StaraTrta

Oldest Grape Bearing Vine, StaraTrta - Image by vagabond

Found in Maribor, StaraTrta is one of the oldest wine cellars and grape vines in all of Europe. When you go here you can see the wine being created, and you are invited in to try some of the fresh wines they are making. If you love wine, or if you are a fan of old world culture, then you will absolutely love the StaraTrta.

Dominikanerkloster

The Dominikanerkloster is found in Ptuj and it is an old religious building that has a rather lengthy history. First used and occupied by the Romans for worship of Mithra, it was later purchased by Christians and turned into a religious museum that also has many other items like crypts and a rare coin collection.

This is the perfect place to find out the history of Slovenia, and it can be very entertaining to walk the old halls and see all the artifacts and items held in the museum.

Tartini Square

Tartini Square - Image by dearbarbie

Located in Piran, the Tartini Square is the center of town and it grants you access to many other local hotspots like a maritime museum and a host of great restaurants. If you want to indulge in Slovenia culture and food, then this is the place to be.

Along with all the stores and restaurants, there is one other thing most Slovenia tourists like from Tartini Square: the architecture. The architecture here is among the best in Slovenia and it really gives you a good look at their style. There are also boats that can take you to other places outside of Slovenia, like Venice. If you want to hop back and forth between places, then Tartini Square can also provide that for you.

Praetorian Palace

The Praetorian Palace is another historic site found in Slovenia, and you can locate it in the town of Koper. This is an interesting place that mixes both the Middle Ages and modern times.

Praetorian Palace - Image by lavidoo

You will see the Middles Ages history by looking at the castle itself. This castle was used hundreds of years ago, and the architecture is still accurate to its original design. While there have been some upgrades here and there, it still looks similar to when it was first made. The Praetorian Palace also has many interesting artifacts and items from when the castle was made.

There are also many modern items on display here. Slovenia government officials often use the castle for official meetings, so you may be able to see a few high-ranking people within the Slovenia government.

ZorbEkopool

Located in the Celje area, this is an area dedicated entirely to zorbing. This is a very fun, but often unknown of, activity. You start off by getting in a large plastic ball. The ball is large enough for most people, so you shouldn’t have any trouble fitting inside.

The ball is then rolled down a steep cliff. While rolling, you will be tumbling around inside the zorb. Since there is a thick outer layer, it will be difficult for anything to damage you, like a rock, and there is air in the zorb so it should not quickly sink if submersed in water.

Many people love the adrenaline rush they get when zorbing, and it is both a fun and simple activity that almost anyone can do.

Conclusion

Slovenia has many fun attractions. Most of the attractions are historical or religious, but there are many other great things to do here, like zorbing. If you are in, or planning to be in, the Slovenia area, then check out one of these five hotspots. You are sure to enjoy them, regardless of your tastes. The majority of these attractions are either free or inexpensive, so you won’t have to spend much to go to them.

Author Bio

Tom Demers writes for Organic Baby Nook, an organic baby products guide for earth-conscious parents.

Colosseum - Image by albert_debruijn

Of course, the Colosseum in Rome is one of the first tourist attractions of which most people think. It was built during the time of the mighty Roman empire. It was a stupendous architectural achievement thousands of years ago and remains just as impressive today. It is an elliptically shaped amphitheater that was originally used by the gladiators and other public theatricals as 50,000 spectators watched. Because the original floor of the arena was made of wood, most of it has disintegrated by this time, leaving the underground chambers, formed of stone, visible. Currently, more than five million visitors come to the Colosseum each year to view its past and current grandeur. Visit this website for a more complete history of the Colosseum. http://www.roman-colosseum.info/

The Vatican is another highly visited site in Italy. In fact, it is its own city-state located entirely within the city limits of Rome. It is the worldwide home of the Roman Catholic Church which boasts over a billion adherents around the world. The Vatican is entirely enclosed by walls and is home to some of the most gorgeous architecture and artwork in the world. Some of the world’s greatest masters worked on the beauty within the Vatican. For example, Michelangelo is widely known for paining the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel while other famous artists whose work is there include Bernini, Botticelli and Raphael. Many Roman Catholics visit the Vatican each year for religious reasons. Altogether, it is estimated that over four million individuals visit this tiny city each year. Check out the Vatican City’s official website at http://www.vatican.va/phome_en.htm to learn more about the religious calendar as well as local museums and attractions.

Venice Grand Canal - Image by aaadert

In Venice, the Grand Canal is a widely popular tourist attraction. Venice is known for being completely surrounded by water. In fact, instead of streets, it has waterways. The largest waterway is known as the Grand Canal which has public transportation by way of water buses and water taxis. Additionally, tourists can enjoy the old world charm of riding in a gondola. The Grand Canal passes through the heart of historic Venice, providing numberless glances at beautiful architecture. Two of the most famous historical buildings, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute and the Rialto Bridge, are extremely popular among tourists. Here is a look at the Rialto Bridge on the Canal. http://www.citypictures.net/r-europe-148-italy-222-venice-221-rialto-bridge-grand-canal-venice-italy-2547.htm

Pompeii is famous for its tribute to ancient history. Pompeii was a thriving Italian city during the legendary years of the PaxRomana. In AD 79, the city was buried under fifteen or more feet of ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. After this ancient city was rediscovered in the 1700s, it became a time capsule of ancient Roman civilization. Today, around two and a half million people visit the site each year to see the archeological remains and to learn more about the ancient culture. Those who are interested in visiting some of the archeological sites can look at the website http://www.pompeiisites.org/Sezione.jsp?idSezione=1165&idSezioneRif=1726

The Italian Riviera is a gorgeous strip of land that extends east from the French Riviera. It is historic in its vacationing draw; people have vacationed in this area, admiring the rugged coastal beauty and the quaint architecture, for hundreds of years. The most important city in the Riviera is Genoa. However, the area is also known for many other coastal towns including the internationally known Portofino and Cinque Terre. The area boasts numerous gorgeous beaches as well as other outdoor activities such as hiking. Here is a look at some of the area’s coastline. http://www.best-beaches.com/europe/italy/italian-riviera#

Vacationing in Italy is an experience never to be forgotten. Whether one visits ancient sites and learns more about past people and cultures or experiences the modern conveniences of resort communities on the coast, the people and atmosphere of Italy beckon welcomingly. Visit Italy for its strong ties to history and its gorgeous scenery.

Author Bio

Denise Hill writes for Guest Blogs Galore on a variety of topics including travel!

/baku, Azerbaijan - Image by teuchterlad

While most travelers choose popular destinations like the Bahamas and Mexico to satisfy their vacation needs, there are a number of gorgeous destinations off the beaten bath that are equally as enjoyable. Baku, Azerbaijan is one of these locations. Baku is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is located where Europe and Asia meet and its history dates as far back as the 5th century, which means that travelers can feel confident they will be immersed in the city’s rich history the moment they arrive.

Baku is the largest city in the country of Azerbaijan and is also the largest city on the Caspian Sea. It is located on the southern shore of the Absheron Peninsula and was proclaimed in 2009 as the Islamic Culture Capital. With over 2 million people living within the city, it is perfect for travelers who are looking to experience an entirely different culture while feeling as if they are part of something large than themselves. There are a number of large hotel chains located in Baku, allowing visitors to escape to their tranquil resort when needing a break from the busy streets of Baku.

There are two parts of the city, Downtown and Old Inner city. These two sections boast entirely different atmospheres and allow visitors to catch a glimpse of both old and new and the way the two converge. Because Baku is the scientific, cultural, and industrial center in the country, it is definitely the place to go if looking to experience life in Azerbaijan from all different angles. Visitors can visit cultural centers or take advantage of Baku’s bustling nightlife. There are endless opportunities in the city. Some of the famous tourist locations are Downtown Fountain Square, One and Thousand Nights Beach, Shikhov Beach and Oil Rocks. If looking to experience Baku’s culture, the city boasts two phenomenal museums – the Bake Museum of Modern Art and Azerbaijan State Museum of History. There are also several locations, such as the Maiden’s Tower, that provide excellent views of the city. Many tourists consider these sites to be must-sees when visiting the city because of the historical significance of these ancient sites. In total, Baku boasts 30 museums and 7 theaters. The city is also home to 111 higher education institutions and a philharmonic society. Opera and film lovers will feel right at home in Baku as a result of the opera theatre, film studio, and cinema centers that reside within the city’s walls.

Maidens's Tower - Image by istownbull

Baku enjoys a subtropical, semi arid climate, which means that it experiences hot and dry summers and cold, wet winters. The city is also infamous for its strong winds that are present throughout most of the year. The city’s name actually translates to city on the hill and windy city. During the months of July and August, travelers can enjoy average temperatures of 80 degrees and little rainfall, making this time of year the ideal time to visit.

For those looking to experience an entirely different culture and immerse themselves in a city filled with gorgeous architecture and rich history, Baku, Azerbaijan is the perfect destination. It has something for everyone and is sure to leave visitors with pleasant memories for decades to come.

Author Bio

Krystina Malinowski is a travel blogger, keeping people updated while staying protected with NetQin.

Shambhala Mountain Center

Shambhala Mountain Center - Image by Michael Zimmer

Located in the Red Feather Lakes area of Colorado, this Buddhist center is set against a lush valley and a large bird sanctuary. This retreat offers both a week-long lesson in meditation and an intensive study that lasts for about a month. There are single-sex dorms, so be prepared for this before going.

Esalen Spiritual Retreat
Located near the Big Sur coast in California, this retreat is a self-sufficient Buddhist paradise full of workshops and a functioning gardening thriving with fruits and vegetables. The workshops here can help you find yourself through martial arts, meditation and other spiritual practices.

Middle Way Meditation Retreat
Found in Loei, Thailand, this Buddhist retreat is one of the strictest on this list. Most retreats allow visitors to talk and act like themselves, but this retreat is all about personal isolation and refraining from any malevolent behavior. Guests are not to tell lies, speak with people from the other gender or kill anything living, including insects. During the stricter times, you will not even be allowed to speak at all.

However, for all this, many people have been able to find themselves from this rigorous work.

Omega Institute

Omaega Institute - Image by Kelzone

This retreat, found near the Hudson Valley in New York, is not specifically Buddhist. However, the workshops include many of the most spiritual teachings, including Buddhist, Sufism and Hinduism. Regardless, there are about 20 courses that teach students about meditation, and the retreat welcomes both novices and advanced practitioners.

White Cloud Sanctuary Retreat
Found at Santa Ana, Costa Rica, this retreat is unlike any other. Most of the retreats allow two or three people to stay in the same area, but this retreat only allows one person per room. This gives guests a great way to study the spiritual practices by themselves, without dealing with the outside world.

Holy Isle
Near Scotland’s island of Arran, this retreat is only meant for the most serious and advanced of students. This retreat helps students achieve the best in meditation and there are only 65 rooms available for guests. There are group classes, and professional Buddhists will help you learn the most advanced meditation techniques.

Osho Meditation Resort

Osho Meditation Resort - Image by Feedbacks

This retreat can be found in Pune, India and it is for people who are just starting on their spiritual path. Due to this, the retreat has many uncommon activities, like a nightclub and tennis court. Despite this, the retreat has a very serious meditation time, along with power-breathing and dancing. Everyone involved in the meditation sessions is required to wear a dark red robe. This is because of the belief that wearing the same color during meditation can increase the overall energy.

Insight Mediation Society
You can find this center in Massachusetts and it is meant for people who enjoy walking meditation. The spiritual activities begin in the early morning and extend until 10 at night. Most of the day is silent, so this can be a difficult retreat for people who are new to Buddhist teachings.

Green Gulch Farm Zen Center
This center is located at Muir Beach, California and it embraces Japanese Buddhism. This is only meant for intense studies, so new practitioners may want to avoid this place until they have gained some experience. Most of the practices revolve around zazen, or seated and silent meditation.

Ananda
Found in the Himalayas in India, this is a great place for both new and seasoned students. The best thing about this retreat is that there are one-on-one lessons, so everyone can learn at their own pace. There is also a tea lounge and 78 rooms.

Conclusion
There are many Buddhist retreats in the world, but these are 10 of the best. Whether you are new to Buddhism or you have done it for years, you are sure to find at least one retreat from this list that will teach you exactly what you need. So, go off and find yourself at one of these places.

Author Bio

Tom Demers writes for Del-Immune V®, which is designed to strengthen immune system function with its natural probiotic supplement made from the lactobacillus rhamnosus.

Air Balloon

This planet is a beautiful place and the terrain and scenery varies immensely all around the world. Visiting the amazing mountains, deserts, oceans, river valleys, and other fabulous places on this earth is incredible up close and personal, but nothing may compare to seeing these sights from high above them. This new perspective can lend a certain magic to what lies below. Mountains change into enormous jagged masses of land and peaceful rivers can be seen snaking on for mile after mile. The world seems to stretch on forever and things are revealed that can’t be experienced on the ground.

One of the most magnificent ways to view just how enormous and grand this world is from the basket of a hot air balloon. No noise of an airplane’s engine with the view obscured by clouds – just silently floating above the Earth with nothing but breathtaking landscapes or cityscapes below. Here are five of the best places to experience from a hot air balloon.

Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley is one of the premiere regions for wine in the world, rivaling those of France and Italy. While great wine, gourmet food, and five-star accommodations can be found here, another plus is being able to view this wonderful natural setting from above. A balloon ride in Napa Valley soars over fields of yellow sunflowers mixed in with squares of brown earth not yet planted. Besides the vineyards there is mix of deep green valleys and olive groves. Lucky passengers may be taken down into a flower-laden meadow to enjoy a glass of Napa Valley wine.

The Australian Outback

Some may consider that the hot and arid climate of the Australian Outback is brutal, but it is also hard to deny its beauty. The Great Red Center as it is known goes beyond the average definition of “desert.” A balloon ride provides sweeping views of the amazingly red soil and of Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock. Ayers Rock is probably the most famous landmark in Australia. From a balloon tour taken at sunrise or sunset this sandstone rock formation seems to almost glow red.

Air Balloon Trip - Image by bigballoons

Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia has a very unique landscape plus weather conditions that are conducive to hot air ballooning, making it one of the most well known places in the world for this endeavor. The experience here is considered to be like a dream because of the strange limestone mountains. Other formations that resemble chimneys and cave churches are spread throughout deep valleys and groves of olives. As with many hot air ballooning areas, dawn is the best time to experience the beauty of Cappadocia.

Maasai Mara, Kenya

Maasai Mara is sprawling national game reserve in Southwestern Kenya. It is famous for the Great Migration of game that occurs here every July to October. Literally millions of gazelles, zebras, and wildebeests migrate through this reserve to find water. While something of a phenomenon when seen at ground level, it is even more spectacular from the gondola of a hot air balloon. It is such an essential part of any visit to the area this time of year that it is often part of the itinerary when planning a Kenyan safari.

Wadi Rum, Jordan

Wadi Rum in southern Jordan may be better known as the Valley of the Moon. It is a hodge-podge of sharp peaks and rose-colored sandy plains. This is a perfect place for hot air ballooning because it has such a variety of things to see. From heights of 7,000 feet there are awe-inspiring views of not just the desert but the unusual rock formations, natural springs, and sand dunes. Since it is so close to the border with Israel, views of the Red Sea can be seen as well.

Author Bio

Brent  Davies is a brand promotional specialist and avid blogger who writes for Search Marketing Zone.