Dear All Valued Travel Partners and Customers,
From year 2021 onward, we will not accept any booking about large group 10 or more than 10 pax until further notice.
Thus, we will start organise trip with a small group minimum 6 pax (include children) , maximum 9 pax. The reason being to ensure safety and healthy of every guests.
5.
“BE HOLY
YOURSELVES” ( 1PT 1, 15)
MAIN DOOR
OF THE BASILICA OF THE MOST HOLY TRINITY
The Spirit
hovered over the water at the beginning of creation as suggested in the figures
in that door. That is the same Spirit that we receive through Baptism and which
sanctifies us today as it sanctified Francisco and Jacinta one hundred years
ago, the Spirit that lives in the heart of people of those who becomes a
beautiful and possible path which will turn me into a true gift for humankind.
I have in my thoughts all men and women that need my surrender and my prayer
today and I pray so that the grace of Lord Jesus, Christ, the love of God and
the communion of the Holy Spirit are with them all ( 2 Cor 13,13), offering
like the little shepherds: “Oh, my Jesus, this is love for You, for the
conversion of the sinners, for the Holy Father and in reparation for the sins
committed against the Immaculate Heart of Marys.”
I become
aware of this great hope that opens a horizon of endless sense to life and
which justifies all the weariness of the way/
“Like an
anchor , let us fix our hope in that humanity seated in heaven at the right
hand of the Father (Eph2,6).May this hope guide our lives!it is a hope that
sustains us always, to our dying breath. Confirmed in this hope, we are gathered
here to give thanks for the countless graces bestowed over these past hundred
years, beneath the mantle of Light that Our Lady has spread over the 4 corners
of the earth, beginning with this land of Portugal, so rich in hope”.
(Pope
Francis’ Family in the mass with canonization rite of Francisco and Jacinta
Marto , on 13th May 2017)
4.
“LOOK, GO
TO THE CHURCH AND GIVE MY LOVE TO THE HIDDEN JESUS”.(FRANCISCO MARTO)
CHAPEL OF
THE BLESSED SACRAMENT
I find
Hidden Jesus in the white Host. I come before Jesus as God with us, like a
close friend present in the Sacrament of Eucharist, I am invited to worship
Him, through my worshipping I profess my faith, my hope and my love, committing
to place Him in the centre of my life and confess to Him the weakness of my
humanity. With a willing and thankful heart, I want to increasingly immerse
myself deeply in that relationship of God’s friends that is re-learnt in
Fatima.
Francisco,
already sick, would say to young Lucia:
“ Look : go to the Church and give my love to the hidden Jesus : What hurts me
most is that I cannot go there myself and stay awhile with the hidden Jesus.
I come to
the source of Grace and Mercy to ask the Lord to insert me in this attitude of
those who accept the invitation of Our Lady- do you want to offer yourselves to
God? To turn your whole life a “well pleasing gift to the Lord”(Rm 12, 1).(Only
in that generous and joyful offer of myself to God and to my fellow men I can
fully accomplish my condition of man or woman created by God. We are “of the
race of God”, “We are of His Breed ‘ (acts 17, 28-29), therefore , our life
path is to follow the same steps as Him.
My prayer
transforms itself here into the desire of God and commitment towards Him and I
am invited to prepare some specific purposes deriving from this meeting with
Jesus:
3.
“OUR LADY
COMMUNICATED TP US SUCH AN INTENSIVE LIGHT, MAKING US SEE OURSELVES IN GOD, WAS
THAT LIGHT” (Sister Lucia on the apparition of 13th May)
CHAPEL OF
THE APPARITIONS
In the
Chapel I find myself in the centre of the Mystery that fills up this Shrine.
Here is where Our Lady appeared full of Light and spoke to Mankind about God.
Fatima is more than anything this mantle of Light that protect us…..” (Pope
Francis, 13th May 2017). The Light conveyed here pierces through the
heart, that is, it invites you to let God be the Light clears all darkness and
that despondency, sadness and anguish may never have the final word.
Before the
image of Our Lady, crowned with the gold from Portuguese women and with the
bullet that wounded John Paul II, I deliver all the joy and hope, worries and
suffering, all the uncertainties and insecurities, quite sure that nothing in
my life is indifferent to Her.
The Lady
shrouded in Light assured Lucia here, as She assures me: “I will never forsake
you. My Immaculate Heart will be your refuge and the way that will lead you to
God.
Under this
hope, I remain praying, protected by Her maternal mantle and entrust to Her all
my intentions, through the prayer that She asked us for more: the Rosary. The
little shepherds waited for each apparition while praying the rosary as if
preparing for a special meeting. I now let the Rosary be the environment where
the Mother can ask and lead to Jesus.
2.
“HIGH UP ON
THE SLOPE IN THE COVA DA IRIA, I WAS PLAYING WITH JACINTA AND FRANCISCO AT
BUILDING A LITTLE STONE WALL AROUND A CLUMP OF FURZE.SUDDENLY WE SAW WHAT
SEEMED TO BE A FALSH OF LIGHTING. (Sister
Lucia, description of 13th May 1917.)
BASILICA OF
OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY
The 3
little shepherds, before the apparition on 13th May 1917, were on
that place building a “ small wall”.Years later this Basilica would be built
,besides the chapel built in the apparition site, responding to me one of Our
Lady of Fatima’s request: I want to tell you that a chapel is to be built here
in my honour.
I recall
before the altar, the Church, my parish community, my family and all who
somehow helped me to born by the Spirit. Next to the cross, the pilgrim image
of the Virgin who has travelled through countries and people of all over the
world, encourages me to gradually build this pilgrim –Church , acknowledging
that it is Him who really builds it.
In a
thanksgiving attitude I am willing to be part of that construction and
simultaneously to look after the inner home, of the heart- space where God
wants to live in.
Based on
some expressions of Benedict XVI, on 13th May 2010, I ask saint
Francisco and Jacinta Marto :
Francisco
and Jacinta,
Who made a
donation to God Of your life and sharing it with others,
Help me to
open my heart to love universality, thus, building a civilization of Love and
Peace.
Intercede
for me so that the Mother may transplant in my heart the Love of God that burns
in Hers and speed up the Triumph of Her Immaculate Heart.
Our Father,
Hail Mary, Glory.
ITINERARY
OF THE PILGRIM
(SOURCE:
SHRINE OF FATIMA)
1.
Beginning
of my itinerary in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit
.Amen.
“IN THE
GOSPEL , WE HEAR JESUS SAY TO HIS DISCIPLE :”HERE IS YOUR MOTHER”. WE HAVE A
MOTHER!”
Papa
Francis’s homily in Mass with canonization rite of Francisco and Jacinta Marto,
on 13th May 2017.
HIGH CROSS
In this
Shrine, the Cross is the signal that raises higher, as the mark of the
Crucified who attracts everyone to Him. From here on I am invited to look at this
place as the beloved son /daughter whom is given a Mother and a house that is
the arriving point of the weariness of the journey as well as always renewed
starting point.
As Lucia,
in the Tuy apparition in 1929, I pray before Jesus Crucified:
Most Holy
Trinity , Father, Son and Holy Spirit , I adore you profoundly.
In some
moments of silence, I gaze at the Cross of Jesus and bring my history to my
thoughts and prayer, I recall my inner wounds and willingly prepare my heart to
listen, like John:
……( I say
my name ), here is your Mother (Jo 19,27)
Jesus
entrust me to the Immaculate Heart of Mary as a haven where I find peace. While
walking to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, I walk by the image of St
John Paul II, the Pope whose motto was based on that delivery to Mary- Totus
Tuus- which encourages me to feel the same trust. Further, ahead, the piece of
the Berlin Wall reminds me that, through Mary, God bring down all walls: those
of indifference, of contention, of sin, of death, all of them can be brought
down.
THE NETHERLANDS-THE COUTRY OF TULIPS , WINDMILLS , BIKES AND
CHEESE
TULIPS
Originally cultivated in the Ottoman Empire ( present –day Turkey), tulips were imported into The Netherland in the sixteenth century.Today , the Netherland is still known for its tulips and other flowers, often being affectionately called the “ flower shop of the world”.Tulips are cultivated in great fields of beautiful colour and tulip festivals abound throughout the country in the spring.
Come to The Netherland in mid April to see the tulips in bloom in
their peak season. Tulip season extends from the end of March to the middle of
May, but Mid April usually sports the most prolific blossoms. Keukenhof in
Lisse is covered by 7 million bulbs in the spring and is one of the best places
to get a good look at many different varieties of tulip.
WINDMILLS
The first windmills were invented in antiquity, but it was
the Dutch who really hit it off with this wooden giant. In a flat country,
where the wind always blows, windmills sprouted from the ground like mushrooms.
They were used to mill,saw, pump and press. The production of boards, paint ,
oil and paper , as well as bread and mustard- among other things-depended on
windmills and wind. In addition, windmills were used to pump the water out of
lakes and to keep reclaimed land dry.
“Unique in its kind”, announced Napolean when he arrived at the Zaanse Schans. 600 willmills made up the world’s first industrial area.Today, the 250 year old windmill park is a fascinating open air museum.
The
second Saturday and Sunday in May in National Mill Day in The Netherland. On
that day 950 windmills and watermills open their doors to visitors.
BIKES
The Netherland is biking and biking is The Netherland. The Dutch head for the handlebars for both small errands as well as longer trips. The country’s 16 million inhabitants own 18 million bicycles, which means that there are more bicycles than people in The Netherland.
Of course The Netherland
is the perfect places for biking thanks to this flat landscape featuring over
18000 miles of bike paths.
CHEESE
Dutch Cheese production is currently in the hands of dairy factories, which produce and export hundreds of millions of tons of cheese every year. The cheese markets in Alkmaar, Gouda and Edam remind us of the origins of a flourishing cheese trade and have become popular tourist attractions.
The Dutch still love cheese and eat about 7 pounds of it annually
per person.Just like Julius Caesar, let yourself be surprised about the many
types of Dutch Cheeses and sample the country’s “yellow old”.
UTRECHT –THE BEATING HART OF THE NETHERLANDS
Utretch is the lively, beating heart of Netherland. It was built around the Dom Tower, which you can see from any point in the city, so there is no way you can get lost in the attractive , car free city centre.
Utretcht boasts beautiful canals with extraordinary wharf cellars
housing cafes and terraces by the water. As well as the Dom Tower,Utrecht
boasts hundreds of other monuments that each contribute to the special
atmosphere in this centuries old university town.
Utrecht has some superb shopping to offer A broad variety of
shops and boutiques lines the canals and streets in theinner city. The city
centre is small enough to explore on foot but big enough to entertain you for
days with art and culture. The Rietveld Schroder Huis, Dick Bruna Huis ,
Catharijneconvent, Central Museum and
Museum Speelklok are just a few of the many extraordinary places to visit.
THE HAGUE – THE POLITICAL CENTRE OF NETHERLANDS
The Hague is the third largest city in the Netherlands and is
also known as “the Residence”, the Royal
Residence” and “the city of Peace and Justice”.The Hague earns its nicknames to
housing the seat of the Dutch government, the Royal Family and many
international organisations,mostly of a judicial nature,including the
International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
Walking through the Hague you are surrounded by
monuments,statues and palaces. One of the highlights of The Hague is the
political center of The Netherlands, the Binnenhof.The Hague has a rich cultural
diversity and many theatres , museums and festivals.World class works of modern
art and fashion are presented at the Gemeente Museum Den Haag. The collection
of old masters at the Royal Picture Galley Mauritshuis, includes the famous painting
“Girl with a Pearl Earring” by Johannes Vermeer.
Situated along the North Sea you can reach the beach resorts
Scheveningen and Kijkdun in a 20 minute bicycle ride.
ROTTERDAM –WORLD PORT WORLD CITY
Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands and it’s different from any other Dutch city. The impressive skyline has earned Rotterdam the nickname “Manhattan on the Meuse”.
Rotterdam’s world port is the
largest port in Europe and in the top 5 largest port in the world.The city is
an architectural and cultural metropolis with many attractions, festivals and
museums. A vivacious , young urban cultura and superlative selection of shops,
restaurants and cafes. Originally , Rotterdam was a working class city and the
Rotterdam way of thinking is still
dominated by honesty and hard work.
Well known architectural highlights are the Erasmus Bridge,
the Van Nelle Building, the Cube Houses, the Euromast and the Kop Van Zuid
The art lover is spoilt for choice in Rotterdam. The most
well known places of interest are the Boijmans Vaan Beuningen Museum, the
Kunsthal and NAi.
CAPITAL –AMSTERDAM
What makes Amsterdam so attractive is the 17th
century historical atmosphere combined with the mentality of a modern
metropolis creating a friendly and relaxed environment.The small scale of the
buildings and the intimacy of the streets,canals and squares create an
atmosphere that visitors find unique.
The city has the highest museum density in the world and is
home to cultural highlights, such as the Van Gogh Museum , Anne Frank House,
Hermitage Amsterdam and the Rijksmuseum with Rembrandt’s world famous Night
watch. Other well known places of interest in Amsterdam are the Palace on the
Dam, the Artis Zoo, Jewish Historical Museum and the Rembrandt House.
Take a canal tour of Amsterdam and discover the historical
canal district which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011. The
best way to get around Amsterdam is on a bike. You won’’t become any more local
than by cycling around Amsterdam.
DUTCH –MUSEUM IN ROTTERDAM
MUSEUM BOIJMANS VAN BEUNINGEN
Museum Boijmans van Beuningen has a collection over 140000 pieces of art.The exposition contains old and modern art, artifacts and design.
Most the collection is on display in the museum, while some sculptures can be
found in the adjacent sculpture park. The highlights of the museum Boijmans van
Beuningen are : Self Potrait by Fabritius, the Wheatfield by Ruisdael , the
flight of Medea by Rubens. You can also find works of Rembrandt ,Van Gogh
,Frans Hals, Jan Steen , Kandinsky, MArgritte, Dali, Kokoschka, Leornardo da
Vinci, Cornell , Beackmann and many others at the museum.
KUNSTHAL
“The more, the better” seem to be the slogan at Kunsthal Rotterdam. Every year the Kunsthl stges 25 new exhibitions, which cover all kinds of cultural expressions. Visit the Kunsthal and you are in for a surprise.
The Kunsthal isn’t afraid to be new, progressive and adventurous
.There is room for all kinds of art: old, new and experimental art,
photography, design and anything else you can imagine.Just like many other other
museum buildings in Rotterdam , the Kunsthal is an architectonical highlight in
itself. Rem Koolhaas, the architect, decided to give it an exceptional 3300
square metres surface area
RIETVELD SCHRODER HOUSE
The Rietveld Schroder House in Utretcht was commissioned by Truus Schrader and designed by the architect Gerrit Rietveld.This small one family house dates from 1924.It was unique back then and still is today. In 2000, UNESCO awarded the house World Heritage status.
Rietveld was a member of
“ De Stijl”(The Style), an artistic movement with artists like Piet Mondrian.,
who searched for a new ideal for harmony and order. Composition were made of
straight lines and primary colors,plus back and white.The Rietveld Schroder
House fits the ideals of The Style.It is
most influential domestic building of the early modern period.
DUTCH –
MUSEUM IN THE HAGUE
MAURITSHUIS –HOME OF THE “GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING”
‘Het Mauritshuis” is located next to the political heart of
Netherland in the city center of The Hague. It has a marvelous collection of
art from the old masters of the 17th and 18th century.
The Girl with a pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer is the stunning highlight of
the museum. In 1881, it was sold for around 1 euro. At an auction in the
Hague,no one knew it as a Vermeer and it was acquired by an art connoisseur
called Mr Des Tombe. The museum was built as a residence for Count Johan
Maurits van Nassasu Siegen in 1644.
MUSEUM IN
AMSTERDAM
VAN GOGH MUSEUM
Vincent van Gogh was a 19th century Dutch post –impressionist painter. His works were of great influence on 20th century art. During his life he was little appreciated. He only sold one work of art.
Today, the Van Gogh Museum attracts around 1.5 million visitors a year.No other place in the world has so
many paintings of Vincent van Gogh under 1 roof. The collection consists of
more than 200 canvases, 500 drawings and 750 written documents .Together these
provide a fantastic insight into his life and work.
VAN GOGH 125 YEARS OF INSPIRATION
In 2015, it will be exactly 125 years ago since Vincent Van
Gogh’s death. The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, Kroller –Muller Museum in
Otterlo and Noordbrabants Museum in Den Bosch, while show parts of Van Gogh’s
oeuvre,will honour the painter with special exhibitions revolving around the
theme”Van Gogh 125 years of inspiration”. In addition countless anniversary
activities relating to Vincent Van Gogh’s cultural heritage had organized in
Netherland in 2015.
ANNE FRANK HOUSE
The Anne Frank House is a museum with a story.It’s situated in the center of Amsterdam and holds the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary during World War II.Anne Frank was a normal girl in exceptional circumstances.
For more than 2 years she described the events of
her daily life in hiding in her diary.Anne’s original diary along with some of
her other notebooks are on displays as part of her other notebooks are on
display a part of the Anne Frank House’s permanent exhibitions focus on the
wartime persecution of Jews, Contemporary facism, racism and anti-Semitism.
DUTCH – MUSEUMS IN NETHERLANDS
Netherlands has the world’s highest density of museums and galleries. Although a small country, the number of high quality art venues turn Netherland into a large district of wonder, presenting art in all its facet.
Step off the beaten city paths and set eyes on classic masterpieces in world renowned museums such as the Rijikmuseum, the Mauritshuis and Museum Boijmas van Beuningen.Whether the interest is for arts, architecture, heritage , design , fashion , music or photography, Amsterdam, Rotterdam , The Hague and Utrecht are filled with venues the National Museum, the Rijksmuseum, is home to a wonderful collection of Dutch art and history .
After a visit to the Rijksmuseum you will have more
historical and cultural awareness and you will have seen some of the greatest
Dutch cultural highlights.
RIJKSMUSEUM
– THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NETHERLANDS
All together the collection of the Rijksmuseum presents the
history of the Netherlands in an
international context from 1100 to present. These are a few historical
and cultural Dutch icons you cannot miss:
-Rembrandt’s Night Watch ( De Nachtwacht ) is one of the
most famous works by a Dutch master and will steal your breath away.
Rijksmuseum has one of the finest collections with paintings
by great masters of the 17th century, such as Frans Hals, Jan Steen,
Vermeer and Rembrandt Van Rijn.
HOLLAND ? OR THE NETHERLANDS?
Internationally , “Holland” is often used to indicate the
Netherlands. The official name of the country is the (Kingdom of the )
Netherlands consists out of 12 provinces. 2 of them, North and South Holland,
are the 2 provinces that together make Holland, are the 2 provinces that
together make Holland. Due to the maritime and economic power of these
provinces in the 17th century,the Netherlands became known worldwide
as Holland. To make matters even more confusing the inhabitants of the
Netherlands are called Dutch.
PEOPLE
With over 16.5 million people and a population density of
488 people per square kilometres.The total size of the Netherlands is 41500
square kilometres. Amsterdam is the capital , but the government resides in
Hague. More than 40% of the total population live in the Randstad, the
agglomeration of the cities of Amsterdam,Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht.
LANGUAGE
The official language is Dutch.The population of the
province of Friesland has a choice between Dutch and Frisian, the only
officially recognized regional language. Many Dutch people also speak German
and English.
LANDSCAPE
Water dominates the Dutch landscape. 3 big European rivers
(Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt) reach the ocean via the Netherlands and create an
important delta. 26% of the Netherlands is under sea level. During an age-long
battle against the water, the Dutch constructed a water system consisting of
dykes, polders and weirs. However, the Netherlands offers more variation than
the familiar green, flat polder landscape with black and white cows.
ECONOMY
The Netherlands is known as a politically stable country with a sound financial
policy. The Netherlands is one of the most open economies in the world and is
one of the world’s top 5 biggest exporters.
Orange is related to the Dutch Royal Family and represents
the national identity of the Netherlands.That’s why Dutch fans dress up in
orange. During some sport events the whole country turns orange and people
become infected with what we like to call the “orange fever.
NETHERLAND’S KEY FACTS
Surface area :
41,528 square kilometres ( 18.4 % water)
Total population : over 16.5 million
Population density : 488 people per square kiloometres
Capital city : Amsterdam (inhabitants : 805 166 in 2019)
Government : The Hague
Official Language : Dutch, Frisian (only spoken in
Friesland)
Type of government : Constitutional monarch –parliamentary
democracy
Religion : 45% no religion, 27% Roman Catholic, 17%
Protestant, 6% Muslim, 1% Muslim, 1 % Hindu, 1 % Buddhist
Currency : Euro
National Holidays : King’s Day ( 26 April), Liberation Day (
5 May)
Highest point : 323 m ( Vaalserberg Limburg)
Lowest Point : 6.7 (Nieuwerkerk aan den I Jssell, Zuid
–Holland)
Average temperature in July 17.4 degree celcius
Average Temperature in January : 2.8 degree celcius
PORTUGAL NAZARE
Located in the central coast of Portugal , between Lisbon
and Porto, land of legends and traditions, sea and fishing, simple and friendly
people., Nazare still maintains the authenticity that inspired writes and dazzled
artists. The female costume, used spontaneously in the day to day ; the typical
way of speaking , rich in unique expression;the narrow streets running down to
the sea, the geometrically aligned houses and the traditional cuisine, where
fish rules , combined with a breathtaking landscape and vibrant liveliness, are
more than enough reasons to stay in Nazare.A place to discover all around the
year.
SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF NAZARE
Pilgrimage shrine of royal devotion, in baroque style,
inside it houses 6568 18th century tiles, the adored statue of the Madonna of
Nazare and so much local history.
FORT OF SAINT MICHAEL ARCHANGEL (LIGHTHOUSE)
Old defense fortress to protect the coastline, symbol of the
autonomy of the Nazarenes, lighthouse and the best viewpoint over Praia do
Norte and the biggest waves of the world.
For surfers, bodyboarders and all wavelovers Nazare and its
beaches offer the ideal spots and conditions for wave sports. In addition to
good waves, the sea offers the possibility of boat trips, dolphin watching,
water sports and fishing and much more!
And on days without waves, discover here the other side of
the sea, hiking, nature, cultural heritage, cycling or horse riding, you just
have to choose.
To discover Nazare is to get lost in its narrow streets,
stroll along the immense golden sandy beach, take the century old Funicular and
admire the awesome panorama from Sitio’s viewpoint .Stop by to eat grilled
fresh fish, a succulent stew (caldeirada), delicious seafood , or to taste some
sun-dried carapaus in one of the village’s many restaurants. It is to fall in
love with an amazing sunset and believe in giants with the waves of Praia do
Norte…..In Nazare we have everything for everyone. Here we live fulltime
emotions.
CONTEMPORARY PORTO
ITINERARY SUGGESTION
Dragon stadium + FC Porto Museum
Casa Da Musica
Bom Sucesso Market
Serralves Foundation
Foz Market
Foz
City Park
HISTORIC CENTRE –RIBEIRA
ITINERARY SUGGESTION
Jardim Morro
Luis I Bridge
The Cathedral
The historic quarter of viewpoint Largo Coolegio
Rua das Flores
MMIPO- Misericordia do Porto Museum
Largo Sao Domingos
Port and Douro Wines
Institute
Church of Sao Francisco
Casa do Infante
Ribeira
Port Wine’s museum
Miragaia Quarter
World of Discoveries Museum
Alfandega do Porto
CITY CENTRE –BAIXA
Itinerary suggestion :
Porto City Hall
Avenida doas Aliados
Bolha Market
Almas Church
Rua Santa Catarina
Café Mejestic
Sao Bento Railway Station
Rua Dos Clerigos
Clerigos Tower
Cadeia da Relacao( former prison of the court of Appeal)
Livarria Lello
Church of Carmo and CArrmelitas
Art Galleries District(Rua Miuel Bombarda and Rua Rosario)
Soares dos Res National Museum
Gardens off Palacio de Cristal
INDIA KASHMIR BHADERWAH
Bhaderwah is approximately 200kms from Jammu, which is
connected by both air and rail to all major Indian Metros.
DELIGHTFULLY PANORAMIC
BHADERWAH is a valley of bewitching natural beauty and
panoramic vistas which have earned it the epithet of Chhota Kashmir .Bhaderwah
offers to the tourist a variety of beautiful landscapes , colourful local
fairs, joyous festival moods and a unique mosaic of culture. Central to beauty
of this saucer shaped valley are the deodar and kail forests and River Neeru.Its distinctive moods change
with the seasons; in winter the valley is carpeted with snow and in summer and
spring it is ablaze with colours of the flowers that blossom all over the
place. A full majestic view of the Sylvan valley with snow capped background
makes visitors fall in love with Bhaderwah.
KAILASH KUND
The Kailash mountain overlooking the Bhaderwah valley is
believed to be the abode o Shri Vasuki Ji At 13067 ft, the Kailash Kund is the
source of River Neeru which drains the Bhaderwah valley.The yatra follows Mani
Mahesh yatra and starts with Chari from village Gatha in Bhaderwah and then
goes to Vasuki Nag Temple in the heart of the town .At Ramkund one halts for
the night and there on to Kailash Kund. The annual Kailash yatra takes place in
the month of August.
EXERCUSION –SEOJ MEADOW
The meadow of Seoj is flanked by a gushing river on its west
which emanates from hills surrounding Kailash Kund. The landscape across the
river is replica of the beauty of Pahalgam, whereas on the eastern side there
are long stretches of grasslands.
On the western side, the meadows take a descent along
crystalline water of Seoj rivulet and roll towards Ramnagar areas of Udhampyr
district.
CHINTA VALLEY
Situated at a height of 6500 ft is a beautiful valley with
thick coniferous forests on all sides and Chinta Nallah flowing through it. A
grassy meadow called Bagan on one side of the village is favoured by picnickers.
JAI VALLEY
10 kilometres from Chinta is the picturesque longitudinal
valley of Jai at a height of 7000 ft. Located 32 kms from Bhaderwah, it is an
extremely beautiful region spread over KMs. The valley is surrounded by thick
deodar forests on steep slopes with sprawling meadow in the middle.
KHELLANI
Overlooking Kellar valley it is a Deodar clad plateau 15 kms
from Bhaderwah. Drained by the Bankut Nallah , it is an ideal leisure spot. From late summer to autumn the valley
provides a bounty of fruits like apricots , peaches, plums and apples. While at
Khellani one can walk through Khellani pass amidst various villages connected
at Maulote and take the road back to Khellani.
PADRI
Padri is a “Gali” of undulating landscape, located 40kms
from Bhaderwah on the Chamba road at a height of 10500 ft. It experiences heavy
snow fall up to 5 meters which remains right up to mid June. It is one of the most popular picnic spots in
Bhaderwah, Sartingal, Khanni Top, Bhal Padri, Nalthi –Basti, Hanga, Noorie,
Devchatar and Kellar are the other prominent places nearby with scenic splendor
of the mountainous countryside.
CULTURE AND HERITAGE
Bhaderwah is also
land of fairs and festivals like Mela Pat, Sobar Dhar Mela, Kud, Pahari
folk songs and music.It also has heritage sites like the Fort, the Jama Masjid,
ancient vasukii Nag Temple and Gupt Ganga temple.
ADVENTURE
Bhaderwah has
exciting activities for adventure enthusiasts offering exhilarating descents
into the Bhaderwah Valley. The mountains overlooking the valley offer abundant
camping and trekking opportunities. Hanga Noori to Seoj , Hanga
–Devchatar-Chili –Khellani Hanga Noori To Seoj. Hanga _Devchatar –Chili
–Khellani are popular treks .Chinta , Thanala and Padri meadows have wonderful slopes for snowboarding and skiing.
BHADERWAH IN WINTER
The Snowbed Sonbain on the Ashapati Mouin looming over the
Bhaderwah Valley is at a distance of one and a half kms from the main Chamba
road and 1 km from Gurdanda on Bhaderwah-Bani road. It takes about an hour to
trek up tble at Bhaderwah in hotels, Sonbain, which remains full of snow even
in summer.
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation is available at Bhaderwah in hotels, guest
houses and huts for the comfortable stay of the tourists.
Tented accommodation available at Jai.
Igloo huts available at Khellani and Jai.
MYSTICISM, LEGENDS AND A PECULIAR LANGUAGE
Dailylife has not changed much over the centuries and the most isolated villages and towns have a very peculiar rustic beauty.The residents still have a way of life very attached to traditions.
It is
especially fascinating to visit places such as
Miranda do Douro, Mogadouro.Torre de Moncorvo and Freixo de Espana a
Cinta.Customs and mysticism are still very present here, starting with Lhengua
mirandesa (dilalect from Miranda bridge in Montalegre and the celebrations of Friday
the 13th, the event of folk medicine of Vilar de Perdizes, the fair
of smoked meat of Vinhais or the famous Podence Caretos .
Example: AzeitedeTras –Os-Montes DOP, Caretos de Podence
RUSTICILITY AND BEAUTY
TYPICAL OF THE “WONDERFUL KINGDOM”
Beautiful cities like Chaves, Braganca, Miranda do Douro or places like Vidago, Montalegre or Macedo de Cavaleiros are worth a long visit.
This remote and mountainous region, proclaimed a wonderful kingdom by the
writer Miguel Torga, offers unique sceneries , such as the almond trees in full
bloom, historic villages, natural landscapes and a rich gastronomy Braganca and
its historic centre are situated on the extreme part of Montesinho Natural
Park-one of wildest forest areas in Europe, with a huge diversity of flora and
fauna, where species such as the Iberian wolf, deer, fox and boar are
protected.
Example : Vidago, Praia Fluvial, Ponte Romana
TRAS-OS-MONTES
A REMOTE AND MYSTERIOUS REGION
Tras-os-Montas is the perfect name for this area in the
interior of Northern Portugal. Majestic mountains and plateaus, untouched historical villages
and towns, purifying and healing thermal waters, traditional cuisine and the
genuine hospitality of a people every proud of their customs.
FUMEIRO TRADICIONAL –VINHAIS
( TRADITIONAL SMOKE HOUSE )
AMENDOEIRAS EM FLOR ( ALMOND BLOSSOM )
Tras-Os-Montes is a rich and peculiar area regarding
gastronomy , highlighting the purest quality olive oul and alheira, a very
popular and quality olive oil and typical smoke sausage from Mirandela.
The Carnival celebrations in Tras-Os-ontes are vibrant and
full of tradition. The festivities extend till the days leading up to Ash
Wednesday and include colourful costumes, cheerful parades and traditional
music, attracting visitors from all over the world. Invigorating hot springs
and wild nature are attributes of a well protected area with an admirable
beauty.
Don’t Miss
Braganca and Montesinho Natural Park
Macedo de Caveleiros and Azibo River Beach
Mirandela, Miranda do Douro
Montalegre Ecomuseum, Graca Morais Contemporary Art Centre
,In Braganca
Caldas Santas de Carvalhelhos , Chaves hot springs , Pedras
Salgadas hot springs and Vidago Hot Springs.
At Least 3 of the most beautiful villages, Gimonde, Rio de
Onorand Montesinho.
Fridays the 13th in Montalegre
CITIES ,HISTORICAL TOWNS AND UNFORGETTABLE PLACES
The journey can begin in Viana do Castelo which has many stories to tell. The city of Braga is also a top tourist spot in the region and was the European Youth Capitall in 2012.It reveals an interesting dialogue between tradition and religiosity with the modernity and youth of the student populations .
Guimaraes, a historic city where Portugal was born, was the
European Capital of Culture in 2012 and is also a must stop whenever cultural
events are concerned. Here we can highlight theVila Flor Cultural Centre and its rich programme, where the
GuimaraeJazz festival stands out.
Old manor houses and pousadas , an extremely rich gastronomy , festivities , popular
festivals and vinhos verdes are other attractions that can be enjoyed in this privileged area.
Churches and monuments of unparalleled beauty seduce the
traveler as well as rich folk culture, music folklore ,stories and handicrafts.
The Portuguese way of St James, way walked by the pilgrims who flock to
Santiago de Compostela since the ninth
century, passes through Minho.
Example : Igreja do Bom Jesus –Braga, Castelo de Guimaraes,
Paco dos Duques de Braga (Guimaraes), Castelo Lindoso (Ponte de Barca), Parque
Nacional da Peneda( Geres)
DON’T’S MISS
Braga and Bom Jesus
Guimaraes and its castle
Viana do Castelo and Mouth of Lima River
Ponte de Lima, Barcelos and Caminha
Peneda –Geres National Park
Baroque churches
The Portuguese Way of St James
Handicrafts, gastronomy , Vinho Verde and the typical
popular festivals
MINHO , AN INTENSE GREEN, A CONTAGIOUS JOY
The Minho Region has unique characteristic associated with a
natural landscape of enormous beauty and biodiversity.Marked by the intense
green of fields and vineyards ,where the beautiful Minho landscape meets with
the contagious joy of festivities and popular festivals and with the
unparalleled hospitality of its people.
DOURO , WORLD HERITAGE SITE
It was the first wine region in the world to be demarcated
and regulated in 1756.The wild slopes of the valley have been transformed,
through the work of generations, into terraces to plant the vineyard that
produces the famous Porto Wine, excellent DOCC Douro Wines, sparkling wines and
Muscat wines.
The impressive landscape was declared by UNESCO a World
Heritage Site in 2001 a living and evolving cultural landscape- Alto Douro Wine
Region Wine Region. In the valley of the Douro River and its tributaries,the
harmonious interaction between Man and Nature coexists with another, possibly
more natural or inhospitable –the one of the natural parks f Douro
International of Alvao and even fartherm the Arouca Geopark.
A BREATHTAKING SIGHT
The Douro River flows from the Spanish border to the east of
Porto and depending on the time of the year, its slopes may be decorated with
almond and cherry trees in full bloom or with the grape harvest labour.
THE WORK OF MAN IN PERFECT BALANCES WITH NATURE.
It is recommended to visit the Douro Museum in Regua, the
Casa de Mateus Foundation in Villa Real and the countless of quintas offer very
rich experiences ,not only in onelogy and gastronomy, but also in participating
in activities related to the grape harvest and the preparation of wines. The
magnificent restaurants and the hotel units and charm accommodation are also
benefits.
Discovering the Douro international Natural Park and the
Alvao Natural Park is equally captivating.
Located in the Alto Douro region, Vila Nova de Foz Coa saw
its name crossing borders thank to the discovery of its Paleolithic rock
engravings in the open air.Now a World Heritage Site by UNESC is one of the
largest archaeological centres of rock art in Europe.
THE SPIRIT OF A VALLEY UNIQUE IN THE WORLD.
It is essential to sample the traditional recipes served
with the renowned wines, in quintas or in excellent local restaurant .The grape
harvest , lagarades (foot-treading )and other traditional events are equally
unique . Going on a cruise on the Douro River, on one of the many vessels
available and admiring its escarpments is very popular by those visit the
region. Traveling by train and enjoying the scenery is an equally unforgettable
experience .There are many extreme sports and a wide variety of river water
sports that one can practice. ATB, 4x4
off road tours and helicopter tours complement a wide range of ways to enjoy
the Douro Valley.
DON’T MISS
Alto Douro Vinhateiro , Douro Museum, Coa Museum
Cruises on the Douro River
Rock art of Coa Valley and Archaeological Park
Douro International Natural Park and Alvao Natural Park
Monuments , grape harvests, gastronomy and wines
Casa de Mateus Foundation Salzedas Monastery and Shrine of
Nossa Senhora dos Remedios
Almond trees in full bloom , as of March, Grape harvesting
in September
DON’T’ MISS
CLEGOS TOWER, SAO
Bento Station and Se Cathedral
Historic Centre and Ribeira Square ;
Casa da Musica , Serralves Villa and contemporary Art Museum
Passadicos do Paiva (walkways ), in Arouca
Porto Wine cellars and Serra do Pillar
Guindais Funicular
Miguel Bombarda Street ,Galeria Paris Street and Flores
Street
Coastline with 80kms and more than 40 beaches with blue flag
Filigree Route , in Gondomar
City Park with a seafront
A DESTINATION FOR CONGRESSES AND EVENTS
In Porto and Northern Portugal there are ideal conditions to
host business and scientific events in well-equipped and emblematic buildings.
To host international congresses and conferences there are
congress centres with various competences and different types of hotels: chain,
charm, design and trendy. These units are complemented by a vast support
services, always with the guarantee of a proven experience and a rigorous
professionalism. For a more creative social event this is also the perfect
destination due to huge variety of venues available: castles, manor houses, palaces,
restaurants, beach bars, casinos, museums and much more !
In Porto and Northern Portugal it is always possible to
transform a simple transfer into an event, making it unforgettable on board of
a boat, tram or train.
LINKS THAT MAKE PORTO A CLOSE DESTINATION
The air, sea and land links that connect Porto to the main
European cities are of great quality .From the award winning Francisco Sa
Airport Carneiro and the Leixoes Cruise Terminal to the roads and rail networks,
all contribute to the city’s excellent relationship with the outside world and
its visitors.
Example : Aeroporto internacional do Porto, Terminal de
Cruzeiros de Leixoes, centro de congressos da Alfandega do Porto
SO MUCH TO DISCOVER AND SO CLOSE
The Metropolitan Area of Porto is an inexhaustible source of
interest with a huge diversity of sceneries and motivations for those looking
for a few days to break the daily routine. This identity is reflected in the
great variety of gastronomic sports, cultural and nature programmes made
available by the 17 contiguous municipalities that enrich the tourist
experience to all who visit the region.
Example : Casa de Cha da Boa Nova (Leca da Palmeira), Praca
Cidadde S.Salvador(Motosinhos), , Passadicos do Paiva ( Arouca), Praia
Internacional, Caves de Vinho do Porto( VN Gaia),Castelo de Santa Maria da
feira, Espacos, Verdes, Passeio de Barco Rabelo, Ponte Luiz I, Passeio dos
Clerigos
URBAN ENTERTAINMENT, SENSATIONS WITH THE SEA AND THE RIVER AS
BACKGROUND
Besides history and culture, Porto is also leisure, fun and
nightlife. The famous streets around the Galeria de Paris Street, cafes and
terraces, the Miguel Bombarda area or the shopping street of Santa Catarina are
points of reference in arts, culture, but also in leisure and shopping
Porto also has to offer numerous terraces in front of the
sea and te green space of the city park with sea front.
Example: red bull air race ( Na Riberia), Jardim das
Virtudes , Noite de Sao Joao
HISTORICAL AND ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE .ONE UNIQUE LEGACY
In Porto you can go on a medieval trip and pound the
historic cente, visiting the cathedral or the Clerigos Tower. By tram or on
foot it is a unique experience going down to the pier and experiencing the
sensation of going on a cruise on one of the famous rabelo boats that sail
along the river Douro, admire the six bridges of the city, visit the Porto Wine
Cellars and sip this characteristic wine, in a cosy and refined atmosphere.
Casa do Infante , church of Sao Francisco de Assis, Palacio
da Bolsa , the riverfront and the well preserved streets of Rieira and Miragia
are also recommended .The modernity of Casa da Musica and the Museum of
Contemporary Art of Serralves complement the
visit.
Examples : Se Catedral , Jardins do Palacio de Cristal ,
Palacio da Bolsa, Estaco De S.Bento, Livraria Lello, Igreha de Sao Francisco
TRADITION AND MODERNITY IN A COSMOPOLITAN ENVIRONMENT
There are in the city of Porto, capital of the North, a
thousand charms and nooks that are worth discovering.Porto is one of the oldest
city in the country and as such, its route is winding and picturesque.
Strolling through its streets and feeling the pulse of the
city is a unique experience. Porto is a city of culture and leisure, a
cosmopolitan and contemporary place, with the title Best European Destination
in 2012, 2014 and 2017. It is a must to go on a journey by tram to the mouth of
the river Douro and see the excellent beaches and outdoors cafes, visit the non
conformist modernism of the new
contemporary buildings by architects like Siza Vieira ,Souto de Mora or Rem
Koolhaas.
Example Praca de Gomes Teixeira Fundacao de Serralves, Foz
do Douro , Camara Municipal do Porto
THE ESSENCE OF PORTUGAL
Portugal was born in the North in the far off year of 1143
and the rich cultural heritage of the region does not ignore so noble and ancient
origins. Tradition, culture , history
architecture gastronomy ad wines, landscape and the joy of its people
are the attributes of a unique region. Whether in leisure activities,such as golf and hot springs,or
business , this region having more than ever, a huge prominence and a peculiar
charm. It would be hard to qualify a region like Northern Portugal , but of we
wanted to do it, we would find inspiration in its people , hospitality and in
their way of living so strongly marked by the pleasant way of hosting .One who
visits Porto and North of Portugal takes with oneself more than pictures and
memories. One experiences in the soul, perhaps the most Portuguese of all the
feelings: saudade.
In the cities and towns of Northern Portugal the tourist
will find a little of everything.Cities like the inimitable Porto, the distinct
Braga or Guimaraes, birthplace of Portugal.Must visits also include Viana do
Castelo. Ponte de Lima , Braganca, Chaves,Amarante,Lamegooo or Vila Real.
Places of great heritage and historical interest of culture and a very own and
welcoming way of living.
Churches and monasteries, museums and castles, gardens and the rich architecture are part of an unforgettable itinerary. It is also impossible not to enjoy the numerous Natural Parks, the generous rivers, the sea and the mountain that surround the region.
While stopping to catch one’s breath, it is always possible to enjoy the abundant and rich gastronomy.Douro Wine, Vinho Verder and the famous Port Wine. Here you can also enjoy endless number of different experiences ranging from cultural activities, concerts, popular festivals and parties to the more extreme ones, such as mountain or water sports, sea or river.
The North of Portugal is all this and it is also a region that has 4 UNESCO sites: The Historic Centre of Porto, the Historic Centre of Porto, the Historic of Guimaraes, the Douro Valley and the Coa Valley are World Heritage Sites.Also noteoworthy is the increased attractiveness of this region, with cities like Porto which won the title European best destination and the consequent significant increase in the number of hotels and restaurants.Another important factor of attraction is undoubtedly the fact that this region is served by the Porto airport,which means that any main European city is less than 3hours away.
Example Vale do Douro , Caretos de Podence
