which may have stop overs at Paris, Auckland, or Los Angeles, from where you’ll fly to an airport closest to Taha’a depending on the airlines. There are many resorts and hotels to stay at in Taha’a, the more reputed hotels can be on the pricier end of the spectrum. It may be difficult to find Halal food in Taha’a, however, their cuisine mostly comprises of fruits of the sea and fruits of the land, therefore most of the food are Halal friendly. 7. Isle of Skye, Scotland Credit: @IsleofSkyeScotland on Facebook The mystical Isle of Skye which translates to “Cloud Island” from ancient Norse, it is the second largest of Scotland’s islands and the most beautiful! Magical and mysterious, the island boasts deep lochs, towering cliffs and moors, as well as incredible wildlife – a nature lovers dream! Rich in history and culture Skye is a great place to explore, with places like the Mealt Waterfall and Kilt Rock, the Old Man Storr, the Fairy Pools of Glenbrittle, Dinosaur footprints at Staffin Beach, Dunvegan Castle and many more. The closest airports are the Glasgow Airport and the Inverness Airport, from which you can opt to drive to Isle of Skye or take a bus. There is no railway on the island; instead it offers buses and local coaches. The island is full of quaint little cottages that you can rent out; some offer self catering whilst others offer bed and breakfast. The town of Portree is where most tourists stay at; it is the capital of the island and has many hotels, cafes and supermarkets. If you really want to experience Skye, then opt for camping. It is fairly easy to find Halal food in the Island as there is a population of Indians and Pakistanis who live there. They are quite a few good Indian and Pakistani restaurants, as well as some Bangladeshi ones. 8. Bagan, Myanmar Credit: @WonderBaganMyanmar on Facebook This Buddhist temple city was once the capital of an ancient Kingdom, however, now it is an important archaeological zone. Bagan is often compared to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and may even be a rival to Machu Pichu, however, this ancient city has a charm of its own. Witness the majesty of the golden stupas in the temple plain and catch the sunset over the Irrawaddy River. You can witness the beauty of Bagan by Hot Air ballon, the ancient city is a sight to behold 2000 feet up in the air. You can even get more close and personal by biking it on the ground, exercise and a view! Don’t forget to check a local market as well, and get as many souvenirs as you want, also add local festivals to your itinerary as you will be able to taste the best of Burmese hawker food. Flights arrive at the Nyaung-U Airport and it is a 10min taxi ride to Nyaung-U town centre, whilst it’s a 20 minute ride to Old Bagan or New Bagan. When travelling to Bagan it is advisable to go through a travel agent, as they will make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. However, if you do want to travel independently, do a though search on travel requirements and hotels. The more luxurious hotels and resorts are located in Old Bagan, whilst more mid range and budget hotels are found in Nyaung-U and New Bagan. Nyaung-U is Bagan’s largest town, this is where you will find most of the restaurants and hotels, however, it tends to get quite crowded. There are few high end restaurants that serve Halal food, whilst other restaurants will be willing to serve Halal food on request. Most stalls or small restaurants may not have the regular Arabic Halal sign but instead will indicate the availability of Halal food by the number “786” (this is a substitute used within South Asia), therefore look for this sign when looking for Halal eateries. 9. Lake Baikal, Russia Credit: @baikalia on Facebook Known as the “Pearl of Siberia”, Lake Baikal is a crescent shaped lake which is a whopping 1637 metres deep and contains a fifth of the world’s water! It is the world’s deepest lake, and is bigger than Belgium. Due to these properties it has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Summer is the best time to visit Lake Baikal, you will be able to see its natural beauty in all its glory, with the lake’s clear blue waters, and the mountains. Some areas have remained the same since the ancient times – almost untouched or changed by weather. During the winter the lake turns into an expanse of powder white ice and snow, you can enjoy a fun dog sledge ride over its hard surface. You can get to Lake Baikal by flying to Moscow and then boarding a plane to Irkutsk which is 65km away from Lake Baikal or Ulan-Ude which is 150km away from the lake. If you want to have a more interesting journey, you can use the Trans-Siberian Railway and hop on a train from Moscow to Irkutsk which is 3 days, Beijing to Irkutsk which is 2 days, or the train from Vladivostok which is 2.5 days. After which you will have to board a bus from Irkutsk bus station to Lake Baikal, the journey takes 10mins. The best route to take is Mosco -Slyudyanka, it takes 4 days and you will be dropped off right at the shoreline of Lake Baikal. You can stay at the hotels and hostels located around the shoreline of the lake or even camp out or stay on a boat. Finding Halal food may be difficult especially if you are travelling by train; therefore it is better if you pack your own, like instant noodles and other small snacks. When booking a room make sure they provide a stove or small kitchen as you can prepare your own meals that way. You can get grocery shopping done at nearby cities like Irkutsk, which is just a 10min bus ride away from Lake Baikal. 10. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Japan Photo by Satoshi Hirayama from Pexels Located in Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a must see place before you die, photographed multiple times, but you have to really be there to experience it’s green mystique. The bamboo grove is a great spot for a quiet walk or bike ride, rows of bamboo swaying in the light breeze is not a sight to be missed. Absolutely beautiful and pure, it should be a must visit when in Kyoto. The best way to get to Kyoto is by Kansai Airport, afterwards you can board a train to Arashiyama. You can use the Japan Railways, Keifuku Railways, or Hankyu Railways. There are many hotels and guest houses in Arashiyama, and they are available for every budget. There are quite a few Halal restaurants scattered around Arashiyama, as well as shops. You can find a full Halal menu at the Yoshiya restaurant just 10mins away from the Japan Railway Saga-Arashiyama train station. They introduced this Halal menu in 2018, and have served Japanese Halal food since. Book your flight and pack your bags, your unusual adventure awaits you!...
A city can be defined by its food, its people and culture, however, nothing tells the story of a city better than its architecture. It takes you on a journey through the history of the city, its changing cityscape adapting to cultural movements and modernization while still preserving its old world charm. If you are a lover of architecture this list of 10 destinations is especially for you. 1. St. Petersburg, Russia Credit: Tama66 on PixabayRussia’s eclectic center also known as the Venice of the North is a mixture of architectural styles – from Neoclassical to Gothic, the city is a treasure trove of architectural delights. Witness the glory of imperial palaces, stunning cathedrals, and churches decorating the skyline, romantic bridges, and pathways that the many characters of Dostoevsky’s novels have taken. There is an abundance of Baroque style buildings in the city – intricate gold embellishments against pale pastels. The most worthy contender for the Baroque style would be the beautiful Winter Palace that was home to the Russian monarchy since the 1760s to 1917. It is now the home of the second largest art museum in the world – The Hermitage. You can find the Neo-classical style in Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, Yelagin Palace, as well as the Imperial Academy of Arts. Style Morderne – Russia’s take on Art Nouveau – can be clearly seen in the ornamental styling of the Singer House (the Russian headquarters of the Singer Sewing Machine Company), as well as the Eliseyev Emporium. The grim, dystopian architecture style of the Stalinist and Soviet eras can be witnessed in the House of Soviets – referred to as the “buried robot” by locals – and the Red Banner Textile Factory. The Gothic turrets and spikes of the cake-structure shaped Cheseme Church is a great example of Russian Neo-Gothic architecture. 2. Brasilia, Brazil Credit: David Mark on PixabayIf you are a fan of futuristic architecture, Brasilia is the place to head to. President Juscelino Kubitschek’s decided to build a futuristic city in what was once just barren land back in 1956. He commissioned architect Oscar Niemeyer to commence the project, he built residential, commercial and government buildings within a matter of months. The Cathedral of Brasilia is one of the most notable structures within the city and perfectly shows Niemeyer’s style of architecture. The elegant curving structures, with exposed concrete, bold but simple design elements. The most visited site in the city is the Templo da Boa Vontade, it is a seven faceted white marble pyramid designed by the architect and engineer R. R. Roberto. The pinnacle is set with the largest stone of pure crystal in the world, at a weight of 21 kilograms. Inside the temple is a spiral which represents the journey a human takes in the search of balance and transcendence. Other notable structures are the President’s residence and the Attorney General’s Office. 3. Miami, Florida Credit: Holgi on PixabayWith more than 800 Art Deco buildings in their pastel hues, Miami’s South Beach is a must visit for all those who love the 1930s glamour! In an attempt to make Miami a luxurious holiday destination in the 1920s and 1930s architects looked to Art Deco’s symmetry and geometry as well as colorful floral and animal motifs. You can see quintessential Art Deco design in the Webster, designed by Henry Hohauser who was one of the master architects behind the Deco styling of South Beach. The building follows the architect’s “rule of three”, and is built in thirds. Another famous building is The Carlyle, it has played a starring role in many films like Scarface and Bad Boys II – it is just a 100yards from the famed former mansion of Gianni Versace. Other Art Deco gems are Essex house – built to look like the landlocked ocean liner, the neon-lit Colony theatre, and Miami Beach Post Office. 4. Tokyo, Japan Credit: sayama on PixabayA city that has been through a lot of change from old wooden houses to the concrete and glass jungle it is now, Tokyo has a signature style of architecture. The modern transformation has given rise to many new buildings; the Nakagin Capsule Tower is a great example of rare Japanese Metabolism architecture. The tower is an apartment complex of 140 apartments – only 10m2 each. The funky Reversible Destiny Lofts was built with the idea of helping people attain longevity. It is inspired by Helen Keller; therefore it was made with features for people with different physical abilities and has something for every age group. Another must visit is Tokyo Camii, the largest mosque in Japan. The Mosque is inspired by Ottoman architecture and was designed by the architect Muharrem Hilmi Senlap, with materials such as marble brought in from Turkey. It was completed in 2000 and was built as a replacement of a Mosque previously built by Turkish immigrants in the 1930s. Other notable sites to visit are Reiyukai Sakaden Temple – a temple that looks more like a space-ship, SunnyHills – a pineapple cake shop built with a weaving wooden facade, Tsujiki Hongwanji – a Buddhist temple with a mix of Indian and Japanese design elements, and St Mary’s Cathedral – a futuristic looking modernist structure created by Kenzo Tange. 5. Tel Aviv, Israel Credit: avnernagar on PixabayTaking into account the city’s Mediterranean climate and the influx of Jewish immigrants, Bauhaus trained architects designed and built buildings in the cost effective style. The ‘white city’ is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with 4000 buildings within the sea side city. There are many buildings in Tel Aviv to be admired by the Bauhaus fan, some of the notable ones are the Bruno House, Rubinsky House, and Avraham Soskin House as well streets dedicated to this modern style. 6. Chandigarh, India Credit: David Mark on PixabayProbably not an obvious contender for this list but every student of architecture would know this city for its eccentric concrete designs. After the partition of India in 1947, the country’s first Prime Minister J. Nehru tasked Swiss architect Le Corbusier with building a modern city that is fast moving away from its past into the future. Le Corbusier is a modernist architect and him along with a few other architects like Pierre Jeanneret, Jane Drew and Maxwell Fry changed the cityscape. The city is designed on a super grid, buildings with exposed concrete and masonry as well as modernists sculptures located around the city. a great example of planning and design, it is a must visit if you are a student of architecture. 7. Oxford, England Credit: David Mark on PixabayMedieval era inspired architecture mingling with modern sentiments; Oxford is an academic city but will take your breath away with its beautiful Gothic Revival architecture. Referred to as “the city of dreaming spires” by poet Matthew Arnold, the city stays true to this description with many mid 19th century towers creating Oxford’s skyline. The city offers many sites to see – from the churches to its markets. You can witness military style stone architecture at St George’s Tower, the University Museum which is an example of one of the first non-religious Gothic buildings, the Radcliffe Observatory and many more spread across the city. 8. Barcelona, Spain Credit: Kirk Fisher on FacebookHome of Catalan Modernism, Barcelona is peppered with the world famous architectural structures of the father of this movement – Antoni Gaudí. Some of his notable works are the Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, and his masterpiece the La Sagrada Familia – which has been under construction since 1892, he kept building up until he passed away in 1926 and it is still under construction and will not be finished till 2026 to commemorate his centenary death anniversary. Barcelona is a beautiful city and is definite visit for anyone, even if you aren’t a fan of Gaudi’s peculiar architectural style. 9. Florence, Italy Credit: Michelle Maria on PixabayFlorence is world famous and its architecture has been appreciated in film, and book alike! It is also the birthplace of the famed Master, Leonardo Da Vinci. A city that celebrates art, you will find many architectural monuments here, some of the most famous ones are The Florence Cathedral or Duomo – a great domed cathedral, the Pitti Palace and the Palazzo Vecchio – which was home to Niccolo Machiavelli’s office at one point in history. 10. Hanoi, Vietnam Credit: Leon_Ting on Pixabay Once occupied by the French, the city boasts quite the collection of French Colonial Architecture, a city oozing with old world charm it will appeal to the romantic in you. Three of its most notable buildings are the St. Josephs Cathedral, Hanoi Opera House, and Hotel Metropole. The country may have had a devastating history steeped in blood, but it’s people have been resilient and the romance of the French Colonial era has managed to remain to this day. All you architecture lovers or just travel lovers should definitely add these destinations to your list!...
If you haven’t already gotten into planning mode, now is the perfect time. As December dawns, you must be wondering where to spend the New Year’s Eve. We have curated a list of 17 destinations that comprises of the most popular, attractive and liveliest of places around the world for you to welcome 2019! 10 Muslim-friendly destinations to visit in 2019 The U.S.A. When you hear about a New Year celebration in the USA, the first thing that pops up in your mind must be the iconic Miley Cyrus song. Eventhough America is known for their wild parties, we’re giving you a list of places that won’t make you feel terrible the next morning. Here are the best places to go on New Year's Eve in the USA. 1) San Francisco Surprised to see this on the list? Besides the regular fireworks displays, San Francisco is made up of very multi-cultural and ethnic backgrounds. It would be an eye-opening experience when you to wander around the different neighbourhoods and have the option to celebrate New Year's whichever way you like. 2) Chicago Most of their top hotels have special New Year’s Eve packages. You can also opt for a dinner cruise on Lake Michigan. Even though it might be very expensive, it is one of the best ways to watch the firework displays. 3) Orlando If you’re travelling with your family, what better place to spend New Year’s Eve than at the wonderful Disneyland Florida?! They have some of the best New Year’s Eve celebrations with Disney characters that starts at 8pm. You know your kids will love you for giving them the celebration of their lifetime! It is ranges from parades, performances and pageants galore! 4) New York City Well, You knew this would be on the list, didn’t you? Well, how could it not?! Possibly the most vibrant place in the world during New Year's Eve! This is where you can witness the iconic ball drop at the New York Times Square together with thousands of others. Need we say more? Europe Tour Here are the best places to spend New Year’s in Europe! 5) Barcelona, Spain Besides the usual revelry, you can ring in the New Year in a more traditional way – Spanish style, that is. In Plaça d’Espanya, the celebrations are centred around the Magic Fountain that looks incredible on a normal day, let alone when it is dressed up for a special event. Be prepared for a spectacular light show with music and special effects. 6) Rome, Italy First, pinch yourself because the beauty of Italy will make you feel like you're in a fairytale dream. You will find yourself staring at historical monuments that were built thousands of years ago. Second, have a feel of its rich history by having a ‘cenone’, which is a big dinner that you can have at a restaurant or at a friend’s house. That’s how the Italian tradition of ringing in the New Year begins. Then, head to the biggest celebration in town at the Piazza del Popolo. Take your own fireworks if you can get your hands on some and have a blast– it’s all in the experience! Of course, the city does put on its own professional display as well. 7) Venice, Italy What you can’t find in Rome are the plentiful Gondolas floating on the rivers that make Venice what it is. Imagine spending a peaceful night on a gondola by yourself or with a loved one, hidden in the fog, waiting for the light from the fireworks to cut through it. You can also join the huge crowd in Piazza San Marco as you count down the seconds until 2019 arrives. 8) Prague, Czech Republic Prague is a very popular city, to say the least. Imagine starting your New Year in such a magical place. Such a picturesque old town deserves some celebration. There is no specific place where everyone would gather so take a walk around and decide which part you want to revel in. Charles Bridge offers the best vantage point for the firework display set against castles and the river. 9) Paris, France Looking for a more romantic destination to spend your New Year’s Eve? Nothing beats Paris! With the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop, your photos will look as though it was straight out of a movie. If you desire for something even more romantic than watching the fireworks by the Eiffel Tower, you can bring your partner to a luxurious dinner at one of the few high-class muslim-friendly restaurants in town as you welcome the new year. Off the Beaten Path If big celebrations and crowded cities are not what you are looking for, fly off to the less travelled destinations and have a more unconventional New Year’s Eve. These are the more relaxing destinations for New Year's: 10) Iceland You can alway end the year without any fireworks if you want. An alternative would be heading north in Iceland to watch the Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis. What's a better light display than a stunning natural one? 11) The Caribbean If just the thought of cold weather makes you shudder, and you can’t quite make up your mind on where you want to go, why not take a cruise to The Caribbean? If money is not a problem, you can go island-hopping and experience different food and cultures. At the end of the night, or should I say the year, you can just chill in the sand while enjoying the breeze. 12) Tasmania Known for their incredible rustic beauty, Tasmania is the perfect place to hike around if you’re an adventure junkie and want to start your New Year fit. If you need a hit of adrenalin as well, you can go white water rafting on the Franklin River. Best Places to Travel in 2019 Want to ring in the New Year right? According to experts, these are some of the top destinations to visit in 2019, so why not get a head start on them? 13) Dubai A whole category in itself, Dubai is iconic in its firework displays. It's New Year’s Eve show has constantly been one the most spectacular ones in the world for a few years now. Crowds gather from many hours ahead to watch the Burj Khalifa light show and fireworks, but if you don’t want to get caught in the stampede, the beach is the best option. Have dinner at any one of the malls or restaurants nearby before heading to the beach, or pack up a little picnic to keep yourselves full. The weather in December can be a bit chilly by the seaside – even though you’re close to the desert – so bundle up a bit. The firework display that is visible from the beach may not be the Burj Khalifa display, but Atlantis and The Palm put up some breath-taking shows as well. 14) Copenhagen, Denmark Copenhagen has always been a tourist spot but the city is constantly developing. 2019 is definitely a great year to travel to this state now that more attractions are available. In addition to the perfect balance between their old and new architecture, the growing food industry gives you a solid reason to visit Copenhagen. 15) Shenzhen, China Picture: The Independent Everyone knows how popular China is as a tourist destination. Shenzhen is said to be the Silicon Valley of this famous country, with its immense new technology. Besides its technological rise, it has also developed its arts scene in line with the likes of London. You might be happy to know that it has a wide range of new cafes and spots to hang out as well. 16) Mexico City, Mexico A country steeped in their history and culture makes for a beautiful city architecturally. Mexico City won the award for The World Design Capital in 2018 – a nod to the way centuries-old buildings worked so well with modern structures. 17) Zadar, Croatia On the coast of Croatia lies a city that has taken its horrific past and used it to turn into the strong cosmopolitan city it is today. The ancient Roman ruins and buildings are reminders of what was, while its biggest attraction – the waterfront promenade – is a representation of what can be. As the locals gather at the promenade, be drawn into the culture of this small city. If you didn’t have any exciting plans for the New Year’s Eve, we hope this list inspired you to get moving now. If you take us up on any of our suggestions, or even if you decide to do something completely different, do tell us about your travel adventures via our HalalTrip App! HAPPY NEW YEARS EVERYONE! Get inspirations for your 2019 vacations...
Europe in winter is a fun and exciting place, with snow and cold temperatures and of course special shows, events and festivities! Well, there are also warm places in Europe during winter, but that’s another story. Many European countries have unique festivals organized for the winter season… let me give the Muslim traveler some highlights of these festivals that can be enjoyed in some of the best European cities. So, start now, and plan for a fantastic winter vacation this coming season! A chance to participate in some splendid festivals while on your winter vacation in Europe. Amsterdam Light Festival, The Netherlands Picture Credit: Amsterdam Light Festival Facebook The light festival is all about fantastical light sculptures created by local and international artists. This winter, the festival will mark its 7th anniversary, bringing light to Amsterdam’s beautiful city center and its canals. As the festival is held over a period of two months, there is ample opportunity to view its splendor. Picture Credit: Amsterdam Light Festival Facebook Travelers and even locals can take in the sights of the light festival at several different locations around Amsterdam by boat, foot or bike. There are even special canal cruises arranged for viewing the wonders of this festival in its entirety, as the view from the water is the most spectacular. So, plan a winter trip which will allow you to partake in this annual event while enjoying a uniquely planned European winter vacation. Dates: November 29, 2018 to January 20, 2019 Snow and Ice Sculpture Festival, Bruges, Belgium Picture Credit: Ice Sculpture If you are visiting Belgium this winter, don’t miss out on their famed annual snow and ice sculpture festival which is a treat for young and old alike. Usually revolving around a theme chosen by the festival organizers, this event showcases the talents of many ice sculptors worldwide. For a small entrance fee everyone can enjoy the magic and wonder of an icy world during this European winter season. Dates: Late November 2018 to Early January 2019Location: Close to the Central Station, BrugesDress Code: Warm clothes as the temperature is usually around -6°C!Tickets: A fee is charged for entrance Bruges Christmas Market, Belgium Picture Credit: Newmarket Holidays Another well-attended festival during the winter months in the Christmas Market that annually crops up in Burges. Located close to the city center of Bruges, close to Market Square, this Christmas festooned market is a must visit even for the MUSLIM traveler. Not only is the market a place for all things Christmas including the traditional Christmas foods and drinks, but it also boasts a range of handmade customized products that make the ideal souvenir from Belgium. There is also an ice rink located within the market area where you can try ice skating! Dates: November 23, 2018 to January 01, 2019Tickets: entrance is free to all, except for a small fee for enjoying ice-skating on the ice rink.For more details, visit: https://www.visitbruges.be/ Sculpture Festival, Hasselt, Belgium Picture Credit: Discovering Belgium Another famous ice sculpture festival in Belgium is the one held at Hasselt annually. With over 300 tons of ice used to make the sculptures, the entire area is an Iceland of wonder that can be visited for two months. This year’s theme is Antarctica to honor the adventurer and Hasselt native Adrien de Gerlache who went there 120 years ago. Dates: November 19, 2018 to January 08, 2019Time: 12.00 noon to 10.00 pm daily, except on some special days when they close at 11.00 pm.Dress Code: Warm clothes as the temperature is usually very cold!Ticket prices and more details: http://www.ijssculptuur.be/en/ Up Helly Aa, Lerwick, Scotland Procession Picture Credit: Up Hella Aa A 24-hour festival consisting of parades and community celebrations, is a sight to behold. It is the biggest fire festival of the Shetland Isles held annually to celebrate the coming end to winter in the middle of winter. A tradition that has been upheld since the Vikings, this festival must be seen to be believed, and a great exposure for Muslim travelers visiting Scotland this coming winter. Date: January 29, 2019 (held on the last Tuesday in January annually)For more details, visit: https://www.shetland.org/things/events/culture-heritage/up-helly-aa Nice Carnival, France Picture Credit: Deccan Chronicle This carnival is a signature event held annually in Nice, France. The festival which goes on for two weeks revolves around a unique theme annually. The theme finalized for this winter is ‘King of Cinema’ to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the celebrated Victorine Studios on the Côte d'Azur. The carnival has six parades which boast 17 floats with over 1,000 people participating in these parades. These parades take place both day and night and make the city a place for fun and enjoyment, a two-week party in essence! Dates: February 16, 2009 to March 02, 2019Tickets: are required, check rates - http://en.nicecarnaval.com/ratesFor more details, visit: http://en.nicecarnaval.com Venice Carnival, Italy Picture Credit: Venice Carnival Italy Planning on visiting Italy this winter? Well, while there don’t miss out on the annual Venice Carnival which has been taking place for centuries. The Carnival which is considered one of the biggest celebrations in Italy; is abundant with masquerade balls to people parading the streets in Venetian masks. The Carnival filled with activities for children and adults alike with food fiestas, live performances, traditional events, and other entertainment. Some of the events of the Carnival include water shows, street shows, parades, best mask contests, balls, youth festivals and special events such as ‘the flight of the angel’ and the ‘festa delle Marie’. Dates: February 16, 2019 to March 05, 2019Tickets: some events are free to view, and others require tickets. Complete details can be obtained at http://www.carnevale.venezia.it/en Chocoa Festival, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Picture Credit: Heavenly Holland Are you a chocolate lover and chocoholic? Well, this Chocoa Festival is the place to be for you! At this festival you can learn all about chocolate – its origins to the latest trends and developments of today. You can meet renowned chocolate makers, taste a variety of different chocolate blends, learn the process of chocolate making and even become a connoisseur of chocolates - even more than you are right now! So, make Amsterdam a must visit location this winter while on your European winter tour, and enjoy some chocolate in the cold. Dates: Saturday, February 23, 2019 & Sunday, February 24, 2019Time: 10.00 am to 06.00 pmLocation: Beurs van Berlage, AmsterdamTickets: Buy online at https://www.chocoa.nl/events/chocoa-festival/...
Your 45th year is a milestone, you aren’t exactly old but you are young enough to do something crazy like jumping off a cliff and into the ocean. You may or may not have kids; you may even be a working woman who is busy trying to balance everything on her plate. Most women live their whole lives catering to their loved ones and forgetting about themselves. Women are taught to dread their 40s but honestly your 40s are a great time! You may be having a certain bucket list of things you’d like to achieve and are now thinking maybe cause you are older you cannot achieve those anymore, but that is not true! You can do it! Age is just a number and there are so many realistic things you can do before you are 45! Listed below are 100 amazing things you can do before you are 45! 1. Go for Umrah and Hajj This should be on anyone’s list and be sure to go before you are too old and frail to. 2. Learn Arabic Learning to speak another language is fun and learning Arabic will allow you to read the Quran in its original language. This will also help you lead a productive Muslim life. 3. Witness the Taj Mahal at night A monument which signifies love, its majesty is best witnessed at night. This is a great experience to have with your significant other or even your whole family. 4. Have gelato in Rome Nothing beats gelato from its place of origin, and who doesn’t love it?! 5. Watch a meteor shower Keep tabs on a forecast for a meteor shower, and enjoy its splendour. 6. Witness cherry blossoms in Japan Pink pastels and delicate petals raining all over you, now isn’t that a vision? Make sure to try McDonalds’ trending seasonal range of cherry blossom flavoured drinks and food items! 7. Visit the Louvre Everyone needs some art in their life. The Louvre houses some of the old masters greatest masterpieces, be sure to pay a visit to decipher Mona Lisa’s mysterious smile. 8. Go solo! Travel is a great way to rediscover yourself and a must before you hit your mid 40s, so go out there and explore! 9. Go on a hot air balloon ride Enjoy splendid views from the vantage point of a floating hot air balloon! 10. Experience zero gravity Picture: Skydiving.com Always wanted to know what it’s like for astronauts? Go ahead and experience it to know! Indoor sky diving is the next best thing to a zero gravity simulation. 11. Create your very own family recipe book You’ve been following your grandmother’s and mother’s recipes for years now, so why not create your very own recipe book to be passed on from generation to generation?! 12. Visit the Pyramids of Giza Witness the majestic tombs of the old Pharaohs. 13. Watch a Broadway Musical Who doesn’t love musicals?! The place to enjoy one is in Broadway itself, book your tickets and head over to the Big Apple to experience musical joy! 14. Go on a cruise Going on a cruise is a great holiday option as it will take you to multiple locations while you get to enjoy the many facilities of a luxury boat. This would be a great opportunity to have some bonding time with your family. 15. Ride a Gondola in Venice The infamous Gondola ride is a must for everyone, let your ultimate romantic fantasy be true in Venice! 16. Complete a journal You are nearing your mid 40s and it is important that you know who you are; keeping a journal will help you preserve memories, good or bad. Between a job (if you are working) and family life you may tend to lose sight of yourself, so keeping a journal will help you tackle the stress. 17. Take a photo everyday for a year This is a great activity to do just for yourself and to witness your day to day changes and record what you were going through those days. 18. Watch the Olympics in person Watching the Olympics on TV is great and all but it cannot beat the real life experience. It is time to get your competitiveness on and witness the Olympics in person. 19. Visit a Chocolate Factory Everyone loves chocolate but do you know how this world wide loved candy is made? Why not visit a factory?! 20. Go old school and make a physical family album Everyone has a digital album, may it be on the phone or the laptop, but the nostalgia of actual photographs will never go away. So get some of the best photos printed from a colour lab and compile them into albums, this is also a fun way for the family to bond over memories. 21. Start gardening Nothing is more fulfilling than gardening and growing your own vegetables. So put on those gardening gloves and start digging. 22. Try a new hair colour Always wanted to change your hair colour? Go for it! Don’t wait any longer wondering what you would look like in burgundy highlights; give your hair the glam treatment! 23. Let your family members know you love them everyday Make it a point to tell your family members you love them before one day it’s too late. 24. Go to the top of the Eiffel tower Paris is whole lot different from the top! 25. Prioritise ‘me time’ It’s time to prioritise yourself, you’ve made sure your kids had done their homework, you tuck them to bed, and you make sure your family has a great meal, but what about you? Taking care of yourself should be number one on your list! 26. Donate to a charity organisation As a citizen of this world you should always help the needy, and the best way to do that is to donate to a good charity organisation which helps people who are less fortunate than yourself. These days donating is just a click away. 27. Jump off a cliff and into the ocean Be daring! Jump off the edge! 28. Treat yourself to a solo dinner at a fancy restaurant Having family dinners is great but it is also important to have some me time. So make a reservation at that one fancy restaurant you want to go to and head off for a nice meal and great company – you! 29. Master a new cuisine Cooking the same old food day in and day out can get boring so why not spice things up by learning a new cuisine! Invite your friends and family to show them what you have learned and to enjoy a good meal. 30. Find a fitness routine which fits you Watching all these fitness videos on line and seeing the toned bodies of celebs everywhere you look can take a hit on your self esteem, but fitness doesn’t always have to be about what you look like it’s mostly about what you feel inside. So go to a gym close to you and get a trainer to set you up with a good fitness regime that will keep your body in check and your health in great condition. Get those endorphins pumping! 31. Get a full body medical check-up Nothing is more important than your health, so be sure to get a full body check-up at least annually and keep your health in check. 32. Start Murāqabah Life can get very stressful therefore it is important to include Murāqabah into your day to day schedule. It doesn’t have to be anything complicated or time consuming, just a few minutes of counting your breath in the early mornings before you start your day or even before bed will be enough. 33. Pet a Tiger cub Tiger cubs are cute and everyone dreams of petting one, so go ahead and do it! It’s a one of a kind experience and possible at ethical petting zoos. 34. Go back to school and study a course Enrol for a short course at a university or college close to you. Learning something new is a great way to improve yourself and utilise your time because you will acquire a new skill at the end. 35. Sit down and have a heart to heart with your child/ children Children can be difficult sometimes but it is important to have a healthy relationship with them, so make it a point to spend some quality time together. Set aside a special day each month for you and your kids to go try something new or simply got to a nice cafe to play card games over a nice mug of hot chocolate. You can even have a cosy day in watching your favourite Disney movies together. 36. Get back in touch with old friends Marriage, work, and, kids may lead you to forget your old pals from school, so make it a point to reconnect with them to reminiscence about your days in school. 37. Paint something You don’t have to be a great artist to paint something, it’s all just a matter of putting your paint brush onto the canvas. 38. Get something for yourself at the end of each month Make it a point to get yourself a small something each month; it could be a new book, a nice blouse or makeup. 39. Sustainable living Consciously try to live sustainably, and make an effort to not use plastics as much as possible. You will feel good knowing that you are contributing to making the Earth a better place to live in! 40. Work at a volunteer center Volunteer work is a great way to meet new people and give back to your community. 41. Learn to play an instrument It’s never too late to learn an instrument, if you’ve always wanted to learn to play the guitar go ahead and attend some classes or simply learn by watching online tutorials on free platforms like YouTube. 42. Have a little heart to heart with the elders in your family Years are going by and your loved ones will no longer be with you, so make it a point to talk to them and ask them what it is like getting older, and how they dealt with certain problems that life sent their way. Their wisdom will help you greatly. 43. Memorise the Quran This may seem impossible at first but start now and you will succeed! 44. Love thy neighbour Strive to be a good member of your community. 45. Learn to forgive and to forget You are older now and wiser, so let go of any old grudges you have been holding. Forgive the person who has wronged you and move on from it. 46. Walk on the Great Wall of China Take a walk on one of the world’s greatest wonders! 47. Get certified in CPR Master CPR, you never know whose life you will have to save. 48. Stay away from social media for a week every month Social media can be very distracting, so eliminate it from your life for a week each month and try to go about your day. You will feel the changes! 49. Do something special for someone every month Make it a point to treat someone each month and enjoy that person’s happiness. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, something small like offering them help with work or even just being there to listen would brighten up anyone’s day. 50. Take compliments and give compliments Learn to take compliments and give them back whole heartedly. 51. Go on a safari in Africa Africa has some of the world’s most fascinating wildlife, and is definitely worth a trip to. 52. Make your very own signature dish It could be a twist on an old classic or your own recipe, but don’t share the recipe! 53. Witness the Northern lights Witness the Earth’s natural light show! 54. Start eating healthy The first step to healthy living is a healthy diet! Try to eliminate bad fats and lower your carbohydrate intake, but be sure to eat your veges and drink your water – hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! 55. Experience the nomadic desert lifestyle Go on a desert safari in Dubai! 56. Shop in Dubai Dubai really is the new land of dreams! Fly to Dubai for a great shopping experience. 57. Eat at a fresh Sashimi in Japan Sashimi is loved by people everywhere around the the world. However, the country that it originated from definitely serves the best of its kind. 58. Go to Disneyland Unleash your inner princess in Disneyland! This is also something the whole family can enjoy. 59. Bungee jump Overcome your fear and take the leap! 60. Go to a live music concert Music sounds best when it is live, so book the tickets for your favourite artist/ band and enjoy! This would also be a great way to meet your friends and sing along to your favourite tunes. 61. Watch an opera It’s dramatic, it’s over the top and it’s tragic! It also gives you the chance to dress up and look your best, get your spouse to tag along with you on an opera date. 62. Row a boat “Row, row, row your boat gently down the stream”, this is a fun activity you can do with your family and friends. It allows you to enjoy nature in a different way. 63. Donate your hair for a cancer patient Hair can be a woman’s crowning glory, so why not donate yours to a cancer patient and make them feel beautiful. 64. Start an online blog Blogging is for everyone and a great way to share your journey with the online community. 65. Go to watch a live talk show Always wanted to be in the audience at a talk show instead of watching it on the T.V.? Get those tickets and get a friend to tag along as well. 66. Have a spa day with your girlfriends It is important to pamper yourself, so call your friends, and set a spa date. Relax and enjoy! 67. Have game night with your family Schedule a game night each month for your family, this is a great way to bond with each other, but it may lead to competitive rivalry! 68. Eat something you don’t like Image Credit: My Fit Station You are a fully fledged adult now, so go ahead eat that fruit or vegetable you had always hated as a child, you may actually like it now. 69. Read the Quran Make it a point to read the Quran each day. 70. Compete in something Keep your competitive spirit in check by participating in a competition, it could be an annual neighbourhood cook off or even a sports event. 71. Make new friends You are never too old to make new friends, so be open to getting to know people and building a wider network. 72. Get a professional portrait of yourself Get a professional artist to paint a portrait of you or even of your family, it will look great hanging in living room. 73. Enjoy a slice of cake guilt free It is easy to feel guilty eating that extra slice of cake in today’s image conscious society but don’t let that get to you. You deserve that extra cake slice and you are going to enjoy it – no guilt! 74. Better yet, have dessert for breakfast You don’t always have to do things the right way. Start a lazy Sunday morning with ice cream or cake! 75. Write a letter to your significant other Write an old fashioned love letter to your spouse. Yes, with pen and paper! 76. Life insurance Plan your life insurance properly. 77. Retirement plans Start planning your retirement and saving money to a separate savings account, this way you are set. 78. Talk to your younger self Look back at your younger years, what would you tell your younger self? 79. Use that fine china set you’ve been keeping till the right moment We all have that expensive china set that we keep hidden under layers of bubble wrap because it’s never the right time to use it. Don’t be that person. Take it out of hiding and throw a tea party. 80. Stop caring about what others think of you You are nearing your 45th birthday and it really does not matter what other people think of you, don’t let the insecurities you had in your 20s continue into your 40s. You know yourself the best and you don’t need to impress anyone but you! 81. Be spontaneous Sometimes it’s completely ok to not have a plan. 82. Break a habit If you have any bad habits, now is the time to break it. Are you a nail bitter, do you fidget a lot? It’s never too late to break away from these habits. 83. Do something you wouldn’t usually do It’s ok to try something you wouldn’t otherwise do. 84. Be grateful A lot of people go through life complaining about everything that is wrong without being grateful for what they have. It is important to take a break and appreciate your life and be grateful for it even if it may not be your ideal life. 85. Start a small business Start a small business like selling home grown plants, or handmade cards. This could also be a good retirement plan. 86. Pay for a stranger’s meal If you are at a cafe or restaurant and notice a lonely sad looking person eating alone, anonymously pay for that person’s food, you would make that person’s day a whole lot better. 87. Go for high tea at a fancy hotel Make a reservation at the swankiest hotel in town for high tea! 88. Learn to accept that it is ok to be bad at something You don’t always have to be perfect so accept the fact that sometimes it’s completely ok to be bad at something because you are sure to be good at another thing. 89. Remove toxic people from your life Remove anyone who you deem toxic from your life, they are not worth your time. 90. Be open to change As an adult you can easily retreat into your comfort zone but teach yourself to be open to change. 91. Ignore negativity Ignore any negative sentiments or negative people at all costs. 92. Why so serious? You don’t always have to be the serious adult, sometimes it’s ok to let go and just enjoy life. 93. Learn singing Time to hone your bathroom singer skills. 94. Quit your job If you are still working in a job with zero satisfaction, quit. Don’t wait till it’s too late and be filled with regret. 95. Visit an elder’s home Visit an elder’s home and volunteer to help, this can be a fulfilling experience. 96. Roller-coaster ride They are scary but they are also thrilling and a great way to let loose! 97. Adopt a dog/ cat from a shelter Adopting a dog or cat from a shelter is a wonderful thing, not only are you giving them a home but you also have a new friend who will love you unconditionally! 98. Time to get a fish pedicure Picture: Florence Fish Kiss Fish pedicures are quite peculiar, get one! 99. Self reflection Have moments of self reflection, converse with your inner self. 100. Be happy No matter what be happy. Only you are capable of this, no one can give it to you. So make the conscious decision to be happy! You may feel like you haven’t achieved anything with your life or you would be wondering how to spend your life, it’s important to have some sort of bucket list in mind to help you. If you like you could even list everything down and it doesn’t have to be the list shown here! If you are already 45 and haven’t achieved what is on this list? It does not matter! You can create your own list of things to achieve by a certain age and even if it does not work out it is always for the better. The general idea of creating a list like this is that it helps you with self improvement and happiness. Hopefully this list will help you with that, but remember no matter what have fun!...
Prayer times for Venice,Italy