Anacapa Arch, Channel Islands National Park, California

Anacapa Island

is a small volcanic island located about 11 miles (18 km) off the coast of Port Hueneme, California, in Ventura County.

Anacapa Island has a rich human history as well. Shell midden sites indicate where Chumash people camped on the islands thousands of years ago. In addition, visitors can view the 1932 light station whose mission revival style buildings include the lighthouse, fog signal building, one of four original keeper's quarters, a water tank building, and several other service buildings. The original lead-crystal Fresnel lens, which served as a beacon to ships until an automated light replaced it in 1990, is on exhibit in the East Anacapa Visitor Center. 

The Island is composed of a series of narrow islets 6 mi (10 km) miles long, running in a mostly east-west orientation, 5 mi (8 km) east of Santa Cruz Island. The island is composed of three islets: East, Middle and West Anacapa, collectively known as the “Anacapas” by some authors. The islets have precipitous cliffs, dropping off steeply into the sea. East and Middle Anacapa have fairly level areas at their tops, but West Anacapa is wider and reaches an altitude of 930 ft (283 m). Middle Island reaches an altitude of 325 ft (99 m) and East Island is 250 ft (76 m) at its highest point. All three islands total 699 acres (283 ha), or about 1.1 square miles (2.8 km2).

Anacapa is part of the Channel Islands archipelago (island chain), and is part of the Channel Islands National Park. It is the smallest of the northern islands. The islands are defined by the United States Census Bureau as Block Group 8, Census Tract 36.04 of Ventura County, California. The official 2000 census population was 3 permanent residents (Ranger Station in the eastern part of East Island), and the total land area was 2.947 km2 (1.138 sq mi).[1] The highest peak is Summit Peak 2 on West Island, 930 ft (283 m).

East Island's most notable natural feature is Arch Rock, a 40-foot (12 m)-high natural bridge.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Arabic: جامع الشيخ زايد الكبير‎) is located in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates,Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was initiated by the late president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who wanted to establish a structure which unites the cultural diversity of Islamic world, the historical and modern values of architecture and art. His final resting place is located on the grounds beside the same mosque. The mosque was constructed from 1996 to 2007. It is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates and the eighth largest mosque in the world. The mosque site is equivalent to the size five football[clarification needed] fields approximately.and is considered to be the key for worship in the country.

As the country's grand mosque, it is the key place of worship for Friday gathering and Eid prayers. During Eid it can be visited by more than 40,000 people.

Island of Spice

Grenada is a rolling, mountainous island, covered with fragrant spice trees and rare tropical flowers. Bordered by stunning beaches, and dotted with picturesque towns, this verdant island has long been a major source of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and cocoa. The seductive   drifts through the colourful Saturday markets and Grenada's dense forests. In the interior of this volcanic island are cascading rivers and waterfalls, lush rainforests, and one of the most breathtakingly beautiful mountain lakes imaginable. The capital, St. George's, is widely held to be the loveliest city in the Caribbean. Its horseshoe-shaped harbour is surrounded by a pastel rainbow of dockside warehouses and the red-tiled roofs of traditional shops and homes.

Grenada's physical beauty is complemented by its rich history and vibrant, living cultural heritage. Local festivals, fairs, and markets remain an integral part of life on Grenada. Its centuries-old spice plantations and rum distilleries still use traditional methods, emphasizing quality rather than quantity. Although the tourist industry has become more substantial in recent years, the island's easy rhythms and the friendly openness of its residents evoke an atmosphere that has long since vanished elsewhere.

For many visitors, of course, the measure of any island is taken by its beaches and coral reefs, and Grenada offers plenty of both. The island is ringed with miles of picture-perfect strands, including both entrancing black and sugar-fine white sand beaches. Grand Anse Beach, a smooth expanse stretching for two miles around the curve of a gentle bay, is world famous. Grenada has plenty to offer those interested in offshore pleasure as well, with easily accessible and pristine reefs off the coast of both Grenada and its sister island, Carriacou. 

Nong Nooch garden, Paurovttaya, Thailand

Thailand is well known for its many beautiful orchids. In Nong Nooch garden, more than 650 species with a wide array of colors can be admired.Nong Nooch tropical garden close to Pattaya is the largest botanical garden in South East Asia.The vast gardens are set in an area of around 600 acres, that originally was to be used as a plantation to grow local fruits.

The area was then first turned into a garden for conservation of certain species of plants and flowers, and was later opened to visitors.

In the gardens you will find an enormous number of plant and flower species in a particularly well kept environment. Some sections of the garden are set in a specific theme such as Stonehenge, Butterfly Hill, French garden of pineapple garden.

Thai cultural shows

Apart from the flowers and plants, visitors can enjoy a number of cultural shows at Nong Nooch garden. A varied program of Thai cultural and traditional performances can be enjoyed, like sword fighting, Muay Thai boxing, Thai wedding ceremony and traditional Thai dance. The cultural shows take place four times per day, namely at 9.45 am, 10.45 am, 3 pm and 4 pm.
How to get to Nong Nooch tropical garden

Nong Nooch garden is located almost 20 kilometers South of Pattaya city. You can charter a songthaew baht bus to get you there. The bus is a converted pick up truck with covered seats in the back, but it is open and has no air conditioning. The price is up to your negotiating skills. If you prefer a more comfortable ride, book a taxi through your hotel or at one of the taxi stands in Pattaya. Before you leave, make sure you agree on the price.
Admission & opening hours

Nong Nooch garden is open daily from 8 am until 6 pm. Admission is 400 Thai Baht per adult, 200 Baht per child and includes admission to the cultural shows.

Valentine Holiday Destinations in India

India has one of those perfect romantic places that you should look out for this Valentine's Day. Here is the list of must visit destinations on Valentine’s Day. -

A romantic escape amid the green valley or just two of you holding hands walking barefoot on a white sand carpet will definitely be a great holiday idea on this Valentine. And if you are just looking for romantic getaways in India only then there are numerous among which you can just select as per your choice (some of the top places to go on Valentine are mentioned below) and give a lovely pleasant surprise to your beloved.
Minicoy
Situated far away amidst the turquoise blue water, a romantic voyage to Minicoy, the southernmost lagoon of Lakshadweep, is definitely meant for those love birds who want to enjoy their personal moments away from the maddening crowd bustle. It is no doubt that Minicoy is an exotic Valentine’s Day destination full of hues-blue water, white sand and colourful reefs.  http://honeymoonstravel.blogspot.in/
Ooty
There are many beautiful things linked with Ooty that makes it one of the most romantic escapes for Valentine’s Day. Don’t just visit this hill station because of its Bollywood invasion but you should if you want to fill your love life with unforgettable romantic memories. Panoramic surroundings, pleasant weather, whispering bird sounds, beautiful sights and rejuvenating breeze all together makes Ooty a good choice to celebrate the festival of love. Don’t just miss the charm of train ride or enjoying trekking or hiking.
Nainital
 
It will take around 6 hours to reach Nainital, one of the most famous hill stations in Uttarakhand, from Delhi. Its closeness with the national capital city is a great point in making it a well-known getaway for any occasion. And during February, the place is truly a paradise for honeymooners and romantic couples. Perched high at 6,358 feet above sea level, it is understood to have scenic vistas all over but along with them, Nainital has some great attractions and lots of exciting things to do also. Some lucky among you will also get glimpse of white snow carpet during Valentine.
Manali
Manali, which is situated in Himachal Pradesh is also one of India's most romantic destinations. The place is known for its ever pleasant weather and breathtaking views just about everywhere. Adventure, sports, amazing spas, exotic resorts, fresh apples, you name it and Manali has it all.

Rafting, skiing, Paragliding are some of the adventurous activities that can be done here. The Rahalla Falls, Malan Valley and Manali Sanctuary are some of the best places to visit and explore.

Shimla
When it comes to best places to go on valentine day in India, Shimla emerges always as one of the most sought. Good connectivity with various cities of North India, especially with Delhi, adds a spark in the number of tourists thronging the place. For couples, Shimla is full of excitement and love. Excellent excursion points, striking dramatic views of mountains and clouds, delicious local food, great shopping stuff and a bustling Mall Road as well as moonlight strolls across the town, there is something dreamy with Shimla. There are also lots of good accommodation properties.
Alleppey
Blessed with abundance of natural beauty, Alleppey is truly a mesmerizing point to fill your life with a treasure of love memories. Though the place is meant for all but its reputation as an exotic backwater destination of Kerala captivates the imagination and admiration of young love birds the most. With its green carpet of paddy fields, palm fringed canals and lagoons and leisurely rhythm of houseboats, Alleppey will definitely hit the right tune of your heart’s strings. A pampering treat of Ayurvedic massage for your ladylove will do the rest of thing in your favour.
Munnar
Dotted with fantastic vistas, Munnar instills a feel of romance in your life and make you fall in love, it doesn’t matter whether you are married or not. Stroll around holding hands in the mist covered tea gardens or listen your heartbeats amidst the roars of waterfalls or just watch the honey glaze spread on the horizon while standing in a Titanic pose and let your heart sing…
“I’ll be your dream, I’ll be your wish, I’ll be your fantasy.
I’ll be your hope, I’ll be your love be everything that you need.
I love you more with every breath truly madly deeply do”.
Goa
It is worthless to think about romantic Valentine’s Day destinations in India without mentioning Goa. The beach destination of international renown, Goa is a popular choice to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Though there are many picturesque beaches in Goa, Palolem beach is a perfect choice  for love birds as it is quite secluded as compared to other beaches. You can move to Goa if an adventurous and laid back place is on your mind. 

Havelock Island
Havelock Island as a romantic getaway is meant only for those who want to feel that adrenaline push and are adventurous spirits. Being one of the best diving sites in Asia, the island gives couples ample time to enjoy each other’s bond, both underwater and above the water. Travelers can also try their skills with snorkeling, trekking, fishing and mangrove safari. But your romantic trip to the island is not only about exploration and sightseeing; it is more about letting Havelock indulge you in its untouched beauty.
Kashmir
Who can escape from the eternal allure of verdant valleys, crystal clear blue lakes and the snow-capped peaks of Kashmir? For romance, there is no place seemed so breathtaking than it and that’s why Kashmir is one of the top valentine day holiday destinations in India. A shikara outing on Dal Lake with just two of you in each other’s arms is enough to cast that special magic of love between you. Let your expressions take the course and follow swiftly with them in the lap of nature. Do enjoy the famed Kashmiri delicacies and folk dances.


Port Blair
A calm and not-so explored destination of India; rather it is good to call Port Blair an off-beaten romantic escape tucked away in the tranquil blue waters of Bay of Bengal. If you seem to give your valentine celebration a very private and grand affair then Port Blair is an excellent choice to throng. Calm surroundings, white sand beaches, lip smacking seafood, slow paced lifestyle and most important affordable accommodations with luxurious set up are the highlights of Port Blair.
Bikaner
How about an idea of expressing your feelings to the one you love in between the dramatic dunes of Thar Desert? Amazing!!! Bikaner is a city of magnificent palaces, forts and castles but there is a quixotic side too that is equally fascinating and colourful. A camp accommodation in middle of the desert adorned with dance performances by local artists and relishing the taste of Rajasthani flavours under the bright canopy of stars seems more memorable than just simply staying indoors. It will take only 5 hours to reach Bikaner from the state capital city of Jaipur, another major tourist destination of Rajasthan.

 
Mussoorie
Being a hill station, Mussoorie is mainly preferred by nature lovers and peace seekers. Its proximity with Delhi (around 273 km away), gives a boost to its reputation as one of the most well-known weekend getaway from the city, especially for honeymooners. This time if you are planning to celebrate your Valentine day in an eco-conscious mood then honeymoonstravel.blogspot.com. Along with picturesque green views, there are various local attractions that will keep you entertain throughout the day long. Some notable ones are Camel Back Road, Gun Hill, Lal Tibba, Kempty Falls and Snow View Point.

Agra
Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Taj Mahal in Agra is a perfect place to express your love to your sweetheart on the Valentine’s Day. Walking on the pavement of Taj with your honey on a full moon night is an experience beyond words Express your feeling of love silently with your eyes saying those three precious words, ‘I Love You’ in front of the symbol of love-Taj Mahal. Agra for centuries stands as land of romance and it is hard to beat the allure of a moonlight drench Taj Mahal. The place is also quite popular among those who want to give their Valentine a love-wrapped surprise without hammering their daily work routines. Agra’s good connectivity with Delhi, Mathura, Bharatpur, Gwalior and with other nearby locations makes it a best place to spend Valentine’s holiday.