Category: Features

A LAND OF RICH CULTURE AND HISTORY

We all know about Tunisia’s wonderful beaches, but do you know about its fascinating culture and wealth of history? In fact, Tunisia is like an open-air museum, with ancient treasures to explore wherever you look. It’s a great choice for combining a beach holiday with sightseeing

By His Excellency Mr. Nabil Ben Khedher, Ambassador of Tunisia to the United Kingdom

No matter whether you prefer a pure beach holiday or wandering around monuments from the Roman times, Tunisia the northernmost African country has it all. It is an oasis of historical sites, beautiful landscapes, picturesque beaches and rich in culture. The country has remained alive in history for thousands of years with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites just waiting to be explored. It’s time to plan your holiday in Tunisia!

6 REASONS WHY TUNISIAN CULTURE APPEALS TO VISITORS:

1. Several UNESCO World Heritage

Sites Tunisia has no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which are all well worth visiting. These are: the Amphitheatre of El Jem (1979), Kerkouane, (1985), Dougga (1997), Kairouan (1988), Medina of Sousse (1988), Medina of Tunis (1979), the Site of Carthage (1979) and Ichkeul National Park (1980).

2. Legacy of diverse cultures through the ages

 Due to its strategic position,Tunisia has been home to many great civilisations, throughout its 3000- year history. These include: the Berbers (the original inhabitants of Tunisia), Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs, Ottomans and Europeans.

3. Discover the great Empire of Carthage

Tunisia was the cradle of the Empire of Carthage, founded in 814 BC and the homeland of Hannibal, the famous hero who challenged Rome. It was also the birthplace of Magon, the first agronomist and winegrower, whose legacy is still in use today in Tunisia’s wine industry..

4. Kairouan: The first capital of the Maghreb

Away from the coast, in a landscape of steppes, Kairouan is a fascinating city still anchored in a distant past. One of Islam’s holy cities, it was the first capital of the Maghreb. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, it conceals several marvels: the medina, the venerable Great Mosque, the Aghlabid Basins, the stunning mausoleum of SidiSahbi decorated with ceramic tiles… And of course it is impossible to forget the numerous workshops where the most famous knotted pile carpets in Tunisia are made.

5. Explore Roman sites and see beautiful mosaics

Tunisia thrived under the Romans! They stayed in the country for 6 centuries. Their majestic remains are well preserved, such as the coliseum of El Jem, the third largest in the Roman Empire, the opulent city of Douggaand the brightly coloured mosaics, which are on display in the Bardo Museum

6. Experience the Berber culture and way of life

The indigenousTunisian people, the Berbers, always lived on the edge of the space of those who invaded the country, but lived peacefully alongside them. Still today, they live in the rocky desert in the south east, following the lifestyle and traditions of their ancestors. They are famous for their troglodyte houses, hilltop villages and collective, fortified granaries known as Ksour, which stock their scarce food supply.

SILKY WHITE SANDY BEACHES BLENDED WITH CLEAR TURQUOISE WATERS!

Tunisia has pretty much something for all its guests, especially families. Tunisia is one of the perfect family holiday destination. All the leading operators to Tunisia include family options.

EXPERIENCE RELAXATION WITH THALASSO & SPA CENTRES

Spa facilities are now something of a holiday essential. A wide range of treatments are available and there is plenty of quiet relaxation and luxury pampering.

GOLDEN AGE PAMPERED BY WARM TUNISIAN WINTER SUNSHINE!

Dynamic seniors represent an important niche for Tunisia especially during low & shoulder seasons. They are looking for:

1. An affordable winter in the sun while escaping the British cold winters. Winter in Tunisia is mild. 17C is average temperature. Excursions to different places of interest become popular. For some, Tunisia becomes a second home during their long stays.
2. Outdoor activities: all hotels in Tunisia are beach front and very close to activity spots such as Golf courses If you’re staying in Hammamet there are 2 fabulous golf courses ( Yasmine & Citrus) about 5 miles away , Green fees are very reasonably priced dotted with comfortable clubhouses. They can play golf all year round.
3. Many of them love Nature! There are 17 natural parks and 27 natural reserves which continue to stir the curiosity of visitors among them Ichkeul National Park which has been added to the World Heritage List since 1980. Tunisia is a haven for a large number of migratory birds from Europe and Africa. This makes it as a well-known Birdwatching destination. Also, among the uniqueness of Tunisia is that a very visible landscape contrast from the green mountains of the North to the Sahara Desert compressed in a tiny piece of land called Tunisia

THE TUNISIAN OASIS & SAHARA

The uniqueness about Tunisia’s desert is that visitors rarely have to travel too far to get there. They can take a two day trip excursion, spend an overnight in a desert inn or opt for a longer stay under a bivouac tent or in a camp The Saharan scenery will certainly live up to everyone’s image of a desert landscape! It could be rocky where the incredible Berber villages, which have been carved out of the rocky crags they hang to and strange fortified Ksours granaries built by nomadic tribes to keep their food supply in. Or it could be sandy characterised by the golden and soft sand dunes. There is also bizarre salt lakes as Chotts which are seasonal lakes – dry for most of the year – The most famous one is Chott El Jerid. There are also, three types of Oases, Maritime in the North East of the desert, the Sandy oases planted with palm trees and mountain oases in the North West of the Desert.

A GASTRONOMIC JOURNEY AROUND TUNISIA

Tunisia has a rich cuisine, inspired by the many diverse cultures that have lived over its long history – from the Berbers and Carthaginians to the Romans, the Ottomans to the French. This journey is not only a journey around Tunisia, but also a voyage of discovery, basking into its rich past. The capital of Tunis is a great place to start our gastronomic journey. The ancient medina, with its labyrinth of narrow streets and entrancing souks, is the ideal place to sample one of the bespoken Tunisia’s street food speciality – brik a l’oeuf, egg encased in flaky filo pastry, its runny yolk providing a perfect contrast to the crisp pastry. Wine making in Tunisia dates back some 2000 years to the famous Carthaginian agronomist, Magon, after whom one of the country’s most famous wines is named. There has been a recent resurgence in wine making and you can try delicious local tipples including light rosés, sparkling whites and rich reds – the perfect way to reflect on a busy day’s sightseeing or a lazy day at the beach! Nabeul, close to the popular resort of Hammamet, is famous for its peppers and, therefore, one of Tunisia’s most important culinary delights – harissa – introduced by the Berbers. This Tunisian chilli paste is used to flavour everything from couscous to spicy seafood pasta, and is often served on its own as a condiment or as an appetiser with freshly baked bread with a dash of olive oil. Wherever you choose to visit during your holiday in Tunisia, the local cuisine is sure to be a highlight – as well as an introduction to the rich history of the country

By Paola Martani

My formula for a human achieving greatness is amor fati: the desire to accept things as they are, now, in the future, in the past, and for all of eternity. My formula is not only to bear, and certainly not to conceal, what is necessary (after all idealism is only mendacity in the face of what is necessary), but to love it.”

With these words, Nietzsche references a concept that unifies time and space, flies over snow capped mountains and salty seas, and encompasses centuries of different traditions. An invisible chain of these ideas can be traced from ancient Greece, during the first century after Christ, across the Asian steppe, and to the Japanese islands of the Heian period. However, this knowledge exists not only in the past, but surrounds our present and elongates itself into all our futures. It is like a life preserver thrown to us lost in the constant tide of events of modern life, in which merely stopping and breathing for a moment feels like an impossible luxury.

Modern society is like being on a racetrack where the minimum speed required is 100 kilometers per hour, and where the minimum requirements to stay in the race are achieving unattainable perfections of one form or another: a perfect body, a perfect career, and a perfect family. There is no forgiveness of any imperfections or missteps in this insane race. While change in all things is an inescapable law of the universe, this fundamental postulate of Mother Nature is in direct opposition to the unreachable ideals of the societies we have created.

While the notion of ‘perfection’ denotes a state of completeness, the continuous and perpetual movement of nature is testament that nothing can ever really be complete. In other words, all things are impermanent, incomplete and above all, imperfect. Consider the beauty of the passage of the seasons in the painted dance of colours, shapes, and emotions; the moments of inner sadness that allow us to see happiness; the tears that give meaning to smiles; the strangeness and peculiarity of the ‘inaccurate’ choices made an artist’s brush to attempt to capture the rarity of an entrancing flower. It is these smears of life, and the impossibility of perfection, that tell a story worth listening to.

The narrative repeatedly imposed on us by modern society to achieve the phantom of permanent happiness distracts us from the joy of savouring the gloriously imperfect journey of life. A futile search for an unobtainable complete happiness, in which we imagine we can finally feel complete, causes us to lose days, months, years, and sometimes our entire life; wasting our time to achieve the impossible only results in profound dissatisfaction and frustration. What then is the answer? Is there any way to achieve the happiness we desire so much?

One approach could be that instead of praying for perfection, it would be better to understand that achieving the chimera of completeness is a natural impossibility. Furthermore, wasting a life in an attempt to achieve an imagined utopia actually crushes the thrust and joy of existence which should actually stem from striving for a state of contentment in the here and now. This contentment comes from an acceptance, rather than a sense of dissatisfaction, of what life actually provides us with, even if sometimes it does not conform to what we would like. We should instead glorify imperfection as a natural condition that allows us to burst into smiles of happiness after moments of tears, in the awareness that to achieve genuine completeness we should strive to be as we are in each distinct moment. Instead of wishing for an unobtainable perfection, we should strive for the ability to love each other on every step of our journey. The key word is acceptance. We must accept life as it is; accept ourselves; accept the air that enters the lungs and allows us to breathe.

ACCEPTANCE

It is this philosophy of acceptance that I want to write about today. These are ideas that stem from the mountain paths of Japan, which run over the peaks of Dewa Sanzan where everything is silent except the chirping of birds and the gurgling of streams. The philosophy stems from a place of pilgrimage for those in search of rebirth of body, spirit, and mind, where in the steep paths one can hear the unbroken whispered mantra ‘Uketamo’ – ‘I humbly accept with an open heart’.

The Yamabushi, the wandering monks who submit themselves to a harsh mountain life in their search for truth, immerse themselves in nature and hours of walking. By foregoing speech, they are more completely immersed in the experience of the moment that surrounds every nuance. Whether it is the tiredness of their muscles in each step of their climb, the refreshment that the icy water of the waterfalls brings to their tired bodies, or the relief they feel when they arrive at the shukubo, or ancient huts, each moment is considered a chance to breathe the pulse of existence and to embrace the truth that the sooner one can learn to accept the good and the bad that comes one’s way, the sooner one is able to reach freedom and true growth.

Profound awareness and acceptance of the present moment that the Yamabushi strive to achieve allows freedom from the suffering produced by the constant desire to be better. The Yamabushi understand that true individual growth comes from complete immersion and involvement in the challenges that are encountered on the path of life.

That said, it should be made clear that Uketamo, as with the stoic notion of amor fati and the essential characteristic of Nietzsche’s superman, does not merely denote a simple acceptance of destiny or fate. In other words, there is no sense of just resigning oneself to what happens, and neither is the concept just suggesting we should necessarily say ‘yes’ to a path designed by others or by a superior entity. Instead, Uketamo represents an unconditional love for life, for one’s being, for one’s choices. It is love for being part of a world full of mistakes, attempts and imperfections. It is the love of living through moments of joy and moments of chaos and shadow. It is the affection we feel for ourselves. It can be seen in the gaze that a mother has for her child as she learns by experiencing life in successes and difficulties with tenderness and understanding. It is self-acceptance and acceptance of one’s position in the world by both striving to continuously improve our lives, but also being proud of every step we take. It is saying yes to life in all its forms, and understanding that the much-desired enlightenment and completeness, the famous ethos of Zen, is not a state of total tranquility, but rather a living through every single moment within the terms of that moment: an acceptance of the imperfect flow of life.

The lesson of Uketamo is to accept and be grateful for where you are at all times. It is a process of building a better future through the liberation of pandering to the illusion that you will only be happy tomorrow. Through Uketamo, the goals set are achieved through a constant process of rejoicing and constructing the dream in the present.

This idea is not new, or connected only with one part of the world, but is narrated in every global latitude and longitude throughout history. However, due to being overwhelmed by the constant lie promoted today that leads us to believe that we will be happy ‘only when….’, this truth is continually being lost in the illusionary fog of the belief that there will be a day when we will reach perfection. This fixation on a mirage of an imagined better future means we live through the gray of a series of ‘mediocre’ days. By not paying sufficient attention to the present, we lose the bright colours available to those who know how to stop and enjoy them.

Thus, mindful of the teaching that permeates this land, I fly through history and from West to the East. I pause in a Ryoanji temple in 17th century Kyoto to contemplate an ancient inscription on a tsukubai stone. Four characters that by themselves are meaningless, but when truly seen their intended context, and when combined with the edges of the central square, reveal their meaning ware tada taru wo shiru (I only know contentment).

CONTENTMENT

Contentment granted by the acceptance of what I am in the present as I truly look at myself and feel gratitude for what I am and have.

Uketamo teaches us that the root of all unhappiness arises from spending all our waking hours gazing into the distant future and so looking ‘out of our lives’. We search for what we are missing, instead of opening our eyes to the present and realising what we already hold in our hands.

Acceptance of what one is creates gratitude. This gratitude creates contentment, and this contentment creates a desire to improve oneself with full confidence that one can grow more by becoming aware. Accepting includes the intention to action in the future, while constantly and continuously finding true happiness in the present. Perhaps there is such a thing as perfection and complete beauty, and perhaps that perfection is every moment of every day.

Uketamo is a smile that no longer needs to be saved for a chimeric tomorrow. It is living today for today. It is because my heart is beating at this moment. It is because I want to hear those beats at the moment.

THE KINGDOM OF LIGHT

Located in the North West of Africa, the Kingdom of Morocco covers an area of 710,850 square kilometers along with over 3,500 km coastline overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in the west and the Mediterranean in the north. Landscape diversity, local colour, and artistic heritage make the country a mosaic of distinctive cultural regional features

By His Excellency Mr. Abderrahim Rahhaly, Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco to the Kingdom of Thailand

A Land of Diversity, Morocco enjoys a wide range of architecture with traditional tile work available in such long-standing historical cities as Fez, Meknes, Salé, Rabat and others. Despite its modern transformation, Morocco has never lost sight of its deep-rooted traditions. The magical Medina (old city) is a testimony of the traditional Moroccan heritage embedded in people’s daily life. Cities such as Rabat, Fez, Tetouan, Essaouira and Marrakech, have been registered as World Heritage by UNESCO.

TOURISM ATTRACTIONS

Tourists travelling to Morocco can enjoy a wide range of historical monuments such as the outstanding Mausoleum of Mohammed V built opposite to the remarkable Hassan Tower that dates back to many centuries. Standing in Casablanca, Hassan II Mosque is the largest worshiping facility in Africa, half of which is built on sea water over the Atlantic Ocean.

Throughout monuments such as Volubilis (Roman city), Lixus and Chellah, the visitor will experience moments of ancient history of long-lived civilisations with different cultural influences. UNESCO has listed Volubilis and Chellah archeological sites as World Heritage.

Morocco also has a tremendous geographic variety of mountains, beaches, desert and sand dunes. Thanks to its situation in the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean, Morocco enjoys mild weather in the West and a fairly warm climate southward. The Atlas chain of mountains offers rainy and snowing seasons.

Deep in the South, the city of Dakhla offers an overwhelming combination of golden sand dunes and a magnificent beach that surfers from all over the world visit to practice kite surfing. Nowadays, the city is hosting kite-surfing contests and World Cup Championships.

Merzouga city is known worldwide for its Sahara landscape where tourists can experience a magically unique sunrise in the desert.

A LAND OF CULTURE AND ART

The Moroccan identity encompasses a broad spectrum of blended cultural backgrounds of Arab, Berber and Saharan-Hassanic components, nourished and enriched by African, Andalusian, Hebraic and Mediterranean hallmarks.

The Kingdom is home to vivid culture and traditions. Many Moroccan cultural celebrations take place in different regions in Morocco, such as Tan-Tan festival, which is an annual gathering of people. During the festival, people from many areas come together to socialise and enjoy local music (Guedra), local dancing choreography (Ragues) and Camel race. UNESCO listed the Tan-Tan Festival as an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2005, and it was placed on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2008.

The amazing Cherry Festival is celebrated each year in Sefrou, a town close to the city of Fez, to appreciate the natural glamour of Sefrou, where the Moroccan “Cherry Queen/beauty pageant” is selected among many young ladies of the region. Sefrou is known for its cherry fruit grown by local farmers.

The Marrakech International Film Festival is one of the outstanding cinematographic and cultural events that take place in the city of Marrakech. The film festival welcomes and pays tribute to national and international movie stars and actors who made great artistic performances during their career. The festival jury also gives a special recognition to young movie directors for their short films.

Traditional craftsmanship and design are one of the deep-rooted cultural heritages of the Kingdom of Morocco. Multiple materials are finely hand woven using traditional tools and techniques to make decorative commodities such as table, furniture, jewellery and clothing. Rabat, Fez and Tetouan are some of the cities that offer a wide range of Moroccan handicrafts, including rugs and carpets for different purposes.

Morocco is known for its authentic farming products such as argan oil, saffron, the prickly pear, rosewater and orange blossom water. UNESCO in 2014 listed the Moroccan know how relevant to the Argan tree as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

As to gastronomy, Moroccan cuisine is diverse with its wide range of flavours and ingredients cumulated over centuries as an outcome of longstanding culinary inputs of many civilisations that lived in Morocco. Many of these dishes are known worldwide. In 2020, the UNESCO listed “Moroccan Couscous” dish on its Intangible Cultural Heritage list in recognition of the know-how and the peculiar recipe.

A PROMISING TOURISM DESTINATION

Morocco is one of the leading destinations for international tourists travelling to Africa. It ranks among the top three most visited countries in the continent thanks to its natural assets, and increasingly modern air connectivity, road and sea transport network.

Being a crossroad between Africa and Europe, Morocco offers tourism opportunities to travellers coming from Europe using less than three hours’ flights. The “Open Sky” agreement signed in 2005 between the Kingdom of Morocco and the European Union helped further enhance the tourist area and national economy.

In its policy aimed at facilitating access to the Kingdom of Morocco, online electronic visa (e-Visa) has been granted since July 2022 to tourists and businessmen wishing to visit the country, including Thai citizens who can apply online using the application platform (www.accès-maroc.ma).

In its efforts to promote tourism, the Government has adopted a policy through four main programmes: Seaside Tourism – Azur 2020, Cultural Tourism, Sustainable Tourism, and National Tourism. Azur 2020 aims at enhancing beaches and building additional entertainment environment friendly facilities.

Cultural Tourism focuses on highlighting the Kingdom’s tangible and intangible heritage.

Through Sustainable Tourism, the Government is investing in tourist infrastructure that ensures developing the national economy but accommodating environment protection. To this purpose, Morocco aims at developing the first “carbon free” tourist destination in Africa. As to National Tourism, Moroccan citizens are offered encouraging hotel rates and incentives to make them enjoy stays in many regions during national holidays and events.

A UNIQUE SPICE ON EUROPE’S DINING TABLE

Budapest makes visitors return time after time, with each new visit bringing even deeper and more complex colours and flavours to them. The Hungarian capital has something new for every 365 days of the year. Its iconic attractions, the city’s rich history, its bustling and cosmopolitan atmosphere, and the diversity of Pest and Buda, all tempt us to discover it

By His Excellency Mr. Sándor Sipos, Ambassador of Hungary to Thailand

Budapest is really exciting and ever moving no matter what time of year you visit. Each of its corners hides a special place that’s why it is almost impossible to enlist everything that is worth doing, seeing, and tasting. Explore the capital city and visit the country’s iconic attractions – many of which are World Heritage Sites – to see for yourself that Budapest is a truly picturesque city.

TREASURES OF BUDAPEST

Among the iconic sights, the Castle District is on the top of the list, not least because of its impressive architecture, rich historical past, and the panoramic views that unfold before you. One of the most outstanding sights in this district is the Fisherman’s Bastion, which offers you stunning panorama and the chance to take fabulous photos of the city. To make the moment unforgettable, visit the Matthias Church, which is full of surprises, mysteries and treasure. The church has a breathtaking interior with colours inspired by orientalism and romantic historicism. Its mystically exotic atmosphere paired with neo gothic features differentiates it from any other church. To finish your visit in this part of the city, below the Buda Castle, you can find Budapest’s unique jewellery box, the Várkert Bazár, a distinctive work of architecture offering an experience of history, culture, and nature all at the same time.

The Parliament on the Pest side bank of the Danube gives you an excellent start to explore the other part of the city, along with Kossuth Square, which should be on every traveller’s bucket list. The third largest Parliament in the world is richly decorated inside and outside and was inspired by the Houses of Parliament in London, thus, it was designed in neo-gothic style, although it also bears Renaissance and Baroque stylistic flourishes. Talking about religious sights, the largest church in the city, the St Stephen Basilica, in the heart of the city centre has a jaw-dropping view of the narrow streets of the city centre.

World-famous footballer Ferenc Puskás rests here, and it has provided backdrop for Hollywood blockbusters. Moreover, the Dohány Street Synagogue of Budapest is not only the largest Hebrew temple of Europe, but its surroundings are like a small island with a fabulous atmosphere, full of exhibitions, synagogues, cemeteries, and memorials.

Continuing our trip in the city centre, on the enchanting boulevard, on Andrássy Avenue, we can encounter the gigantic building of the Hungarian State Opera. British online magazine The Telegraph selected it as one of the world’s most beautiful concert venues. There, you can get on the Metro Line M1, which is the oldest underground railway in the continental Europe, and experience the unparalleled beauty of the metro stations.

Speaking of the squares and parks in the capital city of Hungary, the Heroes’ Square comes to everybody’s mind at first. It is famous not only for its group of sculptures depicting archangels and the greats of Hungarian history: the square is also flanked by the Art Gallery on one side and the Museum of Fine Arts on the other, which often host exciting exhibitions. Behind the Square, you can find a fairytale building, hidden among the trees, the so-called Vajdahunyad Castle in the City Park, which is today home to the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture. The castle was built on an island and can be accessed via one of four bridges.

A MUSEUM FOR EYES AND EARS

In the middle of the City Park, The House of Music Hungary, a unique and complex institution of musical initiation and the venue for the country’s first comprehensive exhibition presenting the history of music, opened in January 2022. Although Hungary is famed for its musical heritage, no multi-faceted exhibition presenting the history of Hungarian music in the context of European music had been hosted in any Hungarian institution exhibition before this one.

The iconic building, designed by Japanese star architect Sou Fujimoto, was selected from among 170 international projects, and since the announcement of the design as the winner of the architectural competition, it has attracted massive attention in international professional circles. This is confirmed, for example, by the fact that in early 2021 it was listed by CNN and the World Architecture Community as one of the ten most anticipated new buildings of the year.

EAT AND EXPLORE LIKE A LOCAL

Budapest does not let you leave without trying out the specialities of the country. You cannot skip Vásárcsarnok, Budapest’s Great Market Hall. The historic building hosts an extensive array of traditional Hungarian flavours and delights, ranging from fresh local produce, cuts of meat, down to artisanal crafts and memorabilia.

Have you ever thought of trying out the oil pressed from various seeds in western Hungary? Looking for home made honey? The market hall is a must on any checklist, and it is a bustling location that will have you immersed in exploration for hours.

You are probably hungry by now and this day should be no exception for discovering yet another incredibly flavourful traditional Hungarian dish. The options are abundant whether you prefer high-end service or the local version of the corner diner where locals go in their lunchtime to eat. After the meal, it is always a good idea to have a coffee. Just a few minutes from the Vásárcsarnok is New York Café where you can enjoy sophisticated brews and gastronomy in opulent, aristocratic surroundings.

After a long walk in the freezing cold, it never hurts to relax. Budapest is famous all over the world for its thermal spas because water comes naturally warm to the surface, thus offering good-quality thermal water to the guests.

The Széchenyi Spa is Budapest’s largest thermal bath and is worth a visit, as is the Rudas Spa at the foot of Gellért Hill, with its rooftop hot pool offering a beautiful view of the city. At the foot of Gellért Hill is the Gellért Bath, which is also very popular and one of the oldest baths in Budapest with more than 1,500 thermal springs.

THE LAND OF ADVENTURE IN THE HEART OF EUROPE

From the towering Tatra Mountains in the south to the wild Baltic Sea in the north, Poland is filled with vibrant locations known for their splendid heritage, mouthwatering cuisine and stunning architecture. Poland is home to numerous attractions and landmarks that are sure to delight visitors from all over the world. A getaway to Poland will keep everyone happy — from beach-goers and hiking fans to city break lovers

By His Excellency Mr. Waldemar Dubaniowski, Ambassador of Poland to Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos

The country’s secret lies in the evident diversity between its regions and cities, each of which is waiting to tell a unique story. It’s time to be captivated by Poland’s pristine nature, fascinating history and diverse traditions.

WARSAW: BEAUTIFUL IN ITS DIVERSITY

Modern-day Warsaw is a vibrant metropolis where history meets the latest technology, contemporary art and architecture. Warsaw is not only one of Poland’s major business centres, but also has a rich history, lively culture and a number of renowned universities, attracting an increasing number of tourists, students, artists and business people.

Poland’s capital is full of opportunities and attractions, enabling everyone to get to know Warsaw in their own way. The city’s diversity is a perfect metaphor for the journey Poland has gone through over many centuries. Warsaw is a city of contrasts — between glittering skyscrapers and the historic Old Town, traditional Polish dishes and international cuisine and its many green zones with its urban landscape.

KRAKOW: A CITY OF HIDDEN GEMS

The historic capital, Krakow, was once home to Polish kings. Now, it is one of Central Europe’s most popular spots for travellers and an important centre of art, commerce, and culture. Krakow is Poland’s second-largest city, blending an international atmosphere with a cosy vibe, in one charming, well-balanced destination. Thanks to its long history and rich cultural heritage, there are countless hidden gems throughout the city.

Monuments, extraordinary attractions, a mix of architectural styles, green spaces and exceptional cuisine — Krakow has it all! It’s full of precious historical buildings, art and urban legends that offer an amazing variety of experiences and fun things to do. One of the most unforgettable of Krakow’s many attractions is Kazimierz, the old Jewish quarter. This charming district is quite distinct from the rest of the city, giving it a unique and fascinating charm all of its own. A one-day trip to Wieliczka salt mine, a historic monument entered on the UNESCO list, allows one to discover an incredible realm of underground corridors and chambers cut out in rock salt.

BALTIC SEA

Poland’s Baltic coast area is lined with stunning sandy beaches. One thing that makes this area unique is the presence of natural amber along the shore. Amber, which comes from the resin of the area’s pine trees that has solidified over thousands of years, is praised as much for its beauty as for its metaphysical properties. Visitors can spend their time on the Amber Coast relaxing by the sea, listening to waves and watching seagulls. Those who prefer a more active trip will not be disappointed by the offerings here. Horseback riding is a popular and exciting way to enjoy the area’s beauty. The water here is also ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and swimming. City break lovers can visit the so-called Tricity, which consists of three coastal cities — Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia — that together create a single metropolitan area. With over 1,000 years of tradition and history, Gdansk contrasts with the smaller, quieter Sopot and the young port city of Gdynia, creating a perfect seaside resort. Attracting tourists from all over the world, Tricity is bustling with life throughout the whole year.

TATRAS

The Tatras are the highest mountain range in the Carpathian Mountains, with the highest point scraping the sky at 2499 metres. The range is rugged and truly alpine in character with a mass of picturesque valleys, man-made clearings, pastures, caves, lakes, peaks and mountain passes. The choice of hiking trails is remarkable here: from easier short walks along the valleys and foothills, to highly challenging trails in the high mountains. The Tatra National Park is a beautiful and natural home to the amazingly abundant local flora and fauna. The vibrant culture, rich traditions, and original cuisine of the highlanders living at the foothills of the Tatra inspire to discover and learn more about this most fascinating region.

MAZURY

The Mazury region, located near the Lithuanian border, has been dubbed the “Land of A Thousand Lakes” thanks to the presence of thousands of lakes all interconnected via canals and other small waterways. These lakes are popular with kayakers and boaters vacationing in Poland. Many of the lakes have harbours dotted with pubs, small shops, and eateries. Others are more secluded, practically hidden inside thick trees and vegetation, and are sure to thrill nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Poland is a top destination for travellers looking to enjoy the great outdoors while on vacation in Europe. The country’s stunning lakes, beautiful seaside, mountain ranges and dramatic forests provide the backdrop for a fun-filled stay.

Whether in the mountains or by the sea, you can be sure to experience traditional Polish hospitality, which is expressed in our national proverb “Guest at home, God at home.” The magic of Polish flavours and tastes awaits to be discovered – let yourself be enchanted.

THE LAND WITH A SOUL

The Republic of Haiti, given its historical and cultural legacy, continues to be perceived and cherished for the perspective of human rights and dignity it stands for. Among other physical points of interest, the Haitian roots, culture, rare and unique history constitute the archil hills that should trigger tourists’ curiosity

By His Excellency Mr. M. Euvrard Saint Amand Ambassador of the Republic of Haiti to the United Kingdom

Formerly nicknamed Quisqueya, the island of Haiti was inhabited by Indians before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492 in America. Decimated because of forced labour due to slavery, the Indians were later replaced by black Africans torn from the African continent via the transatlantic slave trade of European colonizers who competed for control of the island.

THE HISTORY

Haiti became a colony of France for more than three centuries. It provided the raw materials that enriched the economy of the major cities of France including Paris, Bordeaux, and Nantes. In 1791, African slaves began the revolution that followed the abolition of slavery in 1794, as reported by several historians, such as Thomas Madiou. When Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte

decided to re-establish slavery in Saint Domingue (Haiti’s former name) in 1802, the slaves got united to free themselves. They defeated the largest European army of that time and gave birth to the world’s first free black nation-state in January 1804. Frightened by the subversive idea that a republic should be ruled by blacks, the Western states of the time diplomatically and economically isolated Haiti. For instance: the Vatican waited until 1860 to establish ties with Haiti, which is a country officially declared Catholic. In addition, the United States of America, despite secretly trading with Haiti, recognized Haiti in 1862, during the Civil War that caused the abolition of slavery in the United States. After its independence, which has been penalized by the international community, especially French, Haiti played an exemplary role in the quest for freedom in the region and in the world. The, then, international context and the repeated threats from France to re-establish slavery into the former colony triggered the fathers’ founders of that new nation to build multiple fortresses within most of the country’s mountains to defend the territory in case of any assault. Today, those fortresses are considered, alongside with the beautiful beaches, the most visited touristic sites in Haiti. From those fortresses, the great, mysterious, majestic, and marvellous CITADELLE LAFERRIERE is among the world’s most beautiful buildings and had been recognised as world’s heritage by the UNESCO

Moreover, Haiti provided considerable assistance in ammunition and strategies to the revolutionaries. of Latin America, in particular Gran Colombia – composed of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama – from Francisco de Miranda in late 1805 and then to Simon Bolivar. The Republic of Haiti contributed to the independence of Greece from the Ottoman Empire in 1822. Although they started to fight on 25th March 1821, which is their independence date, as a sign of recognition to Haiti’s support, the Greeks declared their independence on 1st January, like Haiti, and adopted the same national motto of Haiti’s war of independence “freedom or death.” Similarly, at the United Nations conference in February 1945 in Yalta, which France did not attend, Haiti allowed the French language to become, like the English language, a working language at the United Nations on April 27, 1945.RégisDebray in Haiti and France. Report to Dominique de Villepin, Minister of Foreign Affairs (Round Table, Paris 2004) reports the words of Georges Bidault, president of the French delegation, to Haitian diplomats: “France owes you an eternal gratitude”. Historians recall that Haiti was an emblematic figure in the debates on decolonization. Haiti has actively participated in the process of Africa’s independence in terms of human’s resource and knowledgetransfers. This historical presentation highlights the attachment of the Republic of Haiti to the humanist values of liberty, equality, justice, solidarity, and selfdetermination. These values are the foundation carried by the Haitian Revolution of January 1, 1804, as a starting point in the quest for freedom throughout the world.

HERITAGE, CULTURE & TRADITIONS

Haitian culture is refined and abundant. Indeed, Creole is the most popular language in Haiti alongside the French language which is used as an academic and administrative language. Vodou, far from being only a religion, is the crucible of the model of social organization, identity, and resilience of the Haitian people in the face of formidable circumstances. Creole and Vodou both played a decisive role in the birth of Haiti. They are, to repeat LaënnecHurbon, “processes of self-reconstruction through the re-creation of new symbolic networks taken from Africa and subject to reinterpretation…” (Vodou and the Haitian Revolution, LaënnecHurbon). Geographically, Haiti forms the western three-eighths of the island of Hispaniola, west of the Dominican Republic and located east of the neighbouring island of Cuba, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. The plate where Haiti is located is constantly jostled and crushed by tectonic movements caused by the rush between the North American plate, the Cocos plate, the South American plate, and the Nazca plate. Despite its fragile location, Haiti has an important relief that makes it an excellent touristic and culinary destination. The Haitian gastronomy is one of the best tastes in the world with every single dish being organic and fresh. Alongside with the national dishes which consist of RICE AND BEANS-LALEAU or GRIOTBANANE PESEE-PIKLIZ (fried Pork-fried plantain- chilly sauce), the remarkable and delicious SOUP JOUMOU (pumpkin soup) which is mostly consumed throughout the country every 1st January to celebrate the independence, had been recognized as world’s cultural heritage by the UNESCO in 2022. Finally, with its sublime landscapes, composed of waterfalls, caves, forests, mountains and magnificent beaches, voodoo practices, colorful naïve art and culture, Haiti has always fascinated all its visitors and remain a rare and unique experience for tourists from everywhere on the planet.

HISTORICAL AND TOURIST SITES IN HAITI

Haiti has numerous historical and tourist attractions. Some of the prominent centres of attraction as listed below.

1. The MUPANAH Museum in the city of Port-au-Prince

Built partially underground, this museum displays artefacts illustrating Haiti’s history with an emphasis on its revolutionary years and its political and cultural forefathers. Get up close to artefacts from a Colombus ship, slave shackles, murder weapons and the bell that rang in independence.

2. Île-à-Vache

Thissmall island in the Caribbean Sea is a commune in Haiti that extends over nearly 46 km2. Île-àVache, which was a den of pirates in the seventeenth century, including Captain Morgan, is a real little corner of paradise where nature imposes itself and cars have no place.

3. The Coast of the Arcadins

Located on the western shores ofHaiti, Les Côte des Arcadins in Montrouis, Haiti is a popular destination to travelers worldwide. The area is home to five gorgeous resorts: Kaliko Beach, Wahoo Bay, Ouanga Bay, Moulin Sur Mer and Royal Decameron All Inclusive Resort and Spa. Each resort offers guests something different, but all of them are perfect spots for the perfect getaway in the Caribbean.

4. Haiti’s National Historical Park

Theremains of Haiti’s National Historical Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, are found in the north of the country. The National Historical Park of Haiti includes three impressive sites: – The Citadel La Ferrière, a huge fortress erected in the early nineteenth century that rises to 900 meters above sea level, making it the largest fortress in the Caribbean. At the top, the panoramic view of northern Haiti and the Caribbean Sea is breath-taking! – The ruins of the Palais Sans Souci, the former residence of King Henri Christophe ravaged by earthquakes that occurred in 1842 and 1843. – The fortified site of Les Ramiers, a plateau containing the ruins of a fort, covered with vegetation until 1972.

5. THE Citadel La Ferrière

The Citadelle La Ferrière is a military structure built in the early nineteenth century in Milot in Haiti in the Department of Nord, by Henri Christophe. It is the largest fortress on the American continent: at 900 meters above sea level, it is located 15 km south of Cap-Haïtien, within the National Historical Park – Citadel, Sans Souci, Ramiers classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982.

6. Le Bassin Bleu

The Bassin Bleu, or Basenblé in Haitian Creole, is a beautiful natural site located near the city of Jacmel, in the mountains. It is composed of three pools with turquoise water (the Yes Basin of 4.6 meters deep, the Palmist Basin of 17.4 meters deep and the Clear Basin of 22.8 meters deep), into which sometimes spectacular waterfalls flow. Surrounded by lush vegetation, caves and fruit trees, these coolwater pools are perfect places to enjoy a swim, in an enchanting setting!

7. The Saut-Mathurine waterfall

Locatedat Camp-Perrin, in the south of Haiti, the Saut-Mathurine, is one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in the country. 27 meters high and about 30 meters wide, this incredible waterfall extends over the river Cavaillon and flows into a natural pool where it is possible to swim. Ideal after a hot day visiting the surroundings! For the anecdote, its waters are used to produce electricity and thus supply the cities of Camp-Perrin and Maniche

8. The Marie-Jeanne Cave (La Grotte Marie-Jeanne)

The Grotte Marie-Jeanne is the longest natural excavation in the Caribbean. It is a real underground labyrinth of several kilometers that would have about 56 rooms, and whose formation would date back nearly 60 million years. The interior of the cave is covered with speleothems, limestone formations typical of tropical caves. This natural treasure, located on a hill at 120 meters above sea level in the city of Port-à-Piment, in the south of the country, makes part of the things to do in Haiti!

9. The Saut d’Eau waterfall (La cascade Saut d’Eau)

WhyShould you go see the Sautd’Eau Waterfall if you plan to visit Haiti? Because the supposed magical virtues of this beautiful and vertiginous waterfall make it an emblematic sacred place of voodoo practices on the island! Its waters come from the Terrible Mountain, also considered a sacred place for Catholic and voodoo believers. The Saut d’Eau waterfall is in the district of Mirebalais, in the heart of the country.

10. Macaya National Park

This park with an area of 20 km2 is part of the Massif de la Hotte and encompasses two Haitian peaks which are the peak of Formon (2219 m) and the peak of Macaya (2347 m). It is one of the last primary forests in the country and is home to endemic species in its tropical rainforest, which explains the importance of protecting this endangered treasure.          

11. The Bay of Labadie

Labadie, or Labadee, is not only the name of a famous private seaside resort, luxurious and very frequented by tourists, it is more generally a bay formed by a paradise peninsula. Located a few kilometers northwest of Cap-Haitian, the bay of Labadie and its turquoise waters are overlooked by beautiful mountains. If you plan to explore this corner of the country, take the opportunity to stroll through Cap Haitian, or the natural site of Île-à-Rat, also called Amiga Island! The latter is an islet composed of a small virgin forest and white sand surrounded by crystal clear water from which visitors are invited to go diving, kayaking.

12. Turtle Island (Ile de la Tortue)

Tortuga Island is a Caribbean island that forms part of Haiti, off the northwest coast of Hispaniola. It constitutes the commune of Île de la Tortue in the Port-de-Paix arrondissement of the Nord-Ouest department of Haiti. The island owes its name to Christopher Columbus, because of its sea turtle shape. Tortuga is 180 square kilometres (69 square miles)[3] in size and had a population of 25,936 at the 2003 Census. In the 17th century, Tortuga was a major center and haven of Caribbean piracy. Its tourist industry and references in many works have made it one of the most recognized regions of Haiti. Recently, the cinema (Captain Blood by Michael Curtis, the pirates of the Caribbean film series…) has made it a mythical island by using it as a set and staging it! Discover this wild and mysterious island, and judge for yourself!

The original inhabitants are the Berbers, in 850 BC Dido founded Carthage the city that dominated the Mediterranean and faced Rome at the highest of its power. After three Punic wars, Rome took control of the region for 500 years, and then came the Muslims and the ottoman dynasty, and then the French occupation until Tunisia’s independence in 1956.

CLIMATE: A YEAR-ROUND DESTINATION

In addition to its excellent geographical location, Tunisia enjoys a great weather that makes it a year-round tourist destination : A Mediterranean climate on the northern coast, (rainy winters and sunny summers) while it is semi-desert or desert in inland areas with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters.

This climate diversity gives various options to choose when to go. If you want to visit the coast, the best period is between May and October, while the best period to visit the Tunisian desert will be between November and February.

This made Tunisia among the principal touristic destinations in the Mediterranean region, until October 2019 around 7.5 million tourists visited Tunisia mostly from Europe and Algeria, Russia, Japan, China and India

WHY YOU SHOULD SPEND YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY IN TUNISIA?

In fact, there are many reasons, as a tourist, you can enjoy the sea, the desert, visit museums, see Roman and Islamic monuments, enjoy thalasso, taste great food, play golf, shop in markets full of colours, and enjoy an active nightlife only in one country
Tunisia.

THE PEOPLE

Tunisians are friendly warm and generous people. They welcome guests from all over the world and are familiar with all Western and Eastern cultures especially Indian culture. Indian music and Bollywood movies are very popular.

THE BEACHES

In addition, Tunisia has more than 1300 kilometres of beautiful beaches that start from Tabarka in the north to Djerba in the south. Many hotels have their own private beaches in addition to uninhabited coastline where you can enjoy your own private stretch of paradise.

THE FOOD

Centuries of foreign occupation has incorporated French, Roman and Ottoman influences, leading to a culinary confluence that brings something to the table for everyone: from the French bread to the Turkish sweets and Italian pasta, all made in the Tunisian way. Tunisian food is spicy, sometimes Indian-level spicy, with a use of seafood, olive oil, and Harissa a hot chili paste served with most meals as a dip and is often used as an ingredient in stews and soups. It is sometimes described as “Tunisia’s main condiment”.

“Couscous” is very well known Tunisian food which can be prepared by lamb, fish, of vegetables. “Lablabi” the perfect plate for winter consists of of bread, eggs, harissa and spices all mixed with olive oil. “Brik” pastry and “salad mechouia” with tomatoes and peppers are appetizing starters, as are fresh bread and sauces, tuna, olives, roast green peppers and harissa.

NIGHTLIFE

For lovers of nightlife, Tunisia will also be your favourite destination. During the summer, festivals and concerts are spread all over the country. Night clubs are easy to find in many tourist areas and hotels especially in Hammamet and Sousse.

Active nightlife is not restricted only to the coastal areas only. Every year in November, the Electronic Dunes Festival takes place where you can enjoy dancing and music in the heart of the Nefta desert.

HOTELS AND RESORTS

Tunisia has a very developed touristic infrastructure and resorts with more than 850 hotels of various categories.

In quantitative terms, the rooming capacity in Tunisia has considerably developed, to reach 237.618 beds in 2018.

Two days ago, a few kilometers from Tozeur International Airport and the famous film site “Star Wars Epic”, “AnantaraTozeur” was inaugurated in the heart of the desert as one of the most prestigious hotels in the world.

The 5 stars hotel has 93 rooms including luxurious villas of up to 900 square meters, swimming pools, a relaxing spa, a market and a total of six restaurants.

In 2018, the famous Forbes magazine ranked Anantara Tozeur as one of the best luxury hotels in the world.

MEDICAL TOURISM

Tunisia is the second Thalassotherapy destination at a world scale after France. There are more than 49 Thalassotherapy centers throughout the country. Most of them are integrated in 5 stars Hotels. And they receive more than 152,000 visitors every year mainly from Germany France and Switzerland.

ENJOY THE EMERGING ECO TOURISM CULTURE

Eco tourism is a good choice for lovers of wild life and fresh air. In Tabarka Ain Draham or Zaghouan you can meet with the local people, share their daily life activities and spend a night in a eco friendly farm house in an experience that will allow feel the real countryside life.

DO NOT MISS !!

Often seen as simply a beach destination, Tunisia has many other attractions that make you enjoy an unforgettable journey, the old Medina of Tunis, SidiBou Said, Carthage, Kairouan, Djerba, and others places will make it live Tunisia’s cultural and historical beauty.

CARTHAGE

Founded by the King of Tyre’s daughter Elissa In 814 BC, Carthage is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is worth a long visit. The accumulation of ruins across a vast zone allows the ancient city to come alive in the imagination. In the rchaeological museum, visitors can discover the art and religious rituals of Punic Carthage. There is a rich nightlife there: restaurants, lounges, nightclubs, jazz festivals, and classical music festivals. In summer, the historic theatre hosts international shows for the International Festival of Carthage.

THE NATIONAL BARDO MUSEUM

If you want to understand the long history of Tunisia, the National Bardo Museum is a good place to start. The country’s top museum, one of the largest in Africa, is housed within a fifteenth century Hafsid palace and displays a collection of archaeological artifacts and works of art spanning the totality of Tunisia’s history. The highlight of the impressive collection is the collection of well preserved Roman mosaics – one of the best collections in the world.

SIDI BOU SAID

Located just north of Tunis, the capital. The entire town is simply beautiful, located on top of a steep cliff, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea, with flowers draped from almost every wall and doorway, and beautiful flowing vines hanging throughout the entire area. The view from SidiBou Said is absolutely phenomenal, and will continue to amaze you throughout your entire trip.

ENJOY THE SOUKS

Built in the 7th century, the Tunis medina was one of the first Arabo-Muslim towns in the Magreb, and it is a must-see for visitors. The streets in the medina are narrow and winding, full of covered souks, artisans’ workshops and residential buildings with colourful painted doors. The souks are organised by the type of products on sale. So there are souks for perfume, wedding goods, spices, textiles and so on.

HAMMAMET

Hammamet is a wonderful resort town in Tunisia. With its sandy beaches, the town is the definite top place to go to enjoy amazing holidays near the sea. Furthermore, Hammamet has a lot more to give than simply swimming and enjoying water sports on the beach. From the well-known Jasmine you can find all over the region to the many interesting buildings and natural wonders of the area, you’ll find plenty of things to fulfill your Tunisian vacation.

EL JEM AMPHITHEATER

The impressive ruins of the largest colosseum in North Africa, a huge amphitheatre which could hold up to 35,000 spectators, is found in the small village of El Jem, 3 hours from Tunis. This 3rd-century monument is one of the most iconic architectural contributions of ancient Rome.

KAIROUAN

Away from the coast, Kairouan is a fascinating city still anchored in a distant past. One of Islam’s holy cities, it was the first capital of the Maghreb. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, it conceals several marvels: the medina, the venerable Great Mosque, the Aghlabid Basins, the stunning mausoleum of SidiSahbi decorated with ceramic tiles… And of course it is impossible to forget the numerous workshops where the most famous carpets in Tunisia are made.

THE SAHARA

If you head south, you can enjoy a night in the heart of the Tunisian desert, enjoy the sunset and oasis scenes, and ride a camel. In a unique experience that makes you feel the true sense of freedom in the extended desert.

DJERBA

Tunisia’s southern island of Djerba is known for drawing tourists to its whitewashed buildings, sandy beaches rimmed with turquoise water, and colourful souks. But it’s also notable as a bastion of coexistence. The small island is the home of the last Tunisian Jews, with one of the largest and most vibrant Jewish populations in the Arab world – and the oldest synagogue in Africa.

GRAND ERG ORIENTAL

The Grand Erg Oriental is a large series of sand dunes located in the Tunisian Desert. This spectacular and expansive sand formation is truly one of the natural wonders of Tunisia. It spans an impressive area of 600 km in width and 200 km long.

There are a number of tours available to Grand Erg, and many people visit this area of the Sahara each year to witness its remarkable beauty.

STAR WARS LOCATIONS

If you have Star Wars fans in the family, you can base a whole week trip on seeing the film locations. This includes visiting the underground ‘troglodyte’ structures of Matmata, taking a hike in ‘Star Wars Canyon’ and walking through the streets of “MosEspa”.

While Star Wars is one of the best-known movies to have been shot in Tunisia, it is certainly not the only one. Raiders of the Lost Ark, The English Patient and even The Life of Brian were all filmed in Tunisia which can be an ideal location for Indian film-makers to shot the next Bollywood films.

THE HIDDEN GEM OF CENTRAL AMERICA

A destination that has it all, and diversity being its greatest attraction, Nicaragua is enjoyable, with natural beauty, rich and lively culture, incomparable traditions, and history, located in the heart of America, ideal for those looking for something different

By Her Excellency Ms. Guisell Morales-Echaverry, Ambassador of Nicaragua to the United Kingdom

Nicaragua offers you sun and beach, adventure, nature, culture, cuisine, and, colonial cities, everything that a tourist looks for on their trips. When arriving you will be greeted by its tropical weather that gives you energy and encouragement to go out and discover the country, walk through its streets, visit cities that date back to the Spanish era where you can breathe the living culture in each place, get to know the traditions, history, the exquisite gastronomy or tour its picturesque villages by bicycle, sharing with its people who, due to their unique hospitality, will capture you from the very first moment.

VIBRANT CULTURE

The culture of Nicaragua is a product of the mixture of indigenous identity with Spanish and African heritage, traditions, dances with different musical rhythms, and especially culinary customs are still preserved— one of the aspects that most attracts tourists since it captures the essence of the places where it is prepared– shows autochthonous features of each area and contributes to the rescue of the different cultural expressions of the country, becoming something attractive during your visit.

The colonial cities include urban, cultural, and historical tourism with incredible architectural sights. Granada and León are the oldest cities, founded in colonial times in 1524. An important icon of León is the Insigne y Real BasílicaCatedral de la Asunción de la Bienaventurada Virgen María, known as the Cathedral of León, the largest in Central America and one of the most beautiful in America, for its artistic and historical value, it was declared a National Historic Monument on December 14, 1999, and elevated by UNESCO to the category of World Heritage Site on June 28, 2011.

RICH ARCHITEC TURAL HERITAGE

Its churches, colonial buildings, architectural, natural and cultural heritage make this department an attractive destination on a national and international level. Likewise, the traditional purísimas, museums, legends, intense folklore, and daily laborious life make this city an unforgettable destination to spend the night and enjoy.

POPULAR TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

The unique, Granada, a destination that you definitely have to visit, converted into the tourism capital of Nicaragua, located just 40 minutes from Managua, its main attraction is the colonial, neoclassical, and baroque architecture visible in houses, streets, squares, monuments, and churches; La Calzada street is preferred by tourists, taking a ride through its roads by horse-drawn carriages is something typical of the city, and you cannot leave without savoring a delicious vigorón in Central Park or the local market, accompanied by delicious cocoa or grass ―known locally as grama- drink. One of the incredible attractions of Granada is the Islets of Granada, an archipelago that has 365 small islands that decorate the great Lake of Nicaragua, formed by the powerful eruption of the Mombacho volcano, a tropical paradise full of abundant vegetation and native fauna, in which you can see a number of species of birds, monkeys and a wide variety of fish.

The main tourist activity in the islets is boat rides or tours, which are an unforgettable experience for visitors since in these islets you can find different attractions such as the Spanish Fort San Pablo, located there to defend the city from the attack of pirates in the colonial era, also a visit to the Isla de los Monos, visit one of the restaurants located on the islets, either to eat or rest and learn about the culture of the local inhabitants. The national diversity of the country is one of its main attractions, numerous nature reserves are the cover letter of the different destinations that you can visit and activities to do, hiking up amazing mountains of extensive forests, walks between ancient natural canyons, kayaking by the rivers, lakes, and lagoons that complement these natural wonders are just a part of everything you have to do.

THE RING OF FIRE

Something unique that draws the attention of tourists is the large number of volcanoes, the ring of fire that runs through the country’s geography, constitutes part of its majestic landscapes, with 26 powerful volcanoes, 7 of them active, that offer a range of attractions and activities for doing, visiting them, exploring and appreciating their spectacular views, is simply a privilege. If what you are looking for is adrenaline, you can climb these colossi and see the resplendent magma inside its crater, camp in its surroundings, or even sandboard descending through a table down the Cerro Negro volcano, cool off in the lagoons that are inside or canopy through the treetops, are some of the activities that will leave you dazzled.

THE SUN, SAND & SERENITY

There are so many virtues of the country that thanks to its location you can enjoy the beaches of the two oceans, where you will have relaxing afternoons on the Caribbean coast with its white sands and crystal-clear waters, savoring a delicious coconut There are so many virtues of the country that thanks to its location you can enjoy the beaches of the two oceans, where you will have relaxing afternoons on the Caribbean coast with its white sands and crystal-clear waters, savoring a delicious coconut.

TRANQUIL DESTINATIONS

A surprising and unique destination in the country is the Ometepe Island, a natural paradise, known as the “Oasis of peace” an icon of tourism in Nicaragua, the Ometepe Island Biosphere Reserve is a tourist standard in the country due to its natural and cultural attractions, which can boast of being the largest island in the world within a freshwater lake with 2 volcanoes, one of them active, is located within Lake Nicaragua or Lake Cocibolca, which only takes an hour by ferry to reach its spectacular coasts, whereupon arrival the colossi Concepción and Maderas volcanoes dazzle, imposing wonders that impress all visitors. This and more is Nicaragua… A multiethnic, multilingual, and multicultural country that stands out for its natural treasures where we are sure that time will simply not be enough, and when it’s time for you to leave you will not want to go, all the beauty of Nicaragua and the affection of its people will make you feel like part of them, a unique country where there will always be something more to do and many experiences to live, unique experiences… original, that will turn your trip into an unimaginable journey

AN EXCITING TOURIST DESTINATION

Serbia as an exciting tourist destination generously offers countless reasons for you to visit and return for more exploration, over and over again. We are especially proud of Serbia’s interesting nature and its picturesque terrain

By Her Excellency Ms. Aleksandra Joksimovic, Ambassador of Serbia to the United Kingdom

Serbia has mountain peaks, both steep and mild, that entice you to conquer them. Reaching the top will reward you with the magnificent views to enjoy from numerous lookouts. River flows, meanders that they create, framed by rocks that have been carved by nature for millions of years are landscapes that you can find in West Serbia, but also in the south of the country. Those who enjoy the scenes of the meadows, fertile arable land and soothing energy choose Vojvodina, our granary. Five national parks are ideal places for getting to know the natural beauty, but also the indigenous plant and animal species inhibiting those areas.

A BREATHTAKING DESTINATION THAT RELAXES AND INSPIRES: THE UVAC CANYON AND THE FLIGHT OF THE GRIFFON VULTURE

For those who are looking for positive vibes and getting acquainted with tradition, history, and culture, cities full of life are perfect destination. There are plenty of options to choose, the metropolitan spirit of Belgrade, the energy of the European capital of culture Novi Sad or the southern temperament, spirit and tastes of Nis and Vranje.

IF YOU END UP IN BELGRADE, BE SURE TO VISIT THE LARGEST ORTHODOX CHURCH IN THE BALKANS. THE SAINT SAVA TEMPLE WILL GIVE YOU A HISTORICAL LESSON ON THE PERSEVERANCE, CHALLENGES, VICTORIES AND SUCCESSES OF SERBIAN PEOPLE

European countries can be proud of the magnificent, energetic andpowerful Danube river. Serbia is also proud of its strength, the traces it left throughout history and the places it makes beautiful along its flow.

EXPERIENCE THE PLACE WHERE THE DANUBE IS THE NARROWEST AND THE DEEPEST

Speaking of our country, we are proud to present a magnificent cultural mosaic made of millenniaold civilizations: monasteries and churches safeguarding the people, history and faith in the most difficult times; fortresses with secrets to convey, contemporary architectural achievements, scientific discoveries, as well as the modern spirit of Serbia we are excited to share with you.

VICTORIES, FEARS AND SECRETS WOVEN INTO THE FORTRESS WALLS

In addition to the described scenes and colours, an unavoidable part of every destination tour, short or long stay, is the tasting of some new, but also old, somewhat forgotten flavours. Tastes that are specific to a certain region and that generations do not give up.

SNACKS AND FLAVOURS THAT WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO COME HERE AGAIN

Vivid and beautiful, photographs are not enough. Even the storytelling cannot describe the destination. This is why we are inviting you to experience Serbia. It is the slogan of the national tourist organisation and the best invitation to come to our country. Experience Serbia!

THE MOST MUSICAL COUNTRY IN THE WORLD

This August Jamaica celebrates 179 years of Emancipation from slavery, a most significant milestone which coincides with the arrival of the first Indians to our island. We also commemorate 60 years of Independence as well as 60 years of uninterrupted diplomatic relations with India. There is much to reflect on in our shared history and indeed much to be grateful for. It is a tremendous honour as Jamaica’s first resident High Commissioner to India to greet you on this occasion. Please allow me to share with you a small snippet of my country as we move to further strengthen the relationship and foster meaningful exchanges between our great nations.

By His Excellency Mr. Jason K. M. Hall, High Commissioner of Jamaica to India

“Think you know Jamaica?” Not many countries in the world deliver such a confounding array of superlative, if not audacious global achievements from such a relatively small place with so few people. Roughly the size of the Northern Indian state of Tripura, with a population of 2.7 million, Jamaica has emerged as a global superpower of culture, through music and sport. Designated the most musical country in the world in terms of per capita output, Jamaica has the distinction of originating over 14 genres of music. Not including Reggae, our most renown, which is more of a social movement, not in reference to the dancing, though that is also a phenomenon, but due to its message of love, peace and justice, giving voice to the upliftment of people everywhere. Our musicality grabs you by the “beat of your pants”, moves your feet, stirs your heart and satisfies your soul. Both TIME Magazine’s Album of the Millennium and the BBC’s Song of the Century (Exodus and One Love) were penned by Bob Marley, a lyrical genius, one of Jamaica’s greatest sons and biggest ambassador of Reggae. In sport; Jamaica has produced the fastest woman and man on the planet (Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce and Usain Bolt) and has amassed over a third of the total Olympic and World Championship sprint medals to be won in history, repeatedly “sweeping the podium”. Just recently we produced the only person ever, to win World Championship gold in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 4x100m and 4x400m – Shericka Jackson. This legacy of sporting excellence extends to other disciplines; boxing, swimming, rugby, football, netball and of course cricket. A sport where we have made a significant contribution as part of the West Indies with legends such as George Headley, Lawrence Rowe, Jeffrey Dujon, Michael Holding, Courtney Walsh and Chris.

Gayle to list but a few. We were also the first tropical island to field a team in the winter Olympics, competing in the Bob Sled (what no snow? no problem!). Our success is attributable to our indomitable spirit, our drive to succeed and fearless unflappable yet playful nature that keeps us calm in the tense moments of competition.

Gayle to list but a few. We were also the first tropical island to field a team in the winter Olympics, competing in the Bob Sled (what no snow? no problem!). Our success is attributable to our indomitable spirit, our drive to succeed and fearless unflappable yet playful nature that keeps us calm in the tense moments of competition.

Perhaps there is some Darwinian principle at play or maybe it has to do with the way the rich fertile volcanic soil integrates with limestone filtered fresh rainwater that help create the ideal “terroir” from which comes the some of the world’s finest rum and coffee, as well as countless other medicinal plants and herbs endemic to the island.

Our national motto; “Out of Many, One People”, underscores our diversity and partly explains the unique delectability of our cuisine, a mélange of our African, Indian, Chinese and European heritage. From our worldfamous Jerk Cuisine, to fresh fruits of sea and land there is something uniquely remarkable about the tastes you will encounter. Of special note is Ital food, an all-natural, no salt, vegan fare from the Rastafarian faith, an Abrahamic religion born in Jamaica which promotes peace, love and respect of self and others, teaching us how to live in harmony with the environment.

Today Jamaica is connected to the world with over 400 international flights weekly, and there is no visa requirement for holders of most passports including Indian. Yet tourism is not the only attraction, with low inflation, strong economic growth, an investor friendly transparent regime, and the highest rank in ease of doing business in the region (6th globally, 2020 – IMF), the island is also unfolding as a destination for investment. In 2015 and 2018, Jamaica had the highest performing Stock Exchange in the world with a 233% rally. The stable credit rating, enabling government fiscal policy, developed infrastructure (6 cargo ports, 5 cruise ports, 3 international airports, extensive fiber optic/ broadband capacity) and strategic geographic positioning amalgamate to create a strong value proposition across a number of sectors, including; ICT (digital services), maritime services & logistics, agriculture, renewable energy, mining and tourism.

Whatever your inclination, whatever your passion, whether you are seeking thrilling adventure, or rest/relaxation/ rejuvenation, a romantic getaway, cultural enlightenment or spiritual alignment, investment and growth, Jamaica awaits you.

In the words of Bob Marley; “One Love, One Heart,………. Come to Jamaica and feel alright!”