Saturday, 2 May 2020

Turkish Hotel “Floats” Over 2,300-Year-Old Ancient Ruins


An astonishing new extravagance hotel opened in Antakya, Turkey in 2020. Amazingly it is at once an engineering wonder, an architectural attractiveness, and a world-class archaeological site.  In 2009 a construction crew was digging the foundation for a new hotel and surprise to see an amazing discovery at Antakya Turkey. The digging crew unearthed a gigantic mosaic of Roman times, along with over 35,000 artifacts ranging 2,300 years from at least 13 diverse civilizations.

This the amazing discovery put the hotel construction on hold however; they have completed six months' excavation work. Hence, the dreams of building a hotel dashed, potentially derailing the entire project. But a group “Asfuroğlu” decided against that, and embrace the daunting challenge, they work hard with archeological find into the hotel’s blueprint.

So, they started to work with the Antakya Municipality, Hatay Archaeology Museum & Adana Conservation Council for Cultural and Natural Assets on Turkey's leading systemic archeological excavation since the 1930s. So, negotiation took place 11 years to conclude a final result of building the hotel come into being. Finally, the 200-room Museum Hotel Antakya opened its doors for customers.

The Hotel Antakya was designed by Turkish architect Emre Arolat. The five floors are balanced on near 20,000 tons of structural steel four times more than the Eiffel Tower columns on top of the actual archeological site. Where the eleven thousand square feet Roman mosaic lay in-situ.

The hotel’s Antakya lowest floor houses an open-air museum with glass floors and walkways providing a superb and clear view of the mosaic and the various excavation pits. The visitor rooms are massed above this open space, hovering over the site in a stacked honeycomb structure, with glass windows, straight overlook the archaeological findings.

The Ancient City of Antioch

The whole story started in 2009 when the famous city of Antakya stands on the site of the ancient city Antioch, founded in the 4th century BC. At those times, this region was the center of the Seleucid kingdom until the 1st century BC, when it was annexed by Rome and was made the capital of the Roman province of Syria.

Antioch was once the third-largest city of the Roman Empire in size and significance, after Rome and Alexandria, and possessed superb temples, theatres, aqueducts, and baths. Antioch was also one of the earliest centers of much ecclesiastical significance in the Byzantine Empire. However, the city changed hands more than a few times, conquered by Byzantine, Seljuk,  Crusaders, Ayyubid, Mamluk, finally the Ottoman in the 16th century.

Therefore, the archaeologists trust the mosaic may once have been part of a government building or a villa dating back to the 5th century. Thus, the other artifacts found inside date back to the Hellenistic Age, which started in 323 BC. Moreover to the mosaic, which the biggest single-floor mosaic ever found, archaeologists exposed ruins of a Roman bath, the first unbroken marble statue of the Greek Eros, and several more artifacts.

The project is completed after a hefty amount of $120 million and took 10 years to complete, just from the perspective of the hotel but also for the impressive archaeological findings. The Asfuroğlu family anticipating, that what they would have found or how it would have changed the destiny of the region forever.















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Sunday, 19 April 2020

America's Smallest National Forest

If you see from some distance, you will sense it a big bush. However, the case is totally opposite. Actually, it is a cluster of 33 pine trees at the foot of the small hill, on the remote Alaskan Island Adak. It is part of the volcanic Aleutian archipelago. These pine trees huddled together in the vast treeless landscape. This volcanic island has connected to the continents of North America and Asia. The constant overcast skies, windy conditions, cold temperatures only benefit to grass, mosses, and low-lying flowering plants grow here. 

Basically, it is an unsuccessful army experiment in World War Two. The Japanese army overcomes the two westernmost The Aleutian Islands. Thus, the United States decides to boost the sagging spirit of soldiers and defense in that area, by building airbase at Adak. During war operation, it was home to more than six thousand servicemen. Therefore, extreme weather conditions make life miserable here. The constant rain, snow, sleet, fog, and mud make the defense difficult.

The U.S. Army General Buckner presented the idea of planting pine trees might boost his troop’s confidence. He was anxious about his soldier’s lonesome attitude. Thus, the formal planting trees idea was implemented from 1943 till 1945 to brighten up the situation. Pines are very robust trees, can accommodate any severe climate. Unluckily, this pine forest, could not survive the harsh climate conditions and lost it’s completely, except one tree. Therefore, after a few years, these pine trees managed to grow back.

At that time a signboard was placed. “You are now ENTERING and LEAVING The ADAK NATIONAL FOREST” was placed here on a whim by soldiers in the early 1960s. Therefore, after fifty years, microclimate conditions changed, which benefited to these pine trees, and they are well survived by the harsh climate. Thus, this grove of pine trees is claimed to be the smallest National Forest in the United States.

This is completely a wonderful example of robust nature through many blustery winters that didn’t damage the pine trees. The local peoples decorated this forest every December. These are not tall trees, but survived the brutal wind and rainy conditions suffers the island. Keep in mind, that the largest National Forest in the United State is Tongass National Forest, which is also situated in Alaska. This National Forest covers 17 million acres and harbors the remnants of vast glaciers that once dominated the landscape.









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Saturday, 18 April 2020

Lake Lure in North Carolina - USA

Lake Lure was a small town and it was incorporated in 1927. It is located at Rutherford County, North Carolina, United States. It has relative a low population of around 1,500 people. It was acquired the lake after which it is named in 1965. The beautiful Lake Lure covers around 720 acres including a shoreline of approximately 27 miles.
In 1902, The 64 acres land was acquired for $5,000 by Dr. Lucisu B.Morse and his brother Hiram and Asahel. After that, they purchased more land to increase the area to 8,000 acres. Elizabeth the wife of Lucius Morse’s credited the Lake name. Also, there is a nearby mountain, which is resembled buffalo. In 1925, a Dam project was initiated to make a plan for development that came to a halt with the beginning of the Great Depression.
In 1965, the dam, Power The company, and real estate of Lake Lure were acquired by the Town of Lake Lure. Since then, selling electricity is the primary object to make a profit for the maintenance of fixed water levels. It also boosts the recreation and tourism industry to grow the town’s economy. One of Pine Gables was included in the list of National Register of Historic Places, in 1999. 
This is one of the most breathtaking man-made lakes in the United States. The lake is nestled on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, around 27 miles from Asheville. Lake Lure natural beauty is enhanced by lush green mountain tops and sheer granite cliffs. Further upon looking up, you will see popular Chimney Rock. Many tourists climb up there and see the breathtaking views of Lake Lure. It has been a popular filming location for filmmakers.

Further, you can enjoy the relaxing walk on the half-mile flowering bridge with private homes surrounding the area of Lake Lure.

Things to do at Lake Lure
  • Enjoy the sandy beach well maintained by private companies.
  • In hot summer, you can enjoy the water park includes a waterslide.
  • You can book, restrooms, changing rooms, picnic tables, and food points.
  • A popular hiking spot of 1.5 miles loop by the boulders and cliffs.
  • Enjoy Rock climbing at Chimney Rock.
  • The guided boats and rental boats are available to have a boat riding in Lake Lure. 
  • Relish the spectacular view of Morse Park and Greenway.
  • You can stroll the fantastic’s view of Hickory Nut Gorge along Lakeside Park.  
  • Enjoy the Buffalo Creek Park, almost 1,500 acres of conserved land.
  • One can even enjoy mountain biking.
  • If you are a sports lover, then you can enjoy the nine holes golf area, between the gorgeous scenery of Hickory Nut Gorge.
  • You can enjoy multiples water sports activities i.e., kneeboard, fishing, and tube, water-ski, wake surf, wakeboard, boating, kayaking, and water sports trips. 
  • Enjoy thrilling mountain bike riding.
  • You can enjoy the Right Track Toy Train Museum.
  • If you have enough time, then you explore the nearby areas of Forest City, Cool North Carolina Mountain small towns, and Chimney Rock Village.
  • For nature lovers, it is the ideal place to feel the serenity, bird watching, relaxing water, and birds chirping.
  • On the north of Lake Lure, a 30 minutes drive takes you to Black Mountain, surrounded with amazing nature views.
  • There are plenty of brands for shopping lovers.
  • Since 1980’s Lake Lure Art and Craft Festival held in spring and autumn.
  • The botanical preserver's consisting of more than 200 species of wildflowers and plants, lichens, mosses, and trees.
  • Explore the splendors and wonders of nature of Linville Caverns.
  • A privately owned property allows the public access to Pearson’s Fall















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Sunday, 5 April 2020

Jackson Hole Wyoming

Well, Jackson Hole valley remained isolated from the burgeoning travel industry. Instead, it has survived on local industries like logging, ranching and, during the 19th century, fur trading. But in recent times, Jackson Hole boasts the rise of tourism. Former blue-collar settlements like Jackson and Grand Teton now wonderful notable art and performance venues. In winter the mega ski resorts have transformed the region into an up-and-coming winter wonderland. However, many people planning an opulent getaway, and don't give western Wyoming a little thought even and say: Think again. Jackson Hole is also called Jackson's Hole by the mountain men. In 1893 the valley is named by Margaret Simpson. 

Sure, you won't encounter the glitz and glam of Aspen or Lake Tahoe, but the natural beauty and vastness of the Jackson Hole region have caught the attention of Hollywood celebs like Harrison Ford and politicos like former Vice President Dick Cheney. The fresh and luxurious Jackson Hole remains first and foremost the heart of mountain country, with rugged trails and miles of open space that recall a time before the West was won.

Jackson Hole is a breathtaking valley between the Teton Mountain Range and the Gros Ventre Range in Wyoming sitting near the border of Idaho. Jackson hoe is a 55 mile long and 10 to 21 km wide graben valley. The average elevation is around 7,000 ft, with the lowest point is 6,350 feet. The term "hole" was used by early trappers or mountain men, as a term for a large mountain valley. The climate condition is very calm and cool in winter. The many parts are Jackson hole is covered with snow creates cold air and record low temperature is -56F in the valley in 1993. At MSN.com the Jackson Hole was rated best campsite in Wyoming in 2017. 









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Wednesday, 1 April 2020

Kalandula Falls Angola

Kalandula Falls (previously famous as Duque de Bragança Falls) are beautiful waterfalls in the municipality of Kalandula, Malanje Province, Angola. Kalandula Falls is located on the Lucala River, the falls are 105 meters (344 feet) high and 400 meters (1,300 feet) wide. They are one of the largest waterfalls by volume in Africa. 
The distance from Luanda is 360 km. The amount of water thundering over the falls is extremely impressive. There are a ton of Angolan tourists getting around, all extremely happy to be out exploring their own country. Not far from the black rocks are the mighty Kalandula Falls. 
Angola is one of the three countries in the world with the highest biodiversity. This is reflected especially in this region. Exotic plant life paired with rare animal species makes Malanje a breathtaking experience. Dive into the tropical forests of Angola and experience Africa in a very authentic way. If you are willing and the weather permits it, we will wake up early to see the sunrise at the Calandula Falls.


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Friday, 20 March 2020

The Gorgeous Mesa Falls in Idaho

Mesa Falls is a gorgeous 115-foot cascade billow over the leftovers of an ancient volcanic eruption in Caribou-Targhee National Forest Ashton, Idaho. The scenic byway lower Falls can be seen from a drive-up parking area with a lookout point. But the real beauty is little ahead at the Upper Falls. That is accessible by a short-paved path from the visitor’s center. The undisturbed Mesa Falls in Idaho is yet undiscovered by most area visitors, thus, making for a more relaxing viewing experience. The guard rail takes you down in 10 to 15 minutes to the river point.
In these days, Lower and Upper Mesa Falls are the last protuberant waterfalls on the Snake River to resist human interference. This is one of the major falls in Idaho which hasn’t used for any irrigation or hydroelectric projects. Over the weekend, peoples come here to spend a day with family and have fun. This place offers spectacular views in a lovely forest setting.  The upper waterfalls visitor center has been developed a paved path to easily accessible to all.
Many visitors believe Grandview Campground is the best viewpoint. Mesa Falls in Idaho has formed with the combination of rhyolite tuff and basalt lava due to supervolcano eruption millions of years ago. Moreover, this tuff was mostly the result of superheated volcanic ash and molten granite fusing composed in the high temperatures of the eruption to form the hard erosion-resistant rock layer. Which gave rise to the drop in Henry’s Fork that today as the Upper Mesa Falls.
There are several spots where you can take selfies and nature photographs. The snake river flows through a large, steep-walled volcanic canyon, carries a considerable water volume. The river is directly fed by snowmelt from mountain streams creating great noise and spray. Mesa Falls have all facilities of the parking lot, info center to know about the history of falls and lodges, restaurants, drinking water, hiking, plenty of walking, and much more. There is a fur room back, which is treated to watch different animals’ furs. 
The people touch the furs and showing a lot of interest to know the characteristic of each animal.  What they eat, what they do in the wild etc. Moreover, another hit is a telescope to observe the wildlife, bird watching, Osprey, that is normally a busy spot. Also, you can watch a beautiful documentary on Youtube.

Wallace Stegner said in Sound of Mountain Water in 1980.
“I gave my heart to the mountains the minute I stood beside this river with its spray in my face and watched it thunder into foam, smooth to green glass over sunken rocks, shatter to foam again. I was fascinated by how it sped by and yet was always there; its roar shook both the earth and me.”






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