http://www.asmat.eu/All about travel. Information, photography, travel notes.enCopyright 2003-2009, Asmathttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=271-observe-prague-from-the-balloonhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=271Visiting Prague? Do you already have enough of walking? Well, there is a nice attraction just in the centre of Prague.Wed, 05 Nov 2008 22:26:04 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=250-the-centre-of-manhattan-times-squarehttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=250Times Square. That’s huge number of animated neon and LED signs. Nowadays, it’s one of New York\'s highlights, a symbol of the intensely urban Manhattan.Mon, 21 Jul 2008 10:09:52 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=249-mystic-plain-of-jars-laoshttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=249In central Laos, near Phonsavan city, there are about 20 areas containing extensive ancient stone jars,. Each locality contains several of big jars, one of the biggest ones – locality No.1. (Thong Hai Hin) there are even hundreds of them.Thu, 17 Jul 2008 07:56:35 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=244-diving-thailand-similan-islandshttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=244Similan Islands. The paradise hidden in the middle of the sea northwest of Phuket, Thailand. Nine granite islands covered in tropical jungle, surrounded by crystal clear blue waters of Tropical Ocean. Reefs full of corals and fishes. One of the best world diving spots. Definitely worth of visit.Wed, 18 Jun 2008 08:43:19 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=241-flowers-of-south-africa-kirstenbosch-national-botanical-gardenhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=241The famous Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden known as one of the world\'s leading botanical gardens is located on the eastern slopes of the Table Mountain in Cape Town. It was founded in 1913, by Professor Pearson. It consists of landscaped gardens of plants and trees, watered by the Liesbeek River, as well as natural forest that extends up the lower slopes.Mon, 09 Jun 2008 11:15:57 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=237-north-shore-gooseberry-fallshttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=237Gooseberry Falls as one of the most spectacular waterfalls at North Shore area are known as the gateway to the North Shore Scenic Drive. The Gooseberry River plummets down a wall of rock creating the scenic falls.Thu, 05 Jun 2008 09:25:01 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=235-bangkok-temples-erawan-shrine-san-phra-phromhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=235Erawan Shrine is one of the most popular Bangkok Shrines. It’s located in the middle of modern city. Hundreds of people are visiting Erawan Shrine daily, wishing for luck in business or love. They make small offerings such as food and drinks, all kinds of flowers and wooden elephants as well.Tue, 20 May 2008 11:21:25 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=233-marabou-storkhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=233Marabou Storks are one of the largest flying birds in the world. A large male Marabou Stork, standing up to 1.5 m (60 in) tall and weighing nearly 9 kg (20 lbs); their wingspan is nearly 2.9 m (10.5 ft). Females are generally smaller. As scavengers, they eat pretty everything, whether alive or not. They like to pick through lions’ and tigers’ leftovers.Thu, 15 May 2008 08:22:29 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=232-karnak-temple-egypthttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=232Karnak Temple in Luxor is an extensive complex of shrines, temples, pylons and obelisks. All these buildings are sanctified to Thebes’ gods and Egyptian emperors of Middle and New Empire. All buildings here are huge; the whole complex is 1500m wide and 800m long. It’s big enough to include over 10 cathedrals. The whole complex had been built during long 1500 years and was one of the most important places in Egypt during Thebes’ rule. It used to be called ‘The Best Place’ (Ipet-Isut).Mon, 12 May 2008 08:31:26 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=229-senegal-river-senegalhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=229While Senegal River is not so important transport thoroughfare as it used to be, it’s still worth of visit. During French colonial era, it was the only way how to get to the center of West Africa area, until the Dakar-Bamako railway was built.Fri, 09 May 2008 18:55:06 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=228-inle-lake-myanmar-burmahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=228Inle Lake is one of the most spectacular Burmese highlights. In the middle of central highlands there is a flat plateau and 22 km long and 11 km wide Lake Inle. The plateau surrounded by mountains has extremely fruitful land, so it’s highly inhabited by Intha Tibetan-Burmese ethnic. They have their own language, archaic Burmese dialect. They are mostly Buddhists. Nowadays there are about 70,000 people living along the Lake Inle.Thu, 08 May 2008 22:15:44 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=227-orangutans-indonesiahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=227Orangutans are the only ape representatives living out of Africa. Nowadays, they are living just on Borneo and Sumatra. Orangutans are the biggest apes in the world; they can weigh up to 90 kg. Even though some of the gestures and movements are quite human-like, according to the research they are very different from people by their nature.Wed, 07 May 2008 21:41:21 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=223-cockfighting-at-philippineshttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=223Cockfighting is a centuries-old sport, still quite popular through the whole South-East Asia region. Even though the westerners find it immoral because it causes animal suffering and usually results in the death of one of the birds; sometimes it ends in the death of both, in South-East Asia it’s still about gambling and entertainment.Sun, 27 Apr 2008 22:20:53 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=221-boulders-beach-penguin-colonyhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=221Boulders Beach Penguin Colony is home to a growing colony of the African Penguin (Spheniscus demersus), also known as the Black-footed Penguin (and formerly as the Jackass Penguin).Fri, 25 Apr 2008 10:27:09 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=220-maya-ceremonial-center-xunantunichhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=220Xunantunich (Stone Woman in Mayan) was a major ceremonial center during the Maya Classic Era, about 200 to 900. Some structures were damaged by an earthquake while they were occupied. The earthquake may have been a reason for the site\'s abandonment. The site contains six major plazas and more than twenty-five temples and palaces. The Xunantunich site is spread out at about one square mile (2.6 km).Wed, 23 Apr 2008 15:05:25 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=218-extraordinary-castles-sintrahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=218Sintra is one of the most spectacular places in Portugal. Attractions include the famous Palácio da Pena (Castelo da Pena) from 19th century which is the most complete and remarkable example of Portuguese architecture in the Romantic period.Tue, 22 Apr 2008 10:08:40 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=217-split-rock-lighthousehttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=217The very spectacular historical Split Rock Lighthouse was completed by the U.S. Lighthouse Service in 1910. Split Rock Light Station which quickly became one of Minnesota\'s best known landmarks is one of the most recognized and photographed icons in the state. Nowadays, the Lighthouse is restored to its 1920s appearance.Mon, 21 Apr 2008 11:34:59 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=215-mayan-civilization-tikalhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=215Tikal (place of the voices) is the largest site of Mayan civilization, located in the middle of the jungle, surrounded by lush vegetation of lowland rainforest. Tikal was inhabited from the 6th century B.C. to the 10th century A.D.Sun, 20 Apr 2008 21:43:34 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=214-knossos-minoan-palacehttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=214Knossos Minoan Palace is extensive archeological complex with close connection to Greek mythology. It is the monumental symbol of Minoan civilization with respect to its construction, luxury materials, architectural plan, advanced building techniques and impressive size.Sat, 19 Apr 2008 15:53:42 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=213-aya-sofya-hagia-sophia-the-most-amazing-building-in-istanbulhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=213The Church of the Holy Wisdom Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia) is one of the most impressive buildings in Istanbul. Aya Sofya was originally Byzantine church then Ottoman mosque and now it’s a museum. The first Byzantine church was built there at fourth century by Constantine the Great the first Christian emperor, but unfortunately nothing remains from that time.Tue, 15 Apr 2008 15:55:49 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=211-tuaregs-people-from-deserthttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=211Although Sahara is quite harsh place, there can be found people living there. The only ethnic capable to survive in the difficult conditions are Tuaregs.Sat, 12 Apr 2008 08:47:41 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=210-bangkok-chao-mae-tuptim-shrinehttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=210Besides Buddhist temples, you can find a number of small or large spirit houses and shrines to Hindu Gods and animist Gods in Bangkok. One of the less visited shrines is located on the grounds of the Nai Lert Bangkok Hotel (also known as Swissotel) on Wireless Road (Witthayu Road). It’s quite hard to find, but it’s definitely worth of visit.Fri, 11 Apr 2008 09:12:42 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=209-muscathttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=209Muscat, the capital and largest city of the Sultanate of Oman, is only a small part of a larger grouping of cities and towns strung some 40kms along the coast of the Gulf of Oman, known as the Capital Area or the Muscat Municipality. The city referred as Muscat in fact consists of three cities – walled city Muscat with its royal palace, former fishing village Matrah (Matruh), and commercial and diplomacy modern center Ruwi. The stripe of the build-up area lining up along the sea is bounced by very rocky mountain at the North and primeval-looking barren area of mountains on the South.Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:10:54 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=208-bangkok-wat-hua-lamphonghttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=208Wat Hua Lamphong is nice Buddhist temple located on Rama 4, just beyond the entrance to Silom. The temple is one of the newer Wats in Bangkok and therefore rarely visited by tourists. The temple complex is nicely incorporated in modern buildings around.Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:42:49 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=207-spectacular-vietnamhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=207Crowded streets, tons of people are everywhere. Especially on motorbikes. Everybody is in hurry, everybody is rush to work, business, family. That’s Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City. The city had never felt asleep.Tue, 08 Apr 2008 11:30:02 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=206-sea-slugs-and-nudibranchshttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=206Colorful sea slugs and nudibranchs can be found in both tropical and temperate seas. Nudibranchs are members of soft-bodied shell-less marine sea slug group opisthobranch gastropod mollusks, which are known for their extremely bright marvelous colors and extraordinary forms. Among this group, there can be found the most colorful creatures on earth.Sun, 06 Apr 2008 10:55:54 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=203-minneapolis-sculpture-gardenhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=203Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is located across from the Walker Art Center. The 11-acre garden is a joint project of the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is the largest urban sculpture garden in the country. The garden used to be connected to Loring Park, but the construction of Interstate 94 in the 1960s split the area into two parts.Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:00:30 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=202-sri-lankahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=202Sri Lanka (Ceylon) is one of the most famous Indian Ocean Islands. The Ceylon tea is well known all around the world. But Sri Lanka is not only interesting for the tea production, but also because of nice beaches, picturesque fishermen villages, and Buddhist or Hindus temples.Wed, 02 Apr 2008 23:58:33 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=200-african-safarihttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=200The highest concentration of wild animals is definitely in Africa. So every traveler interested in nature must visit extensive plains full of wild animals. The best safari locations can be found in East and South Africa. There are many places where to go - Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana or relatively modern South Africa. None of those countries will bring disillusion.Tue, 25 Mar 2008 11:10:16 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=198-sahara-speed-beauty-and-deathhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=198Intense hot and no place to hide from sun. Just sand and stones. Inhospitable land. That’s Sahara desert. In spite of that there is a life and it’s the life what matters.Mon, 24 Mar 2008 07:31:11 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=197-whirling-dervishes-from-khartoumhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=197Each Friday night, except Ramadan, Dervish people are meeting here in front of the Hamed an-Nil mosque to dance. Whirling Dervishes belongs to the Sufism Islam. Sufism religion is hard to define, it’s sometimes called “Islamic mysticism”.Sun, 23 Mar 2008 21:03:07 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=192-modern-malaysiahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=192Malaysia is one of the most successful tiger economies. The economic grew rapidly in last couple decades. The key reason is the hard-working people, but also the government subventions which brought in a number of foreign investors. However Malaysia is also rich for its oil production. The money from oil were invested into infrastructure, transportation or services, so from this perception Malaysia is quite like Europe, just with a bit of an exotic flavor of local culture.Thu, 06 Mar 2008 00:17:07 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=191-the-beauty-of-sahara-deserthttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=191Intense hot. No shadow for miles. No place to hide from sun. Just sand and stones. All of a sudden there is a wind full of dust and sand. That’s desert. Could such place have been beautiful at all?Mon, 03 Mar 2008 14:29:15 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=188-angkor-former-khmer-empire-in-cambodiahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=188Angkor, former capital of important empire is nowadays an abandoned place absorbed by surrounding jungle. Place where you can still find hundreds of temples remainders. The archeologists consider Angkor to be the largest preindustrial city in the world with an urban sprawl of about 3,000 sq kilometers (1,150 sq miles).Fri, 29 Feb 2008 08:18:58 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=187-dakar-senegalhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=187Dakar, the capital of Senegal, is not really popular place for touristic. Nevertheless, it’s surprising city with nice atmosphere. According to Africa, it’s a huge city with a busy centre you should not miss. Amazing ethnic mix of native people from Senegal, Mali, Nigeria, Niger, Mauretania or Cote de Ivoire, came to Senegal to find a work, business or a better life.Thu, 28 Feb 2008 09:20:48 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=186-campeche-mexicohttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=186Campeche is an old city with extensive history. In 3th century there was a Maya colony which used to be a center of Ah Kim Pech province. The first Spain solders visited to the city on March 22, 1517 when Francisco Hernández de Cordoba needed water for his solders. Campeche citizens were able to keep the province independent for about quarter of a century. In 1531, Fransisco de Montejo unsuccessfully tried to settle a city, but he underestimated Maya hostility. The next successful attempt was made by his son Fransisco de Montejo, who finally got the area under control in 1540 and found a city called Villa de San Francisco de Campeche.Wed, 27 Feb 2008 16:00:40 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=180-modern-singaporehttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=180Singapore is a small island by the end of Malay Peninsula. The smaller it is in the size, the more important it’s for Asian economy. It becomes an important trading and banking center and plays key role in new technologies research. The success of Singapore is strongly connected with hard work of the people and effective government which supported economic growth.Mon, 21 Jan 2008 15:28:08 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=178-mosque-at-djenne-the-largest-building-from-mud-brick-malihttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=178Djenné, small town in central Mali, used to be an important caravan stop of trans-Sahara trading. Djenné is not only famous for its history, but also for its unique clay houses, which are still in perfect condition. The most important building is the Great Mosque, the largest building in the world from mud bricks.Sun, 20 Jan 2008 09:05:37 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=177-ancient-city-bagan-myanmarhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=177Ancient city of Bagan in northeast Myanmar (Burma) is located at the plain of a total area of 12sq meters (16sq miles). You can find there hundreds of Buddhist temples and stupas. The most famous times for Bagan are dated from the beginning of rule of the King Anawrahta in 1044.Sat, 19 Jan 2008 07:48:42 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=176-desert-city-kharanagh-iranhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=176Visiting the ancient city Bam used to be the highlight of Iran trip. But as an earthquake in 2003 destroyed it completely, visitors moved to another locations to see similar desert cities. One of them is Kharanagh village, close to Yazd city.Fri, 18 Jan 2008 08:12:06 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=175-mentawai-people-at-siberut-indonesiahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=175Siberut is a small island south of Sumatra. Even though it’s very close to busy Sumatra, life there stayed very traditional and the Mentawai people lives the same way like their used to live thousand years ago.Thu, 17 Jan 2008 09:08:38 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=174-dhaka-the-capital-of-bangladeshhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=174When you arrived to Dhaka it feels like a different world. You turn up in a busy capital of a developing country. There are hundreds of such cities, but Dhaka is different. It’s a city with the highest rate of rickshaws in the world. You can say it’s exaggerated; there are hundreds of rickshaws in India as well, but Dhaka is unique.Wed, 16 Jan 2008 12:53:56 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=173-zoser-s-step-pyramid-egypthttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=173Memphis, the capital in Ancient Egypt used to have in Sakkara (Saqqara) burial-ground. All the pharaohs, their relatives and sacred animals were transported from Memphis to Sakkara after their lives. They were all buried there in pyramids, tombs or graves. Nonetheless the biggest and the most famous pyramids are in Giza, the first pyramid was built in Sakkara and it’s called Zoser\'s Step Pyramid.Tue, 15 Jan 2008 09:41:18 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=171-festival-of-the-nomads-cure-saleehttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=171One of the most important festivals in West Africa is celebration Cure Salée (Salt Cure). It’s held annually and each Nomad ethnic group has its own celebration. The biggest celebration you can see at Wodaabé (Bororo) tribe, held in September around small town In-Gall, in North-east Niger. The festival takes about a week, but two days are major. The exact date is not known, it’s changing every year and it’s announced approximately one month before in depending on rains strength.Mon, 14 Jan 2008 10:25:50 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=170-island-ile-de-goree-senegalhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=170Island Ile de Gorée is an opposite of hectic busy capital Dakar. It’s very quiet place. It takes just about 30 minutes by ferry and you are in completely different world. As there are no cars and quite low population, it’s very quiet place. It’s popular holiday place for Senegalese, who are visiting the local beaches.Sun, 13 Jan 2008 09:30:37 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=169-ancient-city-luang-prabang-laoshttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=169Ancient city Luang Prabang officially called \"Nakhon Luang Prabang\" or \"Muang Luang\", used to be a capital of former Laos kingdom. It was fundamental for the whole region. Together with King’s palace, there were built many Buddhist temples and most of them are still used nowadays.Sat, 12 Jan 2008 09:46:00 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=168-whales-madagascarhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=168Baie d\'Antongil bay is a quite sea-front place at the East side of Madagascar. Each year between July and September it becomes a favorite spot to watch whales. Hundreds of Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are coming to the area from far Arctic Oceans to calves and breeds, and to stay there over the winter with the newborn calves. They are staying in the warm seas just a couple of months before they are returning to the chilly Antarctic Oceans.Fri, 11 Jan 2008 07:03:40 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=167-sandstone-formations-near-hombori-malihttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=167West African Mali is flat semi desert country. The only exception you can find around Hombori village. However the area of sandstone formations of Hombri Mountains is lot large, it’s quite famous. The highest point in Mali Hombori Tondo rises to 1155m (3,789 ft) above sea level.Thu, 10 Jan 2008 14:12:33 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=166-omo-river-people-hamarhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=166Hamar women are extremely beautiful. Everybody in Ethiopia knows them and everybody talks about them. Hamars live at the lower Omo River. Hamars originated as mixture of different tribes used to be living there.Tue, 08 Jan 2008 16:41:40 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=165-omo-river-people-banna-and-tsamaihttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=165Banna and Tsamai people are the first tribes you will meet on the way to Omo River at southern Ethiopia. When you first see them, you understand what really does mean to be in Africa with people still living the same life as they used to live hundred years ago.Tue, 08 Jan 2008 09:51:28 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=154-omo-river-people-ethiopiahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=154Ethiopia is amazing multicultural country. One of its most interesting regions with high diversity of different people is Omo River area. The Omo River springs from Mount Amhara, located nearby of the capital Addis Ababa, and flows through deep valleys and harsh scenery of Ethiopian countryside with little villages around, crossed by narrow winding cattle paths up to the Turkana Lake at the Ethiopian-Kenya borders. There are no roads, no development, and just deserted county.Wed, 28 Nov 2007 17:43:51 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/html/fotografie_jemen_e.htmlhttp://www.asmat.eu/html/fotografie_jemen_e.htmlPhotogallery from Yemen. You can see old Sana city, cities of South Yemen as Aden, Ta\'izz, Al-Hudayda and Zabid, magical island Socotra, famous Wadi Wadi Hadramawt and towns Sayun, Shibam and Tarim and also north of the country with mountain villages Kawkaban, Thilla and Hababah.Sun, 18 Nov 2007 16:23:22 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=144-manta-ray-giant-manta-manta-birostrishttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=144Manta Ray is the largest of the Rays, has a very broad mouth, on either side of which are prominent fleshy extensions called cephalic lobes. It grows up till 7m.Sat, 22 Sep 2007 22:29:19 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=141-ocean-sunfish-mola-molahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=141Mola Mola, the heaviest bony fish in the world, appears in warm and temperate zones of all oceans in depth range 30-480m. Time to time it can be observed near the surface where it comes for seeking cleaner fishes.Sun, 02 Sep 2007 11:25:06 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=137-where-to-go-zvikovhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=137Zvikov castle is located in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic, 15 km north of Pisek. It is one of the most important early Gothic castles in Czech. It is situated on the top of the hill at the joining of Vlatava and Otava rivers.Sat, 23 Jun 2007 08:34:11 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/html/foto_jested_panorama_e.htmlhttp://www.asmat.eu/html/foto_jested_panorama_e.htmlPhotogallery of excellent views from Jested at Czech Republic.Sat, 19 May 2007 10:17:30 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/html/fotografie_kamerun_e.htmlhttp://www.asmat.eu/html/fotografie_kamerun_e.htmlPhotogallery from Cameroon. Douala, Kribi, Lobe River and Pygmy villages. Pictures also from Korup National Park and from Far North - Lake Chad, Maroua, Mandara Mountains and National Park Waza.Sat, 19 May 2007 10:02:03 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=127-where-to-go-jestedhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=127Jested is a great base for making trips in Jizerske Mountains (Czech Republic), it combines great nature with unique architecture of a tower on the top of the hill.Sun, 13 May 2007 10:35:23 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=126-cameroon%92s-diary-lobe-riverhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=126It is always better to start early and have a long day and avoid also noon heat. I wake up about 6 am, eat fast breakfast and leave hotel. My today\'s plan is Lobe Waterfalls and Pygmy villages along Lobe River.Fri, 11 May 2007 16:20:57 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=124-cameroon%92s-diary-kribihttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=124First morning at Cameroon. I am still at Douala. I am not in hurry so I wake up a little bit late about 8 am. I feel hot and humidity from early morning. Change of the climate is hard. I hope that beaches at Kribi help me to survive this thermal shock.Tue, 08 May 2007 21:24:44 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=123-ethiopia-on-the-way-to-omo-valley-transfer-to-gonderhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=123I will start my trip to Omo after 4 days, after Timkat holiday. Timkat is something special so today I am going to move to Gonder to see celebration. Timkat is celebrated through whole country (well Christian part of the country) but three places attracts more pilgrims than others. Addis Abeba, Gonder, and Lalibela are these three places. Last year I visited Timkat at Lalibela so this year is time for change. That’s why I want to go to Gonder to see celebration inside Fasiladas’ Baths.Mon, 07 May 2007 20:08:16 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=122-cameroon%92s-diary-doualahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=122I am waiting at Zurich airport for my flight to Douala, the air hub for Cameroon. It is my next travel destination from to West Africa.Fri, 04 May 2007 15:25:11 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=121-ethiopia-on-the-way-to-omo-valley-addis-abebahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=121After one hour we take off. I am happy. I am returning to Ethiopia which is my lovely country. This is my second visit almost exactly after 12 month. This trip will be little bit different. Last year I visited north historical circuit, this year I plan to go south to Omo valley and little bit to the east to the Bale Mountain National Park. I expect it will be quite different from last trip.Fri, 04 May 2007 12:51:54 +0200http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=113-it-is-like-opening-door-to-the-new-worldhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=113It is one my first dives at open sea and exactly my first dive at Indonesia. What will I see underwater?Fri, 09 Mar 2007 22:34:31 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=112-preparing-for-cameroon-reserve-du-dja-and-korup-national-parkhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=112Lobéké National Park is probably the best of Cameroon’s rainforest national parks. It\'s one disadvantage is accessibility – it is far from larger towns. I found two alternatives: Réserve du Dja which in the same region as Lobéké but closer to the capitol Yaoundé. The second option is Korup National Park which is at northwest of the country near Nigeria border.Tue, 27 Feb 2007 13:27:57 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=111-story-of-the-coffee-from-ethiopia-to-the-worldhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=111When you visit Ethiopia you will get impression of the national coffee culture. Small coffee shops are around the whole country. People sit here and drinking traditional strong coffee. Everybody knows Japanese tea ceremony, but it is not so much known that at Ethiopia is tradition of Coffee ceremony. Coffee origin is not known – Ethiopian people say it is from Ethiopia, people from Yemen say it is in their country. But one thing is clear – Ethiopia has rich coffee culture.Thu, 22 Feb 2007 16:13:59 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=110-back-from-beninhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=110I have got several emails with questions about my last travel to Benin. That\'s why I have just posted few comments about Benin.Sat, 17 Feb 2007 11:03:02 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=109-preparing-for-cameroon-lobeke-national-park-iihttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=109Lobéké National Park is managed by WWF. I was lucky and got actual information about park from their local office at Yaoundé.Fri, 16 Feb 2007 15:08:35 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=108-preparing-for-cameroon-lobeke-national-parkhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=108Huge amount of forest elephants. Lowland gorillas and chimpanzees. Just few examples of animals living at Lobéké National Park. If you are lucky you should see much more. Region is also known for traditional Baka Pygmy villages.Fri, 16 Feb 2007 14:37:54 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=107-preparing-for-cameroon-iihttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=107Still thinking about my Cameroon trip. It is almost time to go but I still have no final plan. I read Lonely Planet and Bradt guide books and I have found new ideas.Thu, 15 Feb 2007 19:34:10 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=83-preparing-for-cameroonhttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=83Going to Africa again. My next destination is Cameroon, country at Equatorial part of Africa. It is huge country with many things to see.Mon, 08 Jan 2007 12:12:32 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=80-e-visa-by-kingdom-of-cambodiahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=80During 2006 year Cambodia started project of issuing its visa electronically. It is much easier to get visa now.Sat, 30 Dec 2006 10:22:31 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=79-direct-transcontinental-flights-to-praguehttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=79There are few civil airports at Czech Republic but major hub to enter country is Prague airport Ruzyně. Even to reach this airport is not so straightforward as we can expect for European country.Fri, 29 Dec 2006 15:08:22 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=78-fireworks-on-new-year-s-day-in-praguehttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=78If you are staying at Prage at New Year’s Day 2007 do not miss traditional fireworks, because it is always very spectacular and impressive.Thu, 28 Dec 2006 20:38:48 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=77-new-year-s-eve-party-at-praguehttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=77About 100.000 tourists are coming to Prague for last days of 2006. Are you one of them? Do you like parties? Then you are coming just in time.Thu, 28 Dec 2006 20:11:56 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=76-cool-city-praguehttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=76Prague is the top of the visit of each tourist coming to Czech Republic. For long time many people came here just for its history and for shopping.Thu, 28 Dec 2006 16:46:27 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=75-going-to-czech-republichttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=75After fall of communism countries of Middle and Eastern Europe are popular among tourist. It is clear. Countries were close for many years for tourist and it is much to see here now.Thu, 28 Dec 2006 16:31:14 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=73-getting-mauritanian-visa-in-moroccohttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=73If you need visa for Mauritania you can apply at consulate at Casablanca. Getting visa is straightforward and easy here.Thu, 28 Dec 2006 09:44:28 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=70-ethiopia-timkat-celebration-in-lalibelahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=70Ethiopia is a very religious country. More than 80% people are orthodox Christians. All religious traditions are very living. One of the most important orthodox holidays is Timkat.Wed, 27 Dec 2006 21:42:44 +0100http://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=69-going-to-indonesiahttp://www.asmat.eu/scripts/article.php?Article=69Are you planing to visit Indonesia? Maybe you would need to speak Bahasa Indonesia!Wed, 27 Dec 2006 20:03:26 +0100