Let’s face it, when we go on holiday, most of us see it as an opportunity to over-indulge in pretty much everything: sleep, food, drink, sunshine. Whatever diet you may be on doesn’t really count, you’re taking a break from your routines and that means you can enjoy your time off and treat yourself, right? Even if it means you carry home a few extra pounds in weight – a good tan is flattering and will minimize the damage.  Sorted.

But…imagine coming home from a holiday feeling that you’ve worked harder than ever before. After all, they say ‘a change is better than a rest’ and there are holidays out there that offer the ultimate challenge: boot camps abroad. Boot camps aren’t just for A-list Hollywood stars, they’re open to anyone, including us mere mortals, and they deliver consistent results. If you’re willing to put yourself in the hands of world class fitness trainers, you might even find that you enjoy the experience as much as sunbathing and sampling new cuisine.

Boot camps are located all over the world; from Norfolk to Mauritius! If you’re looking for a vacation with a difference, here’s a guide to some of our favorite boot camps:

No 1 Boot Camp: Norfolk, Ibiza, Marbella
This is the camp of choice for incredible weight loss results and many attendees claim they have learned new habits that have transformed their lives. Set in stunning countryside locations, the camps are run by physical training instructors from the Royal Marines and Royal Navy. Every individual gets expert attention and advice so that they can push beyond their own personal limits.

Daily routines are reportedly tough but certainly get results. They involve a mixture of circuit training, hiking, kayaking, yoga, cycling and team sports, as well as down time for guests to relax and pamper themselves.

Adventure Boot Camps: UK, La Manga, St Lucia, Mauritius
A boot camp for the outdoorsy type, Adventure Boot Camps promises to ‘get you in the best shape of your life’. Fitness experts take you through a range of exercises to reduce percentage body fat, shave off those extra inches and improve strength and endurance.

If you’re looking for a quick fitness boost Adventure Boot Camps has several locations, across the UK, where you can be whipped into shape. Alternatively, if you fancy getting away from it all, there are exotic retreats in Spain, St Lucia and Mauritius where you can spend a fitness holiday being coached by the likes of Daley Thompson.

New You Boot Camp: London, Wales, Suffolk, Cornwall, Austria, Portugal

New You Boot Camp offers a military style workout with a difference. Each of its locations has a unique take on the boot camp experience. Guests can choose from going back to basics in the Brecon Beacons, a regime by the coast in Cornwall or a boutique spa in Portugal.

With confidence-boosting neuro linguistic programming (NLP) and life coaching among its activities, New You goes for a holistic approach to fitness and even boasts After-Baby Body Camps where new mums can bring their children, take some time out and learn about exercise and nutrition.

Barry’s Bootcamp: London, Hollywood, NYC, Norway & more
A full on, star studded fitness affair in the heart of tinsel town, Barry’s is a favourite of A-Listers from Katie Holmes to Brooke Shields. It’s run by muscley New Yorker, Barry Jay who founded his programme back in 1998, with the aim of formulating ‘the best workout in the world’.

Barry’s regime involves his own brand of Focused Interval Training (or, as he likes to call it, FIT) and claims to burn fat nine times faster than ordinary exercise. This high octane workout has become a worldwide sensation and could leave you as sculpted as a screen star in weeks.

So, you could sign yourself up to the local gym, hoping that you will find the motivation to perfect your bikini-body in time for your next holiday. Alternatively, you could throw yourself in the deep end and sign up to a boot camp holiday which won’t allow for flimsy self-discipline and will have you feeling body-confident in no time. All you need to do is get your kit and running shoes sorted and make the call!

As Army Officer George Patton once said “pressure makes diamonds”!

Lisa Napoli, a public radio broadcaster in Los Angeles, is rescued from an unfulfilled life by an invitation to spend 6 weeks in Bhutan assisting the burgeoning youth-focused radio station.   Yes, this is yet another book about a woman trying to find something more satisfying in a life that hasn’t followed the traditional path to marriage and children.  But for me, Lisa’s search for ‘more’ was a comfortable backdrop for discovering one of the most remote and fascinating places on earth.  Her story line may not have always been a page-turner, but her descriptions of life in Bhutan were fascinating, humorous and engaging.

Readers are treated to Lisa’s first views of Bhutan and her discovery of just why this country of simple customs is known as the happiest place on earth.  I really enjoyed “seeing” the country emerge and “meeting” the local villagers and dignitaries through her eyes.

Lisa’s journey to Bhutan begins in 2007, just as the country is letting the world in by allowing citizens to have access to radio, television, internet and cellphones for the first time.  Imagine witnessing the influence of Bay Watch and Sex And The City on a culture where wearing the national costume is required by law.  The country is poor in material goods, has rationed electrical power, no traffic lights and limited culinary choices; but it is brimming over with “Gross National Happiness”.  It is intriguing to be able to be the proverbial fly-on-the-wall as the Bhutanese people meld modern media into their lives and grapple with transitioning from the rule of a benevolent King, to a full fledged democracy.

Tagging along with Lisa as she discovers what “Happiness” is all about is definitely a treat.  I’ve always fantasized about making a trek to the Bhutan sometime in my life.  If that never happens, at least Lisa has given me a virtual journey to feed my curiosity.    Radio Shangri-La: What I Discovered on my Accidental Journey to the Happiest Kingdom on Earth can be purchased through Amazon.com

Photo Credits:  Flickr – #1 laihiu, #2 Radio Nederalnd Wereldomroep

Whether you want to hear a musical performance, catch a comedy, or attend an Opera, the Sydney Opera House has it all.  The Sydney Opera House is as iconic to Sydney as the harbour bridge, and is perhaps the most photographed site in Australia.  Now almost 30 years old, the Sydney Opera House has earned its place as one of the best performance arts centers in the world.  Whether you are staying at one of the serviced apartments nearby or have to catch a train, bus or ferry in to Circular Quay, there are plenty of reasons why you don’t want to miss a tour of this amazing cultural centre.

Something for Everyone
The Opera House isn’t just for performing operas and orchestras (although there are plenty of these). Many popular musicians and singers perform here, international up-and-coming playwrights show their latest works, and school choirs and kids’ performers all have a place at the Opera House.  The performance schedule at the opera house includes events for almost every taste.

Not Just for Shows
The Opera House is not just about the performances. It’s also a magnificent building to walk in and around, have a meal or a drink, and take in the view of the harbour and the bridge. There are also plenty of exhibitions that are often hosted at the Opera House, so you can check out some contemporary art before taking in a show.

There is also a fantastic light festival called Vivid that has been running for a number of years now that shouldn’t be missed. It is a great chance to see the Opera House sails lit up in a variety of colours and patterns. This is great fun especially for families.

Take a Tour
One of the best ways to really immerse yourself in the experience is to take a tour.  Multiple tours of the Opera House are run daily by the Opera House itself, including options for backstage tours to see the inner workings of this unique, complex building  Tickets can be purchased via their website.  You’ll also find tours offered by all of the major Sydney tour agencies.

Visiting the Opera House
If you are going to a show at the Opera House, it’s good to know  there is no formal dress code that must be adhered to, but some people may dress up as if they are going to the opera later in the evening. Give yourself ample time to collect your tickets and figure out where you need to be. The Opera House is a big place and you don’t want to be rushing to your seat. Note that if you are late, you won’t be let in until there is a suitable break in the performance.

So whether you are staying in Sydney apartments right in the CBD or are a short bus trip away, a trip to the Opera House is really a must the next time you visit Sydney. There is so much to see and do here, even if you’re not seeing a show.

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About The Author:  Tom Mallet is an Australian freelance writer and journalist. He writes extensively in Australia, Canada, Europe, and the US. He’s published more than 500 articles about various topics.
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Photo Credits:  Flickr – #1 jimmyharris, #2 Rob & Jules, #3 nigelhowe

Top 5 treks of Ladakh that blew me away

The snow-capped peaks of Himalayas, scenic wonders of nature, crystal blue waters- those are the memories that stay with you once you have been to Ladakh. I am no different. The experience of trekking in Ladakh was simply exhilarating, and it is really hard to pick one trekking trail over the other. However, here I am, trying to do the virtually impossible- picking out 5 best treks in Ladakh and trying to explain what it is like to be there.

The spiritual trek from Lamayuru to Alchi

This is where my Ladakh trekking trail began. The trek from Lamayuru to Allchi takes you to what is believed to be the oldest monastery of Ladakh, Swastika. It dates back to the 11^th century and is situated at an altitude of 3450 meters above sea level. It took me a couple of days of trekking through beautiful river streams, splendid landscapes and quaint little hamlets that dot the trail.

The arduous yet exciting Stok Kangri

Yes, I did it. Stok Kangri is one of the most difficult Ladakh trekking trails. It takes a high level of fitness to trek this majestic peak. And it did take a lot out of me, but at the end of it, I was rejuvenated and asking for more. The view from the top of Stok Kangri is simply stunning. I just could not get enough of seeing the snow- capped Karakoram Range, the yellow rays of the sun beating on it, creating a mesmerizing hue.

The brilliant Kang Yatse trail

If you cannot do the Stok Kangri trail, you must do the Kang Yatse trail. Of course, I’m happy to say I did both. The Kang Yatse trail is as good as it gets. There are picture perfect locations along the way, the scenic beauty all around beckoning you to slow down and take in the small pleasures of life.

The mesmerizing Nubra Valley

Trekking in Ladakh isn’t complete without a trek in the Nubra Valley. And I was surely not going to miss out on that. I managed to pass through some really stunning delights on this trail, not the least of which was the Khardung La Pass, the highest motorable pass in India. The little hamlets along the way and the historical silk routes just made the trekking trail all the more interesting. I was truly spellbound by the beauty of Nubra valley and everything it had to offer- from the hot springs of Panamik to Esna Gompa and everything in between.

Awe-inspiring Rupshu Valley

Trekking in Ladakh wasn’t complete for me without a trek in the Rupshu Valley. I had heard about it from fellow travelers, read about it books, and frankly speaking, the beauty of the place surpasses all such descriptions. I was taken along a less frequented route by my guide, which he told me, was an ancient Nomadic route. And I got to see some really awe-inspiring scenery along the way. There was the crystal blue Pangong Lake, beautiful flowers gleaming in the sunlight, and nomads herding their beautiful blue sheep and yaks.

Trekking in Ladakh for me was an adventurous as well as a spiritual experience. It left me spellbound, asking for more and loads of memories to cherish for the rest of my life. Of course, I am coming back here to collect some more. (Ladakh turned me into a poet too!)

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About The Author: Divij is an adventurer, a budding photographer and a writer. He has been to various trekking trails and to many offbeat destinations in India. He has been writing since he was 12. Currently, he writes articles on travel for www.Thrillophilia.com.
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Commemorations are taking place all across our country.  Don’t miss the opportunity to relive our nation’s history by visiting the prominent locations that shaped so much of our nation’s history and character.

If a unique getaway is what you have in mind, check out some of the events commemorating the U.S. Civil War’s Sesquicentennial that began last year and will continue through 2015 (mirroring the years of the war). Whether you’re a Civil War buff or just a history head, there’s plenty to do and see.  For anyone seeking a vacation that’s both rewarding and relaxing, consider a Civil War Sesquicentennial getaway to a bed and breakfast to give you the “R&R” and cultural interest you’re looking for.

B&Bs are no strangers to Civil War history; some were built on actual battlefields, sometimes by former soldiers, while others were built before the war and survived through to today. Along with offering tours of battlefields, reenactments and 1860s-themed meals, select inns are donating a portion of each booking to the Civil War Trust, a non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve battlefield land and educate the public about its importance, as part of “Reservations for Preservation.”

Here are some inns bringing Civil War history fully into focus:

Gettysburg Battlefield Bed & Breakfast—Gettysburg, PA
Located on 30 privately-held acres of actual battlefield land, the Gettysburg Battlefield Bed & Breakfast is an 8-room fieldstone farmhouse built circa 1809. It offers a 2-hour private tour of the land with a licensed battlefield guide, a gift certificate to Dobbin House Tavern, a 1776 colonial-themed restaurant, and two tickets for the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center and the Shriver House Museum.

Chanticleer Inn Bed & Breakfast—Lookout Mountain, GA
The Chanticleer Inn Bed & Breakfast sits atop a beautiful plateau on Lookout Mountain and borders Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama. You can take a short drive and check out Chattanooga, where the Union army took control of the “Gateway to the South” and the site of the Battle of Chickamauga, a major Confederate victory. The inn’s 18 guest rooms all feature traditional décor while most offer private patios.

Grace Manor Inn—Richmond, VA
Richmond served as the capital for the Confederacy during the Civil War; and, the Seven Days Battles, a series of six major battles over seven days, took place near the Virginia city. Grace Manor Inn is nestled within the Historic Fan District of Richmond and features 4 large suites with private baths, three formal parlors, an outdoor saltwater swimming pool and a 3-course gourmet breakfast. Guests can take a private tour of The Museum and White House of the Confederacy with a customized tour of other historical sites to follow.

Antietam’s Jacob Rohrback Inn—Sharpsburg, MD
Take in a history lesson while on-the-go at this Sharpsburg B&B. You can rent one of their 21-speed Trek bikes to explore the location of the bloodiest battle in American history—the Battle of Antietam (also known as the Battle of Sharpsburg in the South)—fought on September 17, 1862. The 9-mile battlefield loop also boasts historic ruins, caves, cliffs and spots for scenic picture taking and picnics.

Mayhurst Inn—Orange, VA
Built in 1859, this beautifully restored Italianate Victorian plantation home is situated on 37 acres of landscaped grounds and gardens. Its eight stately guest rooms feature double whirlpool tubs, original Italian marble fireplaces and period furnishings and décor. You are within driving distance to six Civil War battlefields, three presidential homes (Montpelier, Monticello and Ashlawn) and a number of wineries and golf courses.

Summer vacations are usually reserved for sleeping in and sunbathing. This year, try combining your escape with some lessons on the Civil War and take a piece of history home with you.

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About The Author:  Rich Rodriguez is the PR & Marketing Coordinator for BnBFinder.com, one of the world’s most comprehensive B&B directories. You can read more about B&Bs and travel at the BnBFinder blog. Follow along on Twitter at @BnBFinder, Facebook and Google+.
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Photo Credits:  BnBFinder.com

Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

The ultimate dream for many rail-lovers, Russia’s century-old Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest rail track in the world. It runs from Moscow to Vladivostock and takes up to 14 days to travel.

Img: Martha de Jong-lantink

Tōkaidō Shinkansen, Japan

Zipping between Japan’s two most populous cities, Tokyo and Osaka, this high-speed bullet train line also offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji.

Img: adam79

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Ride the Rocky Mountaineer through the Canadian Rockies to take in the amazing sight of the Hell’s Gate white water rapids and Fraser Canyon.

Img: Ahisgett

West Highland Line, Scotland

Voted the top rail journey in the world by Wanderlust readers in 2009, trains on the rugged West Highland Line traverse the Glenfinnan Viaduct between Fort William and Mallaig. Sound familiar? You’ll probably know it already from the Harry Potter movies.

Image: Nicolas17

Hiram Bingham Train, Peru

Named after the American who re-discovered Machu Picchu, the Hiram Bingham train from Cusco to the famed Inca Kingdom is luxurious inside – and infinitely more comfy than a coach ride or hike!

Img: David Berkowitz

Want to take an epic train journey? Win a pair of 10-day European rail passes every day between 9th – 18th May on the HostelBookers Facebook page.

Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its delicious cooking styles and amazing recipes, and it is nowadays being served in some of the most sought after and famous restaurants in the world. Little did we know that this traditional cooking style stems from the poor people of Italy using their imaginations and making do with what they had in order to create simple, nourishing yet delicious recipes.  Today you’ll find wonderful gourmet food tours throughout Tuscany and beyond.

Florentine and Tuscan cooking is now a gourmet treat. It is completely within our grasp to enjoy these foods, as well as their wines and their other delicatessen such as olive oils and cheeses. Home of Chianti wine, Florence is surrounded by the Tuscan Vineyards, where it is possible to discover where this wine comes from along with many other kinds of grape such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah.

There are cooking courses, wine tasting tours, and combinations if the two, restaurants, eateries and wine cellars, all of which you are welcome to attend and visit to tantalize your taste buds during your stay in Florence. Discover the magic of wine-braised game meat such as rabbit, boar and deer, and the Florentine beefsteak called Fiorentina on the tours available, whose guides are waiting to show you what they have to offer. Here are five fabulous tours I would love to attend next time I visit the Tuscan capital.

Tuscan cooking course with visit to San Lorenzo Market
A fantastic opportunity to learn how to cook an authentic Tuscan meal, and in turn to take this knowledge home. At a top-class culinary school you will be instructed by expert chefs after being taught how to pick your ingredients fresh from Florence’s historic San Lorenzo market. You will learn Tuscan recipes from an English speaking guide, then have the opportunity to eat what you made during the lesson in a 4 course meal alongside a local Tuscan wine in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Tuscan luxury wine tour
In your 10 hour wine tasting experience you will travel the scenic coastal area of Tuscany and taste some of Tuscany’s best wines. Travelling over rolling hills and olive groves you will be visiting the places that send their wines to some of the most exclusive restaurants in the world. You will not only taste them, but also learn about the wine making process, and see the very grapes that make the wine. This tour also includes a delicious seafood lunch of Tuscan style, yet with a creative twist in cooking style.

Dinner, History and Romance: Fiorentina Steak Experience
As promised above, there is indeed a tour in which you can eat a Fiorentina steak. Here you will travel out to an 11th Century monastery just outside of Florence where you can spend an evening dining under the stars. Sample some of Italy’s best gelato (traditional ice cream) before sitting down to this scrumptious meal.

Wine, Cheese and Oil tasting in Florence
Stay in the beautiful city and sample some of the best wines, cheeses and olive oils that Florence has to offer.

You will be given detailed explanations on the historical backgrounds and the flavours of the wines, which will be paired with a selection of Tuscan cheeses. The Tuscan oils will also be accompanied by Tuscan cheeses.

3 Hour private pasta making course and lunch
An excellent opportunity to take the knowledge of pasta making home with you. You will be taught how to make 3 different pastas by hand ( a perfect excuse to use a rolling pin and a pasta machine!) along with learning to make the sauces that are most complimentary to them. After this you will have the chance to make a typical Tuscan dessert. After cooking class, you will be invited to a delicious lunch of the pasta, sauces and desserts you have just prepared accompanied by a fine Tuscan Wine.

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About the Author: Hannah Fitzpatrick is a blogger and content writer for GetYourGuide.com, a booking site for tours, attractions & excursions with over 300 travel activities in Florence alone.
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Photo Credits: #1, 2,3,5 stock.xchng,
#4 Flickr-Alaskan Dude, #6 FLickr-Velo Steve

It’s understandable. Unless you’re an experienced trekker, the idea of traveling to some distant destinations sounds a bit uncomfortable – stretching the boundaries of your vision of self.

How would you even begin to plan a trip like this? Clearly there’s no easy answer. It takes hours of research and preparation to construct an exotic destination itinerary, but the in the end, you’ll share in an experience that few have been lucky enough to experience.

Come Journey To The “End of the World”

Nestled between Argentina and Chile is a place known as the “End of the World.” The nickname is derived mostly from its geographical location, but the serenity of this place is what the locals believe earned the label. At the latitude of nearly 56 degrees, Patagonia is home to the southernmost continental point on the planet, creating a scenic, and sometimes, unforgiving environment.

A lot has changed since native tribes and bands of nomadic hunter-gatherers occupied the area. Argentina and Chile display a diverse group of ethnic backgrounds (Patagonia spans both countries). A wide range of Spaniards, Italians, Basques, English, Irish, Welsh, Yugoslavs and other nationalities make their homes there, only adding to the rich culture of the land.

Think adventure, not vacation – Not for the Weary
If you’re looking for white sandy beaches and drinks with little umbrellas in them, keep searching. Rest and relaxation is not impossible to find in Patagonia, it just differs widely from the conventional methods found on most trips. Dinner at a five star restaurant is quickly replaced by an earthy meal cooked over an open fire. Live music is provided by nature, and your hotel room is transformed into a 4×6-plastic dome. Truly humbling to anyone who’s habitat is surrounded by skyscrapers and automobiles.

The Andes Revealed
The Andes mountain range consumes the Chilean border. Only about fifteen percent of the population can be found here, and for good reason. The beauty of this expanse is only rivaled by its ruthlessness. Some of the world’s most amazing storm systems frequent the region, so it would be wise to visit in the calmer months. Always remember that this is an unforgiving part of the world. Help may not be immediately available. Even during the calmer months, trekkers should make sure they understand the perils that they may face, plan accordingly and take adequate precautions.

If you aren’t familiar with hiking at altitude, do research, especially if you plan to trek into the higher reaches of the mountain range. Altitude related illnesses can pose serious health risks and shouldn’t be ignored by anyone, novice or expert. If you do plan to trek into the higher reaches, make sure you are in good physical shape before you travel and then take some time once you’re there to acclimate to the altitude (no matter your age or physical condition).

Activities
Gorgeous rainforests, bone-dry deserts, smoldering lava, gigantic granite peaks, and some of the largest ice shelves on earth easily attract travelers from all over the world. The five districts of Patagonia are incredibly distinct. Activities include: kayaking, horseback riding, wildlife explorations, and the most popular, trekking. Though challenging, these trails are widely popular, and considered a great escape for the intermediate backpacker.

Also considered a haven for artist, photographers and painters seeking inspiration from all regions of the globe, Patagonia is often explored for its variety of flora and fauna. The multiple biospheres make is possible for thousands of species to flourish, and the cold currents from Antarctica bring abundant sea life to the coastlines. Huge migrations of whales engulf the surrounding oceans, constantly coming and going as they have for generations, a spectacle that should only be witnessed firsthand.

With so much to experience, everyone can appreciate the beauty of Patagonia. And you don’t need to be a millionaire to see it for yourself. Many prominent  travel companies offer excursions to ‘The End of The Earth”.  So if you’re searching for person perspective in a wildly picturesque place, you may just find what you’re looking for at the end of the world in Patagonia

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About The Author:  David Nance is a freelance writer and avid traveler. From his home base in Seattle (nearly the end of the world itself it seems at times), he seeks out exotic destinations where he can get away from urban centers. Once he deposits his car at the SeaTac parking lot, the stresses seem to melt away.
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Photo Credits – Flickr: #1 Geoff Livingston, #2 malczyk, #3 Poldavo (Alex), #4 K1llYRidols’, #5 Liam G

A good starting point is to head into London to visit the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew.  This is a great day out for those who want to learn more about flora and fauna.  The gardens are located just outside of London city centre at Richmond, which is a short train journey from the centre.

Popular Journeys by Rail

Take a train to Liverpool and just a few minutes’ walk from Lime Street Station there is a variety of galleries and museums to suit all tastes.  The Walker Art Gallery and the World Museum are close to the station and a little further away at the Albert Dock is Tate Liverpool, the Slavery Museum, the new Liverpool Museum and a popular exhibition on the Beatles.  The Albert Dock is great for shopping and Liverpool is one of the country’s most vibrant cities so visitors can enjoy the atmosphere.

Edinburgh is a great place to visit during July and August with so many festivals and events on.   Getting there by train takes just a few hours via the fast trains from the main UK cities.  While there, visitors can take in the castle and explore the vast array of shops.

Bristol is one of the country’s most popular cities and kids will love a day out at Bristol Zoo.  This is located in the trendy Clifton area of the city and is easily reached by train.  The zoo has a variety of animal species and there is an on-site shop and eateries.

A day at the seaside is always appreciated and Scarborough is undergoing something of a revival at the moment.  Visitors can enjoy traditional fish and chips, a picnic on the beach and explore the shops.  Trains to the area run frequently from main departure points such as Manchester and can be arranged through agents such as Co-op travel.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place for literary tourists.  With several attractions that are linked directly to Shakespeare and theatre productions to see, there is something for everyone.  As the city is in the heart of England, reaching it takes only a couple of hours no matter which direction you are coming from, with regular trains running from major cities such as London and Birmingham.

Plenty of people head to the Norfolk Broads for holidays and this is one of the most beautiful areas of the country.  Trains to Great Yarmouth are frequent and this is a good starting point for a break there. Boat hire and cycle hire are available in the area for travelling while there.

The Lake District in the north-west is another popular destination and there are trains that run right through to Windermere, one of the area’s most famous lakes.  This region is ideal for those who want to walk, cycle or ride to get around and there are plenty of hotels and campsites for family holidays that can be organized via travel specialists.

Train companies usually offer cheaper tickets online, it is well worth while checking online in advance to find the best available ticket offers and prices. You can usually pick up some cheaper deals, and looking online can also allow you to keep updated on possible delays and journey adjustments. Websites can also advise on fast and the slower, standard train services. It is also possible to purchase multi-day passes, these will normally allow you to travel on multiple trains and buses over the course of a day. Also keep in mind that an Oyster card can be used in London zones 1-9, this could also be useful in cutting the cost of transport.

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About The Author:  Anna Dewinter is a freelance writer who loves travelling and meeting new people.
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Photo Credits: Geograph.org.uk #1, #3, #4, Flickr #2-Jordan S. Hatcher

Oman is known for many things, but among the most grand attractions are its forts and palaces. The state has a colourful history comprising of influences from Islamic rulers, the Portuguese and even parts of east Africa. Due to its diverse environment, various tourist destinations and cultural richness, hordes of tourists travel to Oman every year. In fact, Muscat, the capital and biggest city of Oman, has been aptly named the second best city to visit in the world according to the travel guide published by Lonely Planet in 2012. The Arab tourism ministers’ council has also selected Muscat as the capital of Arab tourism for 2012.

The castles of Oman look magnificent with their high towers and strong walls. These forts were also the seats of power with administrators and judicial authorities residing within their hallowed halls. To guard the 1,700 km long coastline of the state, there were in all around 500 castles, forts and towers. The architectural styles vary due to the various rulers who invaded and ruled over the region at different periods in history.

The Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts are probably the most famous and unarguably the grandest of them all. They stand proudly at the entrance to Muscat bay. Mirani is much older and was built even before the Portuguese set foot on Oman’s shores. Although it was originally supposed to be a tower, the Portuguese invaders rebuilt it in 1588 and added emplacements, stores, living quarters for high ranking army officials and also an area dedicated to worship. Later, Islamic ruler Imam Ahmed bin Said founded the state of Al Busaidi and enlarged Mirani to its current size.

The Portuguese completed construction of what is now known as the fort Al Jalali in 1597. It was reconstructed to its current state by Sayyid Said bin Sultan. Both the Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts are situated on Qasr Al Alam Street and are now open to tourists in the form of museums displaying historical relics of the great city.

The tallest and one of the oldest is the Rustaq fort. It is surrounded by watch towers for guards and was built somewhere in the 13^th century BC. The 4 towers are called Al Burj Al Ahmar, Al Burj Al Hadeeth, Al Burj Al Reeh;and Al Burj Ashiateen. The tower of Al Burj Ashiateen has raised curiosity among historians and people who travel to Oman due to its queer, name which means the devil’s tower. The fort consists of many rooms, a mosque, an armoury and even a prison. Situated in the old part of the town on the Batinah Coast, it is open for tourists on all days of the week except Friday.

Bahla Fort with its 7 mile long walls is an intimidating structure. It is said that the long walls were guarded by sentries all through the year. The fort has an interesting internal structure, which although as strong as modern day mortar, is built out of mud, gypsum and sarooj. Due to its unique nature, it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is located on the Oasis of Bahla, 25 km west of Nazwah. Tourists may even find places to shop for local artifacts in Souq Bahla near the fort.

The Nizwa Fort is the biggest in the entire Arabian Peninsula. It was built by Imam Sultan bin Saif al Ya’arubi in 1668. The fort is an imposing circular structure with an external diameter of 150 feet and with over 115 feet high walls! It was the headquarters of the King and a stronghold, which could withstand even the most dangerous attacks. It is around 175 km from Muscat. The best time to visit is on weekdays, so that you can experience the local market in its full swing.

The last on our list, though definitely not the least is the Jabrin Fort. Built by Imam Sultan bin Saif Al Ya’arubi in 1670, it was his living quarters and stronghold. The fine carvings on its walls and ceilings done by the most skilled artists of that time are every tourist’s delight. Elaborate drawings of flowers, symbols and runes cover the rooms and balconies too. Situated not very far from Nizwa, the fort is also the final resting place for Imam Bil’arab which attracts locals as well as tourists. The fort is a must visit for every history lover planning to travel to Oman.

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This article was contributed by Rajesh S Ullal
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Photo Credits – Flickr: #1 Kewl, #2 Keirn, #3 yeowatzup, #4 Arian Zwegers