A vacation or holiday is a leave of
absence from a regular occupation, or a specific trip or journey, usually for
the purpose of recreation or tourism. People often take a vacation during
specific holiday observances, or for specific festivals or celebrations.
Vacations are often spent with friends or family. A person may take a longer
break from work, such as a sabbatical, gap year, or career break.
The concept of taking a vacation is a
recent invention, and has developed through the last two centuries.
Historically, the idea of travel for recreation was a luxury that only wealthy
people could afford. In the Puritan culture of early America, taking a break
from work for reasons other than weekly observance of the Sabbath was frowned
upon. However, the modern concept of vacation was led by a later religious
movement encouraging spiritual retreat and recreation. The notion of breaking
from work periodically took root among the middle and working class.
GUADELOUPE
Long considered an undiscovered gem
among Francophiles and in-the-know Americans, the French-Caribbean archipelago
of Guadeloupe is an increasingly sought-after destination among sun seekers and
nature lovers. Many of the beaches here, particularly on the outer islands, are
unspoiled, and the mountainous Parc National de la Guadeloupe offers miles of
hiking trails through tropical rainforests. Room rates at deluxe resorts drop
by as much as 40 percent over the summer, making Guadeloupe a budget-friendly
summer getaway.
MIAMI
Also, off-season in the summer, Miami
continues to draw visitors, especially Europeans and South Americans escaping
winter. To keep cool in the blazing heat, you need only take a dip in the
Atlantic, Biscayne Bay, or an infinity pool. You’ll be able to spread out on
South Beach, plus people-watching on Lincoln Road and Miami Beach’s epic
nightlife will be as entertaining as ever.
MARRAKECH
The “Red City” of Marrakesh is a
magical place, brimming with markets, gardens, palaces, and mosques. Exploring
the intimate courtyards and snaking alleyways of the historic Medina can easily
eat up a day. Find inner peace at the serene Jardin Majorelle or take in the
beauty of one of the city’s historic mosques (taking note that, unless you are
Muslim, you are not allowed to enter).
CAPE TOWN
Cape Town glistens at the southern
toe of the African continent. Tourist brochure-views at Blaauwberg Beach and
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens are within easy driving distance of
"The Mother City." The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve provides
sweeping sea vistas, hiking trails and wildlife encounters. On a more somber
note, travelers can visit Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela was
held for 27 years.
DIANI BEACH, KENYA
About an hour south of Mombasa, the
sparkling white sands and lush greenery of Diani invite you to relax under a
beach umbrella with a refreshing drink. Try a camel ride for the tourist
experience or book a bike tour inland for a glimpse of life in local villages.
Diani is also a base for several safari companies.
VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE
Rainbows are cool. But what trumps
rainbows? Moon bows. If you visit Victoria Falls during a full moon, the light
of the moon through the the waterfall spray produces a lunar rainbow, or
moon-bow. More of a daredevil? Then try what’s been called the world’s best
white-water rafting.
ZANZIBAR
The Zanzibar Archipelago, located in
the Indian Ocean 15 miles off the coast of Tanzania, is a breathtaking spot to
escape from the world. You’ll enjoy clear, turquoise-blue water; shallow
sandbars perfect for wading; and many small, nearly deserted islands virtually
unvisited by tourists. Explore the World Heritage Site of Stone Town, Zanzibar
City’s old quarter. Or just go beach to beach between tiny fishing villages—each
one's better than the next.
By: Umaru Maryam Hadejia
No comments:
Post a Comment