Countries have differences so better check information about them. It will help you to decide what to bring, what to do and what to expect. The following are things you should expect:

People

People have different characteristic and you need to be more understanding about their attitude because it is hard to fight with them. You will never know what they will do to you.

Climate

Countries have different climate. It's best thing to know it so that you will know what kind of clothes to bring.

Place

Each country has different tourist spot and you can expect to see the beautiful places.

Culture and tradition

Expect to see new culture and tradition

Food and Delicacies

People in Country have different taste. That is why they also have different food and Delicacies that you can enjoy. Tasting a new delicacies or Food is necessary in traveling.

Religion and Beliefs

Different Countries have Different Religion. Respect it is a must because it's their right.

Transportation

There is lot of transportation. This Transportation depends on the technology and location.

Australia has a unique climate. It sits in many climate zones because of its large size. These zones include tropical, sub-tropical, temperate, and sub-temperate. Most of Australia has four seasons, summer, autumn, winter, and spring, in other places it is two seasons and they are the wet and dry seasons. From blistering hot temperatures in Darwin to below zero temperatures in Hobart, Australia's climate is one of many things that make Australia unique.

Next in line is Australia's landscape. Australia has many different terrains from forests to deserts and this is also because of its large size. The edge of Australia is mostly green except for the western coast; the rest of Australia is mainly dry and arid. Australia's shape, size, and location also make it a continent, country, and also an island.

The flora in Australia is truly amazing. Australia has a wide range of flora, like bottle brushes, waratahs, and eucalyptus trees. All the plants mentioned are unique to Australia, with many more that haven't been mentioned. These plants are also important to Australia's fauna for habitat and food. These plants also make Australia a colourful and beautiful place.

As mentioned in the above paragraph, Australian fauna is important to Australia. The creatures unique to Australia are the kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, emus, koalas, kookaburras, etc. If u look on the Australian emblem u should see two animals unique to Australia, the emu and the kangaroo.

Australian lifestyle is well sought after. It is sought after because of the easy going, laid back nature of all Australians. Everyone seems to be happy and enjoying life while in America everyone is stressed and working very hard. The Australian lifestyle also involves the great out doors. The dominant male is at the BBQ cooking shrimp and steak holding a VB while a game of cricket is going on in the background. These points make the Australian lifestyle favourable.

The reason the Australian lifestyle is as it is now is because of its government. Australia originally had 6 colonies until it was federated in 1900. Since then Australia has improved and has learnt from past mistakes. The Australian government makes sure that all cultures and races are accepted as equals, which makes it a multicultural government.

This brings us to the next point, multiculturalism. Australia is unique because it is one of the few countries where all cultures and races are respected for who they are and treated as equals. This makes Australia an ideal country to travel to for non-white people because it guarantees that they would be treated fairly while in this country.

Australia is pretty significant when it comes to development and technology. Australia are major contributors to medical research especially in the cancer research section. Australians are also leaders in sports technology, mainly to do with rugby, cricket, and AFL. This makes Australia ideal for people interested in sports and cancer research.

The following reasons above make me strongly believe that Australia is a unique country. To live in this amazing country is a privilege and should be respected because of it is a one of a kind country, and is confirmed in the above paragraphs.

• The world's longest coral reef that is The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland that 1,260 miles long.
• The world's largest rock that is Uluru or Ayers Rock that is 348 metres in height, 1.5 miles long and 1 mile wide.
• The World's largest sand Island that is Fraser Island that is also in Queensland and is 75 miles long.

Physically Australia is closest to countries of South East Asia, however, culturally, Australia belongs to the Western part of the world due to its colonisation 200 years ago by the Great Empire then Great Britain.

Although Australia is Down Under on its own, borders no other land but the Pacific ocean, yet on its soil live people from all around the world. People like myself and others that have chosen to make Australia their home.

To me Australia is the home that has given peace and security at a time my own home country was in the midst of a civil war. It has given me education that of which my onw country could not have given me. It is now giving my children a future and a place to pursue their dreams and potentials. I am forever grateful to this wonderful country.

Although, some may still view people like myself and other migrants as strangers or "wogs", even after 30 years, I feel that I am so much part of this land. The best years of my life were lived and outlived in Australia. My hopes and dreams of a good fertile future were also realised and pursued in Australia with the help of Australia's fair Education system and the facilities that are accessible to all with no discrimination whatsoever.

I mostly feel Australian when I am far away from Australia. I realise then how much I have acquired from the Australian way of life. The way I like openness and despise formalities was all a result of my long living in Australia. In a working place almost everybody is on first name terms whether a person is in a managerial position or at the bottom of the ladder.
I believe this has emanated from Australia's humble beginnings, far away from the motherland Great Britain, which meant far away from royalty, protocols, etiquettes and the ascending and descending social classes.

Early Australians were all equal and of the same social class except for the governors and their families who were a minority. This trend seems to have continued along the decades and from generation to another until this modern day Australia.

As a result, the simple way of life is what is mostly desired in Australia that of which in turn have made Australia a unique and a special coutnry to live in. No wonder that anyone who visits Australia would like to return or remain to make it home including myself.

1. Hosts

   You ask, they serve. Isn't it a nice break to not have to go and fetch some apple juice yourself? And to have your meals delivered right to you, without having to move at all. Can't complain.

2. Entertainment

   Music, movies, games, radio, television shows and dramas. There's something for everyone when you're flying long-haul. You can watch a recent blockbuster, before listening to some calm, relaxing music, followed by an episode of your favourite drama.

3. Neighbours

   If the people sitting next to you are wide awake, and if you are too, perhaps a little conversation wouldn't hurt. You never know, you may find that you're sitting next to the most interesting person in the world!

4. View

   Looking out at the clouds... aren't they pretty? You can just imagine a city up there, with creatures light enough to stand on the clouds... or maybe it's just me who can imagine that. Anyhow, the view is often spectacular, and you can't miss the city and country views during takeoff and landing.

5. Food

   Although it may not always be great, there's always at least 1 item of food that's delicious, no matter how your appetite is. And best of all, it's made and served straight to you! 6. Relax: Flying long-haul is the perfect time to relax and ponder things over. All you have to do is sit down, and think. (You can also even listen to music on demand while you do this)

6. Travelling

   Last, but certainly not least, you're travelling! You have a new location to enjoy once you land. Often this is something to look forward to, after the long (and fun!) flight.

Tourism is one of the best things to happen to Albania in a long time. In the past Albania was isolated from the world and not heard of. Being run by a dictator for so long, the country was run by fear and now that the country is open to the world tourism is benefiting Albania tremendously. Tourism is helping Albania by cleaning the waste management; oil spills soil erosions bringing in money for the country to restore ancient ruins, creating numerous jobs and businesses. Tourism is becoming a major part of this growing country.

Facts about Albania

Official name:

Shqiperia

Location:

South East Europe, off the coast of Adriatic And Ionian Sea, Bordering Montenegro, Serbia and Greece. Balkan area.

Terrain:

70% mountainous, hills, valleys, by the coast plain and flat

Area:

28 748 km

Climate:

Mediterranean climate: warm dry summers cold wet winters

Population:

3, 600, 523

Language:

Albanian

Ethnic Groups:

95% Albanian, 3% Greek, 2% other

Religion:

70% Bektahsi (Type of Muslim, which is less fanatical), 20% Orthodox, 10% Roman Catholic

Capital:

Tirana

Government:

Democracy

Prime Minister:

Sali Berisha

GDP per capita:

$ 5 600

Currency:

Lek

How Tourism Affects the Economy

Tourism is relatively new in Albania, and at the moment it is not a hugely reliant on the money it receives from tourism. It is relatively new because of who was in power of the country for so long. Albania was dictated by a man named Enver Hoxha for 46 years. He believed greatly in Marxism and admired and was friends with his ally Stalin of the Soviet Union. He isolated the world from Albania, leaving it unnoticeable and unknown for nearly a half a century. He exploited the people by robbing and executing wealthy landowners and innocent civilians to build industrial factories to profit the money for himself. Enver Hoxha ran the country into the ground by stealing money, executing innocent people, and corruption in the government. In 1992 after years under a socialist party, Enver Hoxha died and the people of Albania took back what was rightfully theirs.

Over the years the country has slowly cleaned up and their economy is on the rise. Their economy is mainly based on agriculture and mining. It ranks in 425.5 million dollar a year. They produce various exports such as textiles, footwear, oil, chromium, tobacco, metals, asphalt, chemicals, hydropower, wheat corn, vegetables, fruit, potatoes, olives, meat and dairy products. Every day however tourism dollars are helping to build hotels, condos, refining the beaches, rebuilding and renewing historical sight and museums.

The economy in Albania is dramatically rising and tourism in a few years will become one of the major industries for their economy. With all the new hotels, museums and publicity they re receiving it is highly predicted that Albania will one day become as popular as Greece and Italy.

How Tourism Affects the Culture

Albanians have always been proud people who have carried themselves with great pride. The western society has not had a major affect on their culture, since they are so traditional and proud of their country. Albanian people are greatly proud of their achievements such as the Illyrians who are the direct descents of the Albanians, Alexsdander the Great, Nane Teresa the saint, Jim and John Belushi the comedians and Gjergj Kastroti. Gjergj Kastroti also known as Skenderbej is an Albanian leader who drove out the Ottoman Empire (the Turks) out of Albania. He is so well known in Albania that the city where he grew up is now dedicated to this amazing man.

Albanians are sociable people that love to drink smoke and party. Their philosophy to life is to work hard during the day and party even harder at night. They are also greatly known as courageous people that can be utterly stubborn at times. Some of the most celebrated events in Albania are Flamour and Bijram. Flamour is the celebration of the independence of Albania which is on the 28 Of November. They celebrate Flamour by dancing, drinking, singing and being patriotic. Flamour is so popular that in major cities in the west have huge parties and rent out lavish rooms like in New York City, Detroit, Chicago and Toronto. Another huge celebration is Bijram which is another word for Ramadan. During Birjam they are forbidden to eat when the sun is out but at night when the sun is gone the food and parties last until the next sunrise.

The people of Albania are truly traditional, that still do traditions from as far as they have inhabited the earth. At an early age they learn that education is very important and with education comes respect. Children who go off to university always finish and are considered extremely lucky. Marriage is also a important element in Albania. Albanians believe that there should be arranged marriages to keep the families well respected and intertwined with each other. When getting married huge celebrations are held and a nuse (bride) is highly respected. Once you married then you stay married. Divorce is frowned upon and once divorced you are looked upon as an outcast. Another tradition they keep highly is the “eye for an eye”. These traditions are highly respected and never looked down on.

Since the boom in tourism in Albania, Albanians feel the need to show off their country, so the money brought in by tourism helps restore the ancient ruins, clean up and restore the museums like the famous museum in Kruja dedicated to Skenderbej, building new hotels and condos, and other tourist attractions. The culture of Albania is strong and proud and Albanians want to show off their lushes, rich country.

How Tourism Affects the Environment

Albania has a very unique land that has been untouched for centuries. It has a diverse environment with glaciers, mountains, beaches, valleys, faunas and is rich with coal and gas. This is a huge factor for tourism in Albania. Since the country has such a diverse landscape it is one of the perfect places for ecotourism. They have begun ecotourism in Albania to educate people on the land and to protect some of the areas of lush's landscape. A good example of ecotourism in Albania is the Shala Mountains located in Shokdra. It is a ten day hike through the foothills of the most beautiful mountain in Albania, where the most spectacular sites can be seen from the peak of the mountain. For adventurous people, mountain climbing is spectacular, because of the easy and difficult mountains in Albania. Natural hot springs as well, has turned out to be very popular for travelers. People forms all over Europe go to Albania to cure their aches and pains in these magical hot springs. A highly renowned hotel spa in Albania the famous Beljon in Fush Kruja.

Thanks to ecotourism, the money from tourism has helped tremendously clean up Albania. Waste and pollution in Albania have been major problems for years now. The waste management in Albania was atrocious for many years, but as tourists begin to travel more the waste has become first priority. Cleaning up the streets has been easier because the money in tourism, that has been invested to add recycling and waste bins around the major cities. Oil spills have also been a huge problem, because of the poor used equipment and lack of inspection. The Adriatic Sea has had numerous spills over the years. The Japan fund and REC have stepped into help clean up the spills and make regulations on machinery. Tourism has really benefited Albania's environment and Albanians now know that to keep their country beautiful and green that they need to pay more attention to what harm they are doing to the country.

Places to Visit in Albania

Tirana

• capital of Albania
• old mosque called Ethem Bej
• Artificial lake and fountain built in the center
• wild nightlife with many swanky cafés and clubs
• parliament buildings
• Architecture of the city

Durres

• Balcony of the Adriatic Sea
• Long coast line
• Condos with spectacular ocean views
• Beach parties with well known Albanian singers during the night

Pogradeci

• Beach city
• Home to the Koran fish
• Cristal clear water
• City on beach with stilts

Kruja

• Home to Skenderbej
• Museum of Skenderbej
• Walk through he foothills
• Famous statue of Skenderbej
• Famous spa called Beljon with natural hot spring
• Famous morning song ritual of the imam in the mosque tower

Berati

• City of a thousand windows
• Home to famous religious mountain where a man jumped off the mountain and lived ( takes 2 hours by foot no cars allowed)
• Home to Onfri museum

Shokdra

• Home to the Shala Mountain
• Rozafa castle
• Home to the foot hills

Tourism has hugely benefited Albania and has made the country a better place. Influencing and showing other countries that a small poor country can slowly rise and become a beautiful prosperous tourist attraction. It has helped the economy, by help making more tourist attraction, helped the culture by restoring museums and ancient ruins, and helped the environment by cleaning up the waste, oil spills and protecting rare areas. Gradually Albania is becoming the country it once was and wants to be and in the near future it will become as popular as some of the other places in Europe.

 

Vietnam is located in southeastern Asia bordered by Cambodia, China, and Laos. In total, land borders are 4,639 kilometers long. The boundary between Cambodia and Vietnam is 1,228 kilometers long while the boundary between China and Vietnam is 1,281. Finally, the boundary between Laos and Vietnam is 2,130 kilometers long. The area of Vietnam is 329,560 square kilometers. 325,360 square kilometers of the land was land and 4,200 square kilometers was water. Only 25% of the land is farmland (north-15%, south-10%). Forests and Woodland cover 30% of Vietnam. From May to January, typhoons flood with extensive flooding. Over fishing threatens the marine life population and groundwater contamination limits water supply. The final issue is Agent Orange, a chemical spayed by passing planes killed 1/5 of Vietnam's trees and caused birth defects.

In Vietnam, people study Buddhism, Taoism, Roman Catholic, ingenious beliefs, Islam, Protestant, Cao Dai, and Hoa Hao. People speak Vietnamese, Chinese, English, French, and Khmer. 85-90% of the people are Vietnamese, 3% are Chinese, and the rest of the 7-12% include Muong, Tai, Meo, Khmer, Man, and Chan. Average people live up to 68 years. 34% of the people are 0-14 years old, 61% of the people are 15-64 years old and 5% of the people are 65 years old or older.
During World War II, Japan took control of Vietnam for 5 years. Vietnam hoped to become an independent country with their own leaders. France, however, wanted it's colonies back so it sent soldiers and in a few months, France controlled Vietnam. Vietnam wanted to end French rule and attacked French troops and made France surrender after the battle of Dien Bien Phu. Now after French left, Vietnam was separated into two, north and south. A communist government led Northern Vietnam and a corrupt government led Southern Vietnam supported by France and the United States. Elections were to be held in 1954 to reunite Vietnam but none took place. To protest, in 1959, Viet Cong attacked Southern Vietnam. Since Southern Vietnam was not communist, Americans supported them and sent troops to Southern Vietnam for military assistance. They were afraid Southern Vietnam would turn communist too. This started the Vietnam War, also known as the 2nd Indochina War.

The battle lasted for 9 years. Soldiers fought in fields, swamps, jungles, and villages. Viet Cong, communist party leader, killed anyone he thought were helping Southern Vietnam and Southern Vietnam killed anyone they thought were helping Viet Cong. Agent Orange, a chemical sprayed by passing planes killed 1/5 of Vietnam's trees to uncover hiding spots. Americans were about to retreat to the United States when they discovered 58,209 people were either missing or died so the war carried on for two more years and in the end, Viet Cong won and all of Vietnam is communist.

After the Vietnam War, Vietnam has been one of the poorest countries in the world. Vietnam has to recover the damage that happened during the war. To make money, Vietnam had to trade with other countries. Vietnam's main export item is rice. Vietnam also exports crude oil, marine products, coffee, rubber, and tea. Their export partners are Japan, Germany, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, France, and South Korea. Import commodities include machinery and equipment, petroleum products, fertilizer, steel products, cotton, grain, cement, and motorcycles. Vietnam's import partners are Singapore, South Korea, Japan, France, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. 25% of the people in Vietnam do not have a job. 65% with jobs work with agriculture, and 35% work in industries and services. Industries include food processing, garments, shoes, machine engineering, mining, glass, tire, oil, and paper. Agriculture provides rice corn, potatoes rubber, soybeans, coffee, tea, bananas, and fish.

The Coat of Arms was modeled after communist party symbols, including the yellow star in the red background. Each point of the yellow star represents one of the five protectorates of the Union of French Indochina. The blood red color of the background refers to the violence of class struggle and the ultimate victory of the proletariat revolution. The cog and crops represent agriculture and industrial labor. The Coat of Arms was adopted on November 30, 1955 and was the reunification symbol on July 2, 1976. “Army March”, Vietnam's national anthem was written by Van Cao in 1944. It was adopted as northern Vietnam's anthem in 1945 and in 1976, it became Vietnam's national anthem.

How can all of this be accomplished in a few pages? Please, read on, and find out for yourself. The short time in which you journey through, "Now This is God's Country: A Closer Look at National Parks", will be the best moments of your life.

The idea of a national park was considered over a century ago. In the late 1800's, a conservationist by the name of John Muir led a fight to conserve beautiful areas like Yosemite Valley and Yellowstone. He presented the land to Congress in various ways. As a result of his avid persuasions, displays of photographs, descriptions, and paintings, Congress and President Ulysses S. Grant accepted Muir's proposal to make Yellowstone the first national park, in 1872.Thanks to the continued, conservational efforts of John Muir, the citizens of the world are currently enjoying the beauty that this Country has to offer.

Many people have the belief that Yellowstone was the first national park. They are right on this fact, but Yellowstone wasn't the first area of land that was reserved for conservation. In 1864, President Abe Lincoln signed a grant which gave the sequoias of Marisopa Grove to California. Marisopa Grove is located on the southern end of the Yosemite Valley. This acreage of land was established as a park, but it wasn't designated as a national park until 1890; this was merely eighteen years after Yellowstone was established in 1872.

As is obvious by the efforts of political leaders whose hearts were in the outdoors, national parks were started in order to protect the wonders of the land. These leaders gave people the chance to experience the beauty of God's, glorious earth. Today the United States is a proud conserver of over 130 parks, reserves, and monuments. National parks account for fifty-one, of the 130, conserved regions of land. Thanks to the continued efforts of today's political leaders, the national parks of the United States should live on for generations to come.
Like all topics, the topic of national parks has its unknowns. One of them is Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This national park was named after the most environmentally oriented President, in recent, Presidential history. In 1883, Teddy Roosevelt traveled to the North Dakota Badlands, which is where the park is located. Because of his love for the outdoors, Roosevelt spent much of his time in the North Dakota wilderness; he even had his own ranch. The park wasn't established until 1978-many years after Roosevelt's death.

Landscape attractions in the park consist of desert badlands, rolling meadows of prairie grass, and the amazing, natural phenomenon: smoldering coal seams. Once these seams of coal ignite, they can burn for years. This burning of the coal results in smoke seeping out of the ground, which results in an excellent tourist attraction. This North Dakotan national park is home to numerous species of wildlife. Bison, deer, elk, pronghorn, and even wild horses are some of the larger species that dwell in this park. Teddy Roosevelt National Park supplies over 160 miles of backland trails which can be explored by hiking and biking, as well as by horse-back.

The longest of these trails is Maah Daah Hey Trail. It is 120 miles of pure enjoyment; however, some areas of the trail can be a little difficult to traverse. Even the shortest visit to this park would explain why Teddy Roosevelt loved this land so much. The land is rugged, wild, and seemingly untouched by the effects of human intervention. Teddy Roosevelt NP is a relic to North Dakota, not only because it is named after a former President, but also because of the exquisiteness that it preserves.
Yet another of those unknown facts is the Teddy Roosevelt Elk. It so happens that Olympic National Park was almost entitled Elk National Park because it is home to the largest, unmanaged elk herd in the lower forty-eight states.

These wondrous animals were named after Teddy Roosevelt because of his love for nature and desire of conservation. In 1909, Mr. Roosevelt set aside the Olympic area, which is in Washington State, for the protection of these animals. There are currently several thousand of these elk and as was said before, Roosevelt Elk are mainly located in Olympic National Park, but they can be seen as far south as Redwood National Park, which is in the middle California. Ranging in herds of 15-100, these animals are thriving in number. They are larger in size as compared to the Rocky Mountain Elk; however, Roosevelt Elk are more skittish around humans than other types of elk that roam the Country. Despite their being skittish, they can easily be spotted by taking a scenic drive through the park.

On the other hand, those who desire a closer look will face a more difficult challenge. Although their appearance varies little from other elk, one feels as though they are looking at a different breed of animal simply because of the name which these animals have.
The state of Montana wouldn't be what it is today if Glacier National Park wasn't established. Thanks to the efforts of George Bird Grinnell, a 19th century magazine publisher and cofounder of the Audubon Society, Glacier National Park was established in 1910. Located in the St. Mary region of northern Montana, part of Glacier National Park extends into Canada.

This extension was named Waterton Lakes National Park. In the early 1930's, these two parks joined together and gained the title of Glacier-Waterton International Peace Park. Shortly following the parks opening, Glacier Park Lodge was built. The Lodge opened in 1913, and it soon proved to be an excellent tourist attraction. In the lobby area, there were huge columns which reached to the high ceilings. These columns were hewn out of Douglas firs, giving the Lodge a rugged, woodsy look. Glacier National Park was advertised as the "Switzerland of America", because of the beautiful scenery.

For a short time after the parks establishment, the Great Northern Railway was a mode of transport for tourists who visited Glacier. The railway took the people to all luxury hotels, chalets, and campsites. However, due to the extreme winter climate of northern Montana, Glacier has a rather short tourist season. These small numbers of winter tourists caused the park managers to soon realize that the Great Northern Railway was unable to continue operating year-round. Eventually the Great Northern Railway became a seasonal tourist transport for Glacier National Park. This is the summary of Glaciers history. Once one knows what transpired in the past, it helps one to better appreciate what they see today.
As can be inferred by the name, Glacier National Park was named for the fifty-plus glaciers that dwell in its mountains.

The argument is made that the mountains of the park are a result of the supposed Ice Age. It is also said that the current glaciers are remnant proof that the Ice Age was a true occurrence. This story has some questionable areas; regardless or its truth, the wonder of glacier formation still exists. Glacier is also home to more than sixty mammal species. These animals consist of deer, elk, moose, wolves, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, cougars, wolverines, and grizzlies. It is highly possible for one to see many of these species, if they are willing to spend time in the wild. On the other hand, if a person were to take a hike through the park, it would be wise for them to bring a companion, for Glacier is the proud possessor of the highest concentration of grizzlies (about 200 in the 1,013,572 acres of the park) in the lower forty-eight states.

An unexpected, grizzly encounter could have the potential to be dangerous if the right measures aren't taken. Nonetheless, seeing all of these animals in the shadows of the glorious mountains is an encounter of a lifetime. The climate of Glacier is definitely something to reckon with. Summer temperatures range from 30F-90F; these temps allow for some comfortable times while traveling the park. These temperatures also permit the blooming of beauty to arise in the park. With its 1,250+ plant species, Glacier can explicitly show the many hews of creation's colors.

The park is a breathtaking sight during the months from late spring to early fall, but once winter sets in a different look forms. Although the glistening of the snow-covered mountainsides during a peaceful sunset can offer a lovely view, the temperatures and depths of snow would discourage all hopes of enjoyment. With temperatures in the -40'sF, and snow accumulations in the vicinity of 45 feet, this national park's winter season is not for the weak or cold-blooded. For some, the crisp, crackling air can give a feeling of rejuvenation, but for others, spending time in these kinds of temperatures would be nothing short of insanity. Despite its varying weather, the grandeur of its peaks represents the true majesty of God's beautiful Creation. Glacier National Park definitely deserves the title it has been given as, "The Crown of America".

Yellowstone National Park is where it all began; however, with it being the first national park, it was difficult to know what to do with it. Frederick L. Olmstead, the designer of Central Park, believed that the land should be left as it was. For five years Nathaniel Langford served as the parks superintendent, but he didn't receive any pay for his job. Since no one had any previous knowledge on how to maintain a national park, there were no designated park rangers. This allowed for tourists to do as they pleased while visiting. Without any regulations, tourists began to vandalize and destroy the land for their own benefit.

Langford's successor, Philetus Norris, was able to get an appropriation of ten-thousand dollars for the development of the land. He spent a majority of the money on poorly made roadways, leaving a feeble amount for the money's original purpose. Over the years the park saw many superintendents, but none of them contributed any sort of conservational improvement to Yellowstone. Dramatic improvements weren't made until Teddy Roosevelt's first Presidential term; this was thirty-plus years since Yellowstone was established. It wasn't long after these improvements when Yellowstone became what people see today. Today, Yellowstone is one of the most popular national parks, and rightly so.

Yellowstone National Park is home to countless, natural wonders. At Mammoth Hot Springs deposits of calcium carbonate rise to the surface and forms travertine terraces. The calcium carbonate comes from the limestone that gets dissolved by the hot springs. The most well-known of Yellowstone's attractions are the geysers and mud-pots. Old Faithful geyser is the trademark geyser of Yellowstone. It erupts every 75 to 80 minutes. Geysers are steam vents for water that is boiling below the surface. These boiling pockets of water are heated by molten lava.

The lava is much closer to the earth's surface than usual. Yellowstone's lava is just two miles below the ground; whereas in other areas, it is fifteen miles below the ground. Steamboat Geyser is the world's tallest geyser. Spewing steam to a height of 400ft., it is three times the size of Old Faithful, but it only erupts every few years. The mud-pots are also heated by the boiling water, but they are made of acidic gases that have dissolved the rocks and clay. These are solely the geological wonders of the park; Yellowstone is also the proud owner of beautiful scenery. The grand mountains and forests of Yellowstone help demonstrate why the park was first established so many years ago.

Just a few miles west of Yellowstone are the Grand Tetons. Grand Teton National Park is a spectacle of true beauty and majesty. This forty mile strip of land consists entirely of jagged, rocky mountains which reach their pinnacles to the sky; these mountains are called Teton Range. The three major peaks are in a four mile span called the Cathedral Group. All three summits reach heights in excess of 12,000 feet. These peaks are entitled: Grand Teton, Mount Owen, and Teewinot Mountain.

Grand Teton stands the highest at a towering elevation of 13,770 feet. Although the summits of these mountains all reach above 12,000 feet, the rest of Teton Range averages around 8,000 feet. While this is still a grand height, it seems even higher because of the geography of the land. Teton Range doesn't possess any foothills; therefore, the rolling meadows lead right into a sudden increase in gradient. This stark change from flatland to mountainous terrain makes the grandeur of Teton Range ever so evident.

Grand Teton National Park is also part of the National Elk Refuge. The National Elk Refuge is a home for more than 7,000 elk. This is approximately half of the Jackson Hole elk herd; which ranges throughout Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Migratory herds of 200+ elk filter down from the mountains in order to spend the cold, hard winters in the protection of the lower elevations. The National Elk Refuge serves an excellent purpose by giving the elk a means of year-round survival. With its many, avid supporters, the Refuge should continue to provide a haven to all of the animals that live inside of its borders.

Like all national parks, Grand Teton offers numerous ways to view the land. Instead of soaking up the beauty from roads and parking lots, why not take a little hike or climb? Grand Tetons offers over 230 miles of hiking trails, and by looking at the mountains, you can just imagine all of the climbing opportunities. Furthermore, it is said the only the most spectacular views can be witnessed by hikers. For those who are a little less adventurous, yet still like to be close to nature, there are numerous campgrounds and lodges that can provide and excellent getaway for those who simply seek some rest and relaxation. Despite all of these different ways to spend time in Grand Teton National Park, most of its visitors are people who are simply just passing through.

These passer-through tourists account for approximately two-thirds of the park's 3.5 million annual visitors. Nonetheless, the recreational and scenic opportunities of this park are unreal. The Grand Tetons may not contain as many hiking trails, camp sites, lodges, or climbing expeditions as other national parks, but the views and experiences gained in the time spent in its chattels will be far better than many other parks can boast.

Grand Canyon National Park possesses beauty and history beyond comprehension. In 1869 and 1871, the first systematic explorations of the Grand Canyon were conducted by Major John Wesley Powell. However, the first official expedition was conducted in 1880. Clarence Dutton was the leader of this outfit, which was the first geological survey. As a result of the explorations made by Powell, Dutton, and many other men, approximately 2,700 archeological sites have been located in the depths of the Grand Canyon. When President Theodore Roosevelt visited the Canyon in 1903, he immediately began a move for its conservation. Finally being established as a national park in 1919, the Grand Canyon became one of the most visited national parks in the Country. The Canyon now receives nearly five million annual visitors. This colossal number helps demonstrate the attraction to the Canyon's magnificence.

Countless people are aware of the grand waterway known as the Colorado River. The Colorado River is the main waterway of the Grand Canyon. The beginning of the Colorado is in Wyoming, and out of its 1,700 mile total length, only 277 of those miles flow through the Grand Canyon. From beginning to end of those 277 miles, the River drops a total of 1,900 feet. The amount of daily sediment which runs through this 277 mile segment is, approximately, 40,000 tons.

Besides being the main waterway of the Canyon, the Colorado River is also a choice favorite among white-water rafters. There are parts of the River that would deliver a peaceful boat-ride, but the sections of white-water are some of the roughest waters that can be navigated in a raft; they score a ten on the one to ten white-water rafting, difficulty scale. Although areas of its waters are powerful and swift, not a single person could deny the beauty possessed by the Colorado River as it flows through the gorges and canyons of Grand Canyon National Park.

None would argue the awesome wonder of Grand Canyon National Park, but there are varying beliefs on its formation. The two main beliefs are those of Creationists and Evolutionists. Those who put their faith in evolution would fervently argue that the Grand Canyon is 1.7 billion years old. They would also say that the Canyon was formed from the constant erosion caused by the Colorado River. This supposed 1.7 billion years of erosion, resulted in the Grand Canyon as we know it today. Another hypothesis that would be stated by evolutionists is that the sediment layers of the Canyon walls are between 570 million to 1.7 billion years old. These arguments are nothing more than faith based. Due to their disbelief and distrust in God, evolutionists put their faith in their hypotheses.

There is also the standpoint of the Creationists: they belief that the Grand Canyon was formed in a matter of days. One who puts his faith in Creation would tell you that the Canyon is a result of a world-wide flood. This flood took place just a few thousand years ago. In the Bible, Genesis chapter seven explains how the waters covered the earth. If 277 miles of the Colorado River can daily move 40,000 tons of sediment, then it wouldn't be too big of a stretch to believe that a world-wide, mountain covering flood, could remove enough sediment from the surface of the earth to form the Grand Canyon. Also, there is a man by the name of Dr. Kent Hovind who believes that the formation of the sediment layers in the Canyon walls can be scientifically proven.

He explains how different sediments have different densities. If a cup of gravelly dirt were to be poured into a glass of water, the different sediments in the dirt, if given a few hours, would separate into various layers. The heavier sediments would be at the bottom; whereas the lighter sediments would be at the top. This would explain the sediment layers of the Grand Canyon.

However, the beliefs of Creationists and Evolutionists are both based on faith. Creation may appear have more proof than evolution, but neither belief can be stated as fact.
Despite the varying theories and beliefs, the Grand Canyon will always be a spectacle of beauty. This park is a sincere relic of the American West. Whatever your personal convictions may be, they do not detract from the splendor, majesty, and superb glory, of Grand Canyon National Park.

With Yosemite Valley once referred to as the, "grandest of all the special temples of nature", Yosemite National Park is home to many, naturally wonderful spectacles of beauty that can't be found anywhere else on Earth. Some of these beauties manifest themselves in the form of mountains. Half-Dome is an exposed cliff which reaches a height of 2,000 feet-it looks just like its name. Cathedral Rocks are another of Yosemite's rocky gems. They raise above Yosemite Valley with the grandeur of a great cathedral, thence their title. Then there is the trademark of Yosemite: the sheer rock wall known as El Capitan. It rises a vertical 7,569 feet above the valley floor. With Cathedral Rocks and El Capitan standing tall on either side of Yosemite Valley, they form the "Gates of the Valley". When one stands at the entrance of this gate, they come to realize the true meaning of magnificence. Nothing more could add to this beauty than the huge waterfalls.

Out of the thirteen waterfalls in Yosemite National Park, three of them rank among the five highest in the world. These three are: Yosemite Falls, Setinel Falls, and Ribbon Fall. Yosemite is number one at a height of 2,425 feet, second place goes to Setinel, with a drop of 2,000 feet, and lastly is Ribbon, from top to bottom it measures 1,612 feet. To find a view on God's, glorious earth, which could compare to the view of these waterfalls, would be a futile task.

The southern tip of Yosemite National Park connects with Marisopa Grove. Marisopa Grove is a forest kingdom which houses the largest trees in the world. Giant Sequoias, Dogwoods, Redwoods, Sugar Pines, and other trees, stretch their limbs in this conserved forest. The relic of Marisopa Sequoias is Grizzly Giant. This 2,700 year-old tree stands 209 feet above the forest floor. In its old age it represents the durability and grandeur of the world's tallest trees. The towering trees, splendid waterfalls, and rugged mountains, form the most beautiful park of the American West: Yosemite National Park.

With many of its rolling peaks standing above 6,000 feet, and mist rising from its depths, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the greatest spectacle of the Eastern States. It is the most extensive area of forest, in the United States, to be untouched by loggers. Its escape from loggers and its 1,630 species of flora, give this national park the true meaning of a wild, rugged land untouched by man. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a sanctuary for a collage of wildlife. Red wolves, wild boars, black bears, bobcats, and other mammals, freely roam this lush haven. This park also holds 800 miles of woodland trails, many of which belong to the Appalachian Trail. The Great Smokies are a magnificent, heavenly piece of the Appalachian chain, resulting in them being unofficially, yet commonly referred to as, "The Rockies of the East".

Whether you're in the "Eastern Rockies", or on the western plains, the Country's national parks can be viewed in many ways; one popular way is by train. The two major railways that run through many of the national parks are Amtrak and the American Orient Express. Amtrak has numerous rails that run through the West. One of the more famous trains is the Empire Builder. The Empire Builder rides the rails of the once existent Great Northern Railway. It starts in Chicago and gradually works its way up through the northern states, ending in either Seattle or Portland. Amtrak has a partnership with the National Park Service called Trails & Rails.

The purpose of this partnership is for the benefit of Amtrak passengers. It is a program which provides educational opportunities on the natural and cultural history of America and promotes an appreciation of nature. One of the national parks that can be viewed from the comfort of the Empire's railcars is Glacier National Park. The best way to enjoy the scenery is by sitting in the Empire's Sightseer Lounge. Riding the rails in the Empire Builder is one of the best ways to enjoy a delightfully scenic train ride.

The American Orient Express has been around for decades. When national parks were first started, the American Orient Express was the main mode of getting to the parks. In the past twenty years this railway has undergone some major renovations. The cars have been structurally and internally redesigned and repainted. This rail-line is one of the best, possible ways to experience the American West. The American Orient Express travels through Rocky Mountain National Park, Zion National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Grand Teton National Park, as well as many others. It also visits the historic site: Promontory Point. With its supreme service and elegant travel facilities, the American Orient Express is the first class of train travel.

Another way to view national parks is by foot. Hikers and climbers flock to America's national parks. But they don't visit just any park; they go to the best parks. Hikers who are looking for a good challenge should try visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The Badlands of this park can be a beast to traverse. Some of the rockier, mountainous national parks can also provide a good challenge. Places such as Rocky Mountain National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offer some great views and tough trails. However, for the less adventurous hiker, each national park offers a series of shorter, easier trails.

Some of these trails only take a day to hike. For those who desire explicitly spectacular scenery and untouched wildness, Yosemite is one of the best. Two of climber's favorites, because of their rugged challenge: El Capitan and Half Dome. These vertical walls of rock take days to climb. Climbers must use cliff-side beds for their nights in the suspended air. Those who would like to test their skills before attacking these rocky monsters, should try their hand at climbing El Capitan's little, eastern brother, the sheer wall of Appalachian rock known as Seneca Rocks. Seneca Rocks is located in the Appalachians of West Virginia. It is also a vertical climb, but it isn't nearly as tall. Still, climbing up its 1,000+ foot face can be quite an experience. Whether you're hanging from El Capitan or trudging through woodland forests, nothing is better than viewing national parks in their raw form.

Despite the efforts of the U.S. Forest Service, national parks have been transformed into something other than places where one can view the raw, untouched land. The purpose of these parks is to serve as places where people can observe nature at it's finest. National parks now seem to have taken the title of real estate properties that people enjoy merely for recreation. This is all well and good, but their recreational endeavors are beginning to have an effect on the land. If people are allowed to continue in their delirious forms of entertainment, then the beauty and grandeur of the high peaks and flowing meadows will become the rural version of suburbia.

Enjoying the parks for recreation is far from unlawful, but measures need to be taken in order to restrict people from taking things to the excessive. For example; in 1980, a General Management Plan was adopted for Yosemite National Park. The purpose of this plan was to lower the amount of urban development in the park. In 1989, a report was given on the progress of this plan. The report revealed that after nine years, many of the plan's goals had not yet been met. During this same time, the government spent $76 million on water lines, sewer systems, and other such things that were being installed in Yosemite. This is far from conserving the land.

New steps need to be taken in order for the national parks of the world to be in existence for generations to come. People need to gather together and lend their services in restoring national parks to their original form. Recreation doesn't have to be eliminated, but it does need to be conservatively controlled. Allowing people to devastate the land by littering up campsites, building numerous sewer systems, erecting large resorts, and constructing new roads, should be brought to a halt. If the right steps aren't taken, the goal and purpose of national parks will be extinguished.
National parks represent the true majesty of the earth. The towering peaks and lush meadows show the wonders of nature. All of these parks are rejuvenating places. To stand in the presence of their natural wonders is genuinely inspiring. As the great Theodore Roosevelt once said:

"Defenders of the short-sighted men who in their greed and selfishness will, if permitted, rob our country of half its charm by their reckless extermination of all useful and beautiful wild things sometimes seek to champion themselves by saying 'the game belongs to the people.' So it does; and not merely to the people now alive, but to the unborn people. The 'greatest good for the greatest number' applies to the number within the womb of time, compared to which those now alive form but an insignificant fraction. Our duty to the whole, including the unborn generations, bids us restrain an unprincipled present-day minority from wasting the heritage of these unborn generations. The movement for the conservation of wild life and the larger movement for the conservation of all our natural resources are essentially democratic in spirit, purpose, and method."

Your journey has now come to an end. Were these previous moments the best moments of your life? Maybe you are someone who has previous knowledge of many of the things which were discussed in this report; however, there is always room to gain more knowledge. Nature's assets need to be treated with a humble respect for their origin. To live our lives destroying these natural wonders which God has placed on this earth, would be an act of poor stewardship. God has designated us human beings to be the caretakers of the earth. John Muir, Theodore Roosevelt, John Wesley Powell, and others, all lived up to this designation. Let us do the same, not only for our benefit, but for the sole purpose of glorifying God, and being faithful stewards. Whoever you may be, and whatever your beliefs, living life in the presence of such glorious splendor carries with it a feeling of sincere thankfulness to the One who has placed such grandeur in this Country.

There is something special about Painswick. The scenery and views are typical of this part of Gloucestershire, yes, but there is definitely something different about that particular village. Well, I say village but actually it is a town. Yes, it is definitely a town, just a very small one. There aren't many shops in Painswick. Just a few essential places, like a convenience store, a post office, a tea shop, a chemist, and some antique shops. However, Painswick's close proximity to the somewhat larger town of Stroud somehow makes this unimportant.

Why Painswick?

Years ago, when I was a teenager, I had a college friend who lived in Painswick, in a lovely big old terraced house built from Cotswold Stone; and also my ex-girlfriend lived nearby in another nearby village; to me, this made it romantic somehow, and ever since then I've always loved the area.

Old Buildings

Painswick has a very old feel to it. It lays spread up a hillside, with its church spire pointing upwards; you can see it for many miles away, and it has a great character. I've often thought that the houses there must cost a lot, as the buildings are made of Cotswold stone. There has been some more building work going on lately, in keeping with the style of the other buildings. After a while, when they are more weather-beaten they will certainly look good and fit in very well with the overall Cotswold stone appearance of Painswick. However, apart from this latest development, Painswick hasn't grown much over the years.

The Scenery

The scenery surrounding Painswick is very beautiful, and is part of what I consider Gloucestershire scenery at its best. Famous author Laurie Lee lived nearby in the village of Slad, which is down another nearby valley. By the way: the town of Stroud is surrounded by five valleys; these are: Painswick Valley, Slad Valley, Toadsmoor Valley, Nailsworth Valley and last but definitely not least, the Golden Valley.

From various hilltops around the nearby (and much larger) town of Stroud, Painswick stands out due to its tall church spire.

Painswick Beacon

If you walk out of Painswick in a northerly direction, you come to Painswick Hill, upon which there is a golf course. Once you reach Painswick Beacon on the top, which contains a triangulation point and a very clear view of the City of Gloucester. This is quite a high point, and you can see for miles around. On a windy day it really does get quite windy up there, and I once stood right up on top of the triangulation point on a very windy day.

There is something very atmospheric up on Painswick Beacon, whether it is on a sunny day or on a cloudy, windy day. Whatever the weather, Painswick Beacon is a very nice place to go. I have been on several walks up there with my walking groups, and also with friends and family, and by myself. It is a very peaceful place to be. Well, it would be if it wasn't for all the golfers, but live and let live is what I say. After all, who am I to go starting arguments with people who carry metal bars around as part of their leisure time?!

How to Reduce the Affects of Culture Shock when You Arrive in a New Country: Establish a Regular Routine Outside the Classroom

As a new EFL teacher you will have a regular routine you must follow for work purposes. But more is required to help make the adjustment than knowing you must be in school at 8:30am each day. To help reduce the affects of culture shock, you will need to work on building a routine outside the classroom as well. Perhaps you can buy your daily newspaper from the same corner shop on your way to work. As you do so, you will get to know the local traders in your area and you will start to fit in more easily than a tourist who is here today and gone tomorrow.

How to Reduce the Affects of Culture Shock when You Arrive in a New Country: Beware of Pessimistic Expatriates

As tempting as it may be to spend all of your free time with fellow expatriates, this will not always make you feel better as you get used to a new country and way of life. Think of how you usually feel when you spend time with pessimistic friends and then consider what it will do to your self confidence if you surround yourself with expatriates who cannot find a single good thing to say about their host country. These feelings can soon rub off on you too, rather than help you adjust to the stresses of culture shock.

How to Reduce the Affects of Culture Shock when You Arrive in a New Country: Keep in Touch with Family and Friends

To begin with, you will not know anyone when you first arrive in the new country, which can be a very lonely time. One way in which you can help yourself is to make sure you keep in touch with your family and friends from back home. They can help to provide you with the love and encouragement you need during this difficult time.

The main thing to keep in mind is to try and stay positive and not focus so much on the negative aspects of living in a foreign country. Think of why you moved abroad to begin with and how you have been able to expand the breadth of your teaching experience by doing so. This can help you to adjust to your new surroundings and overcome culture shock sooner rather than later.

The summer vacation 2006 has been all this for me. To enter Portugal has been very intriguing, it has been like putting a foot into a parallel world, like feeling part of the Europe because it is still situated on the Mediterranean Sea, but also living some days in a distant dimension, full of influences of people so much different from us, came also through the Atlantic Ocean.

I have wanted to live in my way this vacation, I wanted to feel this always desired travel experience in my veins, I felt on my skin the climate changes from a State to another one, leaving Italy by motorcycle, passing through the windy zone of the Southern France and through the very arid one of the Central Spain, to finally reach Portugal at the level of Lisbon; it has been wonderful to set back immediately of one hour the hour hand of the clocks and to discover a gentle and pleasant breeze, cropped lands with vineyards and cork oaks and villages completely made with white little houses.

Another fascinating fact for me, even if unexplainable, is that I did not understand yet how before I always had understood quite well the language through the radio and TV stations and on the contrary I was not able to distinguish a word staying in that place for some days.

During the trips it is often impossible to find hotels or camping areas in the big cities, even if for Portugal I wrote down a lot of details, but a bit because of the tiredness due to the travel and a bit because it is always hard to ride in the traffic I opted for small villages but quite close to the urban settlings, to avoid the high prices and to rest in peaceful sleeps outside the big cities, it is not absolutely hard to find a receptive building in Portugal because everywhere you go you see in front of you a multitude of bedrooms for the night, called ?quartos?, often with the bathrooms inside them, situated along tiny streets and onto narrow staircases, into ancient buildings, but always furnished with simplicity and taste. I have found very affordable prices with open and closing times nearly non-existent, because often in Portugal the receptive buildings have all-day opening, really not bad for the tourists.

Something which you can notice immediately in every village, big or small one, of Portugal are the ?azulejos?, hand-painted ceramic tiles which get the name from the colour of the pigment used, that is the azure-blue, you can find them almost everywhere and they give an Arabic atmosphere to the walls.

Another fascinating aspect of the Portuguese culture is the cooking, strictly connected to the products of the ground and it is also a mixture of influences carried by the sea and the ocean which makes you feel familiar to it and stranger at the same time. The typical dishes are represented by the ?bacalhau?, that is the codfish cooked everywhere along the streets and into the restaurants and in a lot of ways, especially smoked, by the ?açorda?, that is a soup of little pieces of bread and olive oil, cooked in a very folksy and immediate way and because of it very appreciated by the Portuguese people, by the vegetables sold along the streets such as the ?galegas? and the ?favas?, that are cabbages and broad beans, by the ?leitao? meat, that is the small pig, by the fruits such as the ?melhao?, that is the yellow melon, and by the typical desserts such as the ?pasteis?, that are the pastries, and the canapés with custard, in sum Portugal represents also a triumph for the taste.

Walking across the streets of the small villages and of the big cities, without distinction, you can feel a way of living in harness with the nature?s rhythms, despite the progress have invaded also this corner of Europe, in fact it is typical the slowness of the Portuguese people, I have noticed it by myself, no one who barks in the traffic, no one who runs and has breathlessness along the streets, quiet smiling faces everywhere, I am sure we could learn a lot from those people.

In sum, I think it is worth to travel to Portugal, anywhere in that State, because you can have a unique experience which surely makes a mark in your heart.