Sky Bird Travel Blog

Around the World: Taj Mahal

Jaipur, India

History of Mughal Empire

The Mughal Empire spanned 300 years and covered parts of four modern countries including India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh. Established in the 1500s, the Mughal Empire reigned until 1857 when it was overthrown by the British East India Company. There was also a brief period of overthrow by another empire, but this only lasted 15 years before the Mughals were able to regain power.

Taj Mahal

The Mughal emperor, Shan Jahan, ordered the construction of the Taj Mahal for his late wife Mumtaz Mahal. It was well-documented by court historians at the time that Mumtaz was his favorite wife and adored her more than any other. Together, they had 14 children, but despite her many pregnancies, Mumtaz traveled extensively with Shan and was his trusted advisor. Unfortunately, she died young – just 37 years of age – after complications giving birth to their 14th child. Shan was so devastated that he mourned her death for a year, refusing to see anyone but his oldest daughter. When a year had passed, he ordered the construction of the Taj Mahal.

It was completed in 1643 and is one of the most elaborate examples of Islamic architecture in the world. Characteristics of the building include jai inlay, which involves cutting and polishing stones and placing them within marble to create images. Marble lattices and a long reflecting pool are also well-known features of the monument. But perhaps the best-known attribute is the round dome. This was likely inspired by a similar tomb: the tomb of Tamerlane, emperor of the Timurid Empire. Tamerlane was an ancestor to the Mughal emperors. Emperor Shan and Mumtaz are buried side by side in stone sarcophagi in the lower levels of the building.

Taj_mahal_detail_outside_wall — Close up of jali inlay. Photo credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=71430

The Taj Mahal was chosen as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and it’s not hard to see why. The great artistry is unlike anything else on earth. Just as the Eiffel Tower is the symbol of France, so too has the Taj Mahal become a symbol of India. Moreover, the structure stands as a testament to undying love.

How to Get There

Whether your clients are visiting friends and family or seeing India on vacation, they won’t want to miss this exquisite treasure. We’re partnered with over 90 airlines, so no matter their city of departure, we can get your clients there. As a top airfare consolidator, Sky Bird Travel has the lowest net fares to get them there. Call or email us today to begin your adventure!

Are your clients looking for something off the beaten path? Are they not interested in tourist traps? Stay tuned for our Around the World series. Several times a week, we share interesting things to do in exotic places. Give your clients a new experience in old places!

Photo Credits:

By Rajesnewdelhi – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=29053600

Around the World: Sigatoka Sand Dunes

Nadi, Fiji

Sigatoka Sand Dunes

You’ve probably seen those odd, square shaped bottles of Fiji Water at the store. If this is your client’s only experience with Fiji, it’s time to change that. From the tropical vistas to the ancient culture, Fiji is an experience unlike any other and the Sigatoka Sand Dunes bring all of it together.

History of Fiji

Fiji is a country in Oceania made up of 332 islands, of which 106 are inhabited. The main island, which is also the largest, shares the name of Fiji. (It’s exactly like the Big Island of Hawai’i sharing the name of the state.) Aside from Fiji being a popular destination for those seeking a tropical getaway, the main island is brimming with culture and natural beauty.

Fiji’s Ancient Culture

The stunning Sigatoka Sand Dunes are home to one of the largest burial sites in the Pacific. Human remains found here are helping anthropologists piece together the history of Polynesia. In addition, many excavated pottery shards date to 2,600 years ago. This suggests that settlers to Polynesia arrived 500 years earlier than what was previously believed. In addition to its historical significance, these dunes make for a fun day trip. Guided walks are available and the park frequently has special programs available for those wanting a more in-depth experience.

How to Get There

When your customers are ready to explore Fiji, Sky Bird will help you get them there. We’re partnered with over 90 airlines, including Fiji Airways – the national airline of Fiji. Whether your clients are looking to relax on the beach or explore the forest, Sky Bird Travel has the lowest net fares to get them there. Call or email us today to begin your adventure!

Photo Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A177,_Sigatoka_Sand_Dunes_National_Park,_Viti_Levu,_Fiji,_2007.JPG#/media/File:A177,_Sigatoka_Sand_Dunes_National_Park,_Viti_Levu,_Fiji,_2007.JPG

Around the World: Lake Rotoiti

Christchurch, New Zealand

Lake Rotoiti

New Zealand: the country in Oceania that seems as though it’s in the middle of nowhere. However, the grueling flights are well worth the visit to these magical islands. If you happen to venture to the South Island, be sure to check out Lake Rotoiti.

A Brief History

This lake is packed with surprises. First discovered by Europeans in the 1840s, Rotoiti was renamed Lake Arthur, but in recent times the original Maori name has been put back into usage. Rotoiti is 269 feet (82 meters) deep and is located within the borders of Nelson Lake National Park.

The Coolest Thing in New Zealand

When visiting New Zealand, if you do nothing else, you must take a nighttime kayak trip to the glow worm caves. These creatures make their own light source through bioluminescence. The light is a product of a chemical reaction between luciferin (a waste product), the enzyme luciferase, adenosine triphosphate (ATP – the energy molecule) and oxygen. Their glowing creations often resemble the night sky. Expert kayak guides will take you to nearby caves where you can see these incredible creatures in action.

Take in the Countryside

While on a kayaking trip, be sure to take a breather in the nearby thermal pools. It’s the perfect way to relieve achy muscles. While you’re relaxing, snap a photo of the sunset over the lake. If kayaking is not your thing, you may want to give tramping, the New Zealand version of hiking, a go so you can see the natural wonders of New Zealand up close. Recreational fishing and waterskiing are also popular activities.

How to Get There

When you’re ready to dive into New Zealand, Sky Bird will get you there. We’re partnered with over 90 airlines, including Air New Zealand – the national airline. Call or email us today to begin your adventure!

Looking for something off the beaten path? Not interested in tourist traps? Stay tuned for our Around the World series. Several times a week, we share interesting things to do in exotic places. Give your clients a new experience in old places!

Photo Credit:

http://www.waimarino.com/images/tours/gw.jpg

Around the World: Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Sydney, Australia

Only 16 miles north of Sydney, Australia lies one of the oldest national parks in the country: Ku-ring-gai. Within the national park is a stretch of Aboriginal sites, including rock paintings, rock carvings, and burial sites. These cultural treasures can be viewed on the park’s “Aboriginal Heritage Walk,” a designated trail that highlights some of the best sites. Part of this trek includes the Red Hands Cave where you will see painted stencils of hands made over 1,000 years ago.

Before Sydney Was Sydney

Long before Stonehenge or the pyramids of Giza were constructed, the Aboriginal inhabitants were roaming Australia in nomadic bands. Aboriginal culture remained unbroken for more than 50,000 years. As such, it is the longest unbroken culture on the planet. The original inhabitants of the area where the park now stands were the Garigal people, also known as the Carigal people. However, the name of the park comes from the Guringai people who were also inhabitants of the region. They relied heavily on the bays and harbors for the majority of their food. All told, there are over 800 Aboriginal sites in Ku-ring-gai. This is part of the reason Ku-ring-gai was placed on the list of Australian National Heritage sites.

Ancient Astronomers of Australia

Some of the artwork has led anthropologists to believe the ancient Aboriginal people had a firm grasp of astronomy. Several paintings correlate to cosmological bodies in the Milky Way. One such body in particular is quite apparent in the rock engravings. The Coalsack Dark Nebula is referred to as the “Emu in the Sky” by the Wardaman people. An engraving of an emu lines up perfectly with the position of this nebula when real life emus lay their eggs. (See picture above.) This suggests Aboriginals may have used the engraving as a primitive calendar.

Experience Sydney’s Backyard

Aside from being a treasure trove of Aboriginal culture, Ku-ring-gai is a great way to experience the natural beauty near Sydney. Picnic areas are great for taking a break from a walk and enjoying a meal with the family. Numerous boardwalks allow you to choose how extensive your hike will be. If you’re looking for something more aquatic, there are several areas perfectly situated for boating and fishing. Ku-ring-gai is also brimming with wildlife including wallabies, bush turkeys, native ducks, and goannas.

For more information, visit Ku-ring-gai’s website here: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/Kuringgai-Chase-National-Park

Photo Credit:

http://www.atnf.csiro.au/people/Ray.Norris/SydneyRockArt/sites/Elvina/index.htm

/Ray.Norris/SydneyRockArt/sites/Elvina/index.htm

Around the World: Goak Batik Bali

Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia

On the island of Bali, traditions are thriving. One such tradition, though relatively new to the island, has already established itself. This tradition is called “batik.” Popular throughout Malaysia and Indonesia, this art form has been around for centuries. It involves a wax-resist dying technique. Essentially, the wax creates a negative space that will remain a natural whitish color during the dyeing process.

To apply the wax, a special tool called a “canting” is used. This technique allows for a more free-handed approach and is similar to decorating a cake with icing. Another method involves a copper stamp called a “cap.” These caps look similar to cookie cutters, but instead of cutting shapes into the fabric – as normal cookie cutters would cut into dough – specific areas within the cap are filled with wax. These are often used for more intricate patterns and produce a more uniform look to the final product. Once the fabric has been dyed, the wax is boiled off with water.

Life Patterns

The most popular designs are floral and geometric patterns. However, images of human figures and scenes from everyday life can also be found. Some patterns may be used for cloth that will wrap newborns while others may be used to show someone’s social status.

In Bali, high class batik is especially popular for showing someone’s social status. Though batik has had a presence in Indonesia for centuries, it is noticeably different from its Balinese cousin. Though Bali is part of Indonesia, there are subtle differences in culture. It will be interesting to see how the Balinese develop the art of batik in coming years.

A Protected Tradition

In recent years, UNESCO named Indonesian batik a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The organization has encouraged Bali and Indonesia to preserve the art.

Take Home Your Own Batik

The Goak Batik Bali was established to educate visitors, pass on the tradition, and showcase local batik artists. Visitors have the opportunity to browse the gallery and take home handmade souvenirs from the shop. Guests may also sign up for tours of the workshop and take a class. Participants of the classes will bring home their own batik painting. This gallery is only 25 minutes north of downtown Denpasar and makes a perfect day trip for those looking for the authentic Bali experience.

For more information, check out their official website: http://goakbatikbali.com/

Photo credit: http://goakbatikbali.com/category/gallery/#jp-carousel-503

Around the World: Kusu Island

Singapore

Much attention is dedicated to the skyscrapers and technological marvels in Singapore’s downtown core. However, there is a different side of the city that many people miss. About an hour boat ride from the city center brings you to lovely Kusu Island.

Island of Legend

According to legend, a magical giant tortoise turned itself into an island to help two shipwrecked sailors: one Malay and the other Chinese. The sailors were so grateful that they returned to the island many times to give thanks. Before long, others continued the tradition as well.

Before the development of the island, locals claimed Kusu looked like a giant tortoise floating in the sea, but it is not easy to see this anymore. In recent years, there have been several temples built on the island and also a sanctuary to house giant tortoises. This makes seeing the original tortoise-shaped landscape difficult. However, visitors may see the magnificent creatures of the island’s legend up close and learn more about efforts to protect them.

An Island for Everyone

This little island is packed with interesting things to do for all ages and activity levels. There are great spots for family picnics, photo ops, and snorkeling for those looking to step things up a notch. There really is something for everyone to enjoy, and it’s a nice break from the crowded city center.

If you’re looking for adventure beyond sightseeing, be sure to snorkel the surrounding coral reefs. Both hard and soft coral are found along the edges of the island. Plus, the clownfish made famous by Disney’s “Finding Dory” live here! And don’t forget to look for giant clams.

For more information, check out http://www.wildsingapore.com/places/kusu.htm

Photo Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Da_Bogong_Temple_Kusu_Island.JPG#/media/File:Da_Bogong_Temple_Kusu_Island.JPG

Around the World: Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

Surabaya, Indonesia

The journey from Surabaya is just under three hours by car. However, it is well worth the drive. There are few places on Earth where you will find a landscape as diverse as this national park. Within the park borders are mountains, volcanoes, waterfalls, and jungles. Mount Bromo, one of the most famous areas of the park, is an active volcano. Though it erupted as recently as 2015, locals brave the inside of the volcano to collect sulfur to sell.

Unbelievable Greenery

There are three distinct climate zones within the park including rainforest and mountainous region.

One of the highlights of visiting this green paradise is the Madakaripura Waterfall. The mists cascade between the greenest jungles. It’s hard to believe what you’re looking at is not photoshopped. Not only does this spot serve as a great photo op, but you will have the chance to cool off after a long hike.

There are over 1,000 species of plants within the park, including endangered and rare varieties. 158 different types of orchids alone are found within the park borders.

Keepers of the Forest

In and around the park live ancient inhabitants known as the Tengger people. The Tengger are one of the few significant Hindu populations in Indonesia. They are believed to be descended from the Majapahit empire. For important festivals, the Tengger make offerings to the gods by throwing goods into the mouth of the volcano.

This national park is a great way to take in the biodiversity and splendor of Indonesia. There are a variety of ways to see the park from hiking, biking, or a simple stroll. Don’t miss this incredible place on your next trip to Indonesia!

For more information, visit the park website: http://bromotenggersemeru.org/

Photo Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Waterfall_Madakaripura_B.JPG#/media/File:Waterfall_Madakaripura_B.JPG

Around the World: Gamla Uppsala

Stockholm, Sweden

Walk in the footsteps of Vikings at this archaeological site. Early written sources show that this was well-known as the residence of the Swedish kings. It was the location of the Thing of All Swedes. And no, we don’t me a thing as in an everyday object. A “thing” is a Norse word that means a general assembly of members of a Nordic tribe. Things were held from pre-historic times until the Middle Ages.

Legend claimed the Norse god Freyr lived at Gamla Uppsala. Because of this existing belief in Gama being sacred grounds, when Christianity arrived, the first Archbishop was established there in 1164.

Gamla Uppsala is home to the famous Royal Mounds. These three large barrows house the remains of ancient Viking royalty. They have become an important symbol of Sweden’s history.

Pathways allow visitors to walk atop these incredible structures and contemplate what life was like over 2,000 years ago.

For more information, visit the museum website here: http://www.raa.se/upplev-kulturarvet/gamla-uppsala-museum/

Photo credit: By OlofE [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/)], via Wikimedia Commons

Around the World: Turku Castle

Helsinki, Finland

This fortress dates back to the 13^th century, with construction beginning around 1280. This castle is one of the oldest buildings still in use within Finland and is the largest surviving medieval building in the country.

Originally, the castle was only to have a military purpose. However, during the period of Swedish rule, the castle was expanded to provide living quarters for nobles. The last additions were made to the building in the 16^th century and the castle has remained untouched since.

In the 18^th and 19^th centuries, the building had fallen into some disrepair and was no longer used as a noble residence. Instead, it was converted into a prison. Renovations had been underway before the onset of World War II, however, two subsequent wars with the Soviet Union prevented these restorations from being completed. Thankfully, they were finished in 1987 and the castle was finally able to be turned into a museum.

The main collections of the castle feature historical relics including: ceramics, jewelry, costumes, textiles, furniture, and toys. Visitors can also explore the dungeons of the round tower.

This museum is an excellent way to experience Finnish culture through the ages. For more information, visit the museum website here: http://www.turunlinna.fi/en/index.html

Photo credit: http://i.imgur.com/pPs9m.jpg

Selling Skiing on the Summer Solstice

Die-hard skiers and snowboarders are always looking for bragging rights when it comes to hitting the slopes. It’s hard to brag about skiing when summer arrives and ski-able snow is practically non-existent in the continental United States.

If you have booked ski trips in the past, get in touch with those customers and tell them about where they can ski and snowboard in the summertime. Continue reading “Selling Skiing on the Summer Solstice”