Tourism has become a larger source of income in recent years, with many cruise ships and sailing yachts visiting the islands (the only way to visit South Georgia is by sea). The territory gains income from landing charges and the sale of souvenirs. Cruise ships often combine a Grytviken visit with a trip to the Antarctic Peninsula.
Charter yacht visits usually begin in the Falkland Islands, last between four and six weeks, and enable guests to visit remote harbors of South Georgia and even the South Sandwich Islands. Sailing vessels are now required to anchor out and can no longer tie up to the old whaling piers on shore.[citation needed] The island has also featured in the Warren Miller video 'Storm'.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Tourism in Niue, Alofi, Oceania
Tourism has been identified as one of the three priority economic sectors (the other two are Fisheries and Agriculture) for economic development in Niue. In 2006, estimated visitor expenditure reached $1.6 million making Tourism a major export industry for Niue. Niue will continue to receive direct support from the Government and overseas donor agencies. Air New Zealand is the sole airline serving Niue, flying to Niue once a week. It took over after Polynesian Airlines stopped flying in November 2005. There is currently a tourism development strategy to increase the number of rooms available to overseas tourists at a sustainable level. Niue is also trying to attract foreign investors to invest in the tourism industry of Niue by offering import and company tax concessions as incentives.
Tourism in Marshall Islands, Majuro, Oceania
The tourist industry, now a small source of foreign exchange employing less than 10% of the labor force, remains the best hope for future added income. The islands have few natural resources, and imports far exceed exports.
In 2005, Aloha Airlines canceled its flight services to the Marshall Islands as part of its withdrawal from several markets in the region. Though other international airlines still serve Majuro, the Aloha decision was a setback in the country's hopes of increased revenues from tourism.
In 2005, Aloha Airlines canceled its flight services to the Marshall Islands as part of its withdrawal from several markets in the region. Though other international airlines still serve Majuro, the Aloha decision was a setback in the country's hopes of increased revenues from tourism.
Tourism in Guam, Hagåtña, Oceania
In 1967, 109 passengers traveled from Haneda, Japan, to explore Guam, which at the time was a newly discovered exotic island.[dubious – discuss] Since then, Guam has grown into a major tourism hub for primarily Japanese travelers. The island's tourist district, Tumon, features more than 20 large hotels, a Duty-Free Shoppers Galleria, a shopping and nightlife district dubbed Pleasure Island, an indoor aquarium, Sandcastle Las Vegas-style shows and other entertainment venues.
The true beauty of Guam, however, can be found far beyond the bustling streets of downtown Tumon. Nature lovers are drawn to the island because of its unspoiled landscape – above and below sea level. From Ritidian Point, a former military area transformed into the Guam National Wildlife Refuge to preserve indigenous animals and plant life, to Inajaran village, a thriving example of Spanish-influenced endemic Chamorro culture from the island's past, visitors are bound to see sites they will not soon forget.
Many tourists and locals meet at Chamorro Village (I Sengsong Chamorro) each Wednesday and Friday night for food, music, arts and crafts. Centrally located along Hagatna Bay, the night market offers a chance to enjoy authentic local cuisine like seafood, fried chicken, pancit and barbecued ribs, and purchase handmade items. A main hall is used for shows featuring local talent and dancing, while an outside stage often hosts cultural dances. The event, traditionally held only on Wednesday nights, expanded to Friday nights in October 2009.
Newcomers to Guam are often attracted to historic World War II battle grounds and forts, including Fort Santa Agueda (better known as Fort Apugan), which overlooks the capital city of Hagatna, to South Pacific Memorial Park, a peaceful green space dedicated to the millions of locals, Japanese and American soldiers, who died in the Pacific War between 1941 to 1945.
The island's capital of Hagatna is dotted with remnants of the great Pacific war, along with influences of early Spanish culture, including Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica, the center of Catholic faith on Guam. Popular among tourists and widely used by the local population, the cathedral sits atop the site of the first Catholic Church built by Padre San Vitores in 1669.
"The Basilica" is just one stop on the new Heritage Walking Trail, a 2.5-mile trek that winds through 17 historic sites in Guam's capital district. Spearheaded by the island's Department of Parks & Recreation and funded by a grant obtained from the U.S. Department of Interior, the walking trail is expected for full completion in March 2010. Government officials and community leaders have envisioned the trail as a way to help tourists discover the historic capital city, which is currently undergoing a massive revitalization.
Historic sites in Guam are not just found above sea level, however. Many have been discovered in the island's surrounding waters, which saw action in World Wars I and II. The SMS Cormoran, a German cruiser that rests in more than 100 feet of water, was scuttled in Apra Harbor by her captain in 1917, when the United States first entered World War I. Another 8,300-ton Japanese passenger-cargo ship, the Tokai Maru, sunk by the U.S. submarine Flying Fish in World War II, lies on its port side next to the Cormoran, offering divers the unique opportunity of simultaneously touching two wrecks from two World Wars.
Water sports are arguably considered Guam's finest offering. With thriving coral reefs and clear blue waters, lovers of the ocean find solace in everything from kite boarding and deep-sea fishing to scuba diving. Located at the edge of the Marianas Trench, Guam is renowned for its vivid turquoise lagoons, deep-sea currents and water clarity. Between December and May, visibility is as much as 150 feet, and the average water temperature is a warm 85°F (27°C) year-round.
The mild climate also makes Guam ideal for many other outdoor activities, including jungle hiking – or as locals call it – "boonie stomping." Although much of the island's land is privately owned, the Department of Parks & Recreation publicizes several areas suitable to hike. The Guam Boonie Stompers, a local group that hosts guided hikes each weekend, also takes willing adventurers to out-of-the-way, seldom seen areas.
Traveling to Guam is a relatively short flight from Asia or Australia compared to Hawaii, and has luxury-class hotels and seven public golf courses accommodating more than 1 million tourists each year. Although 80 percent of the island's visitors are Japanese, Guam receives a sizable number of tourists from South Korea, the United States, the Philippines and Taiwan.
In an effort to increase the number of visitors the island receives annually, local organizations have made efforts to ease visa regulations for travelers. In 2009, an interim ruling was imposed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to ease travel among People's Republic of China, the Russia Federation and the CNMI. Local authorities believe there is a strategic need to develop a similar program with China, which Guam hopes to cultivate as a new market. Failing that, local authorities would like to at least pursue an expedited visa granting system, according to the Economic Forecast, 2009 Guam-CNMI Edition published by First Hawaiian Bank.
Other efforts aimed at increasing tourism in a struggling economic market include measures by national airlines like Continental Micronesia, which has an Asia-Pacific hub on Guam. Continental recently reinstated nonstop flights to Hong Kong.
The true beauty of Guam, however, can be found far beyond the bustling streets of downtown Tumon. Nature lovers are drawn to the island because of its unspoiled landscape – above and below sea level. From Ritidian Point, a former military area transformed into the Guam National Wildlife Refuge to preserve indigenous animals and plant life, to Inajaran village, a thriving example of Spanish-influenced endemic Chamorro culture from the island's past, visitors are bound to see sites they will not soon forget.
Many tourists and locals meet at Chamorro Village (I Sengsong Chamorro) each Wednesday and Friday night for food, music, arts and crafts. Centrally located along Hagatna Bay, the night market offers a chance to enjoy authentic local cuisine like seafood, fried chicken, pancit and barbecued ribs, and purchase handmade items. A main hall is used for shows featuring local talent and dancing, while an outside stage often hosts cultural dances. The event, traditionally held only on Wednesday nights, expanded to Friday nights in October 2009.
Newcomers to Guam are often attracted to historic World War II battle grounds and forts, including Fort Santa Agueda (better known as Fort Apugan), which overlooks the capital city of Hagatna, to South Pacific Memorial Park, a peaceful green space dedicated to the millions of locals, Japanese and American soldiers, who died in the Pacific War between 1941 to 1945.
The island's capital of Hagatna is dotted with remnants of the great Pacific war, along with influences of early Spanish culture, including Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica, the center of Catholic faith on Guam. Popular among tourists and widely used by the local population, the cathedral sits atop the site of the first Catholic Church built by Padre San Vitores in 1669.
"The Basilica" is just one stop on the new Heritage Walking Trail, a 2.5-mile trek that winds through 17 historic sites in Guam's capital district. Spearheaded by the island's Department of Parks & Recreation and funded by a grant obtained from the U.S. Department of Interior, the walking trail is expected for full completion in March 2010. Government officials and community leaders have envisioned the trail as a way to help tourists discover the historic capital city, which is currently undergoing a massive revitalization.
Historic sites in Guam are not just found above sea level, however. Many have been discovered in the island's surrounding waters, which saw action in World Wars I and II. The SMS Cormoran, a German cruiser that rests in more than 100 feet of water, was scuttled in Apra Harbor by her captain in 1917, when the United States first entered World War I. Another 8,300-ton Japanese passenger-cargo ship, the Tokai Maru, sunk by the U.S. submarine Flying Fish in World War II, lies on its port side next to the Cormoran, offering divers the unique opportunity of simultaneously touching two wrecks from two World Wars.
Water sports are arguably considered Guam's finest offering. With thriving coral reefs and clear blue waters, lovers of the ocean find solace in everything from kite boarding and deep-sea fishing to scuba diving. Located at the edge of the Marianas Trench, Guam is renowned for its vivid turquoise lagoons, deep-sea currents and water clarity. Between December and May, visibility is as much as 150 feet, and the average water temperature is a warm 85°F (27°C) year-round.
The mild climate also makes Guam ideal for many other outdoor activities, including jungle hiking – or as locals call it – "boonie stomping." Although much of the island's land is privately owned, the Department of Parks & Recreation publicizes several areas suitable to hike. The Guam Boonie Stompers, a local group that hosts guided hikes each weekend, also takes willing adventurers to out-of-the-way, seldom seen areas.
Traveling to Guam is a relatively short flight from Asia or Australia compared to Hawaii, and has luxury-class hotels and seven public golf courses accommodating more than 1 million tourists each year. Although 80 percent of the island's visitors are Japanese, Guam receives a sizable number of tourists from South Korea, the United States, the Philippines and Taiwan.
In an effort to increase the number of visitors the island receives annually, local organizations have made efforts to ease visa regulations for travelers. In 2009, an interim ruling was imposed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to ease travel among People's Republic of China, the Russia Federation and the CNMI. Local authorities believe there is a strategic need to develop a similar program with China, which Guam hopes to cultivate as a new market. Failing that, local authorities would like to at least pursue an expedited visa granting system, according to the Economic Forecast, 2009 Guam-CNMI Edition published by First Hawaiian Bank.
Other efforts aimed at increasing tourism in a struggling economic market include measures by national airlines like Continental Micronesia, which has an Asia-Pacific hub on Guam. Continental recently reinstated nonstop flights to Hong Kong.
Tourism in Suriname, Paramaribo, South America
Royal Torarica, was opened in the night district of Paramaribo on the Suriname River. The hotel industry is important to Suriname's economy. The rental of apartments, or the rent-a-house phenomenon, is also popular in Suriname.
Most tourists visit Suriname for the outstanding biodiversity of the pristine Amazonian rain forests in the south of the country, which are noted for their flora and fauna. The Central Suriname Nature Reserve is the biggest and one of the most popular reserves, along with the Brownsberg Nature Park which overlooks the Brokopondo Reservoir, the latter being one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. Tonka Island in the reservoir is home to a rustic eco-tourism project run by the Saramaccaner Maroons. There are also many waterfalls throughout the country: Raleighvallen, or Raleigh Falls, is a 56,000 hectare nature reserve on the Coppename River, rich in bird life. Also are the Blanche Marie Falls on the Nickerie River and the Wonotobo Falls. Tafelberg Mountain in the centre of the country is surrounded by its own reserve- the Tafelberg Nature Reserve- around the source of the Saramacca River, as is the Voltzberg Nature Reserve further north on the Coppename River at Raleighvallen. In the interior are many Maroon and Amerindian villages which often have their own reserves and are open to visitors.
Suriname is one of the few countries in the world where at least one of each biome that the state possesses has been declared a wildlife reserve. Around 30% of the total land area of Suriname is protected by law as reserves.
Other attractions include plantations such as Laarwijk, which is situated along the Suriname River. This plantation can only be reached by boat via Domburg, in the north central Wanica District of Suriname.
Most tourists visit Suriname for the outstanding biodiversity of the pristine Amazonian rain forests in the south of the country, which are noted for their flora and fauna. The Central Suriname Nature Reserve is the biggest and one of the most popular reserves, along with the Brownsberg Nature Park which overlooks the Brokopondo Reservoir, the latter being one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. Tonka Island in the reservoir is home to a rustic eco-tourism project run by the Saramaccaner Maroons. There are also many waterfalls throughout the country: Raleighvallen, or Raleigh Falls, is a 56,000 hectare nature reserve on the Coppename River, rich in bird life. Also are the Blanche Marie Falls on the Nickerie River and the Wonotobo Falls. Tafelberg Mountain in the centre of the country is surrounded by its own reserve- the Tafelberg Nature Reserve- around the source of the Saramacca River, as is the Voltzberg Nature Reserve further north on the Coppename River at Raleighvallen. In the interior are many Maroon and Amerindian villages which often have their own reserves and are open to visitors.
Suriname is one of the few countries in the world where at least one of each biome that the state possesses has been declared a wildlife reserve. Around 30% of the total land area of Suriname is protected by law as reserves.
Other attractions include plantations such as Laarwijk, which is situated along the Suriname River. This plantation can only be reached by boat via Domburg, in the north central Wanica District of Suriname.
Tourism in Ecuador, Quito, South America
The Galápagos Islands (official name: Archipiélago de Colón; other Spanish names: Islas de Colón or Islas Galápagos) are an archipelago of volcanic islands distributed around the equator in the Pacific Ocean, 972 km west of continental Ecuador. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site: wildlife is its most notable feature.
The Galápagos islands and its surrounding waters are part of a province, a national park, and a biological marine reserve. The principal language on the islands is Spanish. The islands have a population of around 23,000.
The islands are geologically young and famed for their vast number of endemic species, which were studied by Charles Darwin during the voyage of the Beagle. His observations and collections contributed to the inception of Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection.
The first crude navigation chart of the islands was done by the buccaneer Ambrose Cowley in 1684. He named the individual islands after some of his fellow pirates or after the English noblemen who helped the privateer's cause. More recently, the Ecuadorian government gave most of the islands Spanish names. While the Spanish names are official, many users (especially ecological researchers) continue to use the older English names, particularly as those were the names used when Charles Darwin visited.
The Galápagos islands and its surrounding waters are part of a province, a national park, and a biological marine reserve. The principal language on the islands is Spanish. The islands have a population of around 23,000.
The islands are geologically young and famed for their vast number of endemic species, which were studied by Charles Darwin during the voyage of the Beagle. His observations and collections contributed to the inception of Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection.
The first crude navigation chart of the islands was done by the buccaneer Ambrose Cowley in 1684. He named the individual islands after some of his fellow pirates or after the English noblemen who helped the privateer's cause. More recently, the Ecuadorian government gave most of the islands Spanish names. While the Spanish names are official, many users (especially ecological researchers) continue to use the older English names, particularly as those were the names used when Charles Darwin visited.
Tourism in Colombia, Bogotá, South America
For many years serious internal armed conflict deterred tourists from visiting Colombia, with official travel advisories warning against travel to the country. However, in recent years numbers have risen sharply, thanks to improvements in security resulting from President Álvaro Uribe's "democratic security" strategy, which has included significant increases in military strength and police presence throughout the country and pushed rebel groups further away from the major cities, highways and tourist sites likely to attract international visitors. Foreign tourist visits were predicted to have risen from 0.5 million in 2003 to 1.3 million in 2007,[37] while Lonely Planet picked Colombia as one of their top ten world destinations for 2006.[38] The improvements in the country's security were recognised in November 2008 with a revision of the travel advice on Colombia issued by the British Foreign Office.[39]
Colombia Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism Luis Guillermo Plata said his country had received 2,348,948 visitors in 2008. He is expecting 2,650,000 tourists for 2009.[40][41]
Popular tourist attractions include the historic Candelaria district of central Bogotá, the walled city and beaches of Cartagena, the colonial towns of Santa Fe de Antioquia, Popayan, Villa de Leyva and Santa Cruz de Mompox, and the Las Lajas Cathedral and the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá. Tourists are also drawn to Colombia's numerous festivals, including Medellín's Festival of the Flowers, the Barranquilla Carnival, the Carnival of Blacks and Whites in Pasto and the Ibero-American Theater Festival in Bogotá. Meanwhile, because of the improved security, Caribbean cruise ships now stop at Cartagena and Santa Marta.
The great variety in geography, flora and fauna across Colombia has also resulted in the development of an ecotourist industry, concentrated in the country's national parks. Popular ecotourist destinations include: along the Caribbean coast, the Tayrona National Natural Park in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range and Cabo de la Vela on the tip of the Guajira Peninsula; the Nevado del Ruiz volcano, the Cocora valley and the Tatacoa Desert in the central Andean region; Amacayacu National Park in the Amazon River basin; and the Pacific islands of Malpelo and Gorgona. Colombia is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Tourism in Turks and Caicos Islands, Cockburn Town, North America
The United States was the leading source of tourists in 1996, accounting for more than half of the 87,000 visitors; another major source of tourists is Canada. Tourist arrivals had risen to 264,887 in 2007.[36]
A view of the southwestern beach at Grand Turk Island.
The government is pursuing a two-prong strategy to increase tourism. Upscale resorts are aimed at the wealthy, while a large new cruise ship port and recreation centre has been built for the masses visiting Grand Turk. Turks and Caicos Islands has one of the longest coral reefs in the world, making it a premier diving destination.
The French vacation village company of Club Mediterannee (Club Med) has an all-inclusive adult resort called 'Turkoise' on one of the main islands.
Providenciales is home to a restaurant scene popular among tourists. There has been a recent trend towards authentic local tastes, with on-the-beach spots such as Da Conch Shack (run by popular Canadian island resident John Macdonald) attracting locals and tourists alike in droves.
Several Hollywood stars have built homes in the Turks and Caicos, including Dick Clark and Bruce Willis. Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner were married on Parrot Cay. Actress Eva Longoria and her husband Tony Parker went to the islands for their honeymoon in July 2007 and High School Musical actors Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens went for a vacation there. Motivational speaker Eric Edmeades' official website[37] indicates that he resides in Providenciales.
On 31 January 2008, the Turks and Caicos Government signed a letter of intent with the Indy Racing League to host the Indy Turks and Caicos Grand Prix, slated for February 2009. A new race track will be constructed in Blue Hills, Providenciales to host the event.[38] The islands' only 18-hole championship golf course, Provo Golf Club was opened in 1992. The course hosted the Caribbean Amateur Golf Championship in 1999, and is due to do so again in 2009.
In an apparent effort to boost tourism during the Caribbean low season of late summer, the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board has organised and hosted an annual series of concerts called the Turks & Caicos Music and Cultural Festival since summer of 2003.[39] Held in a temporary bandshell at The Turtle Cove Marina in The Bight on Providenciales, this festival lasts about a week and has featured several notable international recording artists such as Lionel Richie, LL Cool J, Anita Baker, Billy Ocean, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Kenny Rogers, Michael Bolton, Ludacris, Chaka Khan, and Boyz II Men.[40] More than 10,000 people attend annually
Tourism in Saint Lucia, Castries, North America
Tourism is vital to St. Lucia's economy. Its economic importance is expected to continue to increase as the market for bananas becomes more competitive. Tourism tends to be more substantial during the dry season (January to April). St Lucia tends to be popular due to its tropical weather and scenery and its numerous beaches and resorts.
Other tourist attractions include a drive-in volcano, Sulphur Springs (at Soufrière), the Botanical Gardens, the rain forests, and Pigeon Island National Park, which is home to Fort Rodney, an old British military base.
The majority of tourists visit St. Lucia as part of a cruise. Most of their time tends to be spent in Castries, although Soufriere, Marigot Bay and Gros Islet are popular locations to visit.
Tourism in Panama, Panama City, North America
Tourism in the Republic of Panama kept its growth during the past 5 years. The number of tourists arriving between January and September 2008 was 1,110,000, 13.1% or 128,452 visitors. This was a significant increase to the 982,640 travelers who had arrived in the same period of 2007, a year that beat all records regarding the entry of tourists into the country.
The arrival of tourists from Europe to Panama grew by 23.1% during the first nine months of 2008. According to the Tourism Authority of Panama (ATP), between January and September, 71,154 tourists from the Old Continent entered the country that is 13,373 more than figures for same period last year. Most of the Europeans who have visited Panama were Spaniards (14,820), followed by Italians (13,216), French (10,174) and British (8,833). From Germany, the most populous country in the European Union, 6997 tourists arrived. Europe has become one of the key markets to promote Panama as a tourist destination.
In 2007 1.445.5 million entered into the Panamanian economy as a result of tourism. This accounted for 9.5% of gross domestic product in the country, surpassing other productive sectors.
Panama´s Law No. 8 is still the most modern and comprehensive law for the promotion of tourism investment in Latin America and the Caribbean. In so-called Special Tourism Zones, Law 8 offers incentives such as 100% exemption from income tax, real estate tax, import duties for construction materials and equipment, and other taxes. Panama has declared different parts of the country as Special Tourism Zones which are benefited with multiple tax exemptions and tax holidays.
Tourism in Nicaragua, Managua, North America
Tourism in Nicaragua is currently the second largest industry in the nation,[94] over the last 7 years tourism has grown about 70% nationwide with rates of 10%-16% annually.[95] Nicaragua has seen positive growth in the tourism sector over the last decade and is expected to become the first largest industry in 2007. The increase and growth led to the income from tourism to rise more than 300% over a period of 10 years.[96] The growth in tourism has also positively affected the agricultural, commercial, and finance industries, as well as the construction industry.
Every year about 60,000 U.S. citizens visit Nicaragua, primarily business people, tourists, and those visiting relatives.[97] Some 5,300 people from the U.S. reside in the country now. The majority of tourists that visit Nicaragua are from the U.S., Central or South America, and Europe. According to the Ministry of Tourism of Nicaragua (INTUR),[98] the colonial city of Granada is the preferred spot for tourists. Also, the cities of León, Masaya, Rivas and the likes of San Juan del Sur, San Juan River, Ometepe, Mombacho Volcano, the Corn Islands, and others are main tourist attractions. In addition, ecotourism and surfing attract many tourists to Nicaragua.
According to TV Noticias (news program) on Canal 2, a Nicaragua television station, the main attractions in Nicaragua for tourists are the beaches, scenic routes, the architecture of cities such as León and Granada and most recently ecotourism and agritourism, particularly in Northern Nicaragua.
Tourism in Mexico, Mexico City, North America
According to the World Tourism Organization, Mexico has one of the largest tourism industries in the world. In 2005 it was the seventh most popular. The most notable tourist draws are the ancient Mesoamerican ruins, and popular beach resorts. The coastal climate and unique culture – a fusion of European (particularly Spanish) and Mesoamerican cultures; also make Mexico attractive. The peak tourist seasons in Mexico are during December and during July and August, with brief surges during the week before Easter and during spring break at many of the beach resort sites which are popular among vacationing college students from the United States.
Mexico is the twenty-third highest tourism spender in the world, and the highest in Latin America.
Energy production in Mexico is managed by state-owned companies: the Federal Commission of Electricity (Comisión Federal de Electricidad, CFE) and Pemex (Petróleos Mexicanos). The CFE is in charge of the operation of electricity-generating plants and its distribution all across the territory, with the exception of the states of Morelos, Mexico State, Hidalgo and Mexico City, whose distribution of electricity is in charge of the state-owned Luz y Fuerza del Centro. Most of the electricity is generated in thermoelectrical plants, even though CFE operates several hydroelectric plants, as well as wind power, geothermal and nuclear generators
Natural resources are the "nation's property" (i.e. public property) by constitution. As such, the oil sector is administered by the government with varying degrees of private investment. Mexico is the sixth-largest oil producer in the world, with 3.7 million barrels per day.[136]
Pemex, the public company in charge of exploration, extraction, transportation and marketing of crude oil and natural gas, as well as the refining and distribution of petroleum products and petrochemicals, is one of the largest companies (oil or otherwise) in Latin America, making US $86 billion in sales a year,[137] a sum larger than the GDP of some countries. Nonetheless, the company is heavily taxed, a significant source of revenue for the government, of almost 62 per cent of the company's sales. In 1980 oil exports accounted for 61.6% of total exports; by 2000 it was only 7.3%.
Tourism in El Salvador, San Salvador, North America
The only airport serving international flights in the country is Comalapa International Airport. This airport is located about 50 km (30 mi) southeast of San Salvador.[42] The airport is commonly known as Comalapa International or El Salvador International.
El Salvador's tourism industry has grown dynamically over recent years as the Salvadoran government focuses on developing this sector. Last year tourism accounted for 4.6% of GDP; only 10 years ago, it accounted for 0.4%. In this same year tourism grew 4.5% worldwide. Comparatively, El Salvador saw an increase of 8.97%, from 1.15 million to 1.27 million tourists. This has led to revenue from tourism growing 35.9% from $634 million to $862 million. As a reference point, in 1996 tourism revenue was $44.2 million. Also, there has been an even greater increase in the number of excursionists (visits that do not include an overnight stay). 222,000 excursionists visited El Salvador in 2006, a 24% increase over the previous year.[43]
Most North American and European tourists are seeking out El Salvador's beaches and nightlife. Besides these two choices, El Salvador's tourism landscape is slightly different than those of other Central American countries. Because of its geographical size and urbanization, there aren't many nature-themed tourist destination such as ecotours or archaeological monuments. Surfing, however, is a natural tourist sector that is gaining popularity in recent years as more surfers visit many beaches in the coast of La Libertad and the east side of the country, finding surfing spots that are not yet overcrowded. Also, the use of the United States dollar as Salvadoran currency and direct flights of 4–6 hours from most cities in the United States are important things to note for first-time travelers from the United States. Urbanization and Americanization of Salvadoran culture has also led to something else that first time tourists might be surprised to see: the abundance of American-style malls, stores, and restaurants in the three main urban areas, especially greater San Salvador.
Currently, tourists to El Salvador can be classified into four groups: Central Americans; North Americans; Salvadorans living abroad, primarily in the United States; and Europeans and South Americans. The first three represent the vast majority of tourists. Recently, El Salvador is attempting to broaden its tourist base and looking to the last group. Early indicators show that the government's efforts are working. When comparing January-March 2007 to the same period in 2006 (most recent data available), overall tourism has grown 10%, while from North America 38%, Europe 31%, and South America 36%.[44] In the fall, Livingston Airlines will initiate the only direct flight between Europe (departing from Milan) and El Salvador. The Decameron Salinitas, a recently inaugurated resort, has contributed to the growth of tourists from South America (because of name recognition of the resort chain) and is looking to do the same with Europeans.
Mural in Perquin, former "guerrilla capital" and now a tourist destination.
Tourists continue to be drawn by El Salvador's turbulent past.[45] Some of the latest tourist attractions in the former war-torn El Salvador are gun fragments, pictures, combat plans, and mountain hideouts. Since 1992, residents in economically depressed areas are trying to profit from these remains. The mountain town of Perquin was considered the "guerrilla capital." Today it is home to the "Museum of the Revolution," featuring cannons, uniforms, pieces of Soviet weaponry, and other weapons of war once used by the FMLN's (Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front) headquarters.
According to El Salvador newspaper El Diario De Hoy the top 10 attractions are the beaches, La Libertad, Ruta Las Flores, Suchitoto, Playa Las Flores in San Miguel, La Palma, Santa Ana where you find the country's tallest volcano, Nahuizalco, Apaneca, Juayua, San Ignacio.[46]
Tourism in Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, North America
Tourism is fueling the Dominican Republic's economic growth. For example, the contribution of travel and tourism to employment is expected to rise from 550,000 jobs in 2008—14.4% of total employment or 1 in every 7 jobs—to 743,000 jobs—14.2% of total employment or 1 in every 7.1 jobs by 2018.[65] With the construction of projects like Cap Cana, San Souci Port in Santo Domingo, and Moon Palace Resort in Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic expects increased tourism activity in the upcoming year. Ecotourism has been a topic increasingly important in the nation, with towns like Jarabacoa and neighboring Constanza, and locations like the Pico Duarte, Bahia de Las Aguilas and others becoming more significant in efforts to increase direct benefits from tourism.
Demographics
Main article: Demographics of the Dominican Republic
Population
The population of the Dominican Republic in 2007 was estimated by the United Nations at 9,760,000,[66] which placed it number 82 in population among the 193 nations of the world. In that year approximately 5% of the population was over 65 years of age, while 35% of the population was under 15 years of age. There were 103 males for every 100 females in the country in 2007.[1] According to the UN, the annual population growth rate for 2006–2007 is 1.5%, with the projected population for the year 2015 at 10,121,000.
It was estimated by the Dominican government that the population density in 2007 was 192 per km² (498 per sq mi), and 63% of the population lived in urban areas.[7] The southern coastal plains and the Cibao Valley are the most densely populated areas of the country. The capital city, Santo Domingo, had a population of 3,014,000 in 2007. Other important cities are Santiago de los Caballeros (pop. 756,098), La Romana (pop. 250,000), San Pedro de Macorís, San Francisco de Macorís, Puerto Plata, and La Vega. Per the United Nations, the urban population growth rate for 2000–2005 was 2.3%.[67]
Tourism in Cayman Islands, George Town, North America
One of Grand Cayman's (GCM) main attractions is Seven Mile Beach on which a number of the island's hotels and resorts are located. Historical sites in GCM such as Pedro St. James Castle in BoddenTown also attract visitors. There are the Sister Islands - Little Cayman[10] and Cayman Brac[11]
All three of the islands offer scuba diving with several snorkeling locations where tourists can swim with stingrays including Stingray City, Grand Cayman. There are two shipwrecks off the shores of Cayman Brac including the MV Keith Tibbetts.[citation needed]
Other Grand Cayman tourist attractions include the Ironshore landscape of Hell, the 23-acre (93,000 m2) marine theme park Boatswain's Beach, also home of the Cayman Turtle Farm, the production of gourmet sea salt, and the Mastic Trail, a hiking trail through the forests in the centre of the island. The NationalTrust for the Cayman Islands provides guided tours weekly on the Mastic Trail and other locations.[12]
See also: Scuba diving in the Cayman Islands
Tourism in Belize, Belmopan, North America
A combination of natural factors—climate, the Belize Barrier Reef, over 1,000 offshore Cayes (islands), excellent fishing, safe waters for boating, scuba diving, and snorkeling, numerous rivers for rafting, and kayaking, various jungle and wildlife reserves of fauna and flora, for hiking, bird watching, and helicopter touring, as well as many Maya ruins—support the thriving tourism and ecotourism industry. It also has the largest cave system in Central America . Development costs are high, but the Government of Belize has designated tourism as its second development priority after agriculture. In 2007, tourist arrivals totaled 251,655 (more than 210,000 from the U.S.) and tourist receipts amounted to $183.3 million.
Tourism in Barbados, Bridgetown, North America
Due to its relatively high levels of development and its favourable location, Barbados has become one of the prime tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Numerous internationally known hotels offering world-class accommodation can be found on the island. Time-shares are available, and many of the smaller local hotels and private villas which dot the island have space available if booked in advance. The southern and western coasts of Barbados are popular, with the calm light blue Caribbean Sea and their fine white and pinkish sandy beaches. Along the island's east coast, which faces the Atlantic Ocean, there are tumbling waves which are perfect for light surfing. Some areas remain risky due to under-tow currents.
Shopping districts are popular in Barbados, with ample duty-free shopping. There is also a festive night-life in mainly tourist areas such as the Saint Lawrence Gap. Other attractions include wildlife reserves, jewelry stores, scuba diving, helicopter rides, golf, festivals (the largest being the annual Crop Over festival July/Aug), sightseeing, cave exploration, exotic drinks and fine clothes shopping.
[edit] Attractions, landmarks and points of interest
Tourism accounts for almost one half of the economy. Name / Parish Location:
- Christ Church
* Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary
* St. Lawrence Gap
* Grantley Adams International Airport
* Chancery Lane Swamp
* Christ Church Foundation School (1809)
* Ocean Park,Barbados
* CRANE BEACH
- St. Andrew
* Chalky Mount potteries
* Cherry Tree Hill
* Morgan Lewis Windmill
- St. George
* Francia Great House
* Gun Hill Signal Station
* Orchid World
- St. James
* St. James Parish Church
* Folkestone Marine Park
* Lancaster Great House Gallery and Gardens
* Queen's College
- St. John
* Codrington College
* Conset Bay
* St. John Parish Church & church yard
* Massiah Street
- St. Joseph
* Andromeda Gardens
* Flower Forest
* Hackleton's Cliff
* Bathsheba
- St. Lucy
* Animal Flower Cave
* Little Bay
- St. Michael
* Barbados Historical Museum
* Bridgetown Synagogue and Cemetery
* Bussa Emancipation Statue
* Ilaro Court
* Garrison Savannah
* Kensington Oval
* Mount Gay Rum
* Barbados National Museum
* George Washington House
* The Salvation Army Divisional Headquarters
- St. Peter
* Barbados Wildlife Reserve
* Farley Hill National Park
* St Nicholas Abbey
- St. Philip
* Sunbury Plantation
- St. Thomas
* Clifton Hill Moravian Church
* Harrison's Cave
* Sharon Moravian Church
* Welchman Hall Gully
List of: Cities, towns and villages in Barbados.
* Bridgetown
* Holetown
* Oistins
* Six Cross Roads
* Speightstown
* St Lawrence
* Warrens
* Black Rock
* Bank Hall
Boardwalks
Barbados is now home to two boardwalks. The South Coast boardwalk (opened in 2008) is 1.2 km and runs from Accra Beach to Hastings. Running right alongside the beach, the boardwalk is set in solid concrete fortified by Canadian Nova Scotia granite rocks and planked with Brazilian hardwood. It's very popular with locals and visitors alike. The West Coast boardwalk (opened in 2009) is significantly shorter and made entirely of concrete. It runs along the beach in Holetown. [1]
Shopping districts are popular in Barbados, with ample duty-free shopping. There is also a festive night-life in mainly tourist areas such as the Saint Lawrence Gap. Other attractions include wildlife reserves, jewelry stores, scuba diving, helicopter rides, golf, festivals (the largest being the annual Crop Over festival July/Aug), sightseeing, cave exploration, exotic drinks and fine clothes shopping.
[edit] Attractions, landmarks and points of interest
Tourism accounts for almost one half of the economy. Name / Parish Location:
- Christ Church
* Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary
* St. Lawrence Gap
* Grantley Adams International Airport
* Chancery Lane Swamp
* Christ Church Foundation School (1809)
* Ocean Park,Barbados
* CRANE BEACH
- St. Andrew
* Chalky Mount potteries
* Cherry Tree Hill
* Morgan Lewis Windmill
- St. George
* Francia Great House
* Gun Hill Signal Station
* Orchid World
- St. James
* St. James Parish Church
* Folkestone Marine Park
* Lancaster Great House Gallery and Gardens
* Queen's College
- St. John
* Codrington College
* Conset Bay
* St. John Parish Church & church yard
* Massiah Street
- St. Joseph
* Andromeda Gardens
* Flower Forest
* Hackleton's Cliff
* Bathsheba
- St. Lucy
* Animal Flower Cave
* Little Bay
- St. Michael
* Barbados Historical Museum
* Bridgetown Synagogue and Cemetery
* Bussa Emancipation Statue
* Ilaro Court
* Garrison Savannah
* Kensington Oval
* Mount Gay Rum
* Barbados National Museum
* George Washington House
* The Salvation Army Divisional Headquarters
- St. Peter
* Barbados Wildlife Reserve
* Farley Hill National Park
* St Nicholas Abbey
- St. Philip
* Sunbury Plantation
- St. Thomas
* Clifton Hill Moravian Church
* Harrison's Cave
* Sharon Moravian Church
* Welchman Hall Gully
List of: Cities, towns and villages in Barbados.
* Bridgetown
* Holetown
* Oistins
* Six Cross Roads
* Speightstown
* St Lawrence
* Warrens
* Black Rock
* Bank Hall
Boardwalks
Barbados is now home to two boardwalks. The South Coast boardwalk (opened in 2008) is 1.2 km and runs from Accra Beach to Hastings. Running right alongside the beach, the boardwalk is set in solid concrete fortified by Canadian Nova Scotia granite rocks and planked with Brazilian hardwood. It's very popular with locals and visitors alike. The West Coast boardwalk (opened in 2009) is significantly shorter and made entirely of concrete. It runs along the beach in Holetown. [1]
Monday, January 4, 2010
Tourism in Kiev, Ukraine, Europe
Attractions in Kiev
It is said that one can walk from one end of Kiev to the other in the summertime without leaving the shade of its many trees. Most characteristic are the horse-chestnuts (Ukrainian: каштани, kashtany).
Kiev is known as a green city with two botanical gardens and numerous large and small parks. The green nature of the city is probably most notable by the green hills of the right bank along the Dnieper river that have been relatively untouched by development. The World War II Museum is located here, which offers both indoor and outdoor displays of military history and equipment surrounded by verdant hills overlooking the Dnieper river.
St Michael's Cathedral
Among the numerous islands, Venetsianskyi (or Hidropark) is the most developed. It is accessible by metro or by car, and includes an amusement park, swimming beaches, boat rentals, and night clubs. The Victory Park (Park Peremohy) located near Darnytsia subway station is a popular destination for strollers, joggers, and cyclists. Boating, fishing, and water sports are popular pastimes in Kiev. The area lakes and rivers freeze over in the winter and ice fishermen are a frequent sight, as are children with their ice skates. However, the peak of summer draws out a greater mass of people to the shores for swimming or sunbathing, with daytime high temperatures sometimes reaching 30 to 34 °C (86–93 °F).
Founders of Kiev
The centre of Kiev (Independence Square and Khreschatyk Street) becomes a large outdoor party place at night during summer months, with thousands of people having a good time in nearby restaurants, clubs and outdoor cafes. The central streets are closed for auto traffic on weekends and holidays. Andriyivskyy Descent is one of the best known historic streets and a major tourist attraction in Kiev. The hill is the site of the Castle of Richard Lionheart; the baroque-style St Andrew's Church; the home of Kiev born writer, Mikhail Bulgakov; the monument to Yaroslav the Wise, the Grand Prince of Kyiv and of Novgorod; and numerous other monuments.[16][17]
Lilacs in the Central Botanical Garden, with Vydubychi Monastery and the Left Bank of Kiev in the background. Photo copyright R. Lezhoev.
A wide variety of farm produce is available in many of Kiev's farmer markets with the Besarabsky Market located in the very centre of the city being most famous. Each residential region has its own market, or rynok. Here one will find table after table of individuals hawking everything imaginable: vegetables, fresh and smoked meats, fish, cheese, honey, dairy products such as milk and home-made smetana (sour cream), caviar, cut flowers, housewares, tools and hardware, and clothing. Each of the markets has its own unique mix of products with some markets devoted solely to specific wares such as automobiles, car parts, pets, clothing, flowers, etc.. There is also a popular book market by the Petrivka metro station.
At the city's southern outskirts, near the historic Pyrohiv village, there is an outdoor museum, officially called the Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine It has an area of 1.5 square kilometres (1 sq mi). This territory houses several "mini-villages" that represent by region the traditional rural architecture of Ukraine.
Kiev also has numerous recreational attractions like bowling alleys, go-cart tracks, paintball venues, billiard halls and even shooting ranges. 100-year-old Kiev Zoo is located on 40 hectares and carries over 2,000 specimens.
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