Bhutan - Real Estate n Nature

A visit to Bhutan feels like a visit to the abode of Gods; the majesty and grandeur of the natural surroundings eludes one to a special environment where communion with the divine is possible through contemplation, connection and meditation. One gets irresistibly drawn towards these remote and rugged Himalayan Mountains in a personal search for wisdom, inspiration, solitude and happiness.

Bhutan tucked in the Eastern Himalayas, has preserved and still richly intact, its traditional lifestyle. Rather the modern secular life is being influenced and permeated with the traditional cultural life style.

Gross National Happiness (GNH)has been the overarching development philosophy of Bhutan as the concept has guided the country’s development policies and programmes. GNH suggests that happiness is the ultimate objective of development. It recognizes that there are many dimensions to development other than those associated with Gross National Product (GNP), and that development needs to be understood as a process that seeks to maximize happiness rather than purely economic growth.

The country believes that for a holistic development of the individual and society, it is essential that development achieve a sustainable balance between the economic, social, emotional, spiritual and cultural needs of the people. This has led to the declared objective of viewing development as a continuous process towards achieving a balance between the material and intangible needs of individuals and society.

The concept reminds the country that the means must always be considered in terms of the end and, therefore, every step in material development and change must be measured and evaluated to ensure that it will lead to happiness, not just more development.

The four major areas as the main pillars of GNH:
1. Economic growth and development.
2. Preservation and promotion of cultural heritage.
3. Preservation and sustainable use of the environment.
4. And Good governance

Guided by the ideas of Gross National Happiness (GNH), Bhutan has been making steady progress in every sector toward the goal of modernization. Hydroelectric power, economically the most signification sector for Bhutan’s goal of self-sustaining development, has grown impressively. The education, social services and health sector have made great strides forward and continue to be the most important social components of the country’s development programme. The government‘s fiscal situation has been improving steadily. Progress has been made in the development of human resource and the legal infrastructure.

Bhutan the land of thunder dragon, nestled between India and Tibet, the exquisite mountain kingdom has been isolated and protected for centuries by mighty Himalayan peaks, with daily life rituals remaining sacred and the landscape is relatively undeveloped.

Tradition and Buddhism infuse every facet of life, from jingling brass bells of prayer wheels to ornate monasteries perched high above terraced rice paddies. Change is coming to Bhutan, but the country isn’t blindly adopting modern western culture. After all, Bhutan still defines prosperity by Gross National Happiness, measuring well being rather than consumption. This trip to Bhutan, provided a unique opportunity to see how the Bhutanese balance development and tradition, and it was enhanced by experienced local guides who proudly share their country’s culture with us. One finds something akin to Bhutan's wonders in the beauty of remote monasteries and in interactions with Bhutanese people.

The Beautiful City Of Venice, Italy

Millions of people head to Venice every year for one simple reason; it is like no other city on Earth. The city offers fantastic architecture, wonderful food, unique shopping opportunities, and great historical sites. Everything in Venice is so picturesque. It is easy to get lost in this city of more than 100 islands united by over 400 bridges and many waterways. Venice is an artistic and architectural masterpiece filled with palaces from the Renaissance and the Gothic and Byzantine periods. It is known as one of the world's most extraordinary beautiful and unique cities.

Venice is a beautiful and unusual city with such breathtaking sites, smells and sounds. It's a place full of energy that everyone should experience at least once in their lives.

Some of the many outstanding attractions worth visiting in Venice include one of the first things one sees as soon as one is out from the Santa Lucia station-The San Giogio Maggiore. This is a church that was set upon the tiny island across from Venice and it's the dream work of architects everywhere. The structure is the creation of Andrea Palladio who built the church in 1566. It sports a classical design which includes a line of columns that separate the Austere Choir loft from the alter.

Another not to miss site is Saint Mark’s Basilica, which is the most renowned church in Venice. It's named such because the remains of St. Mark, who is the patron saint of the city of Venice, are kept there. The church actually sits in the eastern side of St. Mark's Square. This is the heart and soul of Venice and it's one of the most desired photo attractions for tourists in the world.





Other attractions include:

Burano, San Rocco,

Doge’s Palace,

The Grand Canal,

Santa maria dei Miracoli,

Campo Santa Margherita,

Rialto Market,

Anyone with any appreciation of history and architecture will absolutely love a visit to Venice. The city offers the kinds of memories and experiences that cannot be had anywhere else.

Among those who've seen it in person, the conclusion is unanimous: Venice is the most beautiful city in the world, and the only one that can truly be described as unique. Each building is a work of art, with their beauty enhanced when reflected on the canals that cross the city. Its magical scenery is fascinating and breathtaking at first sight, evoking the feeling of entering the setting of a real-life fairy tale. It's perhaps even unfair to all other cities to call Venice a city, as it is a place unlike any other that no other can compare to.

When one is in Venice you can walk for hours or days and you will find something different every time.Places in Venice can be difficult to find if you do not carry a map. It is easy to find the Saint Mark Ducal Palace and the Bridge of Rialto but rest of the beautiful and mysterious Venice might elude you. Get lost in the beauty of its streets and enjoy.

Florence- The most Cultured and Inspiring City

Florence - A special place that has managed to preserve some of the greatest works of art and architecture of its buildings. The wonderful quality about Florence is that it is rich in culture yet unpretentious. We had come to Florence intending to stay for only a short while and then never wanted to leave. A city with historic masterpiece of architectural buildings, paintings, sculptures and natural beauty that is presented lavishly in this Italian city. The benefits from a holiday in Florence are one enjoys vacation in a city filled with historic sites. In every corner of the city, its beautiful scenery will always draw the eye. And most importantly, we can feel surrounded by historical buildings … step foot anywhere, will deal with works of art. Tour in Florence means to rotate around in the city without having to leave it.

Florence is a jewel of the Tuscany region of Italy. The beautiful surroundings contain other beautiful locations such as Siena, Pisa, Lucca and San Gimignano. The region has inspired many great artists such as Brunelleschi, Donatello, Masaccio, Botticelli, Paolo Uccello and the universal genius of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Some of the great artists of European History were given the resources and surroundings necessary to create an amazing collection of architecture, sculpture and paintings. Visiting Florence gives the ability to see an amazing collection of creations within the environment that inspired them.

Some of the premium highlights of Florence include:

• Il Duomo – Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

• Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio

• The Baptistery, Pisa

• Campanile – Bell Tower

• Ponte Vecchio Bridge

• Galleria degli Uffizi Museum

 • Galleria dell’ Academia

• Boboli Garden and Pitti Palace

Florence, originally named Florentia (means “flourishing”) by Julius Caesar, who founded the city in 59 BC in the fertile valley of the Arno River to celebrate the triumphs of Rome’s veteran soldiers. Many of Florence’s great treasures are found within its churches, one really captures the vastness and spectacular intricacies of these world-renowned structures. Enjoy the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte, high on a hill overlooking Florence, and the late 13th century Basilica of Santa Croce, the burial place of Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli and Rossini. Often called “The Pantheon of Glories,” it is the largest Franciscan sanctuary in the world. Other destinations include the breathtaking dome of Tempio Maggiore – one of Europe’s most beautiful synagogues – and the weathered and angular copper roof of Florence’s central market, Mercato Centrale, home to legendary Tuscan pastas, meats and cheeses.

Siena is well preserved Medieval town located 30 miles south of Florence. It is set on three hills.
One of the main area in this town is piazza del Campo; a large scallop shaped square. It is divided in 9 segments representing the Council of the Nine that ruled Medieval Siena. In piazza del Campo a historical bareback horse race called “Palio” is held twice every year (on 2th july and 16th august). One of the palaces surrounding the square is Palazzo Pubblico; one can visit it inside. There you can see several frescoed rooms. This palace is used as town hall.

One cannot go to Florence without visiting the art museums and the Duomo. One also cannot go to Florence and not enjoy the food. And one must never, ever go to Florence without rubbing the porcellini's (little pig) nose for good luck (and promise of someday returning to Florence).

From Florence it is easy to take a regional train to Pisa, which is about an hour west of the city by train. In Pisa we saw the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. This beautiful city is a world center for art and architecture. Not only are there many museums with outstanding collections of art, but also the buildings themselves are architectural wonders. Just strolling the streets is an awe-inspiring activity.

On a more practical note, Florence is a special place for shopping. Italian designer stores abound. Clothing, leather goods, fine stationery, gold jewelry, luggage …the list is endless. Many people set aside time on their trip just to buy shoes, purses, gloves and jewelry. With many open-air markets, there are even bargains galore. There is such a high level of design that even “window shopping” is fun.

The Bustling City of Hong Kong

The unique blend of eastern and western influences matched by diverse attractions and stunning countryside, has made Hong Kong Asia's prime tourist destination. Hong Kong is a multicultural and secular city with a multiracial population living in harmony. Tolerance for the customs and traditions of all religion and ethnic groups is part of the city's cosmopolitan philosophy.

We were really amazed by the diverse contrasts and close proximity of stunning cityscapes and soaring mountains, heritage sites and extensive green countryside of Hong Kong. The real magic of Hong Kong's stunning countryside is how close it is to the city. One minute you're deep in a bamboo forest, the next minute tower blocks spring into view. The rural areas also offer an amazing variety of scenery. Lush valleys, sub-tropical forests, rugged peaks, coastal walks, and secluded beaches – these are the often neglected splendor of Hong Kong.

Victoria Peak- Another thing one”must” do in Hong Kong is to visit Victoria Peak. 396 meter high peak: one gets a great view of the city as you reach the top. Peak Tram is the best means to reach the top. The view as you get higher and higher gets better and better of course and the track is pretty steep some places (maximum of 27 degrees). On the top we got to the Peak Tower and this is the home to the viewing point, restaurants, Madame Tussaud’s, Ripley’s Believe It or Not and others. The view from the top was great. There's a reason why The Peak is one of the most popular attractions in Hong Kong: It is absolutely incredible! Looking down from The Peak one is amazed by the spectacular view of the surrounding city skyline, the world-famous Victoria Harbour and Kowloon, towering skyscrapers and peaceful green hillsides.

Getting there is an unforgettable trip. There's nothing in the world like the Peak Tram. Pulled by steel cables, the tram climbs 373 metres (about 1,200 feet). It's so steep that the buildings you pass look like they're leaning! Whether you're going up or coming down, you'll love this trip.

Magical Victoria Harbour- One of Hong Kong's greatest assets, a jewel that people marvel at. Victoria Harbour bustles with activity day and night. To experience the energy take a ride on the Star Ferry.

Here every night at 8:00 pm is “A Symphony Of Light Show”. This spectacular multimedia display, already named the "World's Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show" by Guinness World Records, has been further expanded to include more than 40 buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbour. The show creates an all-round vision of colored lights, laser beams and searchlights performing a stunning, unforgettable spectacle synchronized to music and narration that celebrates the energy, spirit and diversity of Hong Kong.

There are five main themes — Awakening, Energy, Heritage, Partnership and the finale, Celebration, taking spectators on a unique journey.

The first scene "Awakening" begins with flashes of laser lights that give life to a nucleus of light-energy which gradually illuminates participating buildings using an array of dancing lights and rainbow colour. This scene symbolizes the genesis and powerful growth of Hong Kong.

The second scene "Energy" is represented by the display of rising colour patterns and the sweeping of the lasers and searchlights energetically across the night sky, signifying the vibrant energy of Hong Kong.

In the third scene "Heritage", traditional lucky red and gold colours are displayed across buildings on both sides of the Harbour, complemented by the introduction of music using Chinese musical instruments, symbolizing Hong Kong's colourful heritage and rich cultural traditions.

The fourth scene "Partnership" features a display of laser beams and sweeping searchlights scanning across the Harbour, representing an illuminated connection with the opposite side. Beams reach out to symbolically connect the two sides of the Harbour into one greater and unified partnership.

The finale "Celebration" brings out a powerful rhythmic display of swirling, kaleidoscopic patterns of lights and beams dancing lively across the Harbour. The exciting final scene signifies the celebration of the close partnership between the two sides of the Harbour and represents an even brighter future for Asia's world city - Hong Kong.

No trip to Hong Kong would be complete without a visit to the Giant Buddha which sits serenely atop Ngong Ping plateau amid the spectacular mountain scenery of Lantau Island, to experience the natural and cultural side of Hong Kong take a day trip to Lantau Island, Hong Kong's largest island, and discover pristine beaches, traditional fishing villages, lush valleys, soaring mountains and spiritual enlightenment. Visit Po Lin Monastery, the Giant Buddha Exhibition Hall and a 5.7 kilometer cable car journey offering spectacular views of Lantau Island and the South China Sea.

The eyes, lips, incline of the head and even the right hand (raised to deliver a blessing to all); combine to lend great depth of character and dignity to this extraordinary statue. The majestic figure of the seated Buddha was cast in China and took 12 years to complete. It was unveiled in December 1993 amid deeply religious ceremonies. Visitors can climb more than 200 steps to reach the platform where the Buddha is seated.

The Po Lin Monastery is set amid spectacular mountain scenery on the Ngong Ping plateau.

HK is vast and we only got to see a bit of it. But I think that we experienced quite a lot.

Macau- city of dreams

Hong Kong's sister colony on the Pearl River is about an hour’s drive in Ferry from HK. Macau, a famous destination with prosperity and peace, fashion and history, oriental and western cultures, deserves a visit and stay here really revitalizes the visitor.

What Macau is today would not have been the same without its God father Mr. Stanley Ho, the world’s 64th richest man, 89 year old today the only person in Macau allowed to have legally four wives, 19 children. There are total 33 casinos in Macau and he owns 22 of them. Macau Tower also belongs to him.

The Macau Tower, also called the Macau Sky Tower, is a tower on the southern part of the Macau peninsula. Macau Taower is 338 metres (1,109 feet) tall. There is an observation deck at the top where visitors can enjoy panoramic views. Besides for observation and entertainment, the Macau Tower is also used for telecommunications and broadcasting.

The Macau Tower the brainchild of Macau casino tycoon Stanley Ho, who was so impressed with the Sky Tower in Auckland, that he was determined to have a similar tower in Macau. The tower was designed by Beca Group, a New Zealand engineering firm, working in corporation with Gordon Moller of Craig Craig Moller architects. Construction began in 1998 and the tower was officially open on 19 December, 2001.

On 17 December, 2006, the world renowned bungee jumper AJ Hackett leaped from the tower's outer rim. At 233 metres, it was the world's highest bungee jump.


Another Landmark, the large sculpture of "Lotus Flower In Full Bloom", Standing in Lotus Square next to the Forum, presented by the State Council of China in 1999, marks the return of sovereignty of Macau.

The sculpture, made of gilded bronze and weights 6.5 tons, is 6 meters high and the diameter of the flower is 3.6 meters at maximum. The major part is composed of a stem, petals and pistil, with a total of 16 components. The base of the flower consists of 23 pieces of red granite. The lotus flower, which is in full bloom, symbolizes the everlasting prosperity of Macau. There are three layers of red granite at the base, which are in the shape of lotus leaves, signifying the Macau Peninsula, Taipa Island and Coloane Island.



Kun Iam Statue
Located on the Outer Harbour, this statue, dedicated to Goddess of Kun Iam (Goddess of Mercy) is 20 meters tall and made of special bronze. The dome shape base like a lotus flower, is an ecumenical centre where information is available on Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism.

The post on Macau is incomplete unless a mention about Venetian. It plays a crucial role in making Macao one of Asia's most exciting entertainment destinations. The Venetian Macao is a hotel and casino resort in Macau. It is a 40-story, $2.4 billion anchor for the 7 hotels on the Cotai Strip in Macau. The 10,500,000-square-foot (980,000 m2) is the largest single structure hotel building in Asia and the fifth-largest building in the world by area. Large enough to hold ninety Boeing 747 jumbo jets, nowhere else in Asia will you find such a rare combination of facilities, attractions and amenities than at this 3,000 suite flagship property.

The Grand Canal Shoppes - Asia's Most Unique and Opulent Shopping Experience. Surrounded by the world's finest brands, stroll along winding cobblestone walkways, or relax with an authentic gondola ride. Indulge in over 330 stores, offering the best in fashion, Jewellery, accessories, gifts, services and sporting goods. Then delight in one of many world class restaurants, bars and cafés.

Be enthralled by the serenading sounds of the performers and singing gondoliers who transform The Grand Canal Shoppes into the romantic sounds of old world Venice.

Not to miss is Zaia, a show by Cirque du Soleil, opened on 27 July 2008 at the dedicated Cirque du Soleil arena. The 90-minute production of 75 circus artists is directed by Neilson Vignola and Gilles Maheu. The theme is a young girl's perception of the stars and planets, space and infinity, populated by otherworldly creatures. The title, Zaia, comes from a Greek word meaning "life",

 Plan a trip to Macau and Enjoy!!!!