Bluegreen Resorts

by Web Master on March 8, 2013

Bluegreen Corporation is an established vacation ownership company that has been in existence since 1966. Its headquarters is located in Boca Raton, Florida. The company is engaged in the selling of vacation hotspots and management of resorts. It serves more than 200,000 clients from more than 60 resorts located in the US and Caribbean region.

Bluegreen resorts have all the makings of a dream getaway. The resorts offer all types of accommodations, from oceanfront villas to metropolitan suites to luxurious yacht and lakefront homes.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach in South Carolina is a popular tourist destination on the east coast of the United States. Bluegreen Corporation has the Carolina Grande to provide luxurious and homey accommodations to Myrtle Beach tourists. Carolina Grande is just a stone’s throw away from Myrtle Beach attractions like the Myrtle Waves Water Park, NASCAR Speedway, Barefoot Landing and Broadway at the Beach.

The resort boasts of an outdoor pool oasis that features a hot tub found on the 6th floor. Guests have direct beach access to the Carolinian Beach Resort that has indoor and outdoor pools, lazy river and hot tubs. Accommodations range from one and three-bedroom villas that have a breezy tropical theme. All the rooms have amenities such as kitchens, DVD players, dryers and washers. The 20-storey resort also features an awe-inspiring ocean and city view.

Branson, Missouri

Branson right in the heart of the Ozark Mountains in Missouri is another favorite family vacation destination.  Bluegreen Corporation has The Cliffs at Long Creek resort that features a 3,200 square foot presidential villa. Vacationers can choose from any of the 29 family vacation homes available in the resort.  Each home has two floors and five bedrooms, all spacious enough to fit big families. All rooms have a gourmet kitchen, laundry room, living room, den, and master suite featuring a canopy bed. There’s also a large game room in every house where families can bond together for a game of pool, share snacks and watch movies with a state-of-the-art home theater.  Vacationers can also relax outside and spend some time at the lazy river, or dine in at one of the legendary restaurants at Big Cedar.  There are also presidential suites where up to 13 people can stay and enjoy the dramatic beauty of the Missouri wilderness.

Las Vegas, Nevada

The Sin City is also considered as one of the premiere tourist destinations in the United States. Bluegreen has the Bluegreen Club 36 as its oasis in this part of the country.  The resort’s name is taken from its exact location. The hotel lobby is dotted with elegant marble floors, with the entire lobby splashed with natural light.  There are 238 rooms in this hotel, all of them furnished with modern amenities. The 1 and 2 bedroom suites are complemented with full kitchen and home entertainment center. The hotel has a beautiful indoor heated pool located on the fourth floor that also offers a fantastic view of the city.

There are many more vacation resorts and homes that are managed by Bluegreen Corporation.  Visitors can get more information on these vacation hotspots by visiting this site:  https://www.facebook.com/bluegreenvacations.

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Map of Algeria

by Web Master on May 7, 2012


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Must-visit historical sites in Algeria

Algeria is an Arab country in Africa. It has a land area of 2,381,741 square kilometers, making it the tenth-largest country in the world. Its capital is Algiers, which is also the most populous city. The country was home to many ancient civilizations like the Aterian, Capsian, Numidians, Byzantines, Romans and Turkish Ottomans. Such rich history has made it a favorite of historical buffs and tourists alike. In this article, we list down some of the must-visit historical places in the country.

Maqam Echahid

This iconic war memorial was created in 1982 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Algeria’s independence. It is shaped like three standing palm leaves that cover an “Eternal Flame.”  Statues of soldier stand on top of the leaves, symbolizing the struggles of the country during the war.

Al Qal’a of Beni Hammad

This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the southeastern portion of Algiers. This is the ruins of the first capital of the Hammamid emirs that was founded in 1007 and destroyed in 1152. It provides tourists a picture of a powerful Muslim city in the ancient times. Its mosque is one of the biggest in Algeria.

Djemila

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this mountain village on the northeastern coast east of Algiers hosts some of the best ruins of Roman Architecture. Here, tourists can see structures like a theater, temples, arches, basilicas, streets and houses built during the first century AD.

Belezma National Park

One of the most important national parks in the country, it stretches over an area of 262.5 square kilometers. It is home to 447 species of flora, comprising around 14% of the national total and 309 species of fauna.

Great Mosque of Tiemcen

Constructed in 1082, this building shows the architectural genius of the Almoravid, a Berber dynasty which ruled during the 1000 and 1100 centuries.  The mosque has a special area with minaret.

M’Zab Valley

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this valley used to be a settlement of the ksour of Bou Noura. It has attractions like walled villages, ancient mosques and a breathtaking watchtower.

Santa Cruz Castle

This castle embodies the best of Spanish and French architecture. There is an ancient church guarded by Algerian soldiers nearby. The castle offers a great view of the Santa Cruz mountains.

Tebessa

The industrialized city of Tebessa is historic for being the first town settled by the Numidians. There are a lot of attractive sites in the city like the remains of Saint Crispinus Basilica which features chepels, gardens, baptismal urns and catacombs. There’s also the Gate of Caracalla that dates back to 214 BC and the Temple of Minerva that goes back to the early 3rd century.

Timgad

This UNESCO World Heritage site is formerly a colonial town of the Romans. Here, the influence of the Romans is still very much visible with structures like a basilica, thermae, Capitoline Temple and Trajan’s Arch.

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Algeria Flag

by Web Master on April 7, 2012

Everything you ever wanted to know about the Algerian Flag

Design and Colors of Algeria Flag

The flag of Algeria has two vertical bands and a crescent and star design in the middle. The band on the left side or hoisting side is green, whereas the right side is completely white. The center design is of a red star housed inside a red crescent. The five pointed star and the two points of the crescent falls on the white portion of the flag, whereas majority of the crescent is on the green portion.

The colors are set precisely, and the green should only be composed of equal quantities of blue and yellow, having 5.411 wavelength, and normal specter position of 600. The red has to be primary, pure color, without any presence of yellow or blue, having 6.562 wavelength and normal specter position of 285.

Symbolism

The green color represents beauty of nature, and white color symbolizes peace. The red color of the crescent and star represents blood of the people who sacrificed their lives in the freedom struggle of the country. The crescent moon and star is the traditional symbol of Islamic faith, and the white and green colors have been used extensively in Islamic traditions.

History of Algeria Flag

This flag was adopted as the national flag of Algeria on 3 July 1962, when the country got its independence from French domination. Almost the same flag design was used by the exiled government during the freedom struggle that lasted from 1958 to 1962. The only major difference is that the present flag’s white portion is bigger in size than the green portion.

The main design of the flag was inspired by Emir Abdel Kadir’s standard that was prevalent during the 1900s, and it comprised of two equal bands of green and white. The flag design that was used from 16th to 19th century was also an inspiration to the current design. However, the actual creation of the present flag is credited to the nationalist leader, Messali Hadj who created the design in 1928. Even though the crescent star design is characteristic of Islam, the equally proportioned green and white bands are the distinguishing features of the Algerian flag.

Etiquette for Algeria Flag

Etiquette for the Algerian flag is very strict, and the protocols and rules have to be followed correctly. The Algeria flag should never be used in a faded or tattered condition, and if it is in such condition, it should be immediately replaced with a new one. Care should be taken to hoist the flag from the green side, and should be flown the correct way up. Algeria flag should never be dragged along the ground and should be carried ceremoniously to the hoisting site. This national flag must never be flown above or below a flag of another country on the same staff. It should be hoisted independently on a staff with due ceremony. Lowering the flag to be flown at half-mast is only allowed during times of grieving. However, the flag should be first hoisted to the top and then lowered halfway.

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Fez Morocco

by Web Master on March 7, 2012

Explore the timeless charm of Fez morocco

The third largest city of Morocco, Fes is an alcinet walled city that is listed in the UNESCO heritage sites. Being one of the imperial cities of Moroco, Fes is deep rooted in history and culture. The city has three different regions including the ancient walled city ofFesel Bali, the Fes Jdid  and the Ville Nouvelle. The old walled city of The Fesel Baliis famous for at least a million reasons. Apart from having the  largest car free area in the world, this city also takes credit to the oldest university in the world , the University of Al-Karaouine.

No matter whether you are here for a short weekend ramble or a long holiday, Fes would leave you spoiled for choices. From museums and ancient edifices to a rich festive calendar and  way side carpet shops and more,Fezis a kaleidoscope of color and beauty. No trip to a Moroccan city will be complete without visiting  a public bath or a hammam, which is part of the culture of Morocco.

The palace of Darel-Makhzen, which is the official residence of the king is another must see attraction. The palace is set within huge walls and an intricately designed gate. The palace complex houses many offices, a mosque, axoo and even a Madrasa, where Koran is taught to the children.

Things to do in Fez

There are many interesting activities to do in Fes. Shop till you drop in one of the markets where you can buy anything under the sun. From gold to antiques, rugs and jewelry, tea and spices, these  vibrant souks would keep you engaged the whole day.

Fez has an impressive festive calendar which is dotted with many popular dance and music events. The Fez Sacred Music Festival, brings together musicians from around the world  who present traditional music at its best. The fusion music performed by musicians from different countries is the biggest attraction of the grand finale of this event.

What to eat

Fez has a rich smattering of dining places , which  serve Moroccan cuisine along with the well acclaimed Tagine, and couscous dishes, which is a type of traditional stew cooked in a low fire in a clay pot.

Sight seeing options

Some of the must see attractions in Fez include the Karaouine Mosquem which is the most famous landmark in the medina. No entry is allowed for non Muslims. Moroccois well known for its tanneries where you can see the complex process of leather dying. The hill side Merinid Tombs that dates back to the medieval period is another attraction.  The place ruins and the necropolis also offer spectacular views of the city

Fez has something special for everyone that there wont be even a dull moment while you are here  Work, play or anything in between, Fez would make a perfect destination.

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Marrakech Morocco

by Web Master on February 7, 2012

Things to Do In Marrakech Morocco

Marrakech Morocco is a popular tourist destination and people from all over the world come to admire this exotic land. Marrakesh is one of the most important cities in Morocco and was founded in 1062, and populated mainly by Berber farmers. There are many structures and walls built from red sandstone, and therefore the city is nicknamed the Ochre or Red City. There are many tourist attractions throughout the city, and here we explore the most famous ones that are necessary see.

Jemaa el-Fnaa

Situated in a part of the old city (Medina Quarter), Jemaa el-Fnaa is considered the busiest square in the whole of Africa. The place is a colorful marketplace and you are at once transported to some medieval time. You will see snake charmers, traditionally dressed water sellers selling water from leather water bags, and young men carrying Barbary apes in chains. The entertainment and exotic sights never seem to cease on this square. During evening the snake charmers leave, and dancing boys, magicians, storytellers, and traditional medicine peddlers fill the square. Once darkness descends, you will find the square filled with many food stalls selling traditional delicacies. It is quite amazing to see the constant shift in spectacle at this square, and UNESCO has recognized this place to be a physical space that is rich in intangible and oral tradition.

Gardens

Surprisingly, Marrakech Morocco has quite a few beautiful gardens, something you would not expect in a dry place. The most noteworthy are the Menara gardens that are situated to the city’s west side, just as you are entering the Atlas Mountains. Inside the gardens is a pavilion with a pyramid shaped roof in green, from which the garden get its name. This pavilion is by the side of an artificial lake surrounded by olive trees and orchards. The artificial lake was created to irrigate the gardens with a sophisticated network of underground channels.

Another popular garden is the Jardin Majorelle, which was once the home of Jacques Majorelle, a famous landscape painter. This small garden has beautiful pathways lined with bamboo, cacti and assorted colored plants from five continents. The garden also houses Museum of Islamic Art, small buildings, a café, and beautiful pools.

Marrakech Museum

The Marrakech Museum is housed inside a 19th century palace called Dar Menebhi. The palace portrays classic Andalusian architecture with beautiful carvings, tile work, and amazing amount of stalactite and zellij work. The central courtyard has fountains, hammam and seating areas. The museum itself has many historical books, Berber, and Moroccan pottery, coins, and various traditional and modern Moroccan art exhibits.

Kutubiyya Mosque

Also known as the Mosque of the Booksellers, it is the largest mosque in Marrakech Morocco, situated in the southwest part of the old city. The minaret stands 77 meters tall and has orbs and spire on the top, and is made of sandstone and designed in Umayyad style. The structure of the mosque is made with bricks and red stone in Almohad style.

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African Holidays

by Web Master on January 7, 2012

Interesting and Unique African Holidays

Africa is a continent of people who love to celebrate. Africans are known for commemorating different occasions through colorful and vibrant festivals. These celebrations are of various types- religious, cultural, and musical, to name a few. In this article, we list down some of the more unique holidays that people of Africa celebrate throughout the year.

Aboakyir Festival

This festival happens every May and is celebrated by the people of Winneba in central Ghana. The festival celebrates the migration of the people from the old Western Sudan kingdom to their current home. The celebration used to focus on the hunting for leopard until it was changed to hunting of antelope. During the festival, the people of Winneba also dance and engage in colorful processions.

Bouake Carnival

This festival happens in late March to early April. It is considered as a celebration of life and friendship. Here, tourists and natives party together while enjoying native foods and dancing to traditional music. Thousands of tourists come to Ivory Coast for this celebration, which is also characterized by street parties and parades.

Festival in the Desert

This festival runs for three days in Mali and is commemorated by the Tuareg, a nomadic tribe of the Sahara. The Tuareg are known for being a courageous group of people, having never been conquered by another civilization. During this festival, the Tuareg celebrate to traditional music and dance and engage in unique competitions like camel races.

Fête des Masques

This is another festival in Mali that happens during the months of April and May. This is a major celebration that pays tribute to the dead and giving thanks to a bountiful harvest.  In this festival, the natives engage in fete des masques up to the wee hours featuring helmet masks. Men dressed in masks dance to music played by lute-like instruments and drums that are beaten with canes.  Each dancer represents a unique spirit and performs by leaping and waving sticks, asking the evil spirits to allow the dead to rest in peace.

Timket

This is a religious celebration in Ethiopia that happens usually on January 19. It commemorates the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. Traditional horns commemorate the start of the celebrations, with the main ceremony involving a priest carrying the Tabot, a model of the Holy Ark of the Covenant. The Tabot represents Jesus as the Messiah. Once the priest baptizes the Holy Ark, it is brought back to the church with people chanting, dancing and singing traditional music.

Mwakakogwa Festival

Celebrated either in July or August in Uganda, this festival ushers in the local New Year. It is commemorated in the southern Unguja. During this festival, the locals make sacrifices, dance and sing and engage in actual field fighting. It is a crowd-drawer with tourists flocking to join the festivities and participants coming from the eastern side of Africa.

South Sinai Camel Festival

This festival is unique as it features entertaining camel races- one of the oldest sports in Egypt. The fastest and bumpiest race happens at Sharm El-Sheikh.

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