El Tatio, The Third Largest Geyser Field in the World

El Tatio is a geyser field located within the Andes Mountains of northern Chile along the border between of Bolivia. Before the sun starts to rise, early morning more than 60 geysers, hot springs, mud pools, mud volcanoes and many fumaroles spew hot waters and steam. The largest geyser in the southern hemisphere is 4.320 meters above sea level. El Tatio is also third largest geyser field in the world, (after Yellowstone in the U.S. and the Valley of Geysers on the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia) covers an area of 12 square miles seeping steam across its surreal expanse. The El Tatio geyser field is a spectacular sight, a dreamlike high-altitude location surrounded by stratovolcanoes that form part of the local geothermal system. Geothermal power is the energy that comes from the internal heat of the Earth, and where the heat flow from the interior of the globe is sufficiently high can be used both for heating purposes and for the generation of electrical power.

El Tatio has extremophile microorganisms, which is possible of analogous example of life on early Earth and potential past life on Mars. The exclusive environment of El Tatio “provides a better environmental analog for Mars than those of Yellowstone National Park and other well-known geothermal sites on Earth.” Depending on the season, the hot springs yield 0.25–0.5 cubic meters per second of water at temperatures reaching the local boiling point. The Chilean government and private companies are looking the idea of harnessing the geothermal energy, but could not succeed due to El Tatio’s remote location and environmental concerns have stalled any geothermal power projects. In 2010, the site was declared a protected area, however tourism remains the main business at El Tatio. The el Tatio, geyser field is also known as the Copacoya geysers.

The first geothermal prospecting of the field occurred in the 1920s particularly noticeable in cold weather. The field once numbered 67 geysers and more than 300 hot springs, as some geyser fountains reached heights of over 10 meters usually however they do not exceed 1 meter.  The hydrothermal activities are main reason of discoloring the several volcanoes of El Tatio volcanic group. El Tatio is a tourism destination, with substantial amounts of travelers both from Chile and other countries play an integral part of economic resource for the region, as more than 400 daily visitors comes here to see these exclusive geysers.

The water is rich in minerals, especially sodium chloride, rubidium, strontium, bromine, magnesium, cesium, lithium, arsenic, sulfate, boron, potassium, silica and calcium. Hydrothermal alteration at El Tatio, has also yielded large deposits of alteration minerals such as illite, nobleite, smectite, teruggite and ulexite. Moreover, El Tatio and a number of other geothermal fields have been dominated by andesitic volcanism producing lava flows until the late Miocene, large scale ignimbrite activity took place between 10 and 1 million years ago. The toxic minerals like arsenic which pollutes a numbers of waters in this area, causing health issues in the population. The climate is dry falling between December and March, rather windy, which influences the hot springs by enhancing evaporation. This region has extreme temperature variations between day and night. El Tatio lies at high altitude, regularly leading to altitude sickness, and the cold dry climate creates further danger.

Further El Tatio area has exposure to the hot gases and water can result in burn injuries, and both sudden eruptions of geysers and fountains and fragile ground above vents and above boiling water, concealed beneath thin covers of solid ground, increase the risk to unwary travelers. The hot spring waters enter the ground east and south east of El Tatio is controlled by the permeability of the volcanic material. Unlike geothermal fields in wetter parts of the world, given the dry climate of the area local precipitation does have little influence on the hot springs hydrology at El Tatio. The time the water takes to traverse the whole path from precipitation to the springs is about 15 years.

The water travels through a number of aquifers which correspond to permeable rock formations through faults and fractures in the rock. Magmatic brine is mixed into this water and the mixture ultimately becomes the water that emerges at El Tatio. This area dry grassland vegetation are  Tussock grasses like Anatherostipa, Festuca, Stipa while rosette and cushion plants, Azorella, Chaetanthera, Mulinum, Senecio, Lenzia, Pycnophyllum and Valeriana. El Tatio geyser field, one of San Pedro de Atacama’s most popular surrounding attractions, so don’t miss whenever you go Chile. The natural marveling at the geothermal wonders provides breathtaking views for taking pictures.

First Ever Undersea Villa of Maldives

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island will soon offer the dream comes into reality by sleep with the fishes but there's nothing at all sinister about it. The incredible images show that it’s potentially going to be one of the most sought-after hotel rooms in the world. The swanky resort is opening what is believed to be the world’s first-ever undersea villa. The suite, named the Muraka, has cost $15million to build and will give guests unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean.  The Muraka undersea suite is set to open at the end of 2018.

It's a two-deck affair, with the lower deck sitting 16 feet beneath the waves. The villas has a bedroom, living space and bathroom and, of course, swathes of glass so that guests can gaze at the colorful local sea life swimming past, wherever they are in the complex. The residence was designed by architects the Crown Company and is being built by New Zealand-based MJ Murphy Limited, which specializes in aquarium technology. The undersea suite is connected to the top deck by a spiral staircase.

Moreover, on the top, guests will find a twin-size bedroom, bathroom, powder room, gym, butler’s quarters, private security quarters, integrated living room, kitchen, bar and a dining room with a deck that faces the direction of the sunset. On the other side of the villa sits a relaxation deck that faces the direction of sunrise and an infinity swimming pool. Further the upper level also contains an extra king-size bedroom and bathroom, which boasts an ocean-facing bathtub, ideal for soaking in views of the endless horizon.

On the whole, Muraka can accommodate up to nine guests. Ahmed Saleem, the chief designer of the residence, driven by our inspiration to deliver innovative and transformative experiences to our global travelers, the world’s first undersea residence inspires visitors to explore the Maldives from a completely new perspective below the surface of the sea.

The Gorgeous Heavenly Lake, Xinjiang China

Tianchi is an alpine lake in Xinjiang, Northwest China, its means Heavenly Lake and can refer to several lakes in mainland China and Taiwan. This Tianchi lies about 30KM south of Fukang and 45KM east of Ürümqi. It is an alpine drift lake shaped in the Quaternary Glacier period. The lake is classified as a highest level scenic area by the China National Tourism Administration. This crescent-shaped water area deserves its name, Pearl of Heavenly Mountain with melted snow as its source, enjoys crystal water. Besides the lake, one of the most visited spots in the Tianchi Scenic Zone is Mount Bogda, whose spectacular natural features include glaciers and canyons, winding brooks and falls, and dense forests and meadows.

In the previous centuries the lake was known with Yaochi. The Tianchi Lake covering area is 4.9 square kilometers.  The surface of the lake itself is at an altitude of about 2,000 meters or about 6,600 feet, and it is about 100 meters at the deepest point. In summer, the lake is an ideal place to see changing silvery mountains soaring into the blue sky. The lakes slopes highlighted with verdant pasture and flamboyant wild flowers, fishing at dusk has its own special charm. A decade ago, the lake area was increased 158 km² to 548 km², to increase the tourism. The lake is accessible by Provincial Highway 111 from Fukang. From Mid-June till September, the lake has high season and there will be sea of local/global people. There will be long queues everywhere, particularly transports to the summit.

The Heavenly Lake is surrounded by various rugged and forested valleys that lead down to the lake from closely surrounding peaks that reach about 2,400 meters. There is a hiking trail that goes around it. Moreover, there’s obvious difference in temperature in day and in night in Xinjiang and temperature in some scenic spots is maybe lower due to the high elevation or weather change. Thus, it is still essential to take along a coat or woolen sweater to keep warm in summer. In 1982 Heavenly Lake and Heavenly Mountain Scenic Area became one of the first national-level scenic spots and in 1990 it was added on the list of Bogda Nature Preserve of Man and the Biosphere by the UNESCO. There are many interesting spots around the lake; there are more than ten ancient temples. Moreover, they are many valuable herb medicines grow on Mt. Heavenly. The mountain is also called treasure bowl, due to more than 20 kinds of animals, 40 different kind of birds and over 100 kind of insects can be find here.

The Changing Beauty of Kotisaari Island in Finland through All Four Seasons

The nature photographer “Jani Ylinampa” based in Rovaniemi, a legendary lumberjack town. He‘s a real master of capturing the breathtaking sunsets, dancing Northern Lights, Amazing forests, Landscapes, lakes and other wonders of nature. The Ounas- and Kemi rivers were used as floating channels for the log industry from the late 1800 century until end of 1980 when the floating channels were replaced by the more modern use of trucks.

Ylinampa is passionate photographer, and he’s been doing it for almost 15 years. He has vast experience of nature, how, when and where to capture. So, one of his magical objects that caught Ylinampa‘s eye was a beautiful Kotisaari island in Rovaniemi, that used to be a traditional stronghold of the Lumberjacks in Kemijoki. In the good old days the Kotisaari Island was a traditional stronghold of the Lumberjacks in Kemijoki, and enters this idyllic island. 

 

Well, it makes sense, because in autumn the grass is just begin to dry out after its growth spurt during summer, whereas in spring it's already dried from having been under snow for a couple of months and just beginning to regain its color. Interestingly, in southern Europe the colors are inverted - the grass is greener in spring as it dries out due to strong sunlight at the height of summer, though winter comes with humidity but little (if any) snow which allows it to regain its color.

Floating in the scenic Kemi River, it became just the right place to fulfil photographer’s wish to capture the varying attractiveness of nature. Ylinampa documented the Kotisaari Island from a drone through all four seasons, which resulted in four really different but spellbinding pictures of this wonderful piece of land. The Lumberjacks’ history still lives on in the buildings of the island. The old boathouse has been revamped and it is now used as a tavern. You can only reach the island by boat along the scenic Kemi River to spend a peaceable summer day on this small island or an atmospheric autumn evening when the lights of the city flicker on the river.

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Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur Rajasthan

Mehrangarh Fort is also known as “Mehran Fort” located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The foundation of the Mehran fort was decided on 12 May 1459 by Rao Jodha on a rocky hill 9KM to the south of Mandore. Rao Jodha, previously known as “Marwar” founded Jodhpur in 1459. He was one of Ranmal's 24 sons and became the 15th Rathore ruler. The fort rising perpendicular and impregnable from a rocky hill that itself one of the most magnificent forts in India. Still run by the Jodhpur royal family, Mehrangarh is packed with rich history and legends.

Mehrangarh though the fortress was originally started in 1459 by Rao Jodha, founder of Jodhpur, most of the fort which stands nowadays dates from the period of Jaswant Singh of Marwar (1638–78). The fort is located at the centre of the city spreading over 5 kilometers on top of a high hill. Its walls, which are up to 118 feet high and 69 feet wide, protect some of the most gorgeous and historic palaces in Rajasthan. Further, the striking silhouette of the Mehrangarh fort against the stunning clouds at Jodhpur offers great view.

Mehrangarh Fort built around 1460, situated 410 feet above the city and is enclosed by striking thick walls. Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India, as inside and its boundaries are numerous palaces famous for their intricate carvings and extensive courtyards. There’s a museum in Mehrangarh Fort, one of most admired stocked museums in Rajasthan.  In one section of museum, selection of old royal palanquins, including the elaborate domed gilt Mahadol palanquin which was won in a battle from the Governor of Gujarat in 1730. Moreover, the museum exhibits the heritage of the Rathores in arms, costumes, paintings and decorated period. Moreover, on the left side of fort, a chhatri of Kirat Singh Soda, a brave solider who fell on the spot defending the Mehrangarh Fort.?

Mehrangarh Fort holds the pride of place in Jodhpur because of its impressive architecture and the diverse history accompanying with it. Moreover, entry to the fort is gained through a series of gates, thus there are seven famous gates, among them the most famous are “jayapol” built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1806, “Fattehpol” built by Maharaja Ajit Singh built to celebrate the victory over Mughals in 1707, “Dedh Kamgra Pol” which still bears the scars of bombardment by cannonballs, and “Loha Pol”, which is the final gate into the main part of the fort complex. The imprints of the impact of cannonballs fired by attacking armies of Jaipur can still be seen on the second gate.

Within the fort there are several dazzlingly crafted and decorated palaces. These include Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesha Mahal, Sileh Khana, Daulat Khana, Rang Mahal, Chandan Mahal and Maan Vilas are exquisite splendors. The fort museum houses a rare collection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes and furniture. The ramparts of the fort house preserved old cannon, and provided a breath-taking view of the city.

The fort also encloses the Mehrangarh Fort Museum, exhibits all of the historical things, like the royal palanquins, miniature paintings, furniture, and historic armory etc. Mahadol, the Palanquin is mostly covered with gold and silver embossed sheets, which were fastened onto the elephant's back. Palanquins were most popular means of travel and circumambulation for the ladies of the nobility up to the second quarter of the 20th century. They were also used by male nobility and royals on special occasions. Daulat Khana - Treasures of Mehrangarh Museum gallery displays one of the most important and best preserved collections of fine and applied arts of the Mughal period of Indian history, during which the Rathore rulers of Jodhpur maintained close links with the Mughal emperors. It also has the remains of Emperor Akbar.

Moreover, rare collections of armour are displays i.e., sword hilts in jade, silver, rhino horn, ivory, shields studded with rubies, emeralds and pearls and guns with gold and silver work on the barrels. Also some personal swords of numerous emperors, among them outstanding historical piece like the Khaanda of Rao Jodha, weighing over 3 kg, the sword of Akbar the Great and the sword of Timur. There’s a gallery displays colors of Marwar-Jodhpur, the finest example of Marwar paintings. One of  Turban Gallery in the Mehrangarh Museum seeks to preserve, document and display the many different types of turbans once prevalent in Rajasthan; every community, region and festival having had its own head-gear.

Jodhpur is well-known for its warm climate and its location of being right at the edge of the Thar Desert, and with the number of amazing things to see and do in this city; you just can’t miss the prominence of Mehrangarh Fort. The Fort has been declared a unique geological location by National Geological Monument by the Geological Survey of India to encourage Geotourism in the country. Thar Desert region, spread over an area of 43,500 km2 represents the last phase of igneous activity of Precambrian age in the Indian Subcontinent. Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park spreads over 72 hectares, adjoining Mehrangarh Fort. The park contains ecologically restored desert and arid land vegetation, distinctive volcanic rock formations such as rhyolite, with welded tuff, and breccia, sandstone formations. Nowadays, it is acknowledged as one of the best preserved fort in India. You don’t need a ticket to enter the fort itself, only the museum section.

The Unique Red Beach of Panjin Liaoning, China

When you think about beach then sand is probably the first thing that comes to mind. But here in this case with the Red Beach located in Dawa County, Panjin, Liaoning, China, which is, actually, red, and not covered in sand at all. The red beach is well-known for its landscape featuring the red plant of Suaeda salsa o the Chenopodiaceae family. The Panjin Red beach has transformed to a crimson red with the arrival of autumn that grows along its shores takes on a crimson hue as it matures. The result is a sea of red as far as the eye can see, marshland is very rare as the seepweed “also identified as seablite,”common to coastal areas is green. A beautiful recreational wooden path, perhaps the most wonderful one of its kind in China, has been built for sightseers to mingle with waterfowls, relish the imaginary wetland views and experience rich and profound local culture. This is land of fish and rice, an exclusive culinary culture has been developed from last decade or so. A spectacular winter fishing event is held every year in nearby Wolong Lake.

It is based in the biggest wetland and reed marsh in Formation. Panjin Shuangtaizi River mouth state-level nature protection area reserves the most completed ecosystem and the biggest wetland in the world. More than 260 kinds of birds and 399 kinds of wild animals live in it. It was promoted to the state-level nature protection area in 1988 has applied to join the International person and biosphere protectorate network. It is a fantastic getaway where vacationers can do more than sightseeing. They can experience ecological agriculture, going to paddy fields to see cute crop pictures and even having their own customized croplands. Specializing in the use of bio-energy, the resort offers splendid environment-friendly rural scenery.

Since the 1984 inception of Panjin City, the Red Beach has been developed as an eco-tourist destination. Moreover the largest reed marsh in Asia is attracting many tourists. The reeds are used to make paper. The red-crowned crane also reproduces here and it is also the scarce black-mouth gull's largest breeding area. The landscape is composed of shallow seas and tide-lands. Red Beach sees the flawless blend of natural scenery and industrial development. Nevertheless Panjin is a famous oil city, so in the vicinity of the scenic spot, there are rows of derricks and extraction equipment. Many thanks to the strict clean production practice, no oil stain can be found on the production platforms.

The ground is a deep red, as if though paint was spilled over it. There is nothing but red for miles around. As the land is very flat, many Chinese people have dubbed it “red carpet beach”. It spans over 51 square miles of coastal land. The location of the beach on the coast means the soil is incredibly saline, which is the perfect condition for seepweed to thrive. Unlike most plants, which cannot cope with the salt in the soil, seepweed needs the saline conditions to grow. During the summer, the seepweed is a lush green color. However, as it matures in autumn, the leaves turn a deep red color before eventually becoming purple. Over the winter, the plant dies down and prepares to regrow in the spring.

The unbelievable seasonality of the beach has fascinated lots of tourists over the years. The wetland offers a superior environment for rice to grow. The cattail bamboo shoots or pusun is a plant native to the lower reaches of the Liaohe River. However, pusun is very sensitive to its environment; it can only grow wild and has a very low yield. This nutrient-rich food is enjoyed by numerous people.  Though the Red Beach is usually safe for the tourists visiting it, the local wildlife and its biodiversity are themselves under threat. There is a history of tension between protection of the wetlands and economically driven human activity. Therefore, seafood farms and rice paddies compete with wildlife for food and space as well. In the recent years, there have been better efforts made to further protect the local ecosystems, out of recognition that biodiversity therein is key to the maintenance of clean water and prevention of flooding for humans and animals alike. Hence, travelers should pay heed to such considerations, and not try to stray from the designated wooden path, which is designed around sustainable principles of eco-tourism.