safe countries

Dominica – the Nature Island of the Caribbean

DOMINICA – THE NATURE ISLAND OF THE CARIBBEAN

DOMINICA – THE NATURE ISLAND OF THE CARIBBEAN

The Commonwealth of Dominica is an independent island country in the Eastern Caribbean, south of the Leeward Islands. It is the northernmost of the Windward Islands, and should not be confused with the Dominican Republic, the Spanish-speaking Caribbean nation that shares a land border with Haiti. Dominica has a population of nearly 73,000, and its capital is Roseau. Why is Dominica the Nature Island of the Caribbean? It truly lives up to its title because of its unspoiled, natural beauty. The island features rainforests, lush valleys, boiling lakes, hot and cold sulfur springs, volcanic peaks, rivers, waterfalls, and springs at every turn.

Unlike many other Caribbean islands, Dominica has not submitted to mass luxury resort tourism. Instead, it maintains an authentic and intimate atmosphere. As a result, its untouched environment is ideal for nature seekers, hikers, and travellers who want to connect deeply with nature. Although the island has beaches, they are not its main attraction. Due to Dominica’s volcanic makeup, most beaches have black volcanic sand (similar in texture to white sand, but black in colour).

Dominica is among the poorer Caribbean islands and has an agriculture-based economy. It produces and sells bananas, citrus fruits, vegetables, and coconuts, and exports soaps, cocoa, coffee, essential oils, and minerals, electronic equipment, and furniture. Please continue reading to learn more about travelling to Dominica, the Nature Island of the Caribbean.

Morne Diablotins. Dominica, the Nature Island of the Caribbean.
Morne Diablotins
Enjoying sunset at Mero Beach
Sunset at Mero Beach. Dominica, the Nature Island of the Caribbean.
Sunset at Mero Beach

Dominica – the Nature Island of the Caribbean Read More »

MARTINIQUE, THE CARIBBEAN ISLAND OF FLOWERS

MARTINIQUE – THE CARIBBEAN ISLAND OF FLOWERS

MARTINIQUE – THE CARIBBEAN ISLAND OF FLOWERS

Martinique is a French Caribbean island in the Lesser Antilles. It is located precisely in the Windward Islands, between St Lucia and Dominica. Its capital is Fort-de-France, and it has a population of almost 350,000. Moreover, Martinique is known for its pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, rich history, and its blend of French and Caribbean cultures. Martinique, the Caribbean Island of Flowers, is so named because  its rich volcanic soil and tropical rainfall, create the ideal condition for dense, lush, colourful, and diverse flora to thrive.

Furthermore, the island stands out as one of the Caribbean’s premier destinations because it offers the best of both worlds- modern amenities and pristine, unspoiled nature. Tourism is a primary part of its economy due to its beautiful beaches and natural scenery. In addition, other important industries include rum production, banana farming, sugar cane, and other agricultural products. Please continue reading to learn more about my visit to Martinique – the Caribbean Island of Flowers.

The beautiful flowers at the Balata Garden. Martinique, the Caribbean Island of Flowers
The beautiful flowers at the Balata Garden
The beautiful flowers at the Balata Garden. Martinique, the Caribbean Island of Flowers
The beautiful flowers at the Balata Garden
The beautiful flowers at the Balata Garden. Martinique, the Caribbean Island of Flowers
The beautiful flowers at the Balata Garden
Enjoying the lush greenery at the Balalta Gardens
The beautiful flowers at the Balata Garden. Martinique, the Caribbean Island of Flowers
The beautiful flowers at the Balata Garden

MARTINIQUE, THE CARIBBEAN ISLAND OF FLOWERS Read More »

Enjoying the Vaporetto ride on the Grand Canal. Venice, Italy’s floating city

VENICE – ITALY’S FLOATING CITY

VENICE – ITALY’S FLOATING CITY

VENICE – ITALY’S FLOATING CITY

Venice is a major seaport in northern Italy, and the capital of both the province of Venezia and the Veneto Region. It is the 11th largest city in Italy by population. Venice, Italy’s floating city is also known by a few other names, including the city of canals. Moreover, the historical center has no “drivable” roads for cars or motorbikes, just canals that crisscross the city (in “S” shapes). Furthermore, the Grand Canal, the largest and most prominent of all canals, is also one of the most romantic places in Italy.

Venice’s best and main form of transport in the historic centre is the unique and colourful Gondolas. Although outnumbered by other water ferries, they remain the symbol of Venice. From across the Grand Canal on both sides of the canal, there are many Gothic and restored palaces and squares. Moreover, in 1987, they collectively designated Venice and its Lagoons a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Please keep reading to learn more about my short visit to Venice, Italy’s floating city.

Ponte della Costituzione (Constitution Bridge) aka Calatrava Bridge - a glass pedestrian bridge. Venice, Italy’s floating city
Ponte della Costituzione (Constitution Bridge) aka Calatrava Bridge - a glass pedestrian bridge
At the Ponte della Costituzione (Constitution Bridge) aka Calatrava Bridge - a glass pedestrian bridge

VENICE – ITALY’S FLOATING CITY Read More »

San Marino – the World’s Oldest Republic

SAN MARINO THE WORLD’S OLDEST REPUBLIC

SAN MARINO - THE WORLD’S OLDEST REPUBLIC

The Democratic Republic of San Marino, known as the world’s smallest and oldest constitutional republic, is a developed landlocked European country. It has a population of almost 34,000 and its capital is San Marino City. The city is set high on the western slopes of Monte Titano/Titan and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The country is about 10 kilometres from the Adriatic Sea and surrounded by Italy. It was founded in AD 301 (4th century) by Saint Marinus, a stone mason,  and has maintained its identity for more than a millennium. San Marino is the third-smallest country in Europe (Vatican City – the smallest country in Europe). It is a serene, hilly country with no substantial flat lands, and thrives on agriculture (products are wine and cheese), banking, and tourism. It exports fabric, clothing, ceramics, coins, and postage stamps (keenly sought by collectors), which are also important sources of revenue. Please keep reading to learn more about San Marino, the world’s oldest republic.

A beautiful roundabout leading to Old Town. San Marino, the world’s oldest republic
A beautiful roundabout leading to Old Town

San Marino – the World’s Oldest Republic Read More »

Mount Everest. Nepal, the home of Mount Everest.

NEPAL, THE HOME OF MOUNT EVEREST

NEPAL, THE HOME OF MOUNT EVEREST

NEPAL - THE HOME OF MOUNT EVEREST

The Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal is a landlocked country between India and China in South Asia. Its population is almost 31 million, and its capital and biggest city is Kathmandu. They call Nepal “the ceiling of the world” because it has eight of the highest mountains on earth, including its most famous Mount Everest. Moreover, Nepal is ideal for thrilling adventures and sport tourism. It offers activities such as mountaineering, paragliding, kayaking, and high-altitude marathons. Further, the largest religion in Nepal is Hinduism (more than 80%), Buddhism is second, and a significant minority of Muslims, and Christians. Nepal’s main exports are textiles, carpets and rug mills, cement, cigarettes, juices, iron, steel, palm oil, honey, and clothing. However, tourism is one of its main money earners. Besides this, it also cultivates Wheat, Millet, Maize, Paddy, Barley-rice, and even potatoes and apples. Please continue reading to learn more about Nepal, the home of Mount Everest.

Enjoying the view of the Himalayan Mountains from Nagarkot Peak

NEPAL, THE HOME OF MOUNT EVEREST Read More »

Tajikistan, the Smallest Country in Central Asia

TAJIKISTAN - THE SMALLEST COUNTRY IN CENTRAL ASIA

TAJIKISTAN - THE SMALLEST COUNTRY IN CENTRAL ASIA

The Republic of Tajikistan is a country in the heart of Central Asia. Its capital and most popular city is Dushanbe. Surrounding Tajikistan are countries like China, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Afghanistan. Although Tajikistan is the smallest country in Central Asia by landmass, with a population of over 10 million people, it is not the smallest by population of the five Central Asian countries.
The vast majority of Tajikistanis are Muslim, and there is a small percentage of Christians who are predominantly Russians.
Tajikistan’s economy depends on agriculture and services, and each employs more than two-fifths of the labour force. Moreover, it is the most mountainous country in Central Asia. Besides its rugged terrain, it is best known for its natural resources and vast freshwater reserves. Tajikistan also produces aluminium and cotton, which are its main export commodities.  Additionally, it exports vegetable oil, almonds, dried apricots, grapes, cotton, textiles, etc.  Read on for a general view of Tajikistan, the Smallest Country in Central Asia.

The new parliament building of Tajikistan (aka the White house of Tajikistan). Tajikistan, the Smallest Country in Central Asia
The new parliament building of Tajikistan (aka the White house of Tajikistan)
The Imam Azam Mosque or the Grand Mosque (biggest Mosque in Tajikistan and second-biggest in Central Asia). Tajikistan, the Smallest Country in Central Asia
The Imam Azam Mosque or the Grand Mosque (biggest Mosque in Tajikistan and second-biggest in Central Asia)
The Stele with Emblem of Tajikistan. Tajikistan, the Smallest Country in Central Asia
The Stele with Emblem of Tajikistan

Tajikistan, the Smallest Country in Central Asia Read More »

50 SAFEST COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD

50 SAFEST COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD

50 SAFEST COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD

No country is 100% safe. With the continuous movement of people, many once-safe countries are now experiencing crimes or an increase in it. However, many have drastic laws and rigid enforcement to deter any would-be-criminal from breaking them, thus lowering the crime rate. As a solo traveller, I have never had any security issues in any country because most were fairly safe. I chose these 50 safest countries around the world from the 80-plus I visited, based on how secure I felt, and what I experienced during my stay.

50 SAFEST COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD Read More »

Slovakia a Beauty in the Heart of Europe

SLOVAKIA, A BEAUTY IN THE HEART OF EUROPE

SLOVAKIA, A BEAUTY IN THE HEART OF EUROPE 

The Republic of Slovakia/Slovak/Slovensko is a small, landlocked country in Central Europe. Consequently, five countries share borders with it, including Ukraine, Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, and Austria (the closest one, at only 57 kilometers). Its capital is Bratislava. Slovakia is famous for its unique castles, caves, Celtic town (Havranok), architecture, the Podhajska geothermal pool (aka the Slovak Dead Sea), folk dancing, and much more. Slovakia is a developed country with a high-income economy. Moreover, it is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and has a population of almost 5.5 million. Additionally, services are the largest and primary sector of the economy, but mining, agriculture, and industry remain equally important. Please continue reading to see what it is like to travel to Slovakia, a beauty in the heart of Europe.

The Grasssalkovich Palace - Presidential Palace

Slovakia a Beauty in the Heart of Europe Read More »

The Arch of Charents - most gorgeous view of Mount Ararat. Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity

Armenia the First Country to Accept Christianity

ARMENIA THE FIRST COUNTRY TO ACCEPT CHRISTIANITY

ARMENIA THE FIRST COUNTRY TO ACCEPT CHRISTIANITY 

The Republic of Armenia (formerly Hayk) is a former Soviet Union country bordering Turkey, Georgia, Iran, and Azerbaijan, and its capital is Yerevan. Armenia is a transcontinental country (partly in Europe and most of its land in west Asia), and is one of the six countries in the Caucasus region. What is special about Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity worldwide in 301 A.D., is its unique UNESCO World Heritage Sites, unspoiled nature, tasty cuisine, and renowned brandy, and wines. Additionally, almost every item in Armenia bears the symbol of Mount Ararat (the land of the final resting place of the Ark of Noah. Historically, Mount Ararat was in the territory of the Armenian Highland (currently, it borders Armenia). However, in 1921/1923, a peace treaty (Treaty of Kars) drafted between Turkey and the Soviet Union gifted the land to Turkey.

Armenia is a Christian nation and has a population of about 2,777,976.00. It is rich in copper, zinc, iron, silver, lead, gold, and other valuable reserves of rare metals. Apart from that, whenever someone mentions Armenia, many people immediately think of the Armenian genocide, similar to the mention of Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina. However. there is so much more to discover in this unique and beautiful country. Please continue reading to learn more about Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity as a state religion.

The Armenian Apostolic (Orthodox) Cathedral aka the Holy Etchmiadzin Cathedral .The oldest Cathedral on Earth (front and side view). Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity
The Armenian Apostolic (Orthodox) Cathedral aka the Holy Etchmiadzin Cathedral .The oldest Cathedral on Earth (front and side view)

Armenia the First Country to Accept Christianity Read More »

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa

MOROCCO, THE WESTERN KINGDOM OF AFRICA

MOROCCO, THE WESTERN KINGDOM OF AFRICA 

The Kingdom of Morocco (once known as the Kingdom of Marrakech) is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa, and its capital is Rabat. Morocco’s largest city and main Atlantic Ocean port is Casablanca. Morocco borders Algeria to the east, Western Sahara to the south, the Mediterranean Sea to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. It is the only African country with exposure to both the Atlantic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Morocco (in Arabic means The Western Kingdom) is a highly elevated country (about 2,600 above sea level). Morocco experiences typical Mediterranean weather (hot, dry summers) with mild, wet winters. It is famous for its towering mountains, beaches and coasts, desert oasis, food, ancient cities, souks, medinas, and culture. Morocco’s largest city and main Atlantic Ocean port is Casablanca. Its primary resources are agriculture, fishing, forestry, mining, and tourism. It is an affordable destination with a population of over 37 million. Please continue reading to learn more about what it is like to visit Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa.

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Moroccan flag everywhere

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa Read More »