TOURISM MANAGEMENT

2nd Semester
A.Y. 2024-2025

Course Title: Global Culture and Tourism Geography

Course Code: GLTOUR
Course Description: This course will cover the workings, operations, and the
integrative activities of major stakeholders in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry.
The student will also gain knowledge on managing and marketing a service-
oriented business organization, it provides an in-depth study of the nature and
distinctive characteristics of each sector of the entire tourism industry, focusing on
the management, organization and planning of specific business strategies for the
various entities in the local setting. This will also involve the analysis of the possible
impacts of external factors and trends on the different tourism industry sectors and
specific types of businesses. It will also look into client profiling such as travel
motivations and influences as it relates to aligning strategic and tactical solutions to
the business. The course also identifies the employment opportunities available in
each sector and the corresponding qualifications for the jobs

Coverage: Finals

Topic/s:

 Central and West Asia

 Europe
 North and Central America

Learning Objectives:

 Locate each Asian country on the map.

 Differentiate the touristic appeal of each country.
 Explain the cultural similarities and differences of the various regions in Asia.
 Identify the countries found in Europe.
 Name the national facts and information of each country.
 Locate each European country on the map.
 Explain the tourism appeal of the countries in Europe.
 Identify countries found in North and Central America
 Name the national facts and information of each country, state, and territories.
 Explain the tourism appeal of the countries, state, and territories of North and
Central America.

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Main Topic: WEST ASIA or WESTERN ASIA

Western Asia or West Asia is the region situated in the western most part
of Asia It covers the following countries: Jordan, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain,
Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq, Armenia, Iran, Turkey, Syria, United Arab
Emirates, Yemen, Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.

Jordan (Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan) is named after the Jordan River. This
Arab Muslim nation is famous for its historical religious sites such as Petra (also
called "Rose City"), the country's landmark. It has been mentioned in the biblical
Old Testament and has become one of the places visited in the holy land
pilgrimage.

Other pilgrimage sites include:

 Bethany, the place where John the Baptist baptized Jesus

 Mount Nebo, which is believed to be the location where Moses saw the Promised
Land.

Serving food to their invited guests is Jordanian's way of showing their

hospitable characteristic. The usual ingredients in their dishes are cheese, grains,
yogurt, fruits, and vegetables. Lamb is the main ingredient of their traditional food
called Mansaf.

Jordan is also known for its cratts. Sand bottles are among the crafts that
has been said to have originated in the country (http://jordanembassyus.org).

Capital: Amman
Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Language: Arabic (official) and English
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ)
Major International Airports: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)

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 Israel (State of Israel), or most popularly known as "The Holy Land,' holds
most of the significant religious heritage sites. it attracts pilgrims all over the world,.
Jewish, Christians, and Muslims visit the country to witness the sites that are
significant their faith and traditions (Lew et al., 2008).

For Christians. visits to the significant destinations in the life of Jesus

Christ are the
highlight of the tour. This includes:

 Nazareth, the hometown of Jesus Christ

 Basilica of the Annunciation, the site where angel Gabriel announced to Mary
that She would be carrying the Son of God
 Bethlehem, the birthplace of the Jesus Christ
 Mount of Beatitudes, the location where Jesus said to have delivered his
teachings
 Sea of Galilee
 Church of St. Joseph
 Capernaum
 Church of First Miracle in Cana

Jerusalem, the capital and the center of the Holy Land is the place where
Jesus was crucified and had risen. To commemorate the passion of Jesus and death,
pilgrims may take a walk down the Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrows) and visit the
Church of the Holy Sepulcher, which is said to be the site of Jesus' crucifixion.

For Muslim believers, Jerusalem is the third holiest city after Mecca and
Medina, Other significant places are the al-Aqsa Mosque and Dome of the Rock, the
place where Prophet Mohammed was said to arise into heaven. (Lew et al.,2008)

Israel is the land of the Jewish people. Some of the significant religious
sites in Israel are the Mount of Olives, Mount Sinai, Rachel's Tomb, The Western
Wall, and Temple Mount, the most sacred site in Judaism (Maina Wambugu, 2018).
A certain diet that conforms to the Jewish dietary regulations of kashrut is being
observed by Jewish people. Kosher, a Hebrew word that means "fit or proper," are
foods that are permitted to be consumed based on the Jewish dietary law.

Kosher foods are categorized into:

 Meat- refers to all meat and foWl including its by-products (bones, soup, or
gravy). It should meet the standards and requirements to qualify as kosher
 Dairy foods that contain milk like butter, yogurt, cheese and even foods that
contain a little amount of dairy can make a food fall under this category. Some of
the criteria to be followed are dairy must come from a kosher animal and
ingredients must also be kosher, as well as the equipment to be used for
producing, processing, and packaging
 Pareve - foods that is not meat nor dairy like fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables,
grains, pasta, beverages like coffee, tea, soft drinks and other candies and
snacks (https://www.ok.org/).

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Capital: Jerusalem
Currency: Shekel
Language: Hebrew (official), Arabic, and English
Religion: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
Carrier: ELAL Israel Airlines (LY)
Major International Airports: Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

Saudi Arabia, or Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, constitute a huge part of the

Arabian Peninsula. It is surrounded by countries such as Yemen, Oman, Bahrain,
Kuwait, Qatar, Iraq, Jordan, and United Arab Emirates (UAE). The country houses
important holy sites for Islam believers. Makkah and Madinah are the sites visited
by Muslim pilgrims. Makkah draws Muslims from different countries all over the
world during the season of Haj and the holy month of Ramadan.

Islam is the state religion, and it is also the foundation of the country's
legal system,
government, teachings, tradition, and customs. For instance, Islamic dietary law
defines which food are permitted to be consumed or halal and which foods. are
considered as haram or forbidden. Halal food defined as food permitted to be eaten
based on the Islamic Law. Therefore it should not contain or consist of anything t
that is found prohibited according to Islamic religious law (Shariah) Example of
haram food are pork: noncertified meat haram and poultry and any product
prepared with alcohol or animal fats food that contains haram or forbidden
ingredients like alcohol, animal fat, gelatin, vanilla extract, lipase pepsin, and
others. Halal certification label (symbol) is helpful in checking if the food is free from
any of the haram ingredients (https://www.gfs.com/en-us; http://www.fao.org/).

Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to tourists, Riyadh, the capital also
known as Al-Wosta, is the country's business center and a historical destination too,
the national museum of Saudi Arabia, Al Murabba Palace, Ushaiger Heritage Village,
and Al Masmak Fortress are some of the places of interest in Riyadh. Some of the
activities that can also be enjoyed range from diving, hiking, shopping, and visiting
resorts and parks. One of the mosts significant events in relation to culture is the
Jenadriyah Heritage and Cultural Festival. This event aims to make the cultural
heritage of the Saudi intact (saudiembassy.net). In addition, visitors are advised to
act accordingly and dress conservatively. Avoid Public displays of affection (PDA)
and the use of ill-mannered language and gestures. Women must not show their
knees and shoulders in public.

Visitors from eligible countries may apply tourism visa through e-Visa.
However, Filipinos who wish to see the beauty of Saudi Arabia may apply for a visa
at the embassy of Saudi Arabia or the Consulate. The documents needed for the
application are proof of accommodation, return ticket, proof of employment, and a
bank statement. Identification, home address, and travel itinerary will also be
needed. A single-entry visa allows tourists to stay f for at least one month, while
multiple-entry visa gives tourists an opportunity to stay for at least three months in
Saudi Arabia (www.visitsaudi.com).

Capital: Riyadh
Currency: Saudi Riyal
Language: Arabic
Religion: Islam

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Carrier: Saudia (also known Saudi Arabia Airlines) (SV)
Major International Airports: King Khalid International Airport (RUH), King Abdulaziz International
Airport (JED), King Fahd International Airport (DMM)

Bahrain, or the Kingdom of Bahrain, is an archipelagic state in Western

Asia. The country's name means "The Two Seas" while the capital's name was
derived from the word "Al Manama,' which means "place of rest." Islam, the main
religion practiced by more than half of the population, also contributes to the
Bahraini way of clothing Dressing modestly observed in the country. Abaya is worn
by women and thob is for men.

Bahrain's visitors will be amazed by its architectural designs, theatrical

and musical shows, and its shopping experience.

 Bab-el-Bahrain Souq in Manama offers a wide variety of shops

 Bahrain National Theater is the country's landmark and the first national theater
in the country.

Other attractions include:

 Qala'at Al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort), a UNESCO World Heritage site

 A Adhari Park, an amusement park
 Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve
 Al Fateh Grand Mosque (http://culture.gov.bh).

Tourists visiting Bahrain can also enjoy the Bahraini dishes such as
Machboos, a dish made from fish or meat usually served with rice and Muhammar, a
dish consisting of sweet rice served with sugar or dates.

Capital: Manama
Currency: Bahrain Dinar (BHD)
Language: Arabic (official) and English (widely spoken)
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Gulf Air (GF)
Major International Airports: Bahrain International Airport (BAH)

Lebanon (Lebanese Republic) is a country in Western'Asia. Beirut is the

capital of
the country, and the gateway is Beirut International Airport (Rafil Hariris
International Airport). Lebanese speak Arabic while French and the English language
are also widely spoken in the country.

The major tourist destinations are:

 Mt. Lebanon - the country's ski resort destination. It is where majority of the ski
resorts are located. Recommended months to visit ski resorts are from
December to April
 Bekaa Valley - known as an archaeological site. Baalbek is one of the attractions in the
area. Baalbekis said to be Baal's place of worship Also, the place is recognized
the "breadbasket" or granary of the Roman empire"
 Byblos (Jbeil) a UNESCO World Heritage site. One of the oldest cities of the Phoenicians

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 Other places of interest in the area: Fossil Museum, Byblos Wax Museum and Mar Yuhanna
Marcus Church (St. John Marck Church) (www.destinationlebanon.go,)

Lebanese Mezze is one of the popular meals in the country. It consists of

selection of small dishes like tabbouleh (vegetarian salad), baba ghannouj (eggplant
dip), hummus (chickpeas puree), labneh (creamy cheese similar to yogurt); and
kibbehh (a dishmad of bulgur, onions, and ground lamb meat).

Capital: Beirut
Currency: Lebanese Pound (LBP)
Language: Arabic (official), French, and English (widely spoken)
Religion: Islam and Christianity
Carrier: Middle East Airlines (ME)
Major International Airports: Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)

Oman, or the Sultanate of Oman, is situated in the southern part of the west
Asian peninsula. Muscatis is the country's capital, which is also the largest city.
Majority of Omani
people speak Arabic and practice the Islamic religion. They are welcoming people,
which can be observed in the way they greet their visitors. Offering coffee and
dates is their gesture to show their hospitality; such offers should not be refused. As
a visitor of the country, it is advisable to observe social customs and to dress
conservatively. The best time to visit the Oman is between the months of
September to March (https://experienceoman.om).

Some of Oman's places of interest are:

 Bahla Fort, inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage list. This fortress is located in
Jebel Akhbar, Oman
 Land of Frankincense, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an evidence of the
country's significant frankincense trading during the ancient times;
 Aflaj Irrigation Systems of Oman, an early irrigation system that is currently
being use in the nation. It is also inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage list
(http://whc.unesco.org);
 Al Buraimi, a semi desert place
 Al Batinam, home of wadis and vilages.

Some of the food to enjoy and experience in Oman includes Harees one of their
traditional dishes made from meat mixed with wheat served with special sauce;
Mashuai, dish made from Omani fish; and shuwa, a dish consists of meat (goat, calf,
or camel) usually served during special.

Capital: Muscat
Currency: Rial (OMR)
Language: Arabic
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Oman Air (WY)
Major International Airports: Muscat International Airport (MCT)

Qatar, or the State of Qatar, is one of the countries in Western Asia situated
in the eastern portion of the eastern coast of the peninsula. The capital is Doha, the
country's center of government, finance, and culture, which is also known for its

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parks (www.gca.gov.qa). The gateway to Qatar is through Hamad International
Airport (DOH), recognized by Skytrax as a five-star airport. The national flag carrier
of the country is Qatar Airways It has won several awards and is considered one of
the best airlines in the Middle East and in the world (www.qatarairways.com).

Being an open country, Qatar has plenty to offer its visitors such as:

 Dunes of Qatar, a recreational safari

 Ras Abrociq rock formations and limestone rock formations
 Al Zubarah, inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage site. It is considered as the
country's biggest heritage site consisting of ancient residential palaces and
houses, markets, mosques, and industrial
areas(https://www.qm.org.qa/en/project/alzubarah)
 Sheikh Faisal Din Qassim Al Thani Museum, a private museum of Sheik Faisal;
and Souq Waqif, a vibrant market situated in the capital of the Qatar (Doha). It
offers shops where you can find Middle Eastern delicacies and souvenirs
(www.visitqatar.qa).

Apart from the different tourist attractions, Qatar offers cuisines that can be
enjoyed by the visitors. Qatari food includes ghuzi, a dish consisting of roast lamb
rice and nuts, and machboos, a dish made from rice cooked with spices and meat
(chicken lamb, or fish).

The requirements for visa application for Filipinos are duly completed
application form, valid passport, two photos, hotel reservation (preferably in a four-
star or five-star hotel), and bank statement with a minimum of 5,000 QR
(http://manila.embassy.qa/en).

Capital: Doha
Currency: Qatari Riyal (QAR)
Language: Arabic (official) and English
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Qatar Airways (QF)
Major International Airports: Hamad International Airport (DOH)

Kuwait (State of Kuwait) is country in Western Asia. Kuwait, the capital, is

also the largest City and an economic center. Arabic the official language, and Islam
is recognized as the official religion. A Strong family relationship is part of the
Kuwaiti's culture. Celebrations shared by families and relatives are:

 Al-noon-an occasion when a child has its first steps or teeth

 Al-Mawled Al-Nabawy a feast on the birthday of Prophet Muhammad
 marriage preparations that unites families, neighbors, and relatives
(www.e.gov.kw).

Some of the attractions in the country are:

 Kuwait Tower, the most famous landmark; Boulevard Park, a tourist center
 Al Shaheed Park, an urban park in Kuwait City
 Green Island, an artificial island where tourist can spend time to relax and enjoy
the sea, sun, and sand

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 Failaka Island, the country's historical site (www.e.gov.kw)

Capital: Kuwait
Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
Language: Arabic
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Kuwait Airways (KU)
Major International Airports: Kuwait International Airport (KWI)

Iraq (Republic of Iraq) is a country in Western Asia bordered by iran, Turkey,

Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. It is believed to be the home of one of the seven ancient
wonders of the world, "The Hanging Gardens of Babylon." Baghdad is the largest
city and the capital of the country. Languages spoken by most of the Iraqis are
Arabic and Kurdish.

Iraq's culture can be appreciated by the food it serves, The country's

common
staple foods are rice, beans, wheat, bulgur, and dates. Meat (sheep, lamb, chicken,
beef,
goat, or fish) is served mostly in a certain meal. Popular dishes include kebab
(grilled
meat on stick), masgouf (grilled carp), and dolma (stuffed rice wrapped in grape
leaves).

Capital: Baghdad
Currency: Iraqi Dinar (IQD]
Language: Arabic and Kurdish
Religion: Islam
Carrier: lragi Airways (IA)
Major International Airports: Baghdad International Airport (DOH)

Armenia (Republic of Armenia) is formerly a member of the Soviet Republic.

The
country is bordered by Georgia, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Turkey. Yerevan is the capital
and
cultural hub. It is also known as the "pink city," due to the buildings made of pink-
colored volcanic rocks.

Some of the tourist attractions are:

 Cafesjian Center for the Arts presents contemporary arts and showcases
Armenian culture. It was founded by Mr. Gerard Cafesjian
 History Museum, the country's main museum consisting of various collections in
archeology, ethnography, documents, and numismatics
(www.historymuseum.am/)
 Geghard Monastery and the Upper Azat Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It
consists of architectural structures like churches and tombs (whc.unesco.org)

Armenian is the official language, and majority of people in the country

(Armenian) are believers of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Some of the famous
Armenian dishes include Armenian barbeque, which is made from chicken, pork,
beef, or lamb; and Armenian dolma, consisting of minced meat, grape leaves, or
cabbage.

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 It is interesting to note that Armenians are required to study chess as this is part
of their subjects in school. Also, it can be observed that attraction fees or entrance
fees are the same for tourists and locals (http://armeniatouristboard.org).

Capital: Yerevan
Currency: Dram (AMD)
Language: Armenian
Religion: Christianity
Carrier: Armavia (U8)
Major International Airports: Zvartnots International Airport

Iran (lslamic Republic of Iran) is the second largest country in Western Asia
after Saudi Arabia. The country is also referred to as "Persia,"` an ancient empire.
Iran has Two salt deserts:

 Dasht-e Kavir, also known as Kavire Namak or the Great Salt Desert, situated in
Alborz Mountain, one of the mountain ranges in Iran
 Dasht-e Lut or Kavir-e Lut, a UNESCO World Heritage list entry inscribed in 2016
(www.whc.unesco.org).

Agriculture is considered to be an old industry in the country. The Kharman

(harvesting) Festival is a celebration showing Persians' gratefulness and
camaraderie. Another significant and ancient celebration in Iran is Nowruz (meaning
"new day") inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
(www.visitiran.ir).

Cultural and historical places of interest would include Persepolis, a UNESCO

World Heritage site inscribed in 1979. This complex was founded by Darius in 518
B.C. and was the capital of the Achaemenid Empire (www.whc.unesco.org). Also,
among the places of interest are the Vank Cathedral, the Niavaran Palace, and the
Imam Reza's Holy Shrine.

The staple foods of Iran are rice and bread, which are usually served with meat
and vegetables and yogurt. Though there are various bread types in Iran traditional
bread are preferred by many like lavash (thin round, or oval flat bread), sangak (a
stone- baked flatbread), and barbari (oval-shaped thick flatbread). Kebab (grilled
meat) is a popular Iranian dish usually eaten with chelo or chelow (plain rice).

Tourists who are enticed to visit Iran must dress modestly and appropriately
Ladies are expected to cover their hair with a scarf (rousari in Persian), while legs
should also be covered Men are also advised not to wear shorts and short sleeves.
Ilt is important to note that the country has different working days, which are from
Saturday to Wednesday. A visa is required if one wants to visit this country. It is
advisable to allot ample time in securing a visa before traveling to the country
(www.visitiran.ir).

Persian or Farsi the official language of the country. Some the important and of
useful phrases in Persian are (http://www.irantour.org):

 Hello, good morning Salam, Sob Bekheir

 Good afternoon - Asr Bekheir
 Good evening-Shab Khosh

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 Good night - Shab Bekheir
 Yes-Bale
 No- Na
 Excuse me- Bebakh'shid
 Thank you – Moteshakeram
 You are welcome - Khahesh Mikonam
 I don't know- Nemidoonam

Capital: Tehran
Currency: Iranian Rial (IRR)
Language: Persian (Farsi)
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Iran Air (IR)
Major International Airports: Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (KA) and Tehran
Mehrabad International Airport (THR)

Turkey (Republic of Turkey) serves as the link between the continent of Asia
and Europe. It is bounded by different seas: Mediterranean on the south, Black on
the north, and Aegean Sea on the west. Ankara is the capital of the country, and
people widely speak Turkish. However, English, French, and German are also
spoken in some of the major cities and tourist destination areas. The capital is a
significant historical destination as it houses the memorial tomb of the founder of
the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (Anitkabir). Other historical attractions
in Ankara are:

 the Museum of the War of Independence

 Ethnographical Museum
 the State Museum of Paintings and Sculptures (www.icvb.org.tr).

Turkey has religious attractions that a revital to the believers of Christian

faith. For example, Efes (Ephesus) is a significant place for Christians because it is
the home of the Virgin Mary and St John. Islam believers can visit mosques such as
Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia Other tourist attractions to
explore in Turkey are the Aegean coasts and Cappadocia; mountaineering, rafting,
and underwater sports activities are some of the popular activities in Turkey
(www.ktb.gov.tr). Some ofthe Turkish foods to taste are kofte (Turkish meatballs)
mezes (appetizers), and kumpir (baked potato).

Philipine passport holders are required to obtain visas before traveling to

Turke, For tourism purposes, one can apply through electronic form (e-visa). Those
who are holding diplomatic and official passports are exempted from securing 2 visa
for 30 days travel in Turkey
(https://www.instaturkeyvisa.com/turkey-visa/Philippines)

Capital: Ankara
Currency: Turkish Lira (TRU)
Language: Turkish
Religion: lslam
Carrier: Turkish Airline (TK)
Major International Airports: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (ISL) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport
(SAW)

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 Syria (Syrian Arab Republic) is a country known for its Syrian silk textile and
wood engravings, two of the vital industries in the country. Damascus is the capital.
The main gateway to the country is Damascus Internation Airport (DAM).

UNESCO inscribed six (6) cultural heritage sites:

 Ancient City of Aleppo reveals Syria's historic past

 Ancient City of Bosra - exhibits significant archaeological site reflecting Roman,
Byzantine, and Muslims structures
 Ancient City of Damascus one of the oldest of cities in the world, founded in the
3rd millennium B.C,
 Ancient Villages of Northern Syria this site showcases the cultural traditions and
lifestyles in the late classical era and Byzantine period
 Crac des Chevaliers and Qal'at Salah El-Din - these two important castles are
models of fortified architecture linking to the Crusader period
 Site of Palmyra holds monumental ruins (whc.unesco.org)

The Syrians are predominantly Muslim (mainly Sunni Muslim). Arabic is

recognized as their official language. Some of the Syrian dishes to try including
mezzeh (composed of small dishes); mahshi, a dish like dolma, it is prepared with
rice, vegetables and meat; and zlebiye, a Syrian dessert usually served in breakfast.

Capital: Damascus
Currency: Syrian Pound
Language: Arabic
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Syrian Arab Airlines (RB)
Major International Airports: Damascus International Airport (DAM)

United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates namely: Abu

Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Qaiwain, Ras al-Khaiman, and Fujairah. The
largest is Abu Dhabi, the capital, seat of government, and the commercial center of
the country. Dubai is the home of luxurious hotels and resorts, shopping centers,
entertainment venues, and events. It show cases historical and cultural attractions
of the country like the:

 Hatta Village, a 3000-year-old village;

 Sharia Mosque, a 200-year-old mosque
 Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House was previously the residence of Sheikh Saeed
Al Maktoum. This historic building is now a museum that contains artifacts,
documents, and images of Dubai's past
 Grand Mosque in Jumeirah, an attractive mosque that is open for non-Muslims,.

Sharjah is recognized by UNESCO as a "Cultural Capital of the Arab World.” The

city is a place with numerous art galleries and museums such as Sharjah Art
Museum, Sharjah Art Center, Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Sharjah
Calligraphy Museum, Sharjah Museum for Arabic Contemporary Art, and Sharjah Art
Foundation's Art Spaces.

People of UAE are mostly practitioners of Islamic faith. Fish, rice, and meat are
their staple foods. Their popular dishes include shawarma, a common cuisine

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available in malls and restaurants; hummus (chickpeas dip); and ghuz, prepared
from lamb served with rice, crushed nuts, and veggies

UAE can be accessed through the following major airports: Abu Dhabi
International Airport (AUH), Al Ain International Airport (AAN), Dubai International
Airport (DXB, A Maktoum Airport(DWG), Sharjah International Airport (SHJ), Ras Al
Khaimah International Airport (RKT), and Fujairah International Airport (FJR).

Those interested to visit UAE may seek the help of travel agencies in the
Philippines
in partnership with UAE tour operators or travel agents for the arrangement of
tourist.
visa.

Capital: Abu Dhabi

Currency: Emirati Dirham (AED)
Language: Arabic
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Emirates (EK), Etihad Airways (EY)
Major International Airports: Abu Dhabi international Airport (AUH) and Dubai International Airport
(DXB)

Yemen, or Republic of Yemen, is the country in the southern portion of Saudi

Arabia
Peninsula. The capital of Yemen is Sana'a. Tourists must take note that drinking
alcoholic
beverages in public is not allowed. Taking pictures of women, military barracks,
police,
and government facilities and PDA are also prohibited; dressing conservatively must
be
observed (www.yementourism.com).

Attractions include:

 Old Walled City of Shibam, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dubbed as

"Manhattan of the Desert" because it exemplifies as the one of the oldest and
best models urban planning (http://whc.unesco.org)
 Historic Town of Zabid, a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds a significant
historical and archaeological value because of its architectural structures
(http://whc.unesco.org).

People of Yemen are mainly Muslims, and they speak Arabic. Yemenis (people
of Yemen) enjoy cuisine made from chicken, meat, and fish (in coastal areas).
Among the popular meals are salta, made from meat, vegetables, and fenugreek;
mandi, a dish consisting of meat (chicken or lamb) and rice and flavored with
seasonings; and sayyadiya, a dish composed of fish, onions, chili, and spicy rice.

Capital: Sana'a
Currency: Yemeni Rial (YER)
Language: Arabic
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Yemenia (IY)
Major International Airports: Sanaa International Airport

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 Azerbaijan (Republic of Azerbaijan) is known as the ""Land of Fire." The
word "azer" means fire. The capital of the country is Baku; it houses parks, galleries,
museums, and theaters. Among these are:

 Azerbaijan State Puppet Theater.

 Azerbaijan State Song Theater
 Azerbaijan State Opera and Ballet Theater
 The Store Chronicle Museum
 Qobustan petroglyphs, an outdoor museum (Noble et al., 2012)

Azerbaijani (people of Azerbaijan) are mostly Muslims. They speak Azerbaijani, a

Turkic language belonging to the southwestern branch. Food is significant part of
the Azerbaijanis culture. Some of their popular cuisines are dolma, plov, pilaf (rice,
greens, and herbs), and kebabs.
Capital: Baku
Currency: Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)
Language: Azerbaijani
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Azerbaijan Airlines or known as AZAL (J2)
Major International Airports: Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD)

Georgia is divided into the eastern part (Iberian) and western part (Kolkhian).
Its neighboring countries are Azerbaijan to the southeast, Turkey to the southwest,
Armenia to the south, and Russia to the north. Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia. It
offers its visitors attractions like:

 Giorgi Chitaia Open Air Museum of Ethnography, an open-air museum that

displays ethnographic materials like tools textiles, and ceramics. The museum
was founded by the renowned ethnographer Giorgi Chitaia (Georgian Journal,
2017),
 Narikala Fortress, an overlooking ancient fortress built for defense purposes in
the 4th century A.D
 Tsminda Sameba Cathedral, also called as "the cathedral of the Holy Trinity,'"' is
the largest Georgian Orthodox church.

Its people mostly speak Georgian, the official language of the country. Russian
and English are spoken by other residents. Their cuisine would include meat as a
major ingredient. Some of the must-try foods are:

 Khinkali, the national dish of the country;

 Khachapuri or Georgian Pizza, a cheese bread
 Pkhaleuli, a vegetarian food (https://georgia.travel).

Winemaking iS part of the Georgian tradition. Qvevri winemaking method is

an ancient Georgian tradition inscribed as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
by UNESCO (https://ich.unesco.org).

Philippine nationals may secure tourist visa at the Georgian Embassy or the
Consulate office. Documents that must be prepared are passports, document of the

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purpose of travel, travel and health insurance, proof of accommodation, and proof
of financial means (evisa.gov.ge)

Capital: Tbilisi
Currency: Lari (GEL)
Language: Georgian
Religion: Georgian Orthodox
Carrier: Georgian Airways (A9)
Major International Airports: Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), David the Builder
Kutaisi lnternational Airport (KUT), and Alexander Kartveli Batumi International Airport (BUS)

CENTRAL ASIA

Central. Asia comprises five countries namely: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan,

Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. It is divided into two subregions, (1) high
mountains, comprising the countries of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan and (2) flat plains,
composed of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.

These five "stans" ("stan" meaning "place of" or "country) were former
members of the Soviet Socialist Republic These nations are predominantly Islamic
believers. The language origin of all these countries belong to Turkic linguistic group
except for Tajikistan language (Tajik or Tajiki), which has a Persian origin

Kazakhstan, or Republic of Kazakhstan, is a country in Central Asia

surrounded by Russia to the north; China to the east; and Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan,
and Turkmenistan to the south. Astana is the capital of Kazakhstan, but the largest
city is Almaty. Interesting attractions in the capital include:

 Medeo, a scenic valley; it is where the high-altitude skating rink located

 Zenkov Cathedral, a unique wooden architectural structure.

Culture is reflected in the language of the people, Kazakh, Turkic language

Kazakhs prefer to eat meat, one of the main ingredients of their dish. Tea is part of
Kazakh's every meal. Beshbarmark is the national dish of the country.

The country boasts nature reserve attractions such as:

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 Aksu Zhabagly Nature Reserve, one of the largest and the oldest nature reserves
in Central Asia. There are number of species of flora and fauna that can be
witnessed in the area.
 Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve, famous for its flamingos
 Altyn Emel National Park, an ideal destination for tourists who love nature and
archaeologicala attractions. The park is known for its singing dune. Besshatyr
burial mounds and Terekty petroglyphs can also be seen in the park
 Kolsay Kulden, Lake Kaindy, and National Parks, the eco-tourism sites of the
country or the "Tour to Seven Rivers' (www.visitkazakhstan.kz).

Capital: Nursultan (formerly Astana)

Currency: Tenge (KZT)
Language: Kazakh or Kazak
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Air Astana
Major International Airports: Almaty International Airport (ALA)

Tajikistan, or the Republic of Tajikistan, is formerly known as Tajik. It is a

landlocked and mountainous country in Central Asia, bordered by Kyrgyzstan,
Uzbekistan, China. and Afghanistan. "Land of the Tajiks" is the country's literal
meaning wherein "stan" refers to "place of "or "country." Tajikistan is proud of its
Pamir mountain range that was coined as "The Roof of the World."" This lies in the
area of Gorno-Badakhshan province.

Dushanbe is the capital and the main gateway to the country, via the
Dushanbe International Airport (DYU). Dushanbe is known for its squares and
monuments such as:

 Dousti (Friendship) Square, the largest square and considered as the most well-
designed square in the capital
 Sadriddin Aini Square where Sadriddin Ainl monument stands. The writer's
statue is circled with the character of his books
 Putovsky Square, ornamented with lovely fountains and flowers. picturesque
view of the Presidential Palace in the area

Tajik people or Tajikistanis are mainly practitioners of Islamic faith. They speak
Tajiki or Tajik, an Iranian language They are characterized as family-oriented
people, friendly, and hospitable, Tajik dishes include plov or osh (lamb with root
vegetables), shish kebab (kabob), a grilled cubed meat, and qurutob, a vegetable
dish paired with flatbread. Green tea is Tajik's favorite drink.

Capital: Dushanbe
Currency: Somoni (TJS)
Language: Tajik or Tajiki
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Tajik Air (7J) and Somon Air (SZ)
Major International Airports: Dushanbe International Airport (DYU) and Khudjand International
Airport (LBD).

Kyrgyzstan, or Kyrgyz Republic, is a country in Central Asia with

Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbeķistan, and China as its neighbors. The people of

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Kyrgyzstan, or Kyrgyz, are traditionally nomadic people. Yurt is a dwelling of the
Turkic nomads. The "World Nomad Games" was an interesting event that was first
held in the country that brings nomadic people in the world together
(www.discoverkyrgyzstan) The main ingredients of Kyrgyz food are meat and dairy.
Kymyz or koumis is a dairy drink from mares or female horses. It is considered a
magic beverage because of its medical benefits, and it is used as a cure for
gastritis, tuberculosis, and anemia. Dairy and meat are part of the Kyrgyz dish while
every meal includes tea.

Some of the places of interest of the Kyrgyzstan are:

 Lake Issyk-Kul, the second largest mountain lake in the world

 Kyrgyz Ata National Park, a small park ideal for hiking and bird watching. It also
offers visitors historical, educational, and cultural experiences.
 Burana Tower, an ancient Minaret located in the Chuy Valley
 Fairy Tale Canyon or Skazka Canyon, a destination that have amazing rock
formations carved by nature; the word "Skazka" means fairy tale

The citizens of the Philippines are eligible to secure a visa on arrival at Manas
International Airport, with a maximum validity of 30 days
(https://www.visakazakhstan.com/tourist-visa/)

Capital: Bishkek
Currency: Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS)
Language: Kyrgyz and Russian
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Air Kyrgyzstan (QH)
Major International Airports: Manas International Airport (FRU)

Turkmenistan, or Republic of Turkmenistan, formerly known as Turkmenia.

It is bordered by the Caspian Sea Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Iran. The country is
composed of Ahal, Balkan, Dashoguz, Lebap, and Mary provinces. Ashgabat is the
capital, as Well as the commercial and cultural center Turkmenistan. It houses
palaces, museums, monuments, and parks.

Turkmenistan medical tourism could likely be due to its rich mineral and mud
sources, whose medicinal benefits attracts visitors. There are popular resorts that
Cater to foreign patients' needs such as:

 Bayramaly Resort, a resort that specializes in treating kidney problems

 Mollakara Resort Center, a resort situated by the salty lake. There are many
resort centers in the country that offer sanatorium (http://tourism.gov.tm).

Turkmenistan's UNESCO World Heritage sites include (1) Merv (Margiana), a

historical and cultural reserve; (2) Monuments of Koneurgench; and (3) Nisa, a
Parthian Heritage.

Turkmen, or people of turkmenistan, are people who speak a language

belonging to the southwestern branch of the Turkic languages. They are mostly
Muslims. Traditional foods of the country are Turkmen rice palov, a dish consisting
of meat, rice, carrots and onions and Turkmen bread or chorek.

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Capital: Ashgabat
Currency: Manat (TMT)
Language: Turkmen
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Turkmenistan Airlines (T5)
Major International Airports: Ash gabat International Airport (ASB)

Uzbekistan or Republic of Uzbekistan has Tashkent as its capital. It

showcases the part of the country's history. The Hazrati-lmam Square in Tashkent is
situated in the historical area of the city. It has mosques. mausoleums, and an
Islamic institute.

The culture of the country can be experienced through various festivals and
food. UNESCO
inscribed on the representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of
the country the
following: the palov culture and tradition. Palov is a traditional dish of Uzbekistan,
which is made
and shared by the communities. It has been said that one can only leave the host's
house once the palov has been served. This dish is composed of spices. Other
examples of important food from the country are lamb, horse meat, soup, rice,
meat, and vegetables and seasoned with dairy, and bread.

Another event inscribed by UNESCO is the Nowruz (new day), an event

celebrated with relatives, friends, family, and loved ones.
Capital: Tashkent
Currency: Uzbekistani Som (UZS)
Language: Uzbek
Religion: lslam
Carrier: Uzbekistan Airways (HY)
Major International Airports: Tashkent International Airport (TAS)

Main Topic: Europe

Europe is a distinct continent that is not in all directions covered by water

and has an overland boundary with neighboring Asia. Politically, Armenia and
Cyprus are considered European countries, although they are situated
geographically in
the territories of Western Asia

Europe's culture is rooted in the arts, architecture, film, different kinds of

music, economics, literature, and philosophy that originated from Europe's
mainland. European culture is deeply rooted in what is often referred to as its
"traditional cultural heritage.'

In Europe there are some 160 culturally distinct groups, including some groups in
the Caucasus region that have affinities with Asia Being large continent, Europe has
a lot to offer in terms of sights, entertainment, culture, and values It also shares its
influences in various continents and countries with the products and experiences
that normally comes to mind whenever any European state or country is visited. For

Page 17
France, it is the art, wine, and gastronomy; for Italy, it is pasta, architecture, and
Catholicism.

Europe is popular for its diversity, rich cultural heritage, and variance in food
and traditions. When people think of Europe, they look up to it as a continent
composed of first-world countries of great cultural beginnings with a vibrant past
from centuries ago and impressive buildings and architecture that stand as a
witness from all its glorious history. While it offers comfort and luxury as a Western
destination, it is rich in valuable customs and traditions as practiced by European
citizens.

Europe is a continent located in the northern and eastern hemisphere. It is

bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Arctic Ocean to the north, Asia to the
east, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south.

After Australia, Europe is considered as the second smallest continent in

terms of land area. Europe is also a continent that is home to more than a quarter
of the world's countries. The climate of Europe ranges from Arctic conditions to
temperate in the south. Every world religion is practiced in Europe and hundreds of
languages are spoken as well.

Countries: 44
Largest Country: Russia
Smallest Country: Vatican City
Languages: Russian, German, French, Italian, English, Spanish, Polish, Ukrainian, Romanian, Dutch
Longest Rivers: Mount Elbrus in Russia
Highest Peak: The Volga River in Russia

WESTERN EUROPE

Western Europe is a region composed of countries in the west such as France

Belgium, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, onaco, and United Kingdom. Various
organizations divide and define Europe differently as guided by varying economic
geographical, political and cultural definitions.

Belgium (Kingdom of Belgium) is located in the northwestern part of the

European
region. Considered to be one of the most densely populated countries, this small
country gained its independence in 1830 where it is ruled by representative
democracy led by constitutional monarch Belgium, though may be seen as a small
country in Western Europe, is packed witha lot of history within its borders. Brussels
is known for its cuisine and historical and architectural landmarks with some being
registered as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Other famous destinations and
attractions are:

 Grand Palace- named as a UNESCO World Heritage site where an outstanding

blend of architectural and artistic styles are dominantly seen;
 The Canals and Belfry of Bruges – this magnificent building dates back to the
medieval period and was once the main market hall of the town that has been

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 beautifully restored, enabling tourists to experience the architectural influence
of the Middle Ages;
 The Battlefields of Flanders - these are not only historical remnants of World War
for Belgium but also serve as a pilgrimage site now;
 Ghent's Gravensteen and Old Town - one of the best remaining fortresses in
Europe that has been well-preserved.
 Horta Museum and Town Houses the magnificent buildings of Victor Horta
remain in Brussels and are now part of the UNESCO World Heritage site;
 Cathedral of Saint Bavo - this magnificent cathedral displays the finest religious
architecture in Belgium and is' 'the most remarkable tourist attraction in Ghent.
 Grand Place (Grote Markt), Antwerp - this contains some of Belgium's examples
of guild house architecture.
 St. Peter's Church -found in Leuven, this is one of Belgium's best-preserved
examples of the Gothic style of Brabant with distinct pointed arch windows and
sheaf pillars; and
 Waterloo - the famous battle place where Napoleon had been defeated

Given its area and population, Belgium today is one of the most heavily
industrialized
and urbanized countries in Europe.

Belgian food is varied with major significant influences from the cuisines of
Germany, The Netherlands, and France. It is often said that the portion or quantity
was taken after Germany, while for quality and taste, it came from France. Belgium
is popular worldwide because of its waffles, chocolates, beer, and fries. Jean
Neuhaus invented the Praline chocolates in Brussels in 1912.

Family plays a key part in the lives of most Belgians. The responsibility toward
the family is the first duty of an individual. Many people live in the town they were
brought up in, establishing near extended families. Belgians likewise take pride in
their personal appearance. They dress well and have an interest in the mpact that
they make on others. The salutations involve a degree of formality. The greeting
among people who don't know each other is a brief handshake. If a partnership is
established, the handshake may be replaced by three kisses on the cheek: This is
more like an air kiss near the person's cheek. It starts and alternates with left
cheek.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter Belgium

Capital: Brussels
Languages: Dutch (official) 60%, French (official) 40%, German (official) less than 1%
Currency: Euro
Religions: Roman Catholicism, Christianity (Protestant), Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism
Carrier: Brussels Airlines (SN)
Major International Airports: Brussels Airport (BRU), Antwerp International Airport (ANR), and
Oostende Brugge International Airport (OST)

France (French Republic, French France, or République Française) is a

country located in the northwestern part of Europe France played a significant role
in international affairs, with former colonies in most parts of the globe. Bounded by
the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, the Alps and the Pyrenees, France

Page 19
have joined both northern and southern Europe in terms of language, geography,
and economy.

France is a forerunner in fashion, films and entertainment, wines, cars, and

gourmet foods French cuisine is known for being one of the finest in the world, a
cuisine developed throughout centuries influenced by the many neighboring
cultures of Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Belgium. Among the iconic
dishes notably French are cassoulet from the southwest, choucroute known in
Alsace, quiche of the Lorraine r region, and beef bourguignon in Bourgogne France
is also known for its traditional wines named after its regions such as Champagne,
Bordeaux, Bourgogne, and Beaujolais. Their cheeses of different varieties that
became famous worldwide include Camembert, Roquefort, and Brie.

France is host to the Tour de France, regarded as the world's biggest annual
sporting event. France is also host to one of the most celebrated film festivals in the
world, which is the Cannes Film Festival attended by entertainment and cinema
luminaries worldwide. Fashion is also an important industry in France, where haute
couture originated. World- recognized fashion brands that hailed from France
includes Chanel, Dior, Givenchy, and Yves Saint Laurent. France is regarded as a
leading destination in the world with the following attractions:

 The Eiffel Tower - known as the most famous landmark of Paris, is a masterpiece
by Gustave Eiffel as part of a temporary exhibit for the 1889 World Fair. It is also
known as the."Iron Lady.
 Louvre Museum -famous works of art are housed in this museum, such as Mona
Lisa by Leonardo Da Vinci, Veronese's Wedding Feast at Cana, and the Venus de
Milo
sculpture.
 Palace of Versailles - the palace became the status of absolute power of Louis
XIV
and set the standard for the princely courts in Europe.
 Côte d'Azur - also known as the French Riviera, the Côte d'Azur stretches from
Saint-Tropez to Menton. This is where the rich and famous are found with their
luxurious villas and luxury yachts.
 Loire Valley Chateaux - the entire Loire Valley has been listed as UNESCO World
a Heritage site; it is often caled as the "Garden of France.
 Notre Dame de Chartres the UNESCO listed this cathedral as a heritage site as it
exemplifies the fame of medieval Gothic architecture.
 Chamonix Mont Blanc - this is a popular place for adventure seekers who would
like to enjoy outdoors skiing, hiking, and rock climbing.

French people tend to be private and respectful. Their common form of greeting
is the handshake. Some French use the kissing on the cheek as a greeting. In
France, it is common to hear people greet "bonjour" or "bonsoir" (good
morning/good evening) when encountering someone, even if it is 2 strangers, as a
sign of politeness.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter France.

Page 20
Capital: Paris
Language:French
Currency: Euro
Religion: Christianity
Carrier: Air France (AF)
Major International Airport: Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Ireland (the Republic of Ireland), or Irish Éire, is a country in the North

Atlantic Island. It is divided by the North Pole, the Irish Sea, and St. George's Pole
from Great Britain to the southeast. Ireland is regarded as the British Isles' "second
largest island" and the "third largest" in Europe.

Known as the "Emerald Island," Ireland is also known for its wealth of folklore,
from tales of tiny leprechauns with hidden pots of gold to Saint Patrick, known as
the one who converted Ireland to Christianity. Ireland is known as the "Land of
Saints and Scholars" because of having more Nobel Prize Winners for Literature
than any countries in the world.

In tourism, the famous attractions of Ireland are:

 The Cliffs of Moher - this is Ireland’s most popular and visited natural attraction.
 Grafton Street - located in Dublin, it is famous for its shopping centers;
 The Book of Kells and Trinity College - the oldest university in Ireland, Trinity
College in Dublin established by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592; and
 The Rock of Cashel this magnificent group of medieval buildings, perched on a
limestone rock formation in the Golden Vale.

Ireland is famous for the stout, ruby red, and black Guinness with thick creamy
head when-poured-properly. Irish whiskey is popular worldwide, Ireland is also the
home of the oldest whiskey distillery in the world, which is the 0ld Bushmills
Distillery found in Northern Ireland.

In sports, rugby is a crowd drawer in Ireland aside from football.

Some of the famous Irish foods include the Shepherd's pie, Irish soda bread, Irish
stew, boxty (potato pancake), coddle (sausage bacon, potato) and colcannon
(mashed potato, kale, and butter)

Some practices to observe when in Ireland is to shake hands with everyone

present--men, women, and children -at a business or social gathering. Irish people
are not physically demonstrative and are not to be seen with PDA. The Irish are
naturally courteous and smart and would go out of their way to welcome their
country's guests They spend time with their friends and family, a pub visit, a cup of
tea, or even a bit of a chat whenever they can. They are tightly close, and families
are important for them.

Filipino citizens who intend to travel to Ireland must first obtain a visa for all
types of visits.

Capital: Dublin
Languages: Irish Gaelic, English
Currency: Euro

Page 21
Religion: Roman Catholicism
Carrier: Aer Lingus (El)
Major International Airports: Dublin Airport (DUB) and Cork Airport (ORK) are among the five
international gateways

Luxembourg (Grand Duchy of Luxembourg) is a country located in

northwestern Europe. It is one of the world's smallest countries bordered by
Belgium on the west and north, France on the south, and Germany on the northeast
and east. The ancient Saxon name of its capital city, Lucilinburhuc which means
"Little Fortress, symbolized its position as "the Gibraltar of the North.

Luxembourg City was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994 due to
the exceptional preservation of the vast fortifications and the whole old city. It was
also named the "European Capital of Culture" and twice recognized as a country
with one of the highest GDP in the world. Some of the interesting places to visit in
Luxembourg are:

 National Museum of History and Art, Luxembourg City- it houses artifacts,

archaeological findings. furniture, equipment, coins, weapons, and documents
related to the country's history.
 The Bock Casements - a 21-kilometer network of underground tunnels made of
solid rock capable of sheltering thousands of defenders as well as weapons.
Warehouses, kitchens, and slaughterhouses dating back to 16th century horses.
Spanish rule.
 Grand Ducal Palace -a beautiful Renaissance building dating from 1572 that
serves as the residence of Grand Duke Henri, the reigning monarch of the
country.
 The Walls of the Corniche - also known as the "Most Beautiful Balcony" in
Europe.
 Luxembourg City History Museum inaugurated in 1996, this offers a fascinating
glimpse into the city's rich 1,000 years of history; and
 Restaurant Chiggeri is famous because of more than 2,000 wines available from
the list.

Luxembourg's motto "Mir welle bleiwe wat mir sinn" means "We want to remain the
way we are." This implies that the country wants to be independent and left as they
are, The most distinct of all Luxembourg meat dishes is Judd mat Gaardebounen, a
smoked collar of pork mixed with broad beans

While friendly and casual, Luxembourgers are often reserved and formal
when interacting with outsiders. They are private people and do not show their
belongings or emotions. Luxembourgers do not ask personal questions and would
refuse to respond if you interfere with their privacy. Personal life is kept separate
from business. Greetings are formal and reserved until a connection has been
formed. The most common salutation is a short handshake. Quite close friends
greet each other by kissing three times gently on the cheeks, beginning with the
left cheek and alternating Luxembourg is a small country, and many people live in
the same city they were born in; thus, creating near extended families.
Commitment to one's family is a top priority for an individual.

Page 22
 Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen Visa enter
Luxembourg.

Capital: Luxembourg City

Languages: French; German
Currency: Euro Carrier: Luxair (LG)
Religion: Christianity
Major International Airport: Luxembourg Airport (LUX) (formerly Luxembourg Findel Airport)

Monaco (Principality of Monaco) is considered as the second smallest

country in the world after the Vatican. t is bordered by Mediterranean Sea on the
east and France on the north, south, and west. Monaco has a mild, pleasant
Mediterranean sunny climate. Many things made Monaco among the most luxurious
tourist resorts in the world and made it famous far exceeding its size. Monaco is
known for its casino in Monte Carlo. Unlike other casinos in the world, the residents
of Monaco are prohibited from entering or gambling in the casino.

People native to Monaco are called Monégasque. A person born in another

foreign country but now residing in Monaco is called a Monacoian. Aside from Monte
Carlo, the famous attractions in Monaco worth exploring are:

 Palais du Prince - established in the 13th century as a fortification atop Le

Rocher, this palace is the Grimaldi family's private residence;
 Musée Oceanographique-this museum and aquariums stand on sturdy
foundations that took more than a decade to build. This is one of the oldest
aquariums in the world, commissioned by Prince Albert I in 1910;
 Jardin Exotique-the gardens were opened in 1933 and contain a remarkable
range of species from Africa, Latin America, USA, and Mexico;
 Formula One Monaco Grand Prix- this popular car-racing event takes place on
the last weekend of May every.year. This is the only car racing event held on the
city streets;
 Opéra de Monte-Carlo (Salle Garnier) -it was designed in 1878 by Charles
Garnier, architect of the Paris Opera House. The Opera House auditorium, called
the "Salle Garnier," is fully painted in red and gold and provides largely classical
operas, recitals, concerts, and ballet performances;
 Monaco Harbor it is a busy harbor with yachts owned by billionaires and high-
profile people of Monaco; and
 Nouveau Musée National de Monaco this museum exhibits avant-garde paintings
drawing, and photography.

Monaco is said to be the country in the world with the highest number of
millionaires and billionaires per capita.

Seafood is popular in Monégasque cuisine due to its abundance in the

Mediterranean Coast.

Material indicators of wealth such as luxury goods, luxurious cars, and exclusive
shops are everywhere visible.

Filipino visitors intending to enter Monaco must first obtain a visa before traveling.

Page 23
Capital: Monte Carlo
Language: French
Currency: Euro
Religion: Roman Catholicism
Carrier: Heli Air Monaco (YO)
Major International Airport: Cuneo International Airport (CUF)

The Netherlands is a country located in northwestern part of Europe. It is also

popularly called Holland. The country is under a parliamentary democracy with a
reigning constitutional monarch. The kingdom includes its former colonies in the
Lesser Antilles such as Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Sint
Maarten. The seat of government is "The Hague,' and the capital city is Amsterdam.
Amsterdam has been dubbed as the " Venice of the North" because of the presence
of canals.

The Netherlands is known for wooden clogs, a footwear traditionally worn since 13th
century. The country boasts of more than 1,000 picturesque windmills, some of
which dating back to 18th century. Tulips are the signature flower of this country,
which are exported globally. The Netherlands is also the largest exporter of beer
with Heineken as its signature lager. Bicycles are widely used in major cities of the
Netherlands. Places of interest include:

 Jordaan and Amsterdam's Canals areas where small canals are located;
 Keukenhof-known as the "bulb belt of Netherlands or "Garden of Europe," this
70-hectare colorful garden is located on the outskirts of the town of Lisse and is
considered as the world's largest public garden;
 The Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam - houses an impressive collection of almost seven
million artworks paintings, and books;
 Anne Frank Museum, Amsterdam the home where Anne's family stayed during
the Second World War where she also wrote her famous diary.
 Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam - houses the world's largest collection of Van
Gogh paintings This gallery and museum was specially designed to display Van
Gogh's extensive collection of paintings, sketches, and letters that were
donated by the family of the famous artist;
 The Windmills of Kinderdijk- the 19 Kinderdijk windmills was built during the 17th
century and are now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, It is
considered as the largest remaining concentration of windmills in The
Netherlands;
 Hoge Veluwe National Park - this national park is the country's largest
nature reserve to local and foreign visitor.
 Towns of the ljsselmeer (Zuiderzee) considered as one of the villages in The
Netherlands where smal hamlets by the Lake ljssel are found
 Zeeland's Spectacular Dikes - these are massive structures that are part of the
essentially high-tech dams. It can monitor how much water from the North Sea
reaches the key estuaries of the region.

The Netherlands is the first country in the world to allow and legalize same-sex
marriage; this is through a law enacted in year 2000.

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 Traditionally, Dutch cuisine is simple with more vegetables and little meat.
Common food staples are Roti Kroket. Frites Dutch cheese, Dutch pancakes, and
herring.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter The Netherlands

In The Netherlands, the common greeting is a handshake along with a head

nod Typically, the form of address is short. It is popular among friends and family to
greet each other by kissing three times at alternating cheeks. For many Dutch, their
immediate families remain important throughout their lives. For business
relationships, punctuality is highly important.

Capital: Amsterdam
Languages: Dutch, Frisian
Currency: Euro
Religions: Roman Catholicism, Protestantism,Islam, and others (includes Hinduism, Buddhism, and
Judaism)
Carrier: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL)
Major International Airports: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), Einhoven Airport, and Hague
Airport (EIN)

United Kingdom (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland) is

made up of the whole island of Great Britain-which comprises England, Wales, and
Scotland- together with the northern portion of Ireland. The capital city is London,
considered to be among the world's leading commercial, financial, and cultural
center. London is a melting pot of culture with about a quarter of its residents born
outside of England.

The famous cities in the UK include Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester,

Belfast and Londonderry, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Swansea and Cardiff

One of the greatest contributions of UK has been the English language, now
spoken in every part of the world as one of the leading international communication
media of cultural, political, social, and economic exchanges.

One of the most favorite countries for tourism in the world, England offers
almost a lot of sights and experiences for every visitor. Their famed attractions
include:

 Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument situated tWO miles (3 km) west of

Amesbury in Wiltshire, England. It is made up of a ring of standing stones,each
about 4.0 m (13 feet) tall, 7 feet (2.1 m) long, and weighing about 25 tons;
 Tower of London-considered as the most significant building in England, it
houses the Crown Jewels, the Royal Mint, and exhibits and displays regarding
prisoners and executions,
 The Roman Baths and Georgian City of Bath- famous for their splendid 2,000-
year- old Roman baths constructed around the town;
 British Museum-contains a wide range of antique collections considered to be the
finest in the world; and

Page 25
 Canterbury Cathedral - home to the Archbishop of Canterbury, this cathedral is a
UNESCO World Heritage site.

While cricket is considered as England's national sport, football is also well-loved

by the British people. One of the most significant football teams in UK is the
Manchester United. England i is home to the world-renowned writer William
Shakespeare. HiS works includes, Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, King Lear, and The Two
Noble Kinsmen, which were translated in various languages. The United Kingdom
known worldwide because of S! the Royal Family headed by Queen Elizabeth I. The
finest universities that gained global recognition such as Cambridge University,
Oxford University, and Imperial College London are found in the United Kingdom

The iconic London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, regarded as the
largest ferry's wheel in the world and can be found in the capital city.

Some of the popular food items in the UK include Cornish pastries, Welsh cakes
Yorkshire pudding, and Cumberland sausage.

Though the British can tend to be reserved on the surface and even. aloof, they
are actually friendly people and welcoming to foreign visitors. The etiquette when
greeting is to shake hands with all those in- attendance including children. Itis
respectful tos shake hands when leaving at social or business meetings too.
Handshakes are not meant to be too intimate; it should just be brief and firm The
British also value punctuality. Unlike many European cultures, the British enjoy
entertaining people in their homes.

Filipino citizens who would like to travel to the U K must first obtain a UK visa for
all types of visits.

Capital: London
Languages: British, French, English
Currency: British Pound
Religions: Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism
Carrier: British Airways (BA)
Major International Airport: London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

Liechtenstein (Principality of Liechtenstein) is a German-speaking country

between Austria and Switzerland. It is known for its medieval castles, alpine
landscapes and villages linked by a trail network

Famous attractions and destinations

 Vaduz- considered as one of the most photographed capitals in Europe

 The Treasure Chamber of the Principality of Liechtenstein - precious artworks
and treasures from the Princely Family's 400-year-old private collection are
displayed here.
 Gutenberg Castle a preserved fortress dating from the Middle Ages,
 Schaan and the Liechtenstein Festival - a busy little town known with fine
scenery known for its old Roman fort foundations.

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 Triesenberg's Culinary Delights- the village itself is known for the yearly food
festival, the Triesenberger Wochen, held from mid- October to the end of
November.
 Winter Fun in Malbun-the only winter resort in the country.

Liechtenstein may be a small country, but it is very proud of its local traditions
and its people. This can vary from the language they speak to the customs and
values relevant to the principality's history. Most Liechtensteiners live in single-
family homes. enter Liechtenstein.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter Liechtenstein.

Capital: Vaduz
Language: German
Currency: Swiss Franc
Religion: Catholicism
Carrier: Swiss
Major International Airport: no airport

NORTHERN EUROPE

Northern Europe is located in the north of the southern coast of the Baltic Sea
and This is the location of the Nordic countries such as Sweden, Denmark, Finland,
Iceland, and Norway.

Denmark (Kingdom of Denmark) is a Nordic country located in the

southernmost portion of the Scandinavia. It is an archipelago made up of more than
one hundred islands. Denmark may be small in terms of population and land area,
but it is rich in European history. The oldest monarchy in the world is said to be the
Danish Royal Family.

It is believed that the Danes are as strong as the Vikings and that Denmark is
the best place to experience the true Viking culture. The Danes are also credited for
revolutionizing the brewing industry to create quality beers such as Carlsberg and
Tuborg. Famous fairy tale stories written by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen
made rounds in the world and became favorite readings, such as "The Little
Mermaid," "The Ugly and the Pea," and "The Snow Queen. The Lego Group that
produces the famous Lego Duckling, "The Little Match Girl," "The Princess bricks is a
Danish international corporation. The second oldest amusement park in the world,
Tivoli Gardens built opened in mid-1800 is found in the capital city of Denmark.

One famous UNESCO World Heritage site the Kronborg Castle. which is the
setting of Shakespeare's Hamlet. Other interesting attractions of Denmark include:

 Tivoli Gardens - an amusement park in Copenhagen that opened in 1843 is

regarded as the second oldest running amusement park in the world.
 Nyhavn - a harbor found in Copenhagen is a canal and entertainment area
dating from the 17th century;
 National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet) - this is largest cultural history
museum, containing the history of Danish and foreign cultures.

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 Christiansborg Palace - the Office of the Danish Prime Minister and Denmark's
Supreme Court are located inside the palace. Ilt is the seat of the Danish
Parliament;
 Frederiksborg Palace and the Museum of National History - this houses the
Museum of National History since 1878, when it was established by brewer J.C.
Jacobsen. the founder of Carlsberg. The Museum is still being managed as a
branch of the Carlsberg Foundation;
 LEGO House-is an activity center in Billund packed with 25 million Lego bricks in
a12,000-square meter house;
 Hans Christian Andersen Museum - is a collection of museums and buildings
dedicated to the famous author Hans Christian Andersen found in Odense;
 Viking Ship Museum (Vikingeskibsmuseet) -located in Roskilde, this is Denmark's
prehistoric and medieval national museum forsailing, seafaring, and
boatbuilding;
 Amalienborg Palace this is the official residence of the Danish Royal Family
found in Copenhagen

The Danes are fond of fish, seafood, and meat.

Although it lies some 3,000 km from the sandy shores of Denmark's west
coast, the autonomous territory of Greenland is part of the Danish Kingdom.

The first thing about Danish people you need to know is their commitment to
do good things, and this is the same they expect from people they meet. At first,
the Danes may seem cold and reserved, but they are only cautious in the beginning
of the encounters. The Danish people are empathetic and welcoming if they like a
person. It is their custom to greet by shaking hands firmly and cordially while
maintaining safe physical distance.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter Denmark

Capital: Copenhagen
Language: Danish
Currency: Danish Krone (KR)
Religion: Evangelical Lutheran
Carrier: Scandinavian Airlines (SK)
Major International Airports: Copenhagen Airport (CPH), Billund Airport (BLL), Aarhus Lufthavn
(AAR)

Finland (Republic of Finland) is a country located in the north of Europe. It is

one of the world's most northern and geographically remote countries, and they
experience severe climate. Most of Finland is blanketed by thick woodlands, which
makes it one of the most densely forested country in Europe.
Finland became an independent country in 1918. Prior to that, Finland
belonged to Russia or Sweden. During the 12th century, Finland was one of the last
regions of Europe to be Christianized.

The northern lights and the polar night are experienced in the northern parts
of the country during winter season. Finland is known as the top country in the

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world seeing these blazing curtains of light drape across the sky. Among the notable
attractions of this country include:

 Suomenlinna Fortress-a coastal fortress and nature area dating back to the 18th
century, with centuries-old artillery and defensive walls spread over six
connected islands;
 Åland Archipelago - located in the Baltic Sea, between mainland Finland and
Sweden at the southern end of the Gulf of Bothnia;
 Turku - famous for Turku Castle, a medieval fortress with a museum of history;
 Porvoo - one of Finland's six medieval cities, first mentioned as a town in 14th-
century literature; and
 Lake Saimaa - the largest lake in Finland and one of the largest natural
freshwater lake in Europe

It is said that Santa Claus (known in Finland as Joulupukki or "Yule Goat")

officially resides in a house built on top of the Arctic Circle, near Rovaniemi, in the
northern province of Lappland, Finland.

Common Finnish dishes includes salmiakki (salty licorice), ruisleipä (rye bread),
korvapuusti (cinnamon bun), karjalanpirakka (Karelian pie),leipäjuusto (bread
cheese), and poronkäristys (sautéed reindeer).

Finns always act in a proper way in any circumstance and always expect
courteous behavior. They speak in mild voices, and they do nothing to attract
attention of people Greetings are formal through a strong handshake, direct eye
contact, and a smile. It is a common practice to repeat your first and last name
while shaking your hands. The wife should be greeted first when greeting a married
couple. Finns are business-like, and they are not influenced by personal
relationships to do business. The basic way of doing business is formal.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter Finland.

Capital: Helsinki
Language: Finnish
Currency: Euro
Religion: Lutheran, Greek Orthodox
Carrier: Finnair (AY)
Major International Airport: Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport (HEL)

Iceland (Republic of lceland) is an island country that lies on active border of

North America and Europe along the North Atlantic Ocean. It is often called "The
Land of Fire and Ice" because of its extreme geological contrasts Iceland is home to
some of the largest glaciers in Europe and some of the most active volcanoes in the
world. It is also famous for sparklingg glaciers such as Vatna Glacier (Vatnajökull),
Europe's largest glacier that lies across a beautiful mountain range Abundant hot
geysers provide families heat for many of the country's homes and buildings.
Iceland was founded by the Vikings more than one thousand years ago
Iceland is a Scandinavian country, very modern in every way, but it has one of the
oldest democracies in the world.

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The best attractions to experience in Iceland are:

 Whale watching, Reykjavik; Blue Lagoon, Grindavík - the Blue Lagoon in

southwest Iceland is a geothermal spa. The spa is situated in a lava field near
Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula in a geothermal friendly location and is
supplied with water from the nearby geothermal power station in Svartsengi;
 Spectacular Geysers - a geyser is a spring characterized by intermittent,
turbulent discharge of water followed by steam;
 The northern lights (aurora borealis)- these are the spectacular lights seen
around the northern hemisphere's magnetic poles. Auroras that occur in the
northern hemisphere are called aurora borealis or "northern lights," and auroras
that occur in the southern hemisphere are called aurora australis or "southern
lights",;
 Landmannalaugar Nature Reserve- Landmannalaugar is the most popular
starting point for the famous Laugavegur Trek and is an absolute favorite
in'Iceland for many;
 Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park- this is Iceland's fourth-largest ice cap;
 Vatnajökull-also translated into English as Vatna Glacier, is Iceland's largest and
highest ice cap and the second largest in Europe after Novaya Zemlya's Severny
Island ice cap;
 Askja Caldera -is an active volcano, located in a remote part of lceland's central
highlands. The name "Askja" refers to a series of interconnected calderas within
the Dyngjufjill Mountains surrounding it. Askja in Icelandic means box or caldera;
 Dettifoss Waterfall - renowned as Europe's second-most powerful waterfall after
the Rhine Falls; and
 Akureyri -is a winter wonderland with easy access to great ski slopes and skating rinks,
open sky for spotting northern lights and geothermal pools.

Icelanders are well-e educated. and they engage in humor. Icelanders normally
shake hands when greeting and saying goodbye to each other. Words used for
greetings include gódan daginn (good day), gott kvöld (good evening), and bless
(goodbye). enter Iceland.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter in Iceland

Capital: Reykjavik
Language: lcelandic
Currency: Krona (IKR)
Religion: Lutheran State Church
Carrier: celandair (F)
Major International Airport: Keflavik Airport (KEF)

Norway (Kingdom of Norway) is country in the northern part of Europe that

occupies the western half of the peninsula of Scandinavia Almost half of the citizens
of the country live in the region around Oslo, the capital city.

Norway is known for its fjords, mountains, and northern lights worldwide. The
known world's longest road tunnel, Laerdal Tunnel, is found skiing were invented in
Norway. Norway has the in Norway. It is said that modern and ancient most number

Page 30
of fjords in the world. Perhaps the two most popular are the Geiranger Fjord and the
Nærøy Fjord, both featured on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Some of the top-rated attractions of Norway are:

 Sognefjord - nicknamed King of the Fjords," this is Norway's largest and deepest
fjord;
 Dulpit Rock (Preikestolen) - this is a steep cliff that rises above the Lysefjorden at
604 meters. There is a nearly flat top of about 25 by 25 meters above the
mountain offering a breathtaking view;
 Tromso-renowned for the dazzling northern lights that often illuminate the night
sky;
 Lofoten Islands a Norwegian archipelago famous for its spectacular scenery with
 peaks like the pinnacle of Svolværgeita;
 Viking Ships Museum it is part of the University of Oslo's Museum of Cultural
History and houses three burial ships from the Viking period discovered as part
of archaeological discoveries from the cemetery of Tune, Gokstad, Oseberg, and
the Borre mound;
 Bryggen -a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, this is composed of commercial
Hanseatic Heritage buildings on the eastern side of the Vågen harbor in Bergen
Norway;
 Vigeland Sculpture Park - a popular sculpture park and museum showcasing
Gustav Vigeland's works, plus temporary art exhibits found in Oslo
 Lillehammer- is a ski resort town situated in south Norway. The nearby
Norwegian Olympic Museum has exhibits to commemorate hosting of the Winter
Olympics in 1994;
 Geirangerfjord -this is regarded as the most famous fjord of Norway

Some of their staple foods include lefse (traditional flatbreads), kumla (tender
potato dumplings), lutefisk (gelatinous fish dish), whale steak (famous junk food
dish from whale meat), pickled herring (ancient Viking-style pickle), krumkake
(common sweet dessert dish), and fårikål, the national dish of Norway.

Norwegians sometimes only identify themselves by their first name. They are
known to be casual and democratic. Greetings are done with a strong handshake,
direct eye contact, and an informal smile. In business, Norwegians are detail-
oriented and frank

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter Norway.

Capital: Oslo
Languages: Norwegian, Sami
Currency: Norwegian Krone (KR)
Religion: Evangelical Lutheran
Carrier: Scandinavian Airlines (SK)
Major International Airports: Oslo Airport (OSL), Bergen Airport (BGO), Tromso Airport (TOS)

Sweden (Kingdom of Sweden) is a scandinavian country bordered by Norway

to the west and north, Finland to the east, and connected to Denmark in the

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southwest by a bridge-tunnel across the Öresund Strait. The Svear people gave
Sweden its name,

Which meant CUS" and rike meant "kingdom." So. Sverige the modern
Swedish name of the country, means "Our Kingdom”.

Like most countries in the northwestern Europe Sweden has a generally

favorable climate.

Some of Sweden's tourist attractions are:

 Vasa Museum - museum exhibits the only almost completely intact 17th- voyage
century ship ever rescued, the 64 gun Vasa warship that sank on her 1628
maiden voyage
 Skansen - located On Djurgården Island in Stockholm this is Sweden's first open-
air museum and zoo;
 Gamla Stan and 18th-century buildings. This is where Storkyrkan Cathedral and
the Royal a vibrant, old town famed for its cobbled streets and colorful 17th-
Palace is located;
 Drottningholm -the private residence of the Swedish Royal Family;
 The lce Hotel - it is the first ice hotel in the world built every year with snow and
ice in the village of Jukkasjärvi;
 The Gota Canal - one of the most popular tourist destinations presenting the rich
history of Sweden;
 Visby, Gotland – is a town located on the Swedish island of Gotland in the Baltic
Sea. It is known for its well-preserved town wall, a medieval fortification with
defensive towers
 Liseberg Theme Park - located in Gothenburg, it is one of the most visited
amusement parks in Scandinavia;
 Abisko National Park- located in Lapland, it is a Swedish national park
established in 1909; and
 Lund Cathedral - it is the seat of the Church of Sweden's bishop of Lund

The Swedes are usually conservative people who dislike public self-importance
and bragging. They view pompous behavior as discourteous and hostile. Swedes
dislike arguing, especially with visitors or foreigners, and avoid conversations about
private information such as wealth and family

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter Sweden

Capital: Stockholm
Language: Swedish
Currency: Swedish Krona (KR)
Religion: Lutheran
Carrier: Scandinavian Airlines (SK)
Major International Airport: Stockholm-Arlanda Airport (ARN)

Latvia (Republic of Latvia) is between Lithuania and Estonia, on the Baltic

Sea. Riga, the capital city, will inspire every tourist as it is the largest and most
exciting metropolis in the Baltic region.

Page 32
 It is famous for its Gothic cathedrals, world-class Art Nouveau architecture,
bustling cafes and bars, and delicious dining from haute cuisine to small market.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Gauja National Park - this park provides a sweeping view of the Gauja River
valley where one can explore the medieval castle and its rich museum
 Jurmala, Jurmala (Jūrmala) -is a popular seaside resort offering a range of mud
packs and massages.
 Kuldiga- this beautiful town offers a mix of Baroque opulence and soulful timber
homes, the widest waterfall in Europe and charming restaurants and
guesthouses to ensure a magical stay.
 Rundale Palace Museum - this museum is designed by Francesco Rastrelli, the
architect who also designed St. Petersburg's Hermitage,

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to enter
Latvia

Capital: Riga
Language: Latvian
Currency: Euro
Religion: Protestant
Carrier: airBaltic (BT)
Major International Airport: Riga International Airport (RIX)

Estonia (Republic of Estonia) iS a European country found in the north

bordered by the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland Estonia have more than 1,500
islands with formerly part of the Soviet Union It is filled with castles, churches, and
hilltop fortresses diverse terrain spans rocky beaches, old-growth forests and many
lakes. This country is Estonia is named after the "Ests" in the first century A.D. who
populated the area.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Lahemaa National Park a large natural conserved territory and a famous national
park in Estonia.
 Tartu- considered as the intellectual center Tartu is located of Estonia where the
oldest University of Tartu is located
 Hiiumaa-popular for hikers and adventure seekers
 Pärnu -known for beaches and sandy dunes
 Viljandi-valued for its historical significance, it is known for the richness of
cultural attractions
 Alexander Nevsky Cathedral Tallinn - this cathedral was named after Saint
Alexander Nevsky

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa to enter

Estonia

Capital: Talinn
Language: Estonian
Currency: Euro
Religions: Christianity, Eastern Orthodox, Lutheran

Page 33
Carrier: Estonian Air (OV) (until 2015)
Major International Airport: Talinn Airport (TLL)

Lithuania (Republic of Lithuania) is bounded by Latvia to the north, Belarus to

the east and south, Poland and Russia to the southwest, and the Baltic Sea to the
west.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Kernave C town with rich history and culture this is a UNESCO World Heritage
site
 Klaipeda -one of the strongholds of Teutonic rule in the Baltic
 Dzukija National Park the largest national park in Lithuania
 Druskininkai - the prime spa town in all of Lithuania

Philippine passport holder are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

travel to Lithuania

Capital: Vilnius
Language: Lithuanian
Currency: Euro
Religion: Christianity
Carrier: flyLAL (TE) (Lithuanian Airlines)
Major International Airport: Vilnius Airport (VNO)

SOUTHERN EUROPE

Southern Europe is the south region of the European continent. Also known
as Mediterranean Europe, this includes countries such as Italy, Portugal, Malta,
Corsica Greece, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Albania,
Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, Cyprus, Andorra, Vatican City, San Marino, Kosovo, and
North Macedonia

Cyprus (Republic of Cyprus) is called the "Golden-Green Leaf Thrown into the
Sea and "A Land of Wild Weather and Volcanoes" in the words of the Greek Cypriot
poet Leonidas Malenis. Cyprus has abundance of tall mountains, valleys, and
beaches. A mix of Europe and Asia are seen in the cultural, linguistic, and historic
practices of Cyprus

The major cities of Cyprus are the capital of Nicosia, Limassol, Famagusta,
cosmopolitan and provincial Cities. It is said that the Greek goddess of love,
Aphrodite, and Paphos The influences of conquerors, pilgrims. and travelers are
seen in the was born in Cyprus. The country is also dubbed as the "playground of
the Gods. Some of the world's oldest water wells can be found in Cyprus.

The whole town of Paphos, Cyprus has been declared as a UNESCO World
Heritage site. Cyprus has a lot to offer besides beaches. They have archaeological
sites, Byzantine churches, monasteries and museums. Some of its notable
attractions are:

 Ancient Kourion is one of Cyprus's significant and impressive

archaeological sites.

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 St. Hilarion Castle is a large complex of castles in Cyprus, halfway between
Cyrenia and Nicosia. The castle is named not after the founder of the
monasticism in Palestine, St. Hilarion the Great, but after a later saint whose
name is little known;
 Karpas Peninsula - dubbed as northern Cyprus's most unspoiled region;
 Kolossi Castle-is a historic fortress located on Cyprus Island. The first castle was .
built during the 13th century, not long after the Crusaders invaded the island;
 Troodos Massif -is the largest mountain range in Cyprus, situated roughly in the .
middle of the island. The highest peak is Mount Olympus; and
 House of Dionysus - preserved remains of a second century Roman villa
renowned for vivid Dionysus mosaics. Dionysus is known to be the ancient Greek
God of Wine

Among the Cyprus food specialties includes afelia (a Greek Cypriot stew of pork
marinated in red wine and ground coriander seed), kleftiko ofto (lamb on_the bone.
slowly roasted with herbs in a sealed clay oven), halloumi [Cyprus cheese, kneaded
by hand), and dolmades (preserved vine leaves stuffed with meat and rice).

A visa is required for Filipinos who would like to visit Cyprus.

Capital: Nicosia
Languages: Greek, Turkish
Currency: Euro
Religion: Greek Orthodox
Carrier: Cyprus Airways (CY) (ceased operations in 2015)
Major International Airport: Larnaca International Airport (LCA)

Gibraltar has been an icon of British naval strength and the reason why it is
commonly known in that context as "The Rock. When the Suez Canal opened in
1869, Gibraltar became the provisioning port was greatly enhanced during the war.

Gibraltar is known for its native monkeys called Barbary macaques, a species
endemic to Morocco, and the only wild monkeys in any part of Europe

Among its famed attractions are:

 Highest Point and O'Hara's Battery - is an artillery fortification that provides a

superb view from Signal Hill;
 Gibraltar Nature Reserve and Cable Car - is best reached with the Gibraltar Cable
Car, an aerial tramway built in 1966 that carries groups of up to 30 passengers
at a time up to 673 meters to the Top of the Rock;
 St. Michael's Cave - located at least 274 meters above sea level, it is filled with
impressive stalactites and stalagmites; and
 The Great Siege Tunnels carved from the sheer slope of the "Notch,' the
northern I side of the Rock, using nothing but manual labor, this network of
tunnels was constructed in just six weeks by the British as a protection against a
joint force from France and Spain as they attempted to recapture the Rock from
the British.

Gibraltar tourist visa is required for citizens of the Philippines

Page 35
Capital: Gibraltar
Language: English
Currency: Gibraltar Pound
Religion: Lutheran, Greek Orthodox
Carrier: (no official carrier)
Major International Airport: Gibraltar Airport (GIB)

Greece (Hellenic Republic) is located in the southernmost portion of the

countries of the Balkan Peninsula. Geography has greatly influenced the country's
development One-fifth of the the total land area of Greece is made up of the Greek
islands, which is practically comparable to the size of England or the state of
Alabama in USA. Greece has more than 2,000 islands, and majority of which are
inhabited. The country's capital is Athens, and Attiki, the area around the capital, is
now home to about one-third of the country's entire population

Attractions in Greece include:

 Acropolis, Athens - the Acropolis is a rocky mountain rising in the center of
modern Athens where the most prominent and distinctive attraction is the
Parthenon originally made up of 58 columns supporting the roof and adorned
with ornate pediments and a frieze;
 Santorini -the most visited of all Greek isles, it is best known for the cliff-top west
coastal towns of Fira and Oia, which seem to hang over a deep, blue caldera filed
with water;
 Mykonos - is a popular and luxurious Greek island destination;
 Delphi -a UNESCO Heritage site built on the lower slopes of Mount Parnassus,
this site was considered sacred to the ancients who came here on pilgrimages to
worship Apollo (god of light, prophecy, music, and healing) and ask the
legendary Oracle's advices;
 Corfu -one of the major tourist destinations in Greece that lies in the lonian Sea
off the mainland's west coast. Corfu town is also a UNESCO World Heritage site
 Rhodes Town - a UNESCO World Heritage site, this is surrounded by an
impressive fortification including monumental towers and gates designed by St.
John's Knights after taking possession of the island in the 14th century; and
 Thessaloniki - overlooking northern Greece's Aegean Sea, Thessaloniki is the
country's second largest city after Athens.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to enter
Greece

Capital: Athens
Language: Greek
Currency: Euro
Carrier: Aegean Airlines (A3)
Religions: Lutheran, Greek Orthodox
Major International Airports: Athens International Airport (ATH), Kalamata International Airport
(KLX), Mykonos International Airport (JMK)

Italy (Repubblica Italiana) is a country of south- central Europe, occupyinga

peninsula most visited countries in the world. of the most varied and scenic
landscapes worldwide and is also considered as one of the most visited in the world.

Top-rated tourist attractions in Italy are:

Page 36
 Colosseum-this historical amphitheater is the largest ever constructed during the
Roman Empire, and it has remained a model or pattern for sporting facilities
build now in modern times;
 Venice Canals - a gondola trip across the Venice canals is a sight enjoyed by
tourists for decades. Venice is an island town, where water taxis and gondolas
are considered the main network of transportation;
 Pompeii - a town buried when Mt. Vesuvius erupted during 79 A.D.
 Leaning Tower of Pisa - or simply the Tower of Pisa, is the campanile or
freestanding bell tower of the cathedral of the Italian town of Pisa known
worldwide for its almost four-degree lean, which is a result of an unstable
foundation;
 Lake Como - one of Italy's most scenic areas, surrounded by mountains and lined
by small picturesque towns;
 Amalfi Coast a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a stunning stretch of coastline -
along the Sorrentine Peninsula, south of Naples and Sorrento;
 Florence Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore - dubbed as one of the finest cathedrals in
the world;
 Cinque Terre- is a lovely coastal region with steep hills and sheer cliffs
overlooking the Mediterranean;
 Vatican City - is home to some of the world's most priceless art and art
collections This is also the seat of the Catholic Faith
 The Uffizi Gallery -one of the world's richest art museums, the Uffizi iS filled with
history of ltalian Renaissance art.

Italian cuisine is known for its regional diversity, especially between the north
and the south of the Italian Peninsula. It offers an abundance of taste and is one of
the most popular and copied in the world. Among its popular food items are pizza,
pasta, risotto, ossobuco, gelato, focaccia, and tiramisu.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter Italy.

Capital: Rome
Currency: Euro
Language: ltalian
Religion: Catholicism
Carrier: Alitalia (AZ)
Major International Airports: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO), Malpensa Airport (MXP),
Caravaggio Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY)

Malta (Republic of Malta) is an island archipelago in the central

Mediterranean Sea influenced by African and Middle Eastern culture. It is famous for
its old architectural structures, cliffs, and churches. The capital city Valleta is a
UNESCO World Heritage site. Other attractions are the island of Gozo, Mdina, and
Rabat.

Malta became independent from Great Britain in 1964, and it became part of
the European Union in 2004. Citizens of Malta, called "Maltese," are known for their
hospitality and warmth.

Filipinos intending to visit Malta are required to obtain a Schengen visa

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Capital: Valleta
Language: Maltese, English
Currency: Euro
Religion: Lutheran, Greek Orthodox
Carrier: Air Malta (M)
Major International Airport: Malta International Airport (MLA)

Portugal (Portuguese Republic or República Portuguesa) is a country located

in southwestern Europe off the Atlantic coast of lberian Peninsula. Portugal is
culturally influenced by countries of North Europe and Mediterranean. It is famous
for its churches, beaches, attractive architecture, and religious structures.

The biggest pilgrimage site in Portugal is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of

Fatima, which is believed to be miraculous.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Oceanário de Lisboa the most famous and family- friendly attraction of Portugal,
Lisbon Oceanariumis beautifully built to showcase the different ocean
environments in the world.
 Palácio Nacional de Sintra - UNESCO acknowledges the destination as a cultural
landscape making it a World Heritage site in Lisboa
 Convento do Cristo -a mighty and historical castle that shields the Convento do
Cristo.
 Bom Jesus do Monte - the grandest religious sanctuary located in Braga,
Portugal.
 Universidad de Coimbra - the oldest seat of learning, founded in 1290 by King
Dinis.
 Castelo de Guimarães - depicts how the defined the culture and tradition of
Portugal.
 Torre de Clérigos - is one of Oporto's defining landmarks overlooking the old
town.

Portuguese cuisine is characterized by the use of olive oil as its base, together
with flavorful spices such as cinnamon, vanilla, saffron, black pepper, and piri-piri or
chili peppers.

Filipinos who would visit Portugal are required to obtain a Schengen visa,

Capital: Lisbon
Language: Portuguese
Currency: Euro
Religion: Catholicism
Carrier: TAP Air Portugal (TP)
Major International Airports: Lisbon Airport (LIS), Faro International Airport (FAO), and Porto
International Airport (OP0)

Spain (Kingdom of Spain) iS a country located in extreme southwestern Part

of Europe. It shares about 85 percent of occupied Peninsula with its smaller
neighboring country, Portugal. Spain is known for its stone Castles, snowcapped
mountains, vast monuments, and sophisticated cities, all of which have made it
favored travel o destination. The country is geographically and culturally diverse.

Page 38
Top-rated tourist attractions in Spain:

 The Alhambra the royal palace of the Nasrid dynasty is the artistic highlight of
the Islamic era of Spain, when Al-Andalus- as Andalusia was renamed
represented the epitome of culture and civilization in the Middle Ages of Europe.
 Barcelona's La Sagrada Familia -is the most visited unfinished Roman Catholic
Basilica in Barcelona designed by Spanish/ Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. His
work on the building is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site this church remains
to be unfinished in construction.
 The Great Mosque of Cordoba (Mezquita one of the largest in the world and the
finest achievement of Moorish architecture in Spain
 The Prado and Paseo del Artes, Madrid - considered as one the world's top art
museums for the riches of its collections.
 San Lorenzo de El Escorial the summer home of the Kings of Spain.
 Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao - no photograph has ever done justice to this
symphony of shapes, so alive that they seem ready to take wing.

The flamenco dance is uniquely Spanish. Spain is also popular because of

bullfighting and their love for football as a sport A visit to Spain is not complete
without tasting their famous tortilla española, pisto tapas, and paella.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to enter
Spain

Capital: Madrid
Language: Castilian Spanish
Currency: Euro
Religion: Roman Catholicism
Carrier: lberia (IB)
Major International Airport: Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) (also known as Adolfo Suárez Airport)

Turkey (Republic of Turkey) is a country that occupies a distinct geographic

location lying partly in Asia and in Europe. Throughout the history, Turkey has
functioned both as wall barrier and a bridge between the two continents. Turkey is
located at the crossroads of the Balkans, Caucasus, Middle East, and eastern
Mediterranean.

Top-rated tourist attractions in Turkey are:

 Aya Sofya ⁃ known as one of the world's most stunning structure in Turkey;
 Ephesus ⁃ one of the most intact and complete, still-standing Roman cities in the
region, where one can experience life during the Golden Age of the Roman
Empire;
 Cappadocia-the rocky Cappadocia is every photographer's dream location
because of its stunning landscape and beauty; and
 Aspendos-known as the finest example of a classical age theater still preserved
for every visitor in Turkey.

Cruising the Mediterranean is the number one activity for visitors of Bodrum and
Fethiye when in Italy.

Page 39
Filipino travelers are required to have visas before they can travel to Turkey.

Capital: Ankara
Language: Turkish
Currency: Turkish Lira
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Turkish Airlines (TK)
Major International Airport: Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW)

Vatican City, regarded as the smallest fully independent nation, is the

center of the Roman Catholic Church. There are six entrance gateways to the
Vatican, but only three are accessible to the public and these are the Piazza, the
Arco delle Campane in St. Peter's Basilica, and the entrance to the Vatican Museum
and galleries located in the north.

The Vatican is the official residence of the Pope where he led the bishops of
Rome, The food in Vatican is very similar to ltalian cuisine, especially Roman cuisine

Famous attractions and destinations:

 St. Peter's Basilica- built between the 16th and 18th centuries, this is considered
the centerpiece of the Vatican.
 The Sistine Chapel - built by Pope Sixtus IV, this is where the conclave elect the
successor of the Pope after his death. The art works of Michelangelo are etched
in the wall coverings and ceilings of this chapel
 Pinacoteca (Picture Gallery) although many of Napoleon's treasures have been
stolen, Pinacoteca contains 16 precious art rooms from the Middle Ages
to contemporary works.
 Piazza San Pietro (St. Peter's Square) - the Grand Piazza San Pietro, in front of St.
Peter's Basilica, was designed by Bernini to provide a place for the gathering of
the faithful from all over the world.
 The Museo Pio Clementino. Vatican Museums- has the largest collection of
ancient sculptures in the world, mainly found in Rome and surrounding areas
 The Vatican Necropolis - beneath the Grand Dome and the precious frescoes of
St. Peter's, this is where former popes were buried in private chapels.
 Vatican Gardens - created for Pope Nicholas ll in the 13th century as a place for
peaceful worship and reflection.
 The Etruscan Museum - reflects the life of the Etruscans and their idea of the
afterlife.
 The Vatican Library

Capital: Vatican
Language: ltalian
Currency: Euro
Religion: Catholicism
Carrier: Alitalia (AZ)
Major International Airports: Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Ciampino-G. B. Pastine
International Airport (CIA)

Andorra is a small, independent principality located in the Pyrenees

mountains in between France and Spain. It is known for its ski resorts and is
regarded as haven for duty-free shopping.

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Famous attractions and destinations:
 Andorra la Vella this capital city may be small, but this is a very busy tourist area
located in the world's highest capital cities.
 Winter wonderland, Vallinord - one of the most visited and popular winter sports
destination in Andorra
 Sant Joan de Caselles Church - considered as one of the country's finest
Romanesque church that shows impression of old stone building that dates from
the 11th century
 Centre Termoludic Caldea - considered to be Europe's largest spa complex.

A visa is not required to visit Andorra; however, it is only accessible through

Spain or France. Citizens of Philippines will require a multiple entry Schengen visa
for Spain or France to obtain entry to Andorra

Capital: Andorra la Vella

Language: Catalan
Currency: Euro
Religion: Roman Catholicism
Carrier: Andorra Airlines
Major International Airport: La Seu d'Urgell Airport (LEU)

Croatia is a southeastern European republic. It borders northwest Slovenia,

northeast Hungary, east Serbia, southeast Bosnia and Herzegovina, and southeast
Montenegro, sharing a maritime boundary with Italy.

It is a small country in the form of a crescent and has highly complex

geography for your summer holiday, Croatia is one of the most popular and well-
known European countries.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Dubrovnik Old Town Walls-Croatia's most famous tourist destination and a
UNESCO World Heritage site.
 Diocletian's Palace located in Split, it was established within the ancient Roman
walls of the huge Diocletian's Palace
 Plitvice Lakes National Park it is the most visited inland attraction in Croatia
 Zadar's Romanesque Churches ⁃ car-free 0ld Town is built on a small peninsula
jutting out onto Croatia's Dalmatian coast.
 Korcula- popular for its protected medieval walls and tower.

The most common way to get a tourist visa for Croatia is to obtain an either valid
Two or Multiple-entry Schengen visa or- a valid Croatian visa.

Capital: Zagreb
Language: Croatian
Currency: Croatian Kuna
Religion: Roman Catholicism
Carrier: Croatia Airlines (OU)
Major International Airport: Rijeka International Airport (RJK)

Slovenia is a country known for its mountains, ski resorts, and lakes,
Slovenia is bordered by Italy to the west, Hungary to the east Austria to the north,
and Croatia to the south In 1991, the Slovenian War of Independence, also known

Page 41
as the Ten-Day War, erupted and claimed many lives. It was also the first European
war since the Second World War.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Ljubljana-a charming attraction in Slovenia frequently visited by tourists.
 Lake Bled ⁃ this small island in the middle of the lake is home to a 17th century
church and serves as a gateway to the Triglav National Park
 Triglav National Park ⁃ offers a magnificent view of the Julian Alps and Mount
Triglav.
 Postojna - a small town in southwest Slovenia where visitors can experience
unique attractions and natural scenery
 Piran -this resort destination is reminiscent of Italy.
 Ptuj- is regarded as one of the oldest cities of the nation
 Kranjska Gora ⁃ is popular for visitors who loves skiing and snowboarding
 Maribor ⁃ is known for its wine-growing industry.

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to enter
Slovenia.

Capital: Ljubljana
Language: Slovenian
Currency: Euro
Religion: Christianity
Carrier: Adria Airways (JP)
Major International Airport: Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)

Montenegro is Balkan country with rugged mountains, medieval towns, and

a small beach strip along its Adriatic coastline. In 1992 Montenegro was officially
declared an ecological state.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Kotor Old City -a very old and historical city of Montenegro
 Njegos Mausoleum - dedicated in honor of Petar
 Mogren Beach - the most famous beach in the entire Budva region
 Bobotov Kuk- popular hiking destination
 Delta City - popular shopping destination
 Mount Lovcen - a symbol of national pride with panoramic view of Kotor

The citizens of the Philippines are required to obtain a visa to enter Montenegros

Capital: Podgorica
Language: Montenegrin
Currency: Euro
Religion: Eastern Orthodox Christianity
Carrier: Montenegro Airlines (YM)
Major International Airport: Podgorica Airport (TGD)
San Marino (Republic of San Marino) is a mountainous country surrounded
by central northern Italy. It preserves much of its traditional architecture among the
oldest republics in the world. The capital city is also known as San Marino and is
located on the foot of Monte Titano, famous for its medieval walled old town and
narrow cobblestone streets. Geographically, San Marino Europe's third smallest
state and is a landlocked country.

Page 42
Famous attractions and destinations:
 Rocca Guaita (Guaita Fortress)- the earliest and the oldest fortress constructed
found on the ridge of Mt. Titano
 Monte Titano the tallest peak of San Marino
 Palazzo Pubblico and Piazza della Liberta this Government House was designed
by the architect Francesco Azzurri and was built from stones of Mount Titano
 Basilica di San Marino - basilica dedicated to San Marino (St. Marinus)
 Museum of Curiosities- houses the collection of strange objects in the world
 Wax Museum typical wax figures that showcases significant historical characters

Philippine citizens need visa for traveling to San Marino as tourist.

Capital: San Marino

Language: ltalian
Currency: Euro
Religion: Catholic
Carrier: none
Major International Airport: none

Northern Macedonia is bordered by Kosmet and Serbia to the north,

Bulgaria to the east, Greece to the south, and Albania to the west. Considered as
one of the great empires of the world for its history, the nation now is much smaller
and is famous for its many varieties of mountains, lakes, and plants and animals.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Strumica famous for magnificent Byzantine monasteries
 Prilep - a historically rich town adorned with ruins of an old fortress
 Mavrovo National Park - this is the bigges and most popular national park in the
country
 Tikves Wine Region - popular for the win it produces
 Pelister National Park is a mountainous area that covers the Baba Mountain
massif popular for hikers and adventure seekers
 Bitola- the second largest city in the country
 Galicica National Park - famous park for hiking with its serene, unspoiled, and
untouched valleys and forests
 Skopje - this capital city, showcases architectural collections composed of
Ottoman-era mosques, neoclassical buildings, and modern statues
 Ohrid -known as the "Jerusalemn of the Balkans"

North Macedonia visa for citizens of Philippines is required.

Capital: Skopje
Languages: Macedonian, Albanian
Currency: Macedonian Denar
Religion: Orthodox Christianity
Carriers: Makedonski Aviotransport (MAT), Macedonian Airlines (IN)
Major International Airport: Skopje International Airport (SKP)

Bosnia and Herzegovina (Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina), sometimes

called Bosnia-Herzegovina, iS country in Southeast Europe located within the
Balkans. e Bosnia and Herzegovina is almost a landlocked country as it is bordered

Page 43
by Croatia to the north and southwest, by Serbia to the east, and by Montenegro to
the southeast.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Jahorina-this is home to the best-loved ski field in all of Bosnia. Ilt also hosted the
Winter Olympics in 1984
 Sarajevo - a former ravaged war zone, it is now a bustling European capital.
 Stolac -is considered by many to be single most charming town in the country.
 Mostar - considered as one of the jewels of the entire Balkan Peninsula
 Brcko- found on the edge of the Sava River and home to Bosnia's port.
 Kravice Falls 1 magnificent waterfalls that cascade in countless streams over the
verdant ridges south of Mostar.

Philippine citizens need a visa for traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina as tourists

Capital: Sarajevo
Languages: Bosnian, Serbian, Croatian
Currency: Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Marka
Carrier: FlyBosnia (6W)
Religion: Islam, Eastern Orthodox Christianity, Catholicism
Major International Airport: Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ)

Albania (Albanian Republic) is a country in southern Europe, located in the

western part of the Balkan Peninsula on the Strait of Otranto, the southern entrance
to the Adriatic Sea Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu is the heroine of Albania. better known
as Mother Teresa to the rest of the world. She was born in Skopje now part of North
Macedonia and is one of the most beloved religious figures of the 20th century.
She's the only Albanian to win the Nobel Prize.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Dhermi- famous for its beautiful beaches with clean waters

 Berat-dubbed asthe "Town ofa Thousand Windows"
 Himare - famous for its hilly coastline
 Gjirokaster popular for its quaint buildings and historic sites
 Kruje -the hometown of Albania's national hero Gjergj Skanderbeg
 Butrint National Park - a popular tourist destination because of its nearness to
the Greek island of Corfu
 Tirana- Albania's capital

Filipino citizens who wish to travel to Albania (Republic of Albania) are required
tc obtain a visa prior to the scheduled departure

Capital:.Tirana
Language:Albanian
Currency: Albanian Lek
Religion: Islam
Carrier: Air Albania (ZB)
Major International Airport: Tirana International Airport Nenë Tereza (TIA)

EASTERN EUROPE

Page 44
 Eastern Europe is found in the Eastern part of the continent of Europe. It is
composed of countries like Ukraine, Poland, Romania, Czech Republic, Belarus,
Bulgaria, Slovakia, Moldova, and Russia, among others. Most countries experienced
political and geographicalt transformations over the years and are now building
market-
oriented economies. This part of Europe is now gaining popularity for tourism due to
its diverse attractions consisting of mountain sceneries, cultural treasures and
historical structures.

Ukraine is located in the central part of Eastern Europe, at the intersection

of
major transport routes from Europe to Asia. and from the Scandinavian countries to
the
Mediterranean.

Major attractions and destinations of Ukraine include:

 Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant - this is where the infamous explosion took place
in 1989 in the town of Pripyat in northern Ukraine;
 St. Sophia's Cathedral-since its completion in 1037, it is one of Kiev's most noted
landmarks. It has been a-UNESCO World Heritage site since the 1980s and
provides the best views from the bell tower in Kiev, the room is packed with
stunning murals. ancient mosaics, and century-old frescoes;
 L'viv's Historic Center often called the "Paris of Ukraine," the old town has a very
traditional European feel and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage
site;
 Sunflower Field -Sunflower oil is one of the major exports in Ukraine
 Kamenets Podolsky Castle - this fortress, which has been in existence since the
14th century, is the perfect spot in the canyon to take pictures and explore, It is
reminiscent of a fairy tale castle; and
 Mezhyhiria: Former Presidential Palace - former residence of the former
President . of Ukraine, Viktor Yanukovych. The extravagant construction is a
symbol and a reminder of institutional greed and corruption Famous food in
Ukraine includes paska, borscht, pierogi, aspic, potato pancake (deruni), Chicken
Kiev, and nalysnyky.

Philippine citizens need visa for traveling to Ukraine as tourists.

Capital: Kyiv
Currency: Ukrainian Hryvnia
Language: Ukrainian
Religion: Christianity
Carrier: Ukraine International Airlines (PS)
Major International Airport: Kyiv Airport (IEV)

Poland is located in the heart of Central Europe Poland is the home of

famous people Such as Nicolaus Copernicus, the famous astronomer; Maria
Sktodowska Curie the first ever female to win a Nobel Prize; and Frédéric Chopin, a
famous composer and pianist.

Famous attractions and destinations:

Page 45
 Wawel Castle - home to the Polish Crown Jewels, the only preserved weapon the
legendary coronation sword Szczerbiec.
 Auschwitz-Birkenau - is both a memorial and museum located in Oswiecim,
Poland. camp. This place now is dedicated to the This used to be the former Nazi
death memory of the victims massacred in the camps during World War II
 Masurian Lake - with more than 2,000 lakes, this connects to the canals and
river systems.
 Malbork Castle - it was founded in 1274 and was used as their headquarters to
help defeat Polish enemies
 Wieliczka Salt Mine - is considered to be one of the oldest companies in the
world where salt has been continuously mined from the site since the 13th
century.
 Gdansk Old Town - the old town area includes many old century structures,
which includes granaries, mills, and churches
 Main Market Square - the main tourist attraction in Poland, the Old Town in
Kraków is the largest medieval town square in Europe.

Philippine citizens need visa for traveling to Poland as tourists

Capital: Warsaw
Currency: Polish Ztoty
Language: Polish
Religion: Roman Catholicism
Carrier: LOT Polish Airlines (LO)
Major International Airport: Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW)

Romania is a country known for the forested region of Transylvania,

surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains. It is known for its preserved medieval
towns, fortified churches, and castles that have long been associated with the
legend of Dracula. The name "Romania" came from the Latin word "Romanus,"
which means "Citizen of the Roman Empire."

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Old Town - reminiscent of the structures that dates back from the 15th and 16th
centuries
 Parliament Palace this used to be the official residence of former dictator Nicolae
Ceausescu, who used it as the residence of his family and the seat of his
government.
 Romanian Athenaeum -this was designed by French architect Albert Galleron
and it depicts a Greek temple with a high dome and six lonic column peristyle
 Stavropolis Church - this church complex once included an inn and a monastery,
but both of them were destroyed during an earthquake
 Old Princely Court and Church -was the palace residence of the Wallachian
princes including Vlad Tepes who inspired Bram Stoker's tale of Dracula
 Revolution Square - the square got its name after the former dictator Nicolae
Ceausescu's spent his final minutes of power in Romania here.
 National Museum of Art - houses the most complete collection of Romanian
medieval and modern art.

Page 46
 Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum a unique open-air museum that shows
traditional way of life in Romania

Filipino passport holders are required to have a Romanian visa to enter the
country, except when one is holding a valid multiple-entry short-stay Schengen visa
or holds a valid short-stay visa by Bulgaria, Cyprus, Croatia, or a long-stay
Schengen visa or issued by Bulgaria, Cyprus, or Croatia (www.wanderlass.com)

Capital: Bucharest
Currency: Romanian Leu
Language: Romanian
Religion: Christianity, Catholicism, Protestantism
Carrier: TAROM (Campania National de Transporter Adrienne Romani TAROM S.A.) (RO)
Major International Airport: Bucharest Henri Canada International (OTP)

Czech Republic also known by its shortened name Czech, is a landlocked

country in Central Europe bordered by Poland to the northeast, Slovakia to the
southeast Austria to the south, and Germany to the west. Czech Republic is widely
known for its beautiful castles and medieval architecture and buildings.

Attractions and destinations:

 Prague Castle (Passkey hard) - has been significant to Eastern European history
where important people of history are housed such as the Bohemian Kings,
Emperors and Presidents.
 St. Vitus Cathedral the tomb of St. Wenceslas, the saint of Czech people, as well
as the Bohemian Coronation Jewels are found here.
 Prague's Old Town Square this square is a witness to important historic
landmarks including the Old fown Hall, which holds the Astronomical Clock, as
well as the St, Nicholas Church
 The Colonnades and Spas of Karlovy Vary - requently visited because of the
authentic spa experience
 Glassworks of Karlovy Vary.- one of Europe's oldest glassmaking centers

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter Czech Republic.

Capital: Prague
Currency: Czech Koruna
Language: Czech
Religion: Christianity
Carrier: Czech Airlines (OK)
Major International Airport: Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)

Belarus (Republic of Belarus) is a small landlocked country located in the

Eastern part of Europe. It’s bordered by Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west,
Russia to the northeast, and Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Minsk-the country capital is regarded as having one of the largest public squares
in all of Europe

Page 47
 Breslau Lake Area Necklace" of Belarus due to their known as the "Blue azure
waters.
 Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park covers both Belarus and neighboring
Poland and is a protected area of land as well as a UNESCO World Heritage site,
 Mir Castle - lies in the Grodno region and dates from the 16th century This
mighty architectural feat is built using Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles
 Brest Hero Fortress Memorial Complex - this fortress is dedicated to the heroes
of the Great Patriotic War who perished
Capital: Minsk
Currency: Belarusian Rouble
Language: Belarussian language
Religion: Orthodox Christianity
Carrier: Belavia Belarusian Airlines /(B2)
Major International Airport: Minsk National Airport MSQ)

Bulgaria is a country in southeastern Europe that borders Serbia and North

Macedonia to the west, Romania to the north, Black Sea to the east, and Greece
and Turkey to the south. Sofia is the country's capital and the largest city.

Bulgaria is famous all over the world for its folklore and opera singers and
musicians and is particularly proud of its rich folklore traditions

The land is known as the "Land of Roses." It is a major producer of the world's
rose oil in the town of Kazanlak. In recent years, Bulgaria is also the top-ranking
producer of lavender oil.

Attractions and destinations:

 Varna popular resort town on the edge of the Black Sea.

 Veliko Tarnovo it s known as the legendary City of the Tsars located the rising
foothills of Bulgaria's northern mountains.
 Zheravna - presents the country's most iconic architectural styles of architecture
most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery is also located.
 Rila Monastery- Rila became a veritable symbol of the Bulgarian nation where
the in Slovakia Park home

Filipinos or Philippine passport holders who are wishing to visit Bulgaria are
required to obtain appropriate visas before traveling to the country.

Capital: Sofia
Currency: Bulgarian lev
Language: Bulgarian
Religion: Bulgarian Orthodox
carrier: Bulgaria Air (FB)
Major International Airport: Sofia International Airport (SOF)

Slovakia borders Ukraine to the east, Austria to the southwest, Poland to the
north, Hungary to the south, and the Czech Republic to the northwest. Bratislava is
the country's capital and largest city.

Best places to visit in Slovakia:

Page 48
 Orava Castle -built during the 13th century
 Vlkolinec - considered as one of the only remaining folk villages in the whole of
Central Europe filled ith impressive architecture 7
 Bardejov - a well-preserved medieval town in Slovakia
 Slovak Paradise National to deep canyons, valleys, and rivers cut through the
endless forests on show
 Spis Castle - regarded as one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe
 High Tatras- where the tallest mountains in the country is found
Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to
enter Slovakia

Capital: Bratislava
Currency: Euro
Language: Slovak
Religion: Christianity
Carrier: Aeri Slovakia (GM)
Major International Airport: Bratislava Airport (BTS)

Moldova is a landlocked country in eastern Europe, bordered to the east and

south by Ukraine and by Romania to the north. Its capital city is Chişinäu

Moldova is best known for its wine, and most Moldovan families make wine at home

Best places to visit in Moldova:

 Chişinău - this is Moldova's biggest city and its capital.
 Orheiul echi an archaeological complex with rich cultural and historical
significance.
 Cricova Winery - known as the second largest underground winery in the world.
 Saharna -this is where the Holy Trinity monastery is found.
 Soroca -this city played a large and important role in Moldova's history.

Capital: Chişinău
Currency: Moldovan Leu
Language: Romanian
Religion: Christianity
Carrier: Air Moldova (9U)
Major International Airport: Chişinău International Airport (KIV)

Russia (Russian Federation) is an Eastern Slavic ethnic group native to

Western Russia and other areas of Eastern Europe (some regions of the former
Russian Tsardom and the Russian Empire). They have the greater number of ethnic
group in Europe. Russia is a European nation situated in Eastern Europe with a wide
expanse of land Stretching through Northern Asia. Because of its land area, Russia
has borders on fourteen countries namely; North Korea, China, Mongolia,
Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia Ukraine Belarus, Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Norway,
and Finland.

Best places to visit in Russia:

 Lake Baikal- this massive high-altitude rift lake in Siberia is the oldest and
deepest lake in the world.
 Moscow - Russia's capital is a magnificent mix of greenery, stunning architecture
and lots of historical reminders of times gone by.

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 St. Petersburg -most famous tourist attraction and the second largest art and
culture museum in the world.
 Sochi - offers long stretches of pebble and sand beaches
 The Russian tundra - is a unique biome that only exists in or near the Arctic
Circle.
 Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky~ is surrounded by volcanoes (including the active,
Snowcapped Koryakskaya Sopka volcano) and cannot be reached by road.
 Vladivostok- this is Russia's largest port city.

To obtain a tourist visa to Russia, among other documents, a Filipino citizen

must submit to the Russian Embassy a letter of invitation for a tourist visa.

Capital: Moscow
Currency: Russian Rouble
Language: Russian
Religion: Christianity, Russian Orthodox
Carrier: Aeroflot (SU)
Major International Airports: Sheremetyevo Airport (SV0), Domodedovo Airport (DME) and Vnukovo
Airport (VK0)

CENTRAL EUROPE

Central Europe is the area that forms the heart of Europe. It occupies
continuous areas previously considered to be members of Western Europe,
Southern Europe, and Eastern Europe

Germany (Federal Republic of Germany) is part of the north Central

European region, traversing the main physical divisions of the continent, from the
outer Alps north through the varied landscape of the Central German Uplands and
then through the North German Plain. It borders Poland to the east, Austria and
Switzerland to the South, Denmark to the north, France to the southwest, and
Luxembourg to the west.

Top-rated tourist attractions in Germany:

 Cologne Cathedral (Kolner Dom) an example of Gothic architecture, this is one of
the largest cathedrals in Europe
 The Black Forest - an upland region considered to be one of the most visited in
Europe
 The Ultimate Fairytale Castle: Neuschwanstein - is located at the quaint old town
of Füssen
 The Rhine Valley - regarded as one of the most beautiful waterways in Europe.
 Berlin's Museum Island - located between the River Spree and the
Kupfergraben,it is a long canal that includes the city's most significant and
oldest museums. explored on foot.
 Bamberg and the Bürgerstadt - one of the best-preserved town of Germany's
best islands
 The Island of Rügen- known as the largest and most charming of the German
Baltic

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 Germans drink a lot of beer, eat sausages, and make bread with various tastes,
in Munich the king of German festivals is Oktoberfest, celebrated every September
and October

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter Germany.

Capital: Berlin
Currency: Euro
Language: German
Religions: Christians (65-70%). Lutheran Protestantism, Catholic
Carrier: Lufthansa (LH)
Major International Airport: Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

Switzerland is a mountainous country in Central Europe and is home to

beautiful lakes, villages, and snowcapped alpine peaks. The towns feature medieval
quarters. with landmarks such as the Zytglogge clock tower in the capital Bern and
the wooden chapel bridge in Lucerne. The country is well-known for its nature
attractions, making it popular for activities such as hiking and skiing. Banking and
finance are their main industry sectors as well as tourism. Swiss brands of watches
and chocolates are globally known because of its quality.

Famous attractions and destinations are:

 The Matterhorn experienced climbers congregate in the highest mountains in
Alps every summer;
 Jungfraujoch: The Top of Europe- a UNESCO World Heritage site, this is
considered as the highlight of every Swiss trip where visitors would experience
glaciers and eternal snow through the observation deck that provides fantastic
panorama;
 Interlaken-is a traditional resort town in centra Switzerland in the mountainous
Bernese Oberland region that is built between the emerald waters of Lake Thun
and Lake Brienz on a narrow stretch of valley;
 Lucerne - this quintessential Swiss region is famous for its musical concerts and
orchestras;
 Lake Geneva - it is regarded as Europe's largest alpine lake;
 St. Moritz - one of the best mountain destinations in Switzerland that hosted the
Olympic Winter Games twice
 Bern a UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors can discover Switzerland's highest
cathedral with panoramic views fountains of the 16th century, medieval clock
tower of Zytglogge, and 6 kilometers of shopping arcades called "Lauben" by
local people; and
 Zurich is a capital. the largest city in Switzerland and IS considered as the
luxurious banking

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to

enter Switzerland

Capital: Bern
Currency: Swiss Franc
Languages: German, French, Romansh, Italian
Religions: Roman Catholicism, Protestantism
Carrier: Swissair (LX)

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Major International Airport: Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Hungary is located in the center of Europe bordered by Romania to the east

Slovakia and Ukraine to the north, Serbia and Montenegro and Croatia to the south,
and Slovenia and Austria to the west

Famous attractions and destinations are:

 Buda Castle a UNESCO World Heritage site, where one can get a beautiful view
of the castle and other buildings on Castle Hilt;
 The Danube - the area is popular for river cruises up to the neighboring country,
Austria.
 Historic Spa Towns - famous for its hot springs and baths that go back to the
Romans appreciated for their soothing benefits;
 Tihany - a nature resort, this is one of the most popular holiday resorts on Lake
Balaton
 The Lillafüred Caves renowned for its many beautiful caves for exploration within
the city;
 Sopron -240 protected buildings, of which 115 are officially listed monuments
form one of Europe's largest such collections
 St. Peter's Cathedral - constructed on the site of an ancient Roman burial
chapel,; the cathedral shows influence from many cultures; and
 Visegrád Royal Palace this palace was only rediscovered in the 1930s, Which
showcases impressive design and view of the Danube river;
 Aggtelek National Park and Caves a cave cave that stretches for more than 25
kilometers; this is also a UNESCO World Heritage site

Philippine passport holders are required to obtain a Schengen visa in order to enter
Hungary.

Capital: Budapest
Currency: Hungarian Forint
Language: Hungarian
Religion: Roman Catholicism
Carrier: Malev Hungarian Airlines (MA)
Major International Airport: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

NORTH AMERICA

North America is the third largest continent in the world, ranking behind Asia
and Africa- -the first and second biggest continents, respectively. North America is
Contained entirely within the Northern and Western Hemispheres. tis surrounded by
three of the largest oceanic in the world, namely the Atlantic, Arctic and Pacific
Oceans.

North America is divided into four major geographical regions: the West
(including much of Texas the Rocky Mountains, Alaska, and California); the South
(Florida and the Appalachian Mountains); the Great Plains (Canadian and Central
American prairies); and the Canadian Shield

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Canada is the largest nation in North America followed by the USA, Greenland, and
Mexico.

Central America is made up of seven countries namely: Belize, Guatemala,

Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Panama. Although Central
America is a land bridge between North and South America, technically it is part of
North America

North America is the northern part of the landmass generally referred to as

the New World, the Western Hemisphere, or simply the Americas. The word
"America" originates from Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci's name. Mainland North
America is shaped more or less like a triangle, with its base in the north and its
apex in the south Associated with the continent is Greenland, the largest island in
the world, and the Aleutian Islands.

Countries: 23 countries and 9 dependent territories

Largest Country: Canada
Smallest Country: Saint Kitts and Nevis
Languages: English, Spanish, French
Highest Peak: Mt. Mckinley
Longest River: Missouri River

Canada is a nation in the north of North America. The 10 provinces and 3

territories of Canada stretch from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean and north to
the Arctic Ocean. It is considered to be the second biggest country in the world in
terms of the total land area. The three main metropolitan areas are Toronto,
Montreal, and Vancouver. Canada's climate varies widely across its vast area, from
the Arctic climate in the North to the hot summers in the Southern Regions, with
four distinct seasons.

The 10 provinces of Canada and their capital cities are:

1. Alberta-Edmonton 7. Ontario - Toronto

2. British Columbia -Victoria 8. Prince Edward Island -
3. Manitoba-Winnipeg Charlottetown
4. New Brunswick - Fredericton 9. Quebec- Quebec City
5. Newfoundland and Labrador 10.Saskatchewan -Regina
6. Nova Scotia- Halifax

Capital: Ottawa
Languages: English, French
Currency: Canadian Dollar
Religions: Christianity, Roman Catholic, Protestant
Carrier: Air Canada (AC)
Major International Airports: Vancouver International Airport (YVR Toronto Pearson International
Airport (YYZ) Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeay International
Airport (YUL) Ottawa McDonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW)

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It has three territories, namely Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon.

The main attractions of Canada are:

 Niagara Falls - a group of three waterfalls on the southern end of the Niagara
Gorge that crosses the boundary between the New York and Ontario in Canada.
Niagara Falls is known both for its beauty and as a powerful hydroelectric power
source;
 Banff National Park-regarded as the oldestnational park in Canada established in
1885located in Alberta's Rocky Mountains;
 Toronto's CN Tower - this structure frames the Toronto skyline at 553.33 m
(1.815 ft and 5 in) and is the most famous and revered landmark in Canada. The
CN Tower is an internationally renowned architectural achievement, marvel of
the modern world of engineering;
 Old Quebec-is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Quebec is one of the historic
jewels of Canada that holds the most historic buildings in the city; Whistler - the
popular Whistler Ski Resort and village is just a two-hour drive from Vancouver.
A significant winter sports location, it is also a popular summer destination
throughout the year;
 Ottawa' 'S Parliament Hill located above the Ottawa River and surrounded by the
Parliament buildings of the Neo- Gothic style designed during the last half of the
19th century, the most prominent feature is the Peace Tower that divides both
the House of Commons and the Senate;
 Old Montreal - lined with beautiful historic houses, this is a favorite for shopping
and fine dining;
 Polar Bears Of Churchill, Manitoba one will experience here the polar bear
migration to the ice in Hudson Bay near the northern Manitoba town of Churchil;
 Vancouver's Stanley Park the Vancouver Aquarium, the spectacular Beaver Dam.
the Stanley Park Pavilion, and the Rose Garden are all within the park. Numerous
totem poles are also of particu lar interest; some of which were.built more than
100 years ago; and
 Victoria's Inner Harbour - this is a perfect place to walk, relax, shop, dine, and
watch the street performers all against the harbor's backdrop.
Greenland is considered as the largest island in the world between the Arctic and
Atlantic Oceans, to the east of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. The name
Greenland means "People's Country." It is an autonomous territory of the Kingdom
of Denmark.

While physiographically a part of the North American continent, for more than a
millennium, Greenland has been identified with Europe politically and culturally,
especially with Norway, Denmark, and Iceland.

Greenland holds the world's second largest ice sheet after Antarctica. It is
popular for its amazing glaciers and vast tundra It is rich in natural resources such
as iron ore, lead, zinc, diamonds, gold, elements of rare earth, uranium, and oil

"Kayak" and "igloo" are said to be words that originated in Greenland, which
were eventually adopted by other countries' languages. Majority of tourism in
Greenland revolves around flora and fauna. Polar bears, humpback whales, musk
oxen, walruses’ reindeer, and sea eagles are among the most sought-after wildlife.

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There are practically no roads between towns of Greenland that is Why explorations
need to be done using ferry, airplane, sled, or snowmobile.

Famous attractions and destinations:

 Ilulissat Ice-fjord a UNESCO World Heritage site, this spectacular berg-strewn

part of the coastline in Disko Bay has been home to massive "calve" glaciers, a
term that means icebergs breaking off the glaciers and floating out into the
coastal waters.
 Nuuk and the Greenland National Museum it is where the 500-year-old female
and infant mummies (discovered in 1978) are found well-preserved that some of
the facial tattoos and various colors of the fabric material are still identifiable,
 The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) ⁃ often referred to as the "greatest light
display on earth," one should not skip this amazing natural phenomenon during
a visit to Greenland on a winter.
 Uunartoq Hot Springs ⁃ hot springs are located all around Greenland, but the
springs here are the ideal temperature for bathing where three naturally heated
spring combine into a small lake surrounded by icebergs and spectacular
mountain peaks.
 Viking Ruins a visit to the ruins would give visitors a glimpse about the lives of
hunter gatherers.
 Sermermiut Eskimo Settlement ⁃ portrays some of the best-preserved remains of
Eskimo indigenous cultures in the Arctic during its excavation in the early 20 th
century.

Other popular activities in Greenland are:

 walking on the ice cap from Kangerlussuaq;
 dog sledding and snowmobile tours;
 exploring the towns by boat and ferries;
 whale watching
 hiking
 cruising
 kayaking

If a traveler wishes to route via Iceland or Denmark. to Greenland, there iS no

direct flight except taking the

Capital: Nuuk
Language: Greenlandic
Currency: Danish krone
Religion: Protestantism
Carrier: Air Greenland (GL)
Major International Airport: Kangerlussuaq Airport (SFJ)

United States of America is a federal republic country of 50 states. Besides

the 48 states occupying the middle latitudes of the continent, the USA includes the
state of Alaska, the northwestern extreme of North America, and the island state of
Hawaii, in the mid-Pacific Ocean. The USA is the fourth largest country in the world
in terms of land area (after Russia, Canada, and China). The capital city of the USA
is Washington.

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 Alabama is also called the Yellowhammer, Heart of Dixie, and the Cotton
Kingdom. The capital city of Alabama is Montgomery, but Birmingham is the most
populous city. The popular Alabama destination includes the US Space and Rocket
Center, Oak Mountain State Park, Dauphin Island, USS Alabama Battleship Memorial
Park, Gulf State Park, Montgomery and Institute. civil Rights Memorials, McWane
Science Center, and the National Voting Rights Museum

Alaska is also known as the "Last Frontier" and "Land of the Midnight Sun.'
Alaska was part of Russia at one time, but the USA purchased Alaska from Russia i
in 1867. Since then, it became the possession of the USA where Sitka became its
then capital. Today the, capital is Juneau and Anchorage is the most populated city
Alaska has around 100,000 glaciers, and the northern lights (aurora borealis) can
also be seen more than 200 days a year in Fairbanks

Alaska is renowned for its salmon, mushrooms, Caribou, bears, whales. bison,
puffins, and jellyfish When it comes to scenery, Alaska is renowned for its glaciers
and fjords, mountains, and more lakes rivers, and Waterways. Some of the popular
sites in Alaska are:

 Denali National Park is home to million acres of Alaska's inland wilderness. It’s a
centerpiece is Mount McKinley, the highest peak in North America;
 Kenal Fjords National Park - is established as a park in 1908 through the Alaska
National Lands Conservation Act;
 Inside Passage - is a coastal route for ships and boats along a network of
passages that cross the islands on the Pacific NW coast of North America;
 Iditarod National Historic Trail - also known historically as the Seward-to-Nome
Trail, refers to the thousand-plus-mile historical and contemporary trail system in
the U.S. State of Alaska. The trail began as a composite of trails set up by native
Alaskan people;
 Mendenhall Glacier - is a 13.6-mile long glacier located in the Mendenhall Valley;
 Seward, Alaska -is the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, where glaciers flow
from the Harding Icefield to the coastal fjords; and
 Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park - is a national historic park operated
by the National Park Service to commemorate the Klondike Gold Rush of the late
1890s.

Arizona is also known as the "Grand Canyon State" and the "Copper State"
because it is where the Grand Canyon is located and is one of the leading producers
of copper due to its rich mineral deposits. The capital of Arizona is Phoenix and is
considered to be one of the hottest cities in the USA. Arizona is considered to be
one of the four corner states, along with Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico, where
one can be in all four states at the same time.

Arizona was once part of Mexico and became an American state only after the
end of the Mexican War in 1848. The Parker Dam is the deepest dam in the world
located in Arizona the biggest man-made lakes in the USA, Lake Mead (the largest)
and Lake Powell Arizona (the second largest), are also located in Arizona. Some of
the important destinations in Arizona include:

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 The Grand Canyon -is a natural structure characterized by layered bands of red
rock, which exposes millions of years of cross-sectional geological history;
 Sedona - is a desert town surrounded by steep canyon walls and pine trees;
Navajo Tribal Park - is a red-sand desert area on the Arizona-Utah border;
 Bisbee - is a reminder of the city's copper- mining past, Hoover Dam concrete
arch-gravity 1 is a dam on the border I between Nevada and Arizona built during
the Great Depression between 1931 and 1936;
 Canyon De Chelly National Monument - has prominent features include Spider
Rock spire, approximately 800 feet tall, and steep cliffs of sandstone surrounding
a green canyon. Inhabited for centuries by a variety of indigenous American
tribes, the region is dotted with ancient rock art;
 Lake Mead National Recreation Area - is a serene recreation area with Lake
Mead at its centerpiece; and
 Saguaro National Park - the park is named as such because of the massive
saguaro cactus that is native to its desert climate

Arkansas is known to be the only U.S. state producing diamonds. The Crater of
Diamonds State Park located in Arkansas is the only diamond mine currently
operating in the U.S. The state is renowned for its beautiful lakes, rivers, and hot
springs. It has more than 600,000 acres of lakes. Little Rock is the capital of
Arkansas. It is recommended to visit the following attractions while in the state: Hot
Springs National Park Buffalo National River, Mammoth Spring State Park, Diamonds
State Park Crater, and Blanchard Springs Caverns

California is border to the Pacific Ocean Sacramento IS its capital city while Los
Angeles is home to western U.S. state that extends nearly 900 miles from the
Mexican the Hollywood entertainment industry.

Some places of interest in California are as follows:

 Golden Gate Bridge this suspension bridge is considered as one of the most
popular landmarks that connects San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. It
Was designed in 1917 by engineer Joseph Strauss and was named as one of the
Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
 Alcatraz-this military prison is a maximum- security federal penitentiary found in
the middle of a small island.
 Yosemite National Park it is renowned for its massive, ancient sequoia trees and
the popular view of the majestic Bridalveil Drop, the El Capitan, and Half Dome
granite cliffs for Tunnel View
 Disneyland -located in Anaheim and built in 1955, it is the only theme park
planned and constructed to complete under Walt Disney's direct supervision
 Death Valley National Park is popular for Titus Canyon, with a ghost city and
colorful rocks, and the salt flats of Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North
America.
 Universal Studios Hollywood - is a theme park and movie studio located in Los
Angeles County, California's San Fernando Valley district.
 SeaWorld San Diego - is an aquatic theme park, an oceanarium, and a marine
mammal center.

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 Colorado is known for its colorful scenery of trees, mountains, hills canyons,
plateaus, rivers and desert lands. The capital of Colorado is Denver. Colorado got its
name from a Spanish word that means "colored" or "colored red." It is also named
after the Colorado River, which the Spanish explorers called "Rio Colorado"
(meaning "colored river") because of the red silt. that cascades from the mountains.
The largest natural hot spring pool in the world is found in Glenwood Springs,
Colorado.

The most beautiful places in Colorado are the following

 Garden of the Gods-it was declared a National Natural Landmark in 1971 located
in Colorado Springs
 Mesa Verde National Park it is known for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan
cliff dwellings
 Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve one can experience surfing in the
dessert here and see the tallest Dunes.
 Maroon Bells are the Two of the most popular mountains in Colorado.
 Hanging Lake is a popular treasure with amazing view of waterfalls and lake
found in Glenwood Canyon in the White River National Forest.
 Pikes Peak this mountain is named in honor of American explorer Zebulon Pike.

Connecticut is the southernmost state in northeastern United States New

England region. Hartford is its capital. It is known as the "Nutmeg State" because
sailors brought back the seed from long journeys, and, over the years, city peddlers
developed a reputation for selling fake nutmegs made out of carved woods.
Connecticut is home to the first nuclear-powered submarine in the world, USS
Nautilus, commissioned in 1954. With the establishment of Yale University, New
Haven became an early education center. Tourist attractions in Connecticut include
Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, Mystic Aquarium & Discovery Institution,
Gillette Castle State Park, and New England Air Museum

Delaware is the first state that ratified the constitution of the USA in 1787, thus,
its official state name became the "First State." It is said that the oldest Protestant
church, the Old Swedish Holy Trinity Church, which was built in 1698, is located in
Delaware. Delaware is.the second smallest county in the U.S. in terms of land area.
The capital of Delaware is the town of Dover. Some of its remarkable attractions are
Winterthur Museum and Gardens, Nemours Mansion and Gardens, John Dickinson
Plantation, Air Mobility Command Museum, and Delaware's Old State House.

Florida, fondly Called as the "Sunshine State is located in the southeastern part
of the USA, bordering Alabama in the northwest and Georgia in the northeast. It is
regarded as the flattest territory in America. In terms of land area, Jacksonville is
the largest city in mainland USA, but the capital is Tallahassee Miami, the is most
populous urban city in Florida.

It is known for its beaches as well as theme parks. The most visited city in Florida is
Orlando The top-rated Florida attractions include:

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 Walt Disney World -this theme park opened in 1955 to complement Disneyland
Anaheim. It was planned that an EPCOT community be developed to be the
testing ground for urban innovation here;
 Kennedy Space Center- located on Merritt Island, this is one of ten National
Aeronautics and Space Administration Field Centers in the U.S. The Kennedy
Space Center from the time of the first human spaceflight became NASA's
primary launch center;
 Universal Studios - is a theme park and production facility located in Orlando
Florida. It was opened to the public on June 7, 1990, with the entertainment
industry theme specifically focused on film and television;
 Miami Beach and the Art Deco Historic District - a historic US district located in
the South Beach neighborhood of Miami Beach in Florida. The area was well-
known because of Iltalian fashion designer Gianni Versace who lived in a
mansion in Ocean Drive;
 Everglades National Park - this is a large wetland reserve on the southern tip of
the U.S. state of Florida; and Daytona 500 International Speedway this is a 500-
mile-long NASCAR Cup race held annually.

Georgia is located in the southeastern region of the USA. The capital of Georgia
is Atlanta. Georgia was named after King George ll of England, and it is considered
as the largest state east of the Mississippi River. It has been known for some time
as the "Peach State" because it is a major producer of the said fruit. Currently, apart
from peaches, they are also growing large quantities of blueberries. Other crops
produced in Georgia are pecans, peanuts, and onions. Some of the popular
attractions in Georgia include Radium Springs, Stone Mountain, Tallulah Gorge and
Hot Springs, Six Flags over Georgia, Stone Mountain, Rock City, Callaway Gardens,
Coca Cola World, Georgia Guide stones, Lake Lanier, Amicalola Falls, Okefenokee
Swamp, Providence Canyon, CNN Center, and Underground Atlanta The famous
people born in Georgia are the Nobel laureates Martin Luther King Jr. and Jimmy
Carter.

Hawaii is a state from a volcanic island group situated in the Central Pacific
Ocean. Ilts capital is Honolulu. Hawaii consists of eight main islands namely:
Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawaii It
is fondly called the "Aloha State." Some of the famous sights and attractions include
Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head State Monument, Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona
Memorial, Volcanoes National Park, Haleakala National Park, Waimea Canyon State
Park, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, and Kona
Coffee Living History Farm. Their native delicacies include pork wrapped in layers of
taro leaves cooked in an underground hot rock oven called Laulau and kalua pig,
which is pork cooked in an underground oven.

Idaho is also called the "Gem State" due to the abundance of precious and
semi-precious stones throughout the state. Its capital city, Boise provides a wide
variety of cultural activities. The state is known to produce one-third of all the
potatoes in the USA, suppling all other states Apart from potatoes, it is also home to
the largest hops farms in the U.S. and that is why it was also known as the "Lentil
Capital of the World." Top- ranked attractions in ldaho includes Sun Valley Resort,
Craters of the Moon National Monument, Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Hells

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Canyon National Recreation Area, Lake Coeur d'Alene, and City of Rocks National
Reserve.

Illinois is where late U.S. President Abraham Lincoln spent much of his time,
which is why this state is called the "Land of Lincoln." Other U.S. Presidents who
lived in lllinois are Barack Obama and Ulysses Grant, but only Ronald Reagan was
born and raised in Illinois. Its capital is Springfield, but there are other prominent
cities such as Chicago, Aurora, Naperville and Rockford. Illinois is dominated by
farmland and fields of

The following attractions in Illinois are worth visiting Millennium Park & Cloud
Gate, Magnificent Mile in Chicago, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and
Museum, Starved Rock State Park, Art Institute of Chicago, and Dana Thomas
House, Springfield Superman's fictional Metropolis neighborhood shares its name
with a real city 360 miles south of Chicago.

Indiana is fondly called as the "Land of the Indians." The capital city is
Indianapolis, which is also the largest in terms of land area and population. This
state has one of the richest limestone deposits on Earth that helped construct the
Empire State Building. the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Pentagon, and
many more, Some of the popular food synonymous with Indiana is Hoosier
Sandwich, which is filled with breaded pork tenderloin and Hoosier Sugar Cream Pie,
considered to be the most famous dessert of the state, The famous places to visit
while in Indiana are Snite Museum of Art, Notre Dame, Prophetstown State Park,
Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, West Lafayette, and Indiana
Dunes National Lakeshore,

lowa is famed for its corn, morel, and state fairs. The largest city is Des Moines,
which happens to be their capital city. lowa was named after the lowa River. Some
of the attractions here are the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium,
The Bridges of Madison County, Des Moines Art Center, National Czech and Slovak
Museum and Library, State Capitol, Maquoketa Caves State Park, Herbert Hoover
National Historic Site, and Field of Dreams Movie Site.

Kansas is called the breadbasket of the country because it produces massive

quantities of wheat than most states. Topeka is its capital city. Kansas leads in the
production of Corn of and.ranks among the highest in the production soya beans.
Several main crops in the field include oats and hay, red clover, linseed, rye, and
wheat.

Kentucky originates its ame from the Indian word that means "dark and bloody
ground." Frankfort is the capital of Kentucky. It is found in the southeastern state
bordered by the Appalachian Mountains in the east and Ohio River in the north The
popular places to visit here are Kentucky Derby, Cumberland Gap National Historical
Park, Abraham Lincol Birthplace National Historic Park, Mammoth Cave National
Park, Kentucky Horse Park, Muhammad Ali Center, Lost River Cave, Louisville Mega
Cavern, and Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

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 Louisiana is situated on the southeastern side of the Gulf of Mexico. It is
renowned for its annual Mardi Gras parties and great entertainment. Its capital city
is Baton Rouge, while New Orleans is the largest city.

It is recognized as one of the country's leading oil- and gas-producing states. The
nickname "Pelican State" was granted because of the large number of pelicans that
used to inhabit the Gulf Coast of the State. The French Quarter of New Orleans is
considered to be the oldest and most famous neighborhood. Key attractions include
the following New Orleans'

 French Quarter - is the oldest and most famous neighborhood in Louisiana.

 The National WWII Museum presents visitors with an extensive look at every part
of the war.
 Mardi Gras - is the biggest event on Louisiana's annual calendar that takes place
in New Orleans.
 Old State Capitol is known for its Gothic-Revival design.
 Laura Plantation - provides a glimpse of how the African Americans lived and
worked on this Creole plantation as slaves.
 Sci-Port Discovery Center is a science and entertainment centre frequented by
children and students.
 Rosedown Plantation and Gardens is known as one of the best-preserved
domestic Southern plantations in the country.

Maine is also known as the "Pine Tree State because of the pine trees that once
lined the forest of the state; the capital is Augusta The most interesting places not
to be missed include Acadia National Park, Boothbay Harbor, Monhegan Island, Old
Orchard Beach, Portland Art Museum, and Old Fort Western. Maine is the main
supplier of lobster in the USA. It also produces blueberries in massive quantities.

Maryland is famous for its beautiful harbor and unique museums. Annapolis is
its capital city. The places worth visit in Baltimore, the most populous city in the
state, include the Baltimore Inner Harbor, Fort McHenry National Monument, Old
Town Annapolis and William Paca House, The Walters Art Museum, Ocean City,
Antietam National Battlefield, National Aquarium, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad
Museum, and Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Its main industry is fishing, and
this is where most blue crabs can be found in the U.S. This is also where the U.S.
Naval Academy was founded.

Massachusetts has Boston as its capital. Some of its key cities are Springfield,
Portland, Cambridge, Plymouth, and Worcester. Its popular tourist destinations
include Martha's Vineyard, Freedom Trail, Museum of Fine Arts, New England
Aquarium, Six Flags New England, Faneuil Hall, Tanglewood, Boston Common, and
Harvard Square.

Michigan has Lansing as its capital. This is known as the "Wolverine State"
though the presence of wolverines is not evident these days Michigan's tourist
attractions include Mackinac Island, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and
Lake, Detroit Institute of Arts. Pictured Rocks National Seashore, Frederik Meijer
Gardens and Sculpture Park, The Henry, Isle Royale National Park, Detroit Zoo,
University of Michigan, and Windmill Island.

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 Minnesota is in the west north central part of the USA. It shares its northern
boundaries with Canada's Ontario and Manitoba, its eastern boundary with
Wisconsin and Michigan, its southern boundary with lowa, and its west boundary
with North Dakota and South Dakota. The name "Minnesota" means "sky-tinted
waters" or "sky. blue waters." The state has several nicknames, such as "Land of
10,000 Lakes," although the state has more than 1,500. It has also been called
Bread and Butter State" because ofits many flourmills and butter-making plants.
Minnesota's capital is Minneapolis

Minnesota is home to famous actress and singer Judy Garland as well as Charles
Schultz. A cartoonist who created the Peanuts series. It is also famous for the
following attractions: Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area
Wilderness, North Shore Scenic Drive, Cathedral of St. Paul, Voyageurs National
Park, International Wolf Center, Mall of America, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park,
Minneapolis Institute of Art, and Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge

Mississippi is a state located in the southeastern region of the USA, bordered to

the east by Alabama, to the north by Tennessee, to the southwest by Louisiana, to
the northwest by Arkansas, and to the south by the Gulf of Mexico Jackson State is
the capital city. The state was named after the Mississippi River. This U.S. state is
renowned for the following personalities: Mark Twain, often write his novels with
Mississippi River as its setting or background; Elvis Presley, the King of F Rock and
Roll Who was born in Mississippi; and Jim Henson. the famous puppeteer who Was
born in Greenville Some of the places of interest in Mississippi are as follows: Gulf
Islands National Seashore, Tupelo Automobile Museum. USS Cairo Museum at
Vicksburg National Military Park B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center,
The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies, Beauvoir, MissisSippi Museum of Natural
Science, Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum, Rock and Blues Heritage Museum,
and Old Capitol Museum

Missouri got its name after the Missouri River as given by the Native Missouri
Indians, a Siouan-language tribe. Its capital is the city of Jefferson. The famous
attractions of this state include St. Louis Gateway Arch, Mark TWain Boyhood Home
and Museum, Harry S. Truman Presidential ibrary and Museum, Branson, Nelson-
Atkins Museum of Art, Silver Dollar City, Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, Lake of
the Ozarks, and National World War I Museum and Memorial.

Montana is situated in the Northwestern USA. This state's name came from the
Spanish word "Montaña," which means "mountain" or 'mountainous country."
Helena is the state's capital. Montana's famous attractions include the Glacier
National Park, Museum of the Rockies, Big Sky Resort, C.M.Russell Museum
Complex, The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, Editor's Pick Little Bighorn
Battlefield National Monument, The World Museum of Mining, Lewis and Clark
Caverns State Park, and The Moss Mansion.

Nebraska is bounded by South Dakota to the north; lowa to the east; and
Missouri to the southeast, both-across the Missouri River; Kansas to the south;
Colorado to the southwest; and Wyoming to the west. The capital city is Lincoln.
Some of the popular places to visit here are Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and

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Aquarium, Old Market in Omaha, Strategic Air and Space Museum, Chimney Rock
National Historic Site, Haymarket District in Lincoln, Scotts Bluff National Monument,
Golden Spike Tower in North Platte, Indian Cave State Park, and Carhenge.

Nevada is bordered by Utah in the east, Oregon and Idaho in the north Arizona
in the south east, California in the west. The capital of Nevada is Carson City.
Nevada is the driest state in the U.S., and most of the state is deserted. It is one of
the major producers of gold in the World Las Vegas is the biggest city in Nevada,
followed by Reno Las Vegas is home to more than 150,000 hotel rooms-more than
anywhere else on the planet. It is also known as the "Gaming Capital of the World"
with a multitude of casinos sprawling in the city. The bill legalizing gambling in
Nevada was first approved in March 1931.

The Comstock Lode, America's largest silver deposit, was founded in Nevada in
1859. Some of the popular attractions of Nevada include:

 Las Vegas -known as the "World's Entertainment City," the main street lined with
huge casino hotels is called "The Strip";
 Lake Tahoe - is popular tourist destination that lies between California and
Nevada;
 Carson City offers a picturesque view as it is surrounded by lake and mountains:
 Great Basin National Park- is one of Nevada's most charming destinations
favored by visitors who love the great outdoors;
 Virginia City - is one of the few destinations in the country where the Old West
can be seen in all its glory of the 19th century. This is also a famous city during
the mid- 1800s because of the gold rush;
 Red Rock Canyon - is a natural attraction of red rocks with interesting
formations:
 Lake Mead - is a man-made lake on the Colorado River, recognized as one of the
largest reservoirs of water in the U.S.; and
 Valley of Fire State Park - is a public recreation and nature protection area filled
with red sandstone formations from 150 years ago.

New Hampshire is known for its many granite quarries; hence called the
"Granite State." Concord is its capital city. New Hampshire is composed of 10
counties with 13 municipalities and 221 towns. This state has a varied climate,
which changes in daily and seasonal temperatures. Variations are influenced by the
surrounding ocean, mountains, lakes, and rivers. Among its popular attractions are
Mt. Washington Cog Railway, Pportsmouth Harbor Trail and Historic Houses, Mt.
Monadnock Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway and Franconia Notch, North Conway
and Mt. Washington Valley Ski Resorts, FallFoliage, and Lake Winnipesaukee.

New Jersey, one of the original 13 states of the USA, is also known as the
Garden State because " became famous for the fertility of its land in the 18th
century It is bounded by New York in the north and northeast, the Atlantic Ocean in
the east and south, and Delaware and Pennsylvania in the west. The state was
named after the island of Jersey on the English Channel The capital of New Jersey is
Trenton. Ilt is now also in the U.S. Among its top destination include the Old
Victorian Cape May, Liberty State among the most urbanized and crowded states
Park, Princeton and the Battlefield State Park, Battleship New Jersey, The Adventure

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Aquarium, Cape May County Park and Zoo Thomas Edison National Historical Park,
and Grounds for Sculpture.

New Mexico is southwestern U.S. territory whose varied geography includes the
Chihuahuan Desert and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Its capital, Santa Fe, was
founded in 1610 and is known for its fine spas and Spanish colonial architecture. Ilt
is also called the "Land of Enchantment" to describe the magnificent and inspiring
landscape and the amazing culture and history of the state. Santa Fe is the highest
capital city in the USA at 7,000 feet above sea level. Through significant influences
from both Native American and Hispanic culture,. the state offers tourists a
multitude of unique attractions, both in major cities such as Santa Fe and
Albuquerque, as well as the smaller hubs of the UF0-focused Roswell and the artists'
colony of Taos. Some of the popular attractions in New Mexico are Carlsbad Caverns
National Park, White Sands National Monument, Bandelier National Monument
Petroglyph National Monument, Taos Pueblo, Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway, Gila
Cliff Dwellings National Monument, and Pecos National Historical Park.

New York is located about halfway between Washington, D.C., in the northeast
of the USA and Boston. The state capital is Albany. It has five boroughs namely:
Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. New York is popularly
known as "The City that Never Sleeps" and "The Big Apple."

Its popular attractions include the following:

 The Statue of Liberty is France's gift to America. Established in 1886, it remains

a popular emblem of independence in the world and one of America's greatest
icons
 Central Park- is a Manhattan public park, between the Upper West Side and
Upper East Side. It is New York City's fifth largest park by area, covering 843
acres (3.41 km²). Central Park is the most frequented public park in the USA.
 Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck - this is a vast
entertainment and shopping complex in the middle of Manhattan. It s home to
NBC-TV and other media, but the centerpiece is the 70-storey 30 Rockefeller
Plaza
 Times Square - this is where the New York's New Year's Eve celebrations and the
famous "ball drop" at midnight happens annually.
 The Metropolitan Museum of Art - founded in 1870, it is one of the most famous
museums in the USA. The permanent collection of The Met contains more than
two million works of art over a period of 5,000 years
 Broadway and the Theatre District - this is the place to see the latest shows and
the long-running Broadway musicals.
 Empire State Building is one of New York's most famous landmark buildings and
key tourist attractions. The 381-meter tall, 102-storey building used to be the
tallest in the world
 9/11 Memorial and Museum - is a memorial and museum in New York City
commemorating the September 11, 2001, attacks
 High Line - an exciting new attraction in New York City, the High Line is a former
rail line that has been transformed into an urban walking trail above the city
streets

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 Brooklyn Bridge - with its Gothic-shaped arches and suspension cables, it is one
of the city's most recognizable landmarks in New York and has inspired
generations of poets, songwriters, and painters
 Fifth Avenue-is considered to be one of the most expensive and elegant streets
in the world,
 Grand Central Terminal is a world- famous landmark in Midtown Manhattan that
functions not only as a transport hub but is also enjoyed by travelers for its
shopping, dining, and cultural destination facilities.
 New York Public Library houses collection of books and materials nearly 53
million items at 92 locations,
 Wall Street is arguably one of the world's best-known streets renowned for
its role in the international financial system.
 St. Patrick's Cathedral Church is an American decorated Neo Gothic Roman
Catholic and a prominent New York City landmark.
 Carnegie Hall almost all of the leading classical music and, music performers
have played here since 1891. Carnegie is regarded as the most more recently,
modern prestigious concert stage in the U.S

North Carolina became popular all over the world when the Wright Brothers
took their "First Flight" on Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Some of its famous
destinations are Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain, Chimney Rock State
Park, Cape Hatteras, Outer Banks, North Carolina Zoo, North Carolina Museum of
Natural Sciences, Battleship North Carolina, Linville Gorge and Falls known as the
"Grand Canyon of the East," and The Biltmore Estate

North Dakota is recognized as the Peace Garden State in memory of the

International Peace Garden, situated on the state boundary of Manitoba, Canada.
Bismarck is the capital city, and Fargo is the largest city. Some of its popular
attractions are the following: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Frontier Village and
the National Buffalo Museum, Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site, North
Dakota Heritage Center, Plains Art Museum Scandinavian Heritage Park, Fort
Abraham Lincoln State Park, Lake Sakakawea, and Maah Daah Hey Trail.

Ohio is a Midwestern U.S. state that extends from the Ohio River and
Appalachian Mountains in the south to Lake Erie in the north. Columbus S Ohio's
capital city. Apart from the capital, its prominent cities, which offer cultural
attractions, shopping, and entertainment, include Cleveland, Cincinnati, and
Dayton. Some of the famous attractions are Rock and Roll and Hall of Fame,
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Cedar Amish Country, Columbus Zoo and
Aquarium, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Point Amusement Park,
Hocking Hills State Park, Gardens, and The Cleveland Museum of Art and Fountain
Square.

Oklahoma is bordered by the state of Texas to the south and west, Kansas to
the north, Missouri to the north, Arkansas to the east, New Mexico to the west, and
Colorado to the northwest. The capital and the largest city is Oklahoma the top
tourist attractions in Oklahoma State are Route 66, Philbrook Museum of Art,
Marland Estate Mansion, Museum of the Great Plains, Gilcrease Museum, Oklahoma
Aquarium Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve Myriad Botanical Gardens,
National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, and Cherokee Heritage Center.

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 Oregon is known as the Beaver State because of the connection of beavers with
the early history of the State and because of the admirable qualities of intellect,
enterprise, and ingenuity associated with this creature. Crater Lake, located in
south-central Oregon, is the deepest lake in the USA and is formed in the ruins of an
ancient volcano. Other attractions of this state include Columbia River Gorge
National Scenic Area, Cannon Beach, Washington Park, Mount Hood National Forest,
Bend, Astoria, Hood River, Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, and Smith
Rock State Park.

Pennsylvania is northeastern region, Great Lakes (Canadian state situated in

the 9 American (Eastern United States cultural region), and Mid- bi-national region),
Appalachian Atlantic (New England-South Atlantic) the USA. Pennsylvania's capital
lies in Harrisburg areas of The root of the name Pennsylvania came from "Penn's
Wood" after Admiral William Penn's father. The state is famous for the Declaration
of Independence that announced the separation of the thirteen colonies from the UK
Philadelphia, the largest city in Pennsylvania is home to the Liberty Bell and the site
of the first Presidential Mansion.

Hershey, one of the Pennsylvania cities, is considered USA'S Chocolate Capital.

The famous cheesesteak is a food creation created in Pennsylvania. Southeastern
Pennsylvania is home to Snyders ‘of Hanover and some of the country's oldest
pretzel bakeries.

Other famous attractions and destinations include:

 Gettysburg National Military Park- protects and interprets the scenery of the
1863 Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War;
 Presque Isle State Park - is a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula that flows into Lake
Erie. AS the only "seashore" in Pennsylvania, Presque Isle offers its visitors a
beautiful coastline and variety of recreational activities, including swimming,
boating, fishing, hiking, biking and in-line skating
 Philadelphia Museum of Art is an art museum originally chartered for the
Centennial Exhibition in Philadelphia in 1876,

Rhode Island is bordered to the west by Connecticut, to the north and east by
Massachusetts, and to the south by the Atlantic Ocean via Rhode Island Sound and
Block Island Sound. The name of the state originated in the Greek island of Rhodes.
The Rhode Island's capital is Providence. It is home of the "First U.S. Tennis
Championships" and is regarded to be the "smallest state." Once in Rhode Island,
the following attractions are worth visiting: The Breakers, The Elms, Benefit Street,
Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art, Herreshoff Marine Museum,
Narragansett Bay Beaches, Block Island, and Roger Williams Park and Zoo.

South Carolina is bordered to the north by North Carolina and to the southwest
by Georgia across the Savannah River. South Carolina derived its name from the
Latin word for Charles ("Carolus"), honoring King Charles I of England The capital of
South Carolina is Columbia. It is known for different nicknames: the "Palmetto State"
(referring to the state tree, which is the Sabal Palmetto, commonly called the
cabbage palmetto), the "Rice State" because of the high "Swamp State" with its

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well-known swamps and marshes production of rice, the and "Keystone of the South
Atlantic Seaboard" from its geographic wedge Shape. The following are attractions
to visit when in South Carolina: Charleston's Historic District, Myrtle Beach, South
Carolina Plantations, Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor, Huntington Beach State
Park, South Carolina State Museum, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, Caesars Head
State Park, Greenville Zoo, and Dupont Planetarium.

South Dakota is bordered by the states of North Dakota to the north, Minnesota
to the east, lowa to the south, Nebraska to the south, Wyoming to the west, and
Montana to the northwest. The Missouri River bisects the territory, separating South
Dakota into two geographically and socially distinct sections known to the people as
"East River" and "West River." Pierre is the capital of South Dakota. It is also named
the "State of Mount Rushmore" in memory of U.S. presidents' mountain carving in
the Black Hills. Dakota is the term in the Native American Sioux Language for
"friend." Some of the popular South Dakota attractions are Mount Rushmore
National Monument, Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse
Memorial, Wind Cave National Park, Mammoth Site, Deadwood, Spearfish Canyon,
and Good Earth State Park at Blood Run.

Tennessee is a state situated in the southeastern U.S. region. Tennessee is

bordered by eight states, with Kentucky to the north; North Carolina to the east;
Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi to the south; Arkansas to the west; Virginia to the
northeast; and Missouri to the northwest. Tennessee's capital lies in Nashville. It is
known as "The Volunteer State," a nickname earned during the 1812 War due to
thousands of Tennessee volunteer soldiers who fought during the Battle of New
Orleans, Throughout the Mexican War, this reputation Tennessee and received
2,800 volunteers from Tennessee and received 30,000 respondents. It popularized
the "Tennessee Waltz" and distinct style of whiskey that must comply with strict
requirements and can only be produced in the state of Tennessee Some of the
attractions include The Great Smoky Mountains National Park the Elvis Presley
Memphis. in Complex in Graceland, The Tennessee Wanderer at Dollywood.
Tennessee's Civil War Heritage The Hermitage: President Jackson's Home, The
Parthenon, Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley Railroad, and Oak Ridge
American Museum of Science and Energy.

Texas is called the "Lone Star State." It is the only state that has the flags of six
different nations to fly over it-the Spain, France, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the
Confederate States, and the USA. The Alamo Sea is considered the cradle of
freedom in Texas and the most famous historic site of the state. The Sixth Floor
Museum in Dallas details the assassination of the late U.S President John F.
Kennedy, as well as his legacy.

Space Center Houston is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Texas
where you can learn about space exploration, future NASA missions, and their new
ventures.

The USS Lexington, Corpus Christi, is one of the largest surviving warships that
operated in the Second World War and now serves as the Naval Museum

Other attractions in Texas are:

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 The San Antonio River Walk - is lined with restaurants and outdoor patios with a
view of the river;
 The Alamo -is known for being one of the most historic sites in American History;
and The
 Big Bend National Park - is located in the Chihuahuan Desert of West Texas. It
offers a beautiful and unique landscape, like the mountains, the canyons, and
the river flowing along the border.

Utah is a western U.S. state bordered Oy Colorado in the east and Nevada in the
west. "Beehive State," reflecting the qualities Of It's capital is Salt Lake City. Utah is
Called the industry, perseverance, desire, resilience, and self-reliance. The Great
Salt Lake found in Utah has an average depth of 13 feet, and it occupies 2,100
square miles.

The Zion National Park features some of the Utah's outstanding scenery With red
rock cliffs. waterfalls, and vistas. The park's most beautiful sites are found along the
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

Other notable Utah attractions include:

 Arches National Park one of the most scenic parks in Utah with more than 2,000
natural stone arches
 Salt Lake City Mormon Temple the largest Latter-day Saints temple and one of,
Salt Lake City's principal sites; the temple took 40 years before it was
completed;
 Grand Staircase- Escalante National Monument is a vast area of rough terrain
with canyons, arches, hills, waterfalls, forests, and scrublands. Covering 1.9
million acres, this is the largest national monument in the USA and is managed
by the Land Management Bureau; and
 Dinosaur National Monument -_ the main attraction is the collection of more than
1,500 dinosaur fossils that can be seen embedded in the cliff wall of Carnegie
Quarry.

Vermont is located in the northeastern part of the USA. It is the only state not
bordering the Atlantic Ocean. Vermont's capital is Montpelier and is the smallest
U.S. state capital. The city of Montpelier is the largest maple producer in the USA

Vermont is known for food such as Vermont cheddar cheese, maple syrup, and
the ever-popular Ben & Jerry's ice cream. It is also home to many farms, craft food,
fresh produce, wineries, and breweries. In Vermont, the following attractions are
worth a visit: Lake Champlain, Shelburne Museum, Church Street Marketplace, Ben
& Jerry's, Bennington Battle Monument, Fairbank Museum & Planetarium, Montshire
Museum of Science, Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park, Green
Mountain National Forest, Rock of Ages Quarry, and Hope Cemetery Granite.

Virginia is a state in the southeast and mid- Atlantic areas of the USA Richmond
is its capital. The province of Virginia has been named after "Virgin Queen"
Elizabeth I of England. Tobacco is a major crop in this state

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This state is renowned for the following attractions:

 Colonial Williamsburg this is a historical attraction where buildings were restored

to depict the era of the American Revolution in Willimsburg
 Virginia Beach a popular beach resort visited by large Crowd.
 Mount Vernon - this is the historic home of the first President of the USA, George
Washington
 Montecillo and Charlottesville a place where admirable country houses in the
USA are found. One will also find here the home of Thomas Jefferson frequented
by visitors here.
 Luray Caverns - a large cave where visitors can admire limestone crystals that
were formed over the centuries
 Busch Gardens - an amusement park where Europe was used as their theme,
 Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center - the Space Shuttle Discovery is considered to be
its main attraction.

Washington is named after the first USA. President, George Washington.

Olympia is its capital. Washington state is the only state named after a president of
the USA.

Medina is the birthplace of the wealthiest man in the USA, Bill Gates of Microsoft. It
is renowned for its attractions that include:

 Olympic National Park - provides beautiful scenery that covers most of the
Olympic Peninsula;
 Seattle Center - built for World Fair in 1962, the 74-acre Seattle Center campus
has many famous places to visit including the Space Needle, monorail, parks,
museums, and restaurants;
 Mount Rainier, an iconic Washington landmark seen in all directions from miles,
is the state's highest peak. Located in the south Mount Rainier sits in the middle
of the national park;
 Seattle Downtown - is large. densely Packed place, but Seattle downtown Shows
Seattle, its more relaxed side on the waterfront. Piers and parks ring the
coastline here, Pike Place Market is the traditional crowd drawer;
 Leavenworth - Bavarian village proudly celebrates itself as, and it is normal to
see people wearing lederhosen or blowing an alphorn morning serenade;
 Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument monument dedicated to the
infamous eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980
 Port Angeles the region is known for the huge number of things to do outdoors
St, such as hiking, biking, golfing, boating, kayaking, fishing, birding, and
more.Itis also an access Point to Olympic National Park.

The Washington state is known for its fresh coastal seafood, eastern vineyards.
and, of course, abundant coffee shops.

West Virginia is a state in the tree-covered Appalachian Mountains in the

eastern USA Charleston is its capital. Often known as "Mountain State" because it is
completely covered by the Appalachian Mountains. Certain popular places to visit
include the New River Gorge National River, Blackwater Falls State Park, Snowshoe,

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the greenbrier located at White Sulphur Springs, Seneca Cavern, West Virginia
Penitentiary, and Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum.

Wisconsin is a state in the midwest of the U.S. with coastlines on two Great
Lakes, Lake Michigan, and Lake Superior. Madison is its capital. Wisconsin is known
as "America's Dairyland," since it is one of the leading airy producers in the country.
Among its famous attractions include Oshkosh, Wisconsin State Capitol, Circus
World Museum, and the Dells of the Wisconsin River, sometimes called the
Wisconsin Dells.

Wyoming is a state in western mountain region of the U.S. Cheyenne city. In

1872, Yellowstone became the first official national park and is considered is its
capital to be the first and oldest national park in the world. Many tourist attractions
can be found in Wyoming including the Grand Teton National Park, Jackson, Hot
Springs State Park, Bridger-Teton National Forest, The Buffalo Bill Center of the
West, Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area Casper National Historic Trails
Interpretive Center, Fort Laramie National Historic Site, and Devil's Tower National
Monument. Its signature food is "jerky” because of its cowboy heritage.

Mexico (United Mexican States) is a country in the southern part of North

America bordered to the north by the USA; to the south and west by the Pacific
Ocean; to the southeast by Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea; and to the
east by the Gulf of Mexico.

Mexico is renowned for its long stretches of pristine beaches, numerous white
over 30 World Heritage sites. Some of the famous attractions of Mexico include:

 Cancún and the Mayan Riviera-the resorts of Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and the
island of Cozumel. collectively known as the Mayan Riviera, lie along a
spectacular stretch of coastline on the Gulf of Mexico;
 Puerto Vallarta ⁃ popular activities here includes swimming with the dolphins for
younger tourists searching for adventure. Other diverse activities such as
paragliding and jet skiing are widely practiced here:
 Cabo San Lucas and the Los Cabos Corridor ⁃ this 30-kilometer stretch of remote
beaches draws tourists from all over the world for its calm waters, diving.
snorkeling, and fishing;
 Copper Canyon: Mexico's Grand Canyon ⁃ located in an area known as the Sierra
Madre Occidental and consisting of a magnificent collection of deep canyons
Copper Canyon is simply larger and deeper than its relative, the Grand Canyon;
 Chichén tzá: The Mayan Metropolis ⁃ this was a large pre-Columbian town
founded during the Terminal Classic period by the Mayan people. The
archaeological site is in the municipality of Tinúm, state of Yucatán, Mexico;
 The Ancient Fortress of Tulum - it was one of the few enclosed Mayan-built cities,
Tulum was designed to be a fortress with walls on three sides, and the Caribbean
Sea on the other;
 Cozumel ⁃ a Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea that is a common port of call
for cruise ships renowned for their scuba diving; and
 Guadalajara - this city is known for tequila and mariachi music, both raised in
Jalisco. which is the capital of Guadalajara.

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The most famous sport in Mexico is football.

The coffee liqueur Kahlua originated from Mexico as well as the tequila from
the Agave plant. Popular Mexican food includes burrito, tacos, quesadilla,
chilaquiles, and tostada

Capital: Mexico City

Official Language: Spanish
Currency: Euro
Religion: Catholic Christianity
Government Type: Federal Government
Carrier: AeroMexico (AM)
Airport (MEX), Cancun, International Airport, Mexico City International (CUN), Puebla International
Airport (PBC)

**END OF FINALS**

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