TOURIST LIFE TRAVEL & TOUR

As reported in Ha’aretz, Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics reported that 2.18 million foreign visitors came to Israel in the first six months of the year, a 19% increase over the same period in 2017.

The Israel Hotel Association reports that foreign tourists spent a record 5.94 million nights at Israeli hotels during the first half of 2018, up about 13% over the first half of last year and 43% higher than in 2016.

The data also show that about half of all stays at Israeli hotels between January and June of this year were made by foreign visitors and half by Israelis.

Fully 34% of all foreign tourist hotel nights for first six months of this year were spent in Jerusalem, with another 24% in Tel Aviv.

Source I.T.N

The Ethiopian Immigration and Nationality Affairs Main Department, in collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines, has finalized preparations of the initial phase to commence an e-visa service for international visitors to Ethiopia.

The e- visa is processed and issued online on a single website where applicants apply, pay and secure their entry visa online. Once the online application is approved, applicants will receive an email authorizing them to travel to Ethiopia and they will get their passport stamped with the visa upon arrival in Addis Ababa.

Regarding the new service Group CEO Ethiopian Airlines Tewolde GebreMariam said, “Ethiopia, the oldest independent civilization in Africa and one of the oldest in the world, is endowed with historical places, natural beauty, colorful and diverse cultural activities and various endemic wild animals which are of great interest to international tourists. However; we have not made best use of these natural resources to attract large number of tourists. To this effect, this project is part of a new national initiative to transform the tourism sector in the country. The full commencement of the Online Visa application and issuance system will promote tourism, trade and investment to the country. It will save time, energy and cost for travelers to Ethiopia in addition to the simplicity and convenience that it facilitates. With direct flights to/from more than 95 destinations from all corners of the world operated by the most modern airplanes, we will continue to make travel to Ethiopia, dependable, easy, convenient and affordable. I will take this opportunity to thank our IT team and our colleagues at the Main Department for Immigration & Nationality Affairs for the commendable collaboration and the job well done.”

The Dallol region of Ethiopia is a cauldron of burning salt, volcanic rock and sulfuric acid and is officially the hottest place on the planet.

Near the southern end of the Red Sea an immense, triangular, depression descends far below sea level – some points near the ghost town of Dallol are nearly 120m below sea level). Known as the Danakil/Dallol Depression, the northern part is extremely hot and dry and an extension of the Great Rift Valley. In this seemingly inhospitable area live the nomadic Afar people who number about 3 million and largely disregard the notional borders between Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti and Somaliland.

The whole Afar Depression is a plate tectonic triple junction where the spreading submarine ridges that formed the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden emerge on land and meet the East African Rift. The Afar Depression is one of two places on Earth where a mid-ocean ridge can be studied on land, the other being Iceland. At present, the Afar is slowly being pulled apart at a rate of 1-2cm per year. The floor of the Afar Depression is composed mostly of basaltic lava. The Afar Depression and Triple Junction also mark the location of a mantle plume, a great uprising of the earth’s mantle that melts to yield basalt.

This place, which used to be part of the Red Sea, has kilometers of salt deposits. In some places the salt deposits are about 5km (3 mi) thick. Below many salt lakes are substantial sources of volcanic heat which causes hot water to rise through layers of salt and deposit anhydrites. Minerals also get dissolved and are deposited near the springs, and form shapes very much reminiscent (but smaller than) hornitos on basaltic lava flows. Sulphur, other minerals and possibly Thermopylae bacteria cause spectacular colors.

This is a vast expanse of blisteringly hot desert with lava flows and salt plains and lakes that lie below sea level. Active and extinct volcanoes lie along a south–north axis with the extremely salty Lake Afrera, at 120m below sea level, kept alive by the many thermal springs feeding it.

Dallol offers an opportunity to see the first signs of a new ocean basin forming. The Dallol volcano, the only volcanic crater below sea level on land, has remained dormant since 1926, as the seabed it will one day occupy gradually widens. South of Dallol, rectangular salt slabs are cut and transported up into the highlands in a near endless procession of camel caravans. The salt canyons south of Dallol Mountain are some of the most impressive geological features in the area. It looks like another planet because there are lots of colorful rocks in each meter of terrain. It looks like something out of a science fiction novel.

the Danakil Depression sits deep below sea level (more than 100 meters below at some of its lowest points) in northern Ethiopia’s Afar region. Not only is the depression one of the hottest places on the planet, it’s also one of the most geologically active: the depression is essentially a molten, acidic, and bubbling expanse of land unlike anything else you’ve ever seen.

The depression contains a mixed bag of minerals, salt, sulfur and dissolved iron, all of which manifest themselves in the vibrant combination of yellows, oranges, and reds that make the landscape look equal parts neon and deadly.

Some of the Danakil Depression’s pools boast a pH level below 1 (which in terms of acidity sits somewhere between battery and stomach acid), with thin salt crusts frequently disguising underlying pools of deadly acid. Life isn’t really a thing here, which means that Danakil is one of the most barren and desolate ecosystems in the world.

To book contact us at 612-743-7243  or visit http://www.admastravel.com

Truly Amazing Places You Must Visit Before You Die

In a mountainous region in the heart of Ethiopia, some 700 km from Addis Ababa, eleven medieval monolithic churches were carved out of rock. Their building is attributed to King Lalibela who set out to construct in the 12th century a ‘New Jerusalem’, after Muslim conquests halted Christian pilgrimages to the holy Land.

Lalibela (ላሊበላ) is history and mystery frozen in stone, its soul alive with the rites and awe of Christianity at its most ancient and unbending. No matter what you’ve heard about Lalibela, no matter how many pictures you’ve seen of its breathtaking rock-hewn churches, nothing can prepare you for the reality of seeing it for yourself. It’s not only a World Heritage site, but truly a world wonder. Spending a night vigil here during one of the big religious festivals, when white-robed pilgrims in their hundreds crowd the courtyards of the churches, is to witness Christianity in its most raw and powerful form.

Hidden for centuries in the remote highlands, about 700 kilometers north of Addis Ababa, the magnificent rock-hewn churches of Lalibela are not to be missed by today’s visitor. This group of eleven monolithic and semi-monolithic structures was carved directly into the stone of the mountainside at least 800 years ago. With the largest monolithic church in the world; a maze of passageways and tunnels; intricately carved reliefs; and fabulous examples of icon paintings; the Lalibela churches were built by carving a massive rectangular trench around a solid stone block.  This solid block was then hollowed out, leaving interior columns, windows, reliefs, etc.  Other churches were carved in a similar fashion but leaving either one side or the roof attached to the surrounding stone.  Not only the craftsmanship but also the sheer size of the churches is stunning.  Medhane Alem, the largest, sits on 800 square meters and St. George is 15 meters deep.

Canadians travel to Mexico more than any other country except the United States. But many visitors may be unaware of the growing violence in a main city that was once hailed as one of the country’s safest: Cancun.This week, five people were found dead near the public prosecutor’s office in the city on the Yucatán Peninsula, bringing the death toll by violence in the beach city to more than 100 since the beginning of the year.Story continues belowDrug cartels are operating in the region more openly. While tourists have not been the targets of violence so far, killings are starting to take place closer to destinations popular with visitors.The Government of Canada has a general travel advisory for Mexico but has not advised Canadians against planning travel to Cancun or the surrounding areas, including Playa del Carmen, another popular beach location. More than 100 people have now been killed in the popular beach resort since the start of 2018.

Forensic doctors carry the body of a Canadian woman found with multiple stab wounds in Cancun last month

Drug-related violence in Mexico has increased massively in recent years with murders now commonplace. Morgues even closed down in the Mexican state of  Guerrero after they were deluged with gangland victims.

Cops are trying to protect tourist destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco and Nuevo Vallarta.

However, in the first three months of 2018 more than 100 people were killed in Cancun alone.

In one 36-hour spell in April 2018 NINE PEOPLE were murdered.

Source: Travelwire News

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain on earth. Crowned with an everlasting snow-cap, this majestic mountain can be found inside the Kilimanjaro National Park of Tanzania, at 005.00 degrees south, 036 degrees east, 5895 meters or   19,340 feet above sea level. It is the tallest freestanding mountain (not part of a mountain range) in the world. The nickname for Mount Kilimanjaro is the Roof of Africa.

Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano comprised of three cones – Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. The summit is on the Kibo cone, and is named Uhuru, which means freedom in Swahili. The mountain is 750,000 years old. The last major eruption was 350,000 years ago.

Despite its massive size and height, climbing Kilimanjaro is a very achievable feat by even novice hikers. Mount Kilimanjaro is a major tourist attraction bringing thousands of participants from all over the world. It has become the mountain of choice for charity climbs, first time hikers, and celebrity adventures.

Kilimanjaro is known as a “walk-up” mountain. No technical skills are required and no mountaineering equipment (ice axes, crampons, rope and harnesses) is needed. However, it should not be underestimated as altitude sickness is a real danger when traveling to extreme elevation. More than 50% of all climbers fail to reach the summit.

It is fundamental to hire a guide or guide service when climbing Kilimanjaro. It is illegal to do so without one. There are hundreds of operators that serve Kilimanjaro, however more than 90% are poorly run local companies who do not have the appropriate standards in place to safely lead tourists on the mountain. Be selective when choosing your operator as the decision is crucial. The best operators, such as Ultimate Kilimanjaro, have many years of experience, thousands of clients, the best guides, established safety protocols, quality name brand camping equipment, nutritious meals, and are Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) members.

To visit Mount Kilimanjaro, the most convenient way is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport, and then travel to Arusha or Moshi, Kilimanjaro’s gateway towns, by vehicle. Both cities are approximately 40 minutes away from the airport and taxi services are readily available.

For more information click here:

https://www.climbingkilimanjaro.com/

https://www.rmiguides.com/kilimanjaro

https://www.climbmountkilimanjaro.com/

https://www.tanzaniaodyssey.com/tanzania/kilimanjaro

To Book Kilimanjaro visit www.admastravel.com or call 612-822-2208

Punta Cana Overview

Punta Cana is famous for its beaches, upscale hotels and great golfing. Located on the east coast of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana offers its guests scenic beach views, water adventures and family friendly conveniences. You can grab your snorkeling gear and explore the coral reefs up close, or, if you’re advanced, team up with a certified Scuba instructor and dive in a little further. Not that those who want to stay dry need to look elsewhere. Punta Cana’s championship golf courses, world-class hotels and delicious food offer endless opportunities for entertainment. In Punta Cana, you can find the perfect setting for the vacation of your dreams, from family fun to champion golf to endless days at the beach.

Mapping Out the Dominican Republic

La Romana is home to resort delights, like Casa de Campo’s world-renowned Teeth of the Dog golf course. In Puerto Plata, surf’s up where you can find all types of water sports on its Amber Coast. People flock to Punta Cana’s luxurious resorts on pristine beaches for snorkeling and fun in the clear-aqua water. But visit Samaná to see majestic humpback whales up close, migrating through the bay. Finally, UNESCO World Heritage site in Santo Domingo is the oldest city in the Americas and is the cultural and political capital of the Dominican Republic. Whatever you want to do, the Dominican Republic’s got you covered.

Lap Up Luxury

Upscale suites, infinity pools, beachfront service, you name it, you’ll find it in Punta Cana. This place is all about luxury. Want to be waited on, hand and foot? The Paradisus Palma Real’s royal service will give you the butler service you’ve always dreamed of. Need to be pampered? OK. The two-story oceanfront spa at Iberostar Grand Hotel Bávaro will get you feeling rejuvenated in no time.

Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park

If nature and science is your thing, then you must check out this eco-park. And if you like pretty scenery, then you should hop onboard too. Stroll through the park’s walkways or zoom by on a segway to tour the 12 natural, freshwater lagoons. Along the way, you’ll experience preserved nature and wildlife like iguanas, fish, small turtles and hundreds of species of exotic plants.

Plus, you’ll get to boost your Dominican Republic knowledge by learning about the history and culture of the beautiful island you’re on! Kudos if you learn why the park was named “Ojos Indigenas,” and earn extra cool points if you learn how to pronounce it! And don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and towel. After all the learning, you’ll want to splash into one of the cold water lagoons for a refreshing end to your tour.

Pick a Beach, Any Beach

You can’t really go wrong in Punta Cana. There’s a reason there are so many beachfront resorts to choose from in the whole region. No matter where you choose to dig your toes in the sand, the Caribbean water will impress, and the sand will soothe.

However, there are some characteristics that may help you find your match: If you’re a surf enthusiast, you should head north to Macao Beach where there are big waves and a surf camp. Families with smaller kiddos can feel at ease hanging out at Arena Gorda Beach, where the water is shallow. Arena Gorda also tends to be a calmer beach than other more popular areas, such as Bávaro Beach. While Bávaro is arguably the most attractive, it’s sometimes crowded with visitors also looking to lounge on the most beautiful piece of land. Scuba divers should visit Isla Catalina for its amazing coral reef. And, for an experience on an unspoiled beach, take a day trip to Isla Saona.

Family Friendly Fun for Everyone

You don’t have to worry about leaving anyone out in Punta Cana. Even the littlest of beach bums have plenty to sink their tiny toes into. Most of the resorts have childcare programs staffed by pros you can trust. Dreams Palm Beach even has an explorer’s club where the kids learn about nature and science in engaging activities like sand castle building and hunting for buried treasure.

And even better- while you let the kids have fun, you can enjoy resort quiet time like getting a spa treatment or reading a good book poolside. There are tons of excursions out in the area if the whole family wants to find adventure together, too. Activities like snorkeling and safari tours are great chances to learn a little while you enjoy a lot, especially if you have older kids. And places like Dolphin Island Park, Animal Adventure Park and the Marinarium give you options for having fun in the water away from the beach, too.

 Punta Cana Quick Facts

Language
Spanish

Currency
Peso (RD$)

Electricity
Same voltage as North America, but the sockets are two pronged.

Passport/Immigration
All U.S. citizens must have a valid passport when traveling to and from the Dominican Republic.

Drinking Water
Drink only bottled water. Avoid tap water and drinking beverages with ice cubes.

Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (UTC/GMT -4 hours)

Peak Season
Dec to Feb, July to Aug and Semana Santa (the week before Easter)

For more information Visit

http://www.godominicanrepublic.com/destinations/punta-cana/

To Book PUNTA CANA or for more information visit

http://www.admastravel.com or call 612-822-2208

suspended in the Indian Ocean, miles east of Kenya and north of Madagascar, is a 115-island archipelago so beautiful, early British explorer thought they had stumbled upon the Garden of Eden. While the Seychelles were reportedly first sighted by Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1502, little — if anything — was known of the islands prior.

Though remote, the Seychelles attract visitors who come for the ultimate romantic escape. After all, there are few places more isolated than this heavenly cluster of islands. (Even Kate Middleton and Prince William came here after exchanging vows.)

Of course, there’s more to the Seychelles than pristine beaches and water so clear, you never lose sight of your feet. In addition to unabashed natural beauty and wildlife, the main island of Mahé, where the capital Victoria is located, boasts beautiful French and British colonial architecture. And that’s to say nothing of the incredible seafood and incredible resorts.

Before you book full-day flight, consider our definitive guide to planning a perfect getaway in The Seychelles.

Before You Go

Since the Seychelles International Airport opened in 1971, tourism has boomed, and is now the leading industry in the Seychelles. United States passport holders are not required to obtain a visa for a visit of up to 30 days — however, upon arrival, you must show proof of return transportation, lodging information, and sufficient funds.

What to Pack

The Seychelles has a tropical rainforest climate with substantial humidity that is tempered by cooling ocean breezes. Pack swimwear, loose-fitting clothes, and open-toe footwear, as much of your time will be spent on the beach. Hiking is also a popular activity, so consider bringing sturdy boots. Keep in mind that the rainy season runs from December through February.

What to See

Unsurprisingly, beaches are the main draw for this island nation. And since the islands are so far-flung, many of the beaches are virtually untouched and never very crowded. Particularly famous is the Anse Lazio beach on Praslin island, which is known for its clear blue waters and native takamaka trees.

Away from the beach on Praslin is the Vallée de Mai Nature Preserve. While visiting this thick green jungle, with its primitive plant and animal species that have remained isolated since the islands were formed, try to catch a glimpse of the Seychelles black parrot. It’s found nowhere else on Earth.

The island of La Digue is also known for the Anse Source d’Argent beach. Here, you’ll find a shoreline framed by picturesque granite boulders. If you need a break from the beach, the capital city of Victoria, on the island of Mahé, is home to incredible architecture, open air markets, museums, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

What to Know

The Seychelles were not known to be inhabited until the French began settling the islands in 1768. Over the years, control of the Seychelles passed between the British and French, until the nation gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.

Today, the country remains incredibly multicultural, with most Seychellois tracing their roots back to early French settlers and East Africans who came to the islands later. There is also a sizable South Indian and Chinese influence on the cultural makeup of the islands.

This may be best manifested in the island’s cuisine, which is a seafood-heavy homage to the country’s many influences. Specialties include shark chutney (mashed shark seasoned with bilimibi juice) and ladob (a sweet of savory plantain simmered in coconut milk).

How to Get There 

Some 300 miles off the coast of mainland Africa, the best way to reach the Seychelles is by plane. Most connecting flights originate from Doha, Dubai, or Nairobi and travel between the islands is typically done on small planes or helicopters. Ferry service between the main islands of Mahé, La Digue, and Praslin is operated by Seychellesbookings.com.   From USA contact Admas Travel at 612-228-2208 or Visit www.admastravel.com

Official Tourism Destination site  http://www.seychelles.travel/

Jamaica is a beautiful island bursting with culture and adventure. While the opportunity to getaway should be reason enough to book a flight, we have 10 great reasons why you should visit Jamaica!

From the warm weather to the locally sourced cuisine, there is so much to enjoy on the island. Local residents will welcome you with open arms, eager and open to share their homeland with visitors like you.

After reading this article, you will no longer be asking yourself why should I visit Jamaica? – you’ll be asking when!? Here are ten enticing reasons why traveling to the island should be at the top of your to-do list.

1. Beautiful Miles of Beaches

Home to some of the Caribbean’s most impressive beaches, Jamaica offers a vast expanse of spectacular white sands. With breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, mountains, and crystal blue waters, the beaches are the perfect place to relax on vacation.

Walk along the coast of famous Seven Miles Beach, or explore the rocky coastline of Cosmos Beach. No matter which area of the island you visit, the beaches will amaze you. Nearly every coastal city in Jamaica has a unique and inviting seashore to welcome you.

2. Tropical Climate & Weather

Instead of staying cooped up in the winter months, throw on a bathing suit and make your way to a tropical island in the Caribbean! With an average temperature of 81˚ in Jamaica, can you think of a better way to escape the dreaded cold?

Jamaica is home to the stunning Blue Mountains, can provide a relaxing cool down and lower temperature than the beachy lowlands.

3. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Jamaica is well known for its exotic and locally sourced meals. While on the island, it is essential that you try the local cuisine. Fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood and even eggs are all typically grown and sourced by the regional farmers in Jamaica.

Of the first things to try are the jerk-seasoned dishes, one of the most well known cuisines. Usually served on chicken or pork, jerk and curry seasoning pack a delicious punch! Some consider it the second-national dish of Jamaica.

The true national dish is ackee and saltfish; ackee is a locally grown fruit sautéed and served with onions, peppers, tomatoes and salt cod. Seafood is caught daily by the Jamaican fisherman, presenting you the freshest cuisine possible.

4. Nature Lover’s Welcome!

If you love to experience nature, you will be delighted with the new experiences and adventures to take in while visiting Jamaica. Known for their exotic wildlife, the area bird species and flora will astound you. Cameras can help you retain the memories, but seeing the wildlife for yourself is irreplaceable.

If you decide to participate in snorkeling or scuba diving, the sea life will expand your horizons even further! (Tip: Underwater cameras are a must – pick up a disposable one for under $15 before your flight.) Swim with dolphins, admire the aquatic plants, and be awash with enchanting sea creatures.

5. Water Sports for Everyone

Whether you consider the water your second home or are new to experimenting with the sea, there is a sea adventure for everyone! Snorkeling and scuba diving are so much fun, exposing visitors to the tropical life under the sea’s surface!

If you’re a surfer, Jamaica’s coasts won’t disappoint you! Beautiful, clear waters and great tides offer an enjoyable adventure to new and experienced surfers alike. This is a great opportunity to take a surfing lesson as well, immersing you in the tropical ambiance while learning.

6. All-Inclusive Resorts Abound

Unlimited coconuts and rum, need we say more?

The easiest and greatest way to experience Jamaica is with an all-inclusive resort. Vacation packages with all amenities and activities included give visitors the freedom to immerse themselves in the culture and island while on a refreshing travel.

Whether traveling on a budget or searching for the luxurious side of the island, travelers are sure to find an all-inclusive package to fit their needs. Bluefields Bay offers a lavish Jamaican vacation, housing visitors in private villas along the accompanying secluded beaches.

7. Child Friendly Resorts & Activities

Traveling families know the importance of making sure children can and will enjoy the vacation just as much as the adults do! That being said, the adults need to have some fun themselves, too.

Jamaica has a vast array of child-friendly activities, from boat tours to beach fun to in-resort activities, don’t worry about finding a way to keep your children occupied and happy!

Many resorts even offer childcare for the days and nights when Mom and Dad need a little alone time. Don’t worry about dreary childcare in a room filled only with crayons and paper. Kids are on vacation too, and you want to make sure it stays that way!

Resorts like Bluefields Bay offer engaging childcare (and even adult care for elders) that keeps the entire party going. Keep your children occupied with fun activities while you and your loved one get an opportunity to sneak off for some alone time—worry free.

8. Golfing Gold Mines

Golfers are always looking for the best course around when they go on vacation. Jamaica knows, understands and delivers upon that need! If golfing is near the top of your activity list, you won’t be disappointed with the luxurious courses on the island.

Remember those breathtaking coasts and Mountain scattered skylines? You can golf in the presence of Jamaica’s beautiful landscapes. Montego Bay is home to the Caribbean’s best golf course, Half Moon. Bluefields Bay visitors will also be impressed with the well-maintained gardens of Negril Hills Golf Course.

9. An Island Rich in Culture

Still asking yourself “why visit Jamaica?” Jamaica has a proud and astounding culture, embracing the land and the lifestyles they lead. One of the greatest aspects of Jamaica’s culture is the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals. You won’t feel like a stranger when you arrive at the island, for the locals will welcome you with warm hearts.

Visiting the island is a great time to take an adventurous history lesson. Schedule a local tour, guiding you through cultural hot spots and stories of Jamaica’s past. Learn about the traditional healing of Rastafarians and visit the Bob Marley House in Nine Mile.

10. Great Shopping Deals

Local Jamaican crafters offer such a unique assortment of artisan pieces, and you are sure to find a market anywhere across the island. From art to jewelry to specialty foods, there is so much to explore within the Jamaican markets.

You may stumble upon some great deals on perfumes, clothes, handbags and other local crafts, all available for purchase without duty. Check with your resort for tips and recommendations on the best shopping hot spots, because they surely won’t be far!

Start Planning Your Caribbean Getaway!

If that wasn’t enough reason to start booking your Jamaican vacation, we may have to question your definition of a good time! Beautiful natural life and climate, exotic and local cuisine, spectacular outdoor activities and stunning beaches lining the coast of the entire island!

Planning your getaway can be so easy and so much fun! We have some great tips to make the planning process smooth, leading you to the cultural island in no time.

If you’re interested in experiencing the most luxurious all-inclusive experience that Jamaica offers, Bluefields Bay is the private resort for you. Give us a call at 1-877-955-8993 to learn more about our private villas and beaches. You can also book online at http://www.admastravel.com

http://www.visitjamaica.com/