The open city tour bus took around the streets of Manhattan covering statue of liberty, WTC, china town, Macy’s, NY post office, Empire State building, Wall Street, Rockefeller Centre, FBI headquarters, and many other known important places. As we moved around the financial districts, I could see the tall offices having historic importance with special designs. The road planning here is simply mind-boggling. Each and every corner of the place is neat and clean with superb town planning. You could find huge big brands departmental stores here. Each day billions of dollars are exchanged here with financial stakes running high and dry, luckily the economy has recovered back from recession.

The people here are so friendly helping you for every thing you need to know about the city. The train and roads network are well connected so if you do not want to travel by your car, you can enjoy the luxuries of train and buses with heaters on. Even during peak hours, the train was empty, such is the beauty and planning of the place, you get trains every 2 minutes. Every nook and corner of any streets of NY, you can find the famous Starbucks Coffee, having a hot chocolate here was rejuvenating experience. Each dollar has a value here, you get quality item for whatever money you spend and equally you do not get cheated.

There are strict governmental rules here for public behavior, traffic controls, road crossing, traveling in a metro train and even in restaurants. You cannot escape the beauty of the place that is so appealing and graceful. Any big entrepreneur would love to have an office here in Manhattan. We get rented offices here, with a minimum rent of $1000 per month. I never knew, where the evening passed by, it always falls short of time when you visit the streets of Times Square. There are varied eateries here, with Subway being the most famous amongst Americans.

Later in the evening, we took a F train to Roosevelt Av. to Jackson heights, a very Indian Community. Although the place had more of non-vegetarian restaurants, I was so excited to see only Vegetarian Indian restaurant named, Rajbhog serving you Indian delicacies and other fast food items. We had 2 sabzis with parathas and also my favorite puran polis and Batata Vadas, a lovely meal and we headed for our next business meeting with Mr. Koya, a Chartered Accountant. Back then at home, we were sipping a hot cup of tea, enjoying a cozy evening with Ramesh uncle. Wanna get up tomorrow early morning 5’0 clock, good bye.

Ramesh uncle had come to pick us up at the airport, driving back at home I was so relaxed feeling the homely atmosphere. Darshana aunty had prepared an Indian food for us, we all enjoyed the dinner with much enthusiasm. It was almost late 12’0 clock at night that we received our luggage at home. The next morning having a lovely breakfast, we left for our visit to Manhattan downtown, New York’s financial street. I was aghast looking at the completeness of the city. The very people here make it a lovely experience, the courtesy and the sense of humanity is what these people are all about.

Early morning Darshana aunty took us to 40 years old Geeta Temple consisting of all the Hindu gods, as we entered the temple I could sense peace and calm. The gods were decorated with lovely purple color and background of the place gave it a cozy look. Later than that, we went to Jain temple which was distributed in to 4 floors, each having different Jain gods belonging to different sects.

A quick visit on to all the floors, we were rushing to catch a train to Manhattan, downtown, the number E train. I could see tall high rises that were working 24*7. You come here any time of the day or night, people are working and the streets are moving. After meeting ramesh uncle at his office, we had a quick snack at some Indian restaurant. Walking down the streets of Manhattan, I could see people rushing in and out of the office. Some were busy projecting their ideas in their glass cabins and a lovely cold weather outside.

A little far from World Trade Centre, there was 9/11 memorial centre where the pictures of WTC attack and other details of the attack were portrayed in writings and through pictures. I could literally sense the degree of the attack and how these people have come out of the shock.

Farther than that, we walked around Brooklyn Bridge that connects to Brooklyn. There are in all 5 major bridges in NY that connects the cities internally. The beauty of the place was tantamount to Nariman point in Mumbai, India. I could see people wearing their sports gear, bicycling around the bridge in one lane and the other for evening walkers. It was truly an experience of lifetime.

Down back to the start of the bride walking a shorter distance we exchanged 2 trains to reach 179 st. and from there we took a private car service to reach home. What a lovely day it was. Meet me tomorrow for my next City tour experience.

I am going to take you down my personal trip to USA not just counting on the destinations I will cover, but you will get to read about my experiences. The last time I came here in the year August 2008, I had some beautiful memories meeting beautiful and friendly people here. I will cover my whole trip in 35 days. Right now I have boarded Amsterdam – Detroit flight.

It would be almost like 24 hours I left my country, India, the climate was quite hot and humid there and as I changed countries I could feel the environment getting colder. I had some best experiences with Delta Airlines; I traveled in for the very first time. I did not even realize, I passed my whole night snoozing of in the luxurious seats. The delta India – Amsterdam flight was a unique experience, passing through various security checks and background checks by the officials here. Although, I do not have any personal angst, its their duty anyways.

I am going to cover, New York, Washington DC, Atlanta, Oklahoma city, Houston, San Antonio, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Chicago. Well, I do not know much about these beautiful cities, but would surely get to know once I reach there. It is shivering cold outside the airplane as I could sense the window glasses, the outside temperature is around -F°54 , but am happy with the officials as the heaters are on inside. But one of the most amazing experiences for today was the early morning Amsterdam Airport, looking at it from high altitude was like WOW, as the glittering yellow lights made it look like twinkling stars on the earth. Seriously, am enjoying my tour already without even getting down at any special destination.

Now there was some very interesting episode happened at Detroit airport, I was stunned and never expected this to happen. By now, I am too tired would tell you tomorrow in my next article.

And if you also think except skyscrapers and modernization, there is nothing to see in Shanghai then, think again! Here are top ten reasons you to shanghai china places to visit:

• Once you step out of Shanghai airport, the first things that you will notice are pretty buildings, varying in size and designs. Yes, Shanghai is phenomenal in architecture, which is innovative. The city is filled with such skyscrapers that will leave you speechless.
• If you are such person who enjoys going to museums rather than clubs, then this is the right place to come. Shanghai has flourishing culture and variety of language, religions and historical structures.
• Shanghai being the main centre of trade and finance, and multicultural, the cuisine here is distinctively different that you will not find anywhere else in China. If you are a foodie person and does not mind tasting diverse and variety of dishes than this is the place you should come to!
• One of the most visited temples by tourists in Shanghai is City God Temple. Here you will get to see ancient and traditional side of Shanghai. Reach there early as it is flooded by tourists.

• If you have kids with you or just want to have fun, go to Jinjiang Amusement Park, it is a big park with water amusement rides, midway games, rides and much more. The rides are very pioneering and exhilarating; you cannot miss it to try!

• This year from May until October is best time to visit Shanghai for the Expo 2010 Shanghai event. You will have great fun and will get a chance to see, and know Shanghai’s rich culture and food.
• If you are a nature lover, then you cannot miss out Shanghai Zoo, which is a huge zoo in the city. It has variety of plants and animal species, plus creative gardens and shows. The zoo is also home for pandas too.

• Accommodations in hotels are plenty and economical, if compared to United States. Even the suites in luxury hotels are affordable. So there is no problem of staying in hotels or thinking about the rates and expense and it is economical.
• If you want to see natural beauty of the city then autumn and spring period are best time to visit. During these periods, it is neither too hot nor too cold, and the landscape looks very beautiful and colorful too.
• Many Hollywood, action oriented, films have been shot in Shanghai. E.g., the Transformers Revenge of the Fallen sequence was shot in Shanghai.

PURE – Partygoers who have seen and partied here all night long will agree with me. It is the most famous and respected nightclub in whole Vegas. It is known for its elite décor and relaxing upscale surrounding. The best part is this club is affordable for good night out at club. The VIP entry ticket will just cost you around fifty dollars. This club also offers rooms which are cozy and different from each other. If you are lucky enough you will get to see Pussy Dolls performance, as they often seen performing here. Even though the VIP tickets are affordable that doesn’t mean they will allow you in shorts and t-shirt. The Club maintains its high reputation of sophistication so better dress classily to impress.

Rain club:

Here most of the crowd you will come across will be young couple or singles searching for another single. The age group of the crowd who like to come here is between 21years old to 31 years old. The best part of this club is the lighting art that attract most of the party lovers. Many VIP access option are available and often Paul Okenfold performs here.

TABU being smaller and calmer than other clubs in Vegas is well known for its sophisticated crowd, elegant lighting and cozy environment which gives trance like vibe. Money is not everything here until unless you don’t look sophisticated and sexy. Entry is strictly based on clothing style here. Once you get entry, you will just flow with the music here!

TAO is blend of both club and restaurant. This club is the most expensive club in whole Vega. The interiors of the club and restaurant, both are themed according to Asian cultures and colors. The club’s atmosphere brightens up by the attractive models that prance around the club. The food costs equally expensive as much as entry fees of the club! Reservation is must before coming to this club. As far as dressing is considered, Asian themed clothes should do.

1.    Saint Moritz, Switzerland

Saint Moritz has the highest standards in skiing. Include it at the top of your list if you are looking for that perfect holiday in a ski resort. The resort was the venue for the Winter Olympics. Several television shows and James Bond flicks have the backdrop of the Saint Moritz resort.

Even if you do not wish to ski, this resort is your ideal destination. By skipping the eight-kilometer slope, you can visit the Segantini Museum or the Morteratsch Glacier.

The best way to get to Saint Moritz during winter is through train. The cold conditions are not favorable for driving. In addition, parking woes are detrimental to your vacation.

2.    Verbier, Switzerland

Verbier is another popular ski resort in Switzerland. The resort is one of the biggest in the world. The rich and the famous make it a point to visit the resort.

The Stairway to Heaven is always a challenge for amateur as well as professional skiers. The slopes of Mont Gele will make the adrenaline soar in adventure enthusiasts.

To get to Verbier, you need to cross Geneva, which is 160 kilometers away. Get online to avail the appropriate train routes. A cable car or bus ride is the best way to reach Verbier.

3.    Cortina d’ Ampezzo, Italy

This place is popularly known as Queen of the Dolomites. The Cortino d’ Ampezzo is considered one of the finest ski resorts in Italy. The favorable slope is maintained throughout the year, although it is during the winters when it becomes a show stealer.

The charisma and hospitality of the local population attract thousands of travelers the world over. Besides skiing, adventure seekers can try their hand at snow boarding. The place is a gastronomic wonder of Italy. Tourists can wind up their vacation with a visit to Venice.

4.    Courchevel, France

Courchevel 1850 is the perfect getaway for ski lovers. The resorts of Courchevel are named after the altitude they peak at. 1850 is the highest altitude and offers the most luxurious facilities.

To prevent the accumulation of ice, the city makes use of heated pavements. The resort presents the most difficult scales to peak. Skiers of all skill levels can give it a shot. The nightlife is a thing to remember. Begin partying at La Croissette, the center of Les Caves.

5.    Val d’Isere France

The Val d’ Isere is situated in the French Alps. It is regarded as the finest ski resort in the world. It offers the most luxurious facilities and services. The slope for skiing is high. The glacier shrinks every year and this reflects in the climate.

The Val d’ Isere has been a traditional tourist hotspot. There are a number of accommodations that travelers can utilize. The local Firemoon Festival involves skiing in the night followed by partying.

6.    Kitzbuhel, Austria

Kitzbuhel in Austria is another world-class ski resort. This medieval village is home to restaurants, clubs, and crash pads. Located in the Tyrolean Alps, this resort is sure to enthrall you with activities such as balloon trips, squash, or sleigh ridesat Kitsbuhel.

Souvenir shops are abundant in the area. They have great gifts to take home. The public baths give you an idea of the Roman Empire.

Tokyo always does bigger, so wont regret coming here! The themed area of this park is Tokyo Disneyland. Per ticket will cost you around sixty-four dollars and you can also get tickets in bulk and multi-day tickets. There are many general parks you can go to and plus the rides and entertainment section, that also you cannot missed out. The whole place has showy lights, shows, rides that are flashier and better than USA’s Disney Parks. One whole day is not enough, at all, to see these rides!

As you enter the Tokyo Disneyland, you will get confused where to start from as it is divided into seven sections; World Bazaar, Adventure land, Western land, Critter Country, Fantasy Land, Toon town, and Tomorrow land. Each of the themed parks has something unique and different kinds of rides and shows to offer. If you feel hungry there, do not worry about the eateries there. There are shops and dining areas available, to eat and drink after trying some pulsating ride and walking, exploring the park.

If you do not mind getting wet and love, water then you should not miss out Tokyo DisneySea section. To explore this section, better to come next day, as it needs another whole one day to try to see all water rides, amusement, adventure available here. The theme is inspired and based on the Disney movies that feature water like Little Mermaid. You will need different tickets to enter Tokyo DisneySea, as this park is separate. You will get combination tickets on discount nut better option would be buying multi-day stay tickets. But you have to but different ticket to enter in this park, as it is separate from Tokyo Disney Park.

Who says so, Disney Parks in Tokyo is only for children! The Park is designed for both, children and adult, to enjoy together. There are easy rides for children available and adventurous rides for only adults, families can and enjoy this park together.

At a distance from Theme Park and adjacent to DisneySea, is situated Cirque Du Soleil Tokyo. It is a must see theater in the area. Thus, because of its popularity, the tickets are expensive but make sure you book good seat with good ticketing deal. The theater shows regular shows of the most well liked Cirque Du Soleil Shows. And only children will love it but adults will also enjoy, watching it!

After hectic day of screaming your lungs out on rides and having fun, you can relax and get lazy at Disney Resort Hotels inside the park. The rates are high but really good to stay in. But to have food, you should get out of the park to Tokyo’s cheaper meals and better service. Tokyo is filled with delicious street food and restaurants to have food. There are many hotels nearby the park which will cater according to you need.

The specialty of the island is that it boasts of small luxury boutique hotels.  Most of these hotels are in keeping with the architecture and style of the old town of 700 years.

Rhodes Old town has many distinctions to its credit.  Besides being declared a UNESCO world heritage site since 1988, the town also ranks as the largest inhabited medieval town of Europe. Some of the main attractions of the town include the Street of Knights, this is the most important and imposing avenue of the town and includes the former residencies of the various nationalities of the Order of the Knights of St John.

The famous Street of Knights is a very popular place frequented by tourists.  It leads to the Grand Master’s Palace, which in the present day is a museum full of significant archaeological finds from ancient as well as modern Rhodes.

There is no dearth of shops, bars or cafes in Rhodes. An interesting aspect about the place is it is very easy to get lost in the narrow, winding alleys.  However, this aspect makes your visit all the more interesting as you get a chance to uncover some of the hidden gems of the island.

The legendary Avalon Boutique Hotel is a history lover’s delight.  It is housed in the fortress walls of the old town and offers up to six suites, each unique in interior decoration based on the medieval period, however with a modern twist. One can experience a spectacular view from the veranda of the rooms.

The island also has some good stuff for fashion lovers as well, and the monument that I am referring to is the Nikos Takis Fashion Hotel.  Two famous fashion designers, Nikos and Takis, own this hotel and each of the seven suites of the hotel are individually designed by them.

The Spirit of the Knights boutique hotel has been opened recently. The hotel has been restored with the help of the archaeology department of Greece.

It is recommended that one stay in a boutique hotel once in Greece’s Rhodes Island. These hotels offer a much more personalized experience and the advantage of being in the heart of a medieval town only makes the holiday all the more interesting.  Another aspect of all the bars and restaurants and shops being build within the original walls of city only adds to the excitement. The best part of the visit by any means is when you get lost in the narrow alleys and in the process discovering something new about Rhodes.

Thailand, mostly known as the golden land, because the land gives out some luster not because gold is hidden underground but be it rich fertile rice field or cool golden sandy beaches, the country has its own charisma to attract tourists from all over the country. After Tsunami if people might have visited Thailand, they would know the after effect of the Tsunami; debris everywhere, all houses, villas, hotels nearby beach, destroyed, interiors of the country was filled by seawater, many lives lost and hopes to restart at the edge! The most damaged places in Thailand were Phuket and Phi Phi, which had no hopes to be rebuilt for tourist attraction. The view was heart aching. But now after five years, many things have changed in Thailand.

After many new projects to rebuild the cities and beaches, the government and the people are also taking measures to be prepared for other similar natural disasters. Tourism industry is also renewed and made better. For example, you will get see many new hotel like Marriott, Westin Siray Bay Resort and spa, Four Points BY Sheraton Hotel and more luxury hotels and boutiques in Phuket. But except for the luxurious hotels, you will find many lodges and small hotels, which fit, in your budget. Thus, some of the areas in Thailand are full packed by the hotels, foe instance, Phuket, itself, has forty seven thousand hotel rooms.

After hitting by Tsunami and then recession, the country people are offering their service to tourists in order to earn extra bucks. You will find many vendors selling stuffs or offering massages at beaches. But don’t click pictures with baby Gibbons as baby gibbons can only be taken if their mother is killed – undoubtedly, to have these gibbon to click pictures, thousand of gibbons are killed, just to earn money. So say no, if they ask you to click picture with baby gibbons. There is also a Gibbon Rehabilitation Project, which works to rehabilitate gibbons, used for tourism.

Thailand has always been great place to visit. And after destruction that occurred five years before, it has many new things to offer and even the rates are cut down to lure tourists. So now you have cheap stay at luxury hotel and can live king size life at minimum expenses!

Monterey is a town of Coastal Community situated in Northern California. With it neighbors, Pacific Grove and Posh Carmel to the south, together they form Monterey Peninsula. It has long, beautiful and peaceful stretch of shoreline and abundant forest. It also ranks third in Yahoo’s list of ‘Prettiest Towns’. The place has attraction such as golf, galleries, beaches, but the main attraction that many tourists visit here is for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium has at least more than million visitors each year and also known as world-class aquarium in the country. It has world’s richest and most diverse of marine surroundings. It has around thirty five thousand variety of plants and over six thousand different species of animals. You cannot miss out seeing Ocean Edge Wing, which is build to grow California kelp, it is also first tank to get build too. And another tank is in Outer Bay Wing, which has world’s largest piece of paned glass. Here you will get to see dense kelp forest, variety of marine life as well as mammals such as whales, sea horses, seals, sea lions and dolphins.

Monterey is also rich in Hispanic heritage and also original site for Spanish exploration. The town has number of restored buildings, which belong to Spanish and Mexican periods. Here you will find the San Carlos Cathedral founded in 1770 and there is one more place that most tourists do not know is the ghettos of Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row.

In Monterey, you will find few shops and restaurants that are situated at different shopping districts. The market area is fantastic to wander and interact with locals. Throughout the year, you will see some or other events held by the local community, for instance, worldwide known Monterey Jazz Festival. For art lovers, there are plenty of great museum as well as galleries.

Its not part of Monterey but this one place is excellent and you should not miss it for anything! Just down seventeen-mile drive from Monterey, you will see Pebble Beach. There are more two things to see: Pebble Beach Golf Course and the Pebble Beach Auto Show. It is just amazing to see green-coated ground along the seashore! But over all the pebble beach has breathtaking views that you will never forget.

If you are looking for more peaceful and serene place to spend holidays then Monterey is the best place to come! Even though Monterey is small city, it has many things to do around and has excellent facilities and attractions.