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Relish the Splendor of Fernando de Noronha

The Fernando de Noronha archipelago is located in the Atlantic Ocean about 354 km off the Brazilian coastline. As the visible part of a submerged mountain range, this fascinating group of 21 islands, plus islets and volcanic rocks, has much to offer tourists who enjoy the wonders of nature. Fernando de Noronha offers countless tour and activity options to keep visitors occupied for days on end.

Fernando de Noronha experiences only two distinct seasons – the dry season that lasts from September through to March, and the rainy season from April through to August. It must be noted though, that the rainy season consists of sporadic rains with beautiful sunshine filled days in between. There are more than twenty beautiful beaches on Fernando de Noronha, many of which have protected status for conservation reasons. Some beaches have long stretches of white sand fringed by gently lapping waves, while others, such as Caracas Point, have rocky areas forming natural pools filled with small sea creatures that are captivating to watch. Other sections of the coastline are not suitable for swimming, but have hiking trails and lookout points with exquisite scenery that is definitely worth seeing. Dolphin Bay is the mating and resting place of the rotifer dolphins – and there are plenty of them. A visit to Fernando de Noronha would not be complete without spending an early morning (they are most active at sunrise) watching the antics of these friendly, playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

The Fernando de Noronha Archipelago is considered by many to be one of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the world. The diverse underwater landscapes make each dive a totally new adventure. Divers are likely to see a variety of interesting sea creatures among the sponges, seaweeds and corals. Colorful fish in every shape and size imaginable, morays, rays, rotifer dolphins and sea turtles all inhabit the waters around the islands. There are 16 main diving areas and all levels of experience are catered for - there is no better place for beginners to discover the excitement of diving.

With a temperate climate prevailing throughout the year, the waves at Fernando de Noronha are enjoyed by surfers from all over the world. Considered to be one of Brazil’s top surfing destinations, in February 2001 local surfers established the Fernando de Noronha Surf Association to promote surfing on the island and are more than willing to share their favorite surfing spots and tips on local surfing conditions with fellow surfers.

Visitors can take advantage of the many tours and hiking trails available to explore the incredible variety of flora and fauna on Fernando de Noronha. Birding enthusiasts will enjoy looking out for some of the more than 40 bird species on the islands, which includes six pelican species. Fernando de Noronha is also used as a stop-over point for about 12 species of migratory birds.

Other activities and places of interest include the Open Museum of the Sea Turtle, archaeological sites giving insight into the early history of Fernando de Noronha, National Marine Reserve, guided kayak tours, bicycle tours, buggy rides and guided ecological tours. In 2002, UNESCO awarded Fernando de Noronha a Certificate of Natural World Patrimony in recognition its unique environmental conditions. Authorities take their conservation responsibilities very seriously, and visitors to Brazil’s Fernando de Noronha will appreciate that it is well worth protecting the natural beauty of this fascinating archipelago for current and future generations to enjoy.

South America

Alkmaar Cheese Market in Holland

Back in the day, the Alkmaar Cheese Market was a vital trading centre, and even though cheese is still sold here and traditions upheld, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Holland. And the tourists are not there just to buy high quality cheese to take home, but to enjoy the unique atmosphere and culture that has made the Alkmaar Cheese Market famous across the world. With more than a hundred thousand tourists visiting the market during its trading months of April to September, it has secured its place as one of the attractions that are significant to the tourist industry of Alkmaar.

Europe

Nunavut is an Adventure Like No Other

The vast territory of Nunavut, which was incorporated as a territory of Canada in 1999, is an area of fascinating contrasts, sparsely populated by friendly, peace-loving Inuit people referred to as Nunavummiut. Visitors to Nunavut are assured of an unforgettable experience as they explore this untamed, unspoiled territory, the majority of which falls within the Arctic Circle. Realizing the potential for tourism to contribute toward sustainable economic growth, and having the desire to share the natural wonders and unique Inuit culture of the territory with others, Nunavut tourism offers a number of interesting options for visitors to enjoy.

North America

Historical and Natural Grandeur of Cappadocia

Cappadocia is the more generally used name for the region of the Nevsehir Province in modern day Turkey. The name “Cappadocia” originated from the Persian work “Katpatuka”, meaning “the land of beautiful horses”, and one can imagine wild horses running free in the rugged landscape and wide open spaces which characterize this fascinating region of Turkey. Cappadocia is world renowned for its exceptional and unique wonders, as well as its historical and cultural heritage.

Europe

Discovering Science and Technology in Singapore

The idea of creating a facility that was dedicated to the promotion of science and technology, and creating an attraction that would fascinate and educate the public on the magnificence of science, was put forward in 1969. After the government had approved the establishment of the centre, architects from across the country submitted their designs, but it was the design by Raymond Woo that was eventually selected. On 10 December 1977, the doors to the Singapore Science Centre swung open and it has captivated the imaginations of young and old ever since.

Asia


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