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Guárico

Guárico is a region in central Venezuela. Although not backwards, it is considered a place where human beings can feel connected to nature and away from the stress of civilization.

Cities

 * (capital)

Other destinations
Cabruta, a small fishing town that's next to the Orinoco river. A bridge is to cross the river which was to be finished in 2011.

Parmana, another small town south of Valle de la Pascua which is also next to the Orinoco. Famous for the nearby rock formations however there is no way to cross the Orinoco from this town.

Tiznado, a famous dam in western Guarico which is famous for its sights and natural beauty.

Understand
Guarico lies completely in Venezuela's Llanos region which is inhabited mainly by farmers and ranchers and has a distinct rural feel. Nevertheless the state does have three sizeable towns (Valle de La Pascua, San Juan de los Morros and Calabozo).

Guárico is known as the gateway to the Central Plains, with a geography of contrasts between mountainous areas near the border of the state of Cojedes, galleys (because of their hat shape) or hills that accompany the course of the river Guárico and an equally wide area of flat land.

Talk
As with the rest of the country the language spoken in Guarico is Spanish although with a different easily understood accent. English speakers are relatively rare and at least a basic knowledge of Spanish is required.

Get in
The railway through the center of the state was expected to be finished by 2011. You can move through the state with taxis (comfortable yet more expensive) and buses. There are two types of bus companies. The local ones which are old buses that constantly break down and are crammed or nationwide companies such as Rodovia which is a much better option for tourists as the buses are much newer and contain a bathroom and AC. Every town has a main taxi and bus station and you do not usually have to wait long to get on a bus to another part of Guarico or to other parts of the country: mainly Caracas.

See
The San Juan de Los Morros Thermal Waters have rock formations, and sulphurous, alkaline, borate waters, with a blue colour and an average temperature of 33.5 °C. They are surrounded by a dry tropical forest, with very arid vegetation. They have bathrooms, pools and various services. They are located northwest of San Juan de Los Morros, 58 km from Maracay.

The Thermal Waters of Gurumen are waters that flow from galleys, forming four wells or springs. There arepools and bathing rooms. They are located between the towns of Ortiz and San Francisco de Cara, 60 km from San Juan de Los Morros.

The Orinico in Cabruta is the biggest river in Venezuela and second in South America.

The old town of Calabozo features beautiful colonial age houses and a lovely church.

The Calabozo dam, which is an earth dam and forms a great lake.

Do
Go horse riding in one of the many ranches in this area.

The famous Aguaro-Guariquito National Park contains many native species unlikely to be seen anywhere else. They include Toninas (fresh water dolphins), Babos (dwarf caimans), freshwater eels and rays as well as deer, jaguars and many other species. Its area is covered by savannahs and forests, rivers, lagoons and a rich flora of great colour and beauty and a varied fauna. It is located in the south of Guárico State, The park is also used to fish and hunt due to the abundance of striped bass.

Guatopo National Park comprises the mountainous region of the Interior Range, between Santa Teresa del Tuy and Altagracia de Orituco. The vegetation is tropical rainforest and semi-wet formations. t has three important recreational facilities: Agua Blanca, Santa Crucecita and Quebrada de Guatopo. Excursions and long walks can be made in them. It is located between the districts of Independencia, Lander and Acevedo in the state of Miranda and the district of Monagas in the state of Guarico

Eat
Eat some of the native cuisine which includes Capybara, Deer, Fresh Fish, Crocodile tail, Tortoise and the country's best beef and corn as well as typical Venezuelan cuisine such as Arepas or Cachapa.

Drink
As with the rest of Venezuela a lot of alcoholic drinks are consumed in Guarico. Mainly beer albeit only half as strong as American beer, rum and whiskey. Being in a tropical country one can also find natural juices of great flavor which include mango, passion fruit, and guava amongst others.

Stay safe
While considerably safer than major cities in Venezuela such as Caracas, it is still a dangerous area compared to the USA or Europe. Be wary when you go out at night and stay away from shady neighborhoods. If the right precautions are taken there is no reason your trip should not be safe and enjoyable.

Go next
Caicara in Bolivar State. To get there it is necessary to cross from Cabruta in a small ferry. The journey is cheap however and offers an incredible sight as you will cross one of the biggest rivers in the world on a small boat. From Caicara you can go by car to Ciudad Bolivar (Close to Angel falls) or Puerto Ayacucho in the south (Where the amazon region begins). A 3-hour car ride and 1-hour ferry crossing from Valle de la Pascua and 2 hours coming back to cross.

San Fernando de Apure. To get there it is necessary to take the highway south of Calabozo. This town and the state it is in offer many interesting sights to tourists beginning with the Apure river which is next to the city. 2 hours by car or bus from Carabozo.

Barinas, a very green state famous for its natural beauty and good climate. From there you can easily reach Merida and the rest of the Venezuelan Andes. 4 hours by car or bus from Calabozo.

Puerto Piritu. A small yet picturesque town with beautiful colonial houses and a church. It is also famous for its beach which is one of the best in the country. 1 hour from Zaraza or 2 from Valle de la Pascua by car or bus.

Puerto la Cruz. One of the most modern and bustling cities in Venezuela, it is renowned for its nightlife and the beautiful beaches only an hour away. From here you can take a 2-hour ferry to the famous Margarita island, one of the most popular tourist destinations for Venezuelans. 2.5 hours from Valle de la Pascua by car or bus.

title: Guárico


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Gudalur

Gudalur is a small town near Ooty in Tamil Nadu, India. Gudalur is a cheap alternative to Ooty as there is very little traffic and accommodation is not that expensive. Nature is the main attraction of Gudalur.

Understand
A place with mountains, valleys, evergreen forests, spices, tea, coffee, paddy and vegetables. Gudalur is the meeting point of three cities -- Mysore, Ooty and Calicut.

Get in
Gudalur is three hours by bus from Mysore. You can also reach here from Kozhikode and Ooty by bus. There is no rail link. When you come to Gudalur from Mysore, the road is two track with a toll booth in the middle. The major tourist attraction is the S.G.S.Ashram with an aviary, library and museum inside. There are good restaurants like Rhythm.n.Hues, The Evergreen, the Grand View and Vishnu Cafe before reaching the airport. This is a very silent airport as no flights are operational now. Before airport there is a scenic place with a lake and bend in the road.

After Kadakola town, there are two Punjabi dhaba restaurants offering private outdoor huts. There is a riverside temple at Sujathapuram and also India's oldest railway bridge is located here. Cafe Coffee Day has an outlet here. Royal Hotel provides Kerala style food. Nanjangud town has many lodges and restaurants. Many Kerala restaurants dot either side of the road. There is a drive-in-cafe 15 km from Nanjangud. There is an outlet of Cafe Coffee Day another ten kilometer forward. The stretch of road from Gundlupet to Gudalur is a single line track passing through two national parks. You can find humps every 300 meters and the driving is very unpleasant. The road from Gudalur to Ooty is a very scenic uphill route but traffic blocks are very common near the Frog Hill viewpoint. They last for one or two hours.

Get around
The ubiquitous yellow autorickshaws are easily available everywhere. They do not charge much.

Government-operated government bus services are also available from all nearby locations and main areas.

Do
Gudalur is an ideal place to stay if you are interested in visiting the tea gardens on the way to Ooty. Pykara lake is only 30 km away

Connect
There mobile network coverage of B.S.N.L. There is a post office run by India Post.

Go next

 * Gundlupete
 * Bandipur National Park

 * Devala Village
 * Kannur
 * Kozhikode
 * Mysore
 * Ooty

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Gudalur


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Gudbrandsdalen

Gudbrandsdalen is a valley and traditional district in Oppland. This grand, central valley runs for some 250 km from Lillehammer to the uplands and central mountains. Nicknamed "the valley of valleys" because of its size and variety. In addition to the main valley there is a web of tributaries particularly from the west and the central mountains. The valley makes up more than half of Oppland county. Gudbrandsdalen is surrounded by the highest mountains in Scandinavia. The central mountains to the west create a long rain shadow leaving little precipitation for most of the area. Summers are pleasantly warm.

The valley hosted major events at the 1994 winter Olympics, alpine skiing venues at Kvitfjell and Hafjell are now popular winter sport resorts. The valley is home to a number of ancient wooden buildings (including stave churches) and other cultural heritage. Overland transport between Oslo and central eastern lowlands to Nordfjord, Trøndelag and Møre og Romsdal runs through the valley.

Towns

 * Lom village is the regional centre in Ottadalen.
 * Lom village is the regional centre in Ottadalen.
 * Lom village is the regional centre in Ottadalen.

Other destinations

 * - ski resort (Olympic slalom)
 * - alpine ski resort (Olympic downhill)
 * - highland cross-country resort

 * Notable adjacent valleys (tributaries) in Gudbrandsdalen district:
 * Ottadalen home of Otta river
 * Heidal and Sjodal home of the Sjoa river
 * Vinstra river valley
 * Frydalen home of Frya river
 * Gausdal and Espedal

Understand
Gudbrandsdalen stretches from Lillehammer at the northern shores of Lake Mjøsa to the higlands around Dombås and county border with Møre og Romsdal at Geiranger and Bjorli, about 250 km. At the watershed there is in fact a lake, Lesjaskogsvatnet at Lesjaskog, that is shared by Lågen river (flowing east) and Rauma river (flowing west to Åndalsnes). Gudbrandsdalen is home to the great Lågen river, Norway's second biggest. The Gudbrandsdalen district also includes several connected valleys and their tributaries (notably Ottdalen with Otta river, as well as Gausa, Sjoa and Vinstra rivers), large parts of Oppland county falls within this area. These tributaries are among Norway's prettiest and wildest rivers. Many of these rivers, particularly from the west (the right) carry glacial melt water, as can be seen on the opaque color. Hjerkinn and upper Folldal in the Dovre plateau has traditionally been affiliated with Gudbrandsdalen although rivers there flow east to Alvdal.

Gudbrandsdalen and adjacent valleys are surrounded by major mountain ranges such as Jotunheimen, Breheimen (next door to Jostedalsbreen), Reinheimen/Tafjord/Romsdalen, Dovrefjell and Rondane. At Otta the main valley is joined by the major Otta valley that also holds the road to Stryn and Geiranger. Because of its central position in the interior of South Norway, Gudbrandsdalen hosts E6 (the main north-south road with branch to Åndalsnes and Ålesund) and the Oslo-Trondheim railway (with arm to Åndalsnes). About 70,000 people live in the area, the regional centre Lillehammer is home to about half the population.

Gudbrandsdalen and tributary valleys is a traditional district. This area sits in the rain shadow and is one of the driest areas in Norway. The climate is mostly continental: winters are cold and summers are mild. Bjorli, the most north-western village, receives heavy snowfall and is a popular winter resort.

History
Henrik Ibsen, Norwegian playwright, hiked through the valley in 1862 and compiled material for dramas "Peer Gynt" as well as "Brand".

During the invasion of Norway in April 1940, some of the heaviest fighting occurred in Gudbrandsdalen around village Kvam. British troops had landed at Åndalsnes to support the Norwegian Army and with plans to recapture Trondheim. In addition to the sea battle at Narvik, this was the first engagement of Allied and German troops during the war (a few weeks later fighting began in France and Be-Ne-Lux). The British troops were not prepared for the task. There is a war memorial at Kvam. The first US casualty in world war II was the US military attache killed during the bombing of Dombås station. There is a war memorial at Dombås. The King, cabinet and Bank of Norway's gold and cash holdings were evacuated through Gudbrandsdalen towards Åndalsnes and Molde amidst heavy fighting in a bold and legendary operation. The king and the cabinet were hiding in Gudbrandsdalen while waiting for safe passage to unoccupied harbors at Åndalsnes and Molde. This was one of the most dramatic and decisive events in the history of modern Norway. British troops were evacuated on May 2. The failed British campaign in Gudbrandsdalen (and Namsos) led to the downfall of Neville Chamberlain as prime minister and Winston Churchill became prime minister.

Ironically, more than 300 years earlier Scottish mercenary troops landed at Åndalsnes and marched through Gudbrandsdalen to join the war in Sweden. Between Otta and Kvam the Scottish troops were slaughtered my local militia in a legendary ambush. This event is also included in the Kvam war memorial.

Talk
The language is Norwegian with some notable dialect differences, particularly in the northern valley. English is spoken everywhere.

By plane

 * Oslo Airport, 140 km south of Lillehammer. A major international airport with flights from the USA and major European cities.

By train

 * Oslo-Trondheim railway (Dovrebanen) via Oslo airport at Gardermoen
 * Dombås-Åndalsnes railway (Raumabanen)

By car

 * See also E6 through Sweden and Norway

 * [[Image:Tabliczka E6.svg|30px]] Oslo-Dombås-Trondheim main road, scenic drive through Dovre plateau
 * [[Image:Tabliczka E136.svg|30px]] Ålesund-Åndalsnes-Dombås, the Bjorli-Dombås stretch runs through Lesja district in Northern Gudbrandsdal, very scenic drive.
 * Stamvei 15.svg Otta-Stryn-Måløy main road, scenic drive.
 * Road 51 (Valdresflya pass) from Fagernes (Valdres) to Vågå, scenic drive, national tourist route.
 * Road 55 (Sognefjellet pass) from Sogndal and Luster (Sognefjorden area) to Bøverdalen and Lom, scenic drive, national tourist route.
 * Road 27 from Folldal to Ringbu, also known as Rondane road, national tourist route
 * Road 63 from Geiranger to Skjåk and further to Otta

Get around
The Oslo-Lillehammer-Trondheim railway (Dovrebanen) runs along the valley until Dombås where the railway climbs onto the Dovrefjell plateau. The Dombås-Åndalsnes railway (Raumabanen) continues along the northernmost section of the valley (Lesja-Bjorli area). There is no railway in the Otta-Lom-Skjåk valley (Ottadalen). For more details see: Driving in Norway
 * By rail:
 * By car:
 * By car:
 * [[Image:Tabliczka E6.svg|30px]] Lillehammer-Dombås main road
 * [[Image:Tabliczka E136.svg|30px]] Bjorli-Lesja-Dombås
 * Stamvei 15.svg Otta-Lom-Skjåk main road (also served by bus)
 * County roads and private (toll) roads into the hinterland

Nature
File:Ridderspranget II.jpg

Skiing

 * Cross-country skiing in all mountain areas and close to towns.
 * Alpine skiing
 * Kvitfjell (1994 Olympic downhill venue)
 * Skeikampen
 * Grotli
 * Dombås
 * Grotli
 * Dombås
 * Dombås

Other outdoor
Gudbrandsdalen cuts deep into Norway's wilderness and as the big valley is also home to major rivers, including rivers popular among rafters. Warning: Only skilled rafters should go down rivers on their own. There are numerous obstacles such as power stations, rapids, canyons and waterfalls.
 * Hiking in mountains and uplands Gudbrandsdalen and adjacent valleys cuts into the base of the central mountains and uplands. Day hikes and in particular multi-day hikes are abundant in these areas:
 * Jotunheimen
 * Breheimen-Stryn
 * Lillehammer-Nordseter-Ringebu-Venabu uplands
 * Rondane-Dovrefjell
 * Dovre-Sunndalsfjella
 * Tafjordfjella-Reinheimen
 * Huldreheimen (West Gausdal-Valdresflya)
 * Huldreheimen (West Gausdal-Valdresflya)

Go next

 * Rondane and Dovrefjell mountains
 * Jotunheimen mountains
 * Valdres - a parallel valley in the uplands
 * Sogn og Fjordane: Luster, Stryn
 * Møre og Romsdal: Åndalsnes and Geiranger
 * Oppdal - ski resort in the Trøndelag uplands
 * Oslo

title: Gudbrandsdalen


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Gudhjem

Gudhjem is a city in Bornholm. The name translates directly to 'God's Home' and is famous for its gorgeous sunrises. The many steep hills leading you farther into town, down towards the harbour, are what is the most charming in the town.

Understand
Gudhjem is quite dead in the winters but is bustling with tourists in the summer. There are many shops and restaurants and a very large white mill.

By bus

 * Bus No 7 from Allinge-Sandvig to Rønne stops in Gudhjem. But not always at the harbour, then you have to walk the steep road to the upper bus terminal.
 * Bus No 4.

By boat

Get around
You are not allowed to ride a bicycle on some of the steepest roads.

Do
Right up from Gudhjem is the island's best swimming pool. The water is half-saltwater so as to be able to use less chlorine. There are massive wall to wall and ceiling windows, tropical plants and a waterslide. There is a sauna in both men's and women's changing rooms.

Go next

 * Ertholmene (Christiansø) with the ferry from Gudhjem

title: Gudhjem


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Guelma

Guelma is a city in Northeast Algeria, the capital of the homonymous province.

Understand
Antiquity

Though Guelma was settled from early prehistory, it was first established as a town under the Phoenicians, who called it Malaca, probably a Phoenician word meaning "salt" (sharing a common etymology with Málaga in Spain). Later, the Romans settled the area and renamed it Calama, part of the Roman province of Numidia. Calama prospered during the rise of Christianity; Saint Possidius was bishop of Guelma during the 5th century. Later, the Vandal invasion devastated the area until the coming of the Byzantines, who settled the area and built city walls to protect it from further invasions. It was located in the Byzantine Exarchate of Africa. However, after the successful Islamic conquest of Algeria, the area was abandoned as a formal settlement, even later, during Ottoman rule.

French rule

Guelma was re-established as a formal settlement during the French invasion of Algeria, after seven centuries of abandonment. The annexation of the area began with the advancing of the French Army going to Constantine from Annaba (the occupation of Constantine would make north-eastern Algeria officially a part of France) who discovered (and temporarily occupied) the ruins of Calama from 10–15 November 1836 under the command of general Bertrand Clausel.

Guelma was established as a city in 1836.[1] Its communal constitution dates from 17 June 1854. A modern city quickly developed around the Roman ruins, first inside the restored Byzantine city walls, later also outside the walls, which continued to function during these times, and near the railroad which crossed the city from the west to the east. The Roman theater of Guelma was restored in 1905 under the rule of mayor M. Joly. The city had a high percentage of European settlers during these times, supported by the French colonial policy. Its civilians suffered greatly during the Sétif massacre of 8 May 1945. Guelma's oldest still-operating religious building (1837) is the El-Atik Mosque, or "The Great Mosque Of Guelma". Guelma has also had a synagogue, which served the local Jews as well as a church on the place de Saint Augustin for the European settlers.

Post-independence

General view of Guelma After the Independence of Algeria, both the European settlers and the indigenous Jews left, and the synagogue and the church were converted into mosques. The population of Guelma grew at a rapid pace.

By plane
The closest airport to the city is Annaba airport. Which serve international flights with Air Algérie to: Istanbul, Lyon, Marseille, Paris CDG, and Paris Orly. Also serve domestic flights to Algiers and Oran (Air Algérie) and Algiers, El oued, and Hassi Messaoud (Tassili Airlines)

See
The top attractions to visit in Guelma are:

 * Hammam Debagh Hot Springs

 * Guelma Roman Theatre

 * Ghar Hiraa Mosque

 * Martyrs Mosque

 * Bilal Ibn Rabah Mosque

Budget
There is an enormous number of small hotels and hostels in or near the hotspots, nightly rates are 500 - 3000 dinars. At these establishments, showers and toilets are communal and hot water costs extra.

Stay safe
Generally, Guelma is a very safe city compared with many places in Europe though this does not necessarily apply to the suburbs.

Try to look as little as tourist as possible. Dressing like a local will help you blend in and get good reception from merchants, who will often quote you actual prices instead of inflated tourist prices. There are tons of expats in this city that speak French first, then English and then Spanish. A polite no thank you and then simply ignoring touts does get rid of them.

title: Guelma


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Guelph

Guelph is a city of 132,000 people (2016) in Southwestern Ontario on the banks of the Speed River less than an hour's drive west of Toronto. Guelph is known for its beautiful limestone architecture, vibrant culture and a variety of festivals.

Understand
It is nicknamed "the Royal City", as its name comes from the imperial House of Guelph that once ruled Great Britain. It is considered one of the most liveable cities in Canada, with a low crime rates, a clean environment and a relatively high standard of living. The city is home to Sleeman Breweries Ltd.

The city is home to the University of Guelph, established in 1964. The Ontario Agricultural College (OAC), the oldest part of the University of Guelph, began in 1874 as an associate agricultural college of the University of Toronto.

 *  City of Guelph Tourism Services:.

History
Before colonization, the area was home to a First Nations (Indigenous) community called the Attawandaron who lived in longhouses surrounded by fields of corn. The majority of this nation, about 4,000 people, lived in a village near what is now the Badenoch area of Puslinch, near Morriston.

John Galt, the first Superintendent of the Canada Company, was hired to help colonize Upper Canada. He selected Guelph as the headquarters of this British development firm. Galt was a popular Scottish poet and novelist who also designed the town to attract settlers and farmers to the surrounding countryside. His design intended the town to resemble a European city centre, complete with squares, broad main streets and narrow side streets, resulting in a variety of block sizes and shapes which are still in place today. The street plan was laid out in a radial street and grid system that branches out from downtown.

The town was named to honour Britain's royal family, the Hanoverians, who were descended from the Guelfs, the ancestral family of George IV, the reigning British monarch; thus the nickname "the Royal City".

In 1827, the first houses and the first Guelph Farmers' Market were built. The population growth was very slow until the Grand Trunk Railway reached it from Toronto, en route to Sarnia, in 1856; the town was also served soon thereafter by the Great Western Railway branch from Harrisburg.

Guelph was home to a major correctional institution from 1915 until 2001, the Ontario Reformatory, after 1972, Guelph Correctional Centre.

By car
From Highway 401:
 * Take exit 295, Highway 6 North, the Hanlon Expressway; for downtown, exit at Wellington St., to Wyndham; for University of Guelph, exit at Stone Road, or College Road to Gordon St.
 * Alternately, take exit 299, Brock Rd. (also known as "old Highway 6") north through the village of Aberfoyle, becomes Gordon St at the Guelph city limits. The University of Guelph will be on your right after Stone Rd.; Gordon Street becomes Norfolk St. in downtown Guelph.  This route is more direct and more scenic; however, it's slower than taking the Hanlon.

From Highway 6, Hamilton and Niagara, alternatively continue through the village of Morriston; then, either take Highway 401 West to exit 295, or take Brock Rd. north as above.

Two other surface highways run through Guelph — Highway 7, that links Guelph with Kitchener-Waterloo and Stratford in the west and Brampton and the GTA in the east, and Wellington Street/Eramosa Road (formerly Highway 24), which links Guelph with Brantford and Cambridge in the south and Erin and Caledon in the north.

By train
GO Transit customers are eligible to one free ride on Guelph Transit (GT) buses to and from Guelph Central Station. To receive the free ride, GO customers must show the GT bus driver a Presto card, a single-ride GO Transit ticket or a GO Transit day ticket. On boarding the GT bus at the railway station, ask for a transfer if you need to transfer to a second GT bus. With this one exception, Presto and GO Transit fare media are otherwise not valid for Guelph Transit.
 * Train operators stopping at this station:
 * The Kitchener route operates trips from Monday to Friday between Toronto and Kitchener including stops in Mississauga (Malton), Brampton, Georgetown, Acton, and Guelph mostly toward Toronto in the morning rush and toward Kitchener in the afternoon rush, but with a few extra round trip runs during the day and evening. Travel time to Guelph from Toronto takes about 1.75 hours, and is cheaper than by taking VIA Rail Canada. GO Transit trains from Toronto can be crowded; there is no reserved seating. GO Transit fares can be paid by credit, debit or Presto card. GO Transit refers to station as "Guelph Central GO" on both train and bus schedules.
 * Operates a route daily between Sarnia and Toronto including stops in London, St. Marys, Stratford, Kitchener, Guelph, Georgetown, Brampton, and Mississauga. Trains to Guelph take about 1.25 hours from Toronto, 2 hours from London, and 3 hours from Sarnia. Windsor can be reached by transferring at London.

By bus
The following carriers operate from Guelph Central Station:
 * Operates direct buses from Bramalea GO station (Brampton), Mount Pleasant GO station (Brampton), Square One (Mississauga), and Kipling station (Etobicoke); as well as service from Kitchener-Waterloo and Hamilton on route 17. Route 17 also stops at Aldershot station, which has frequent train service from Toronto Union Station.  GO Transit fares can be paid by Presto card.
 * Operates a bus route between Guelph and Owen Sound. Travel time to Guelph from Owen Sound is 2.25 hours.  Operates a morning and afternoon trip daily.

By plane
The nearest airport with scheduled flights is in Waterloo , serving Vancouver, Calgary, and winter getaway destinations such as Fort Lauderdale, Punta Cana, and Cancún. Additional flights are available at John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport  or Toronto Pearson International Airport .
 * The Red Car Service provides car service from Guelph to each of these airports.

Get around
While Guelph is starting to experience some urban sprawl, especially in the south of the city, it is still a fairly compact city and traffic is rarely too busy. So, travelling by car is generally a fast option. There is ample parking in the downtown (city-owned lots are on Baker, Macdonell, and Wilson Streets, and there is lots of street parking) that is free on evenings and Sundays and reasonably-priced at other times (the lots charge $1.50 per hour M-F 8AM-6PM, and a flat rate of $2 on Saturday).

Walking or cycling are also reasonable options for destinations within walking or cycling distance.

By taxi
Guelph has 2 main cab companies:

Buy

 * Guelph Shops, a directory of retail businesses in Guelph
 * Guelph Shops, a directory of retail businesses in Guelph
 * Guelph Shops, a directory of retail businesses in Guelph
 * Guelph Shops, a directory of retail businesses in Guelph
 * Guelph Shops, a directory of retail businesses in Guelph
 * Guelph Shops, a directory of retail businesses in Guelph
 * Guelph Shops, a directory of retail businesses in Guelph
 * Guelph Shops, a directory of retail businesses in Guelph
 * Guelph Shops, a directory of retail businesses in Guelph

Eat
Guelph is in the heart of Southwestern Ontario's agricultural country, so many of the local restaurants and pubs emphasize cooking with local foods in season. Guelph's vibrant multicultural community is represented by several local eateries, making Guelph an excellent spot to sample ethnic foods.

Drink
The vast majority of Guelph's drinking establishments are in a compact area in the heart of downtown, meaning that it's really easy to switch venues once you get bored.

Sleep
Guelph offers a wealth of places to stay. From familiar large chain hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts you'll be able to find a comfortable place to hang your hat.

Go next
Guelph Lake rents canoes in the summer. There is also canoe and kayak rental at the Speed River, next to the boathouse. The beautiful Elora Gorge is nearby, as is the Rockwood Park. There are spectacular trails through the city, and a free summer series of concerts downtown.

The Jazz Festival takes place the first week of September.

title: Guelph


text:
Guerande

Guérande (Breton: Gwenrann, literally "white land") is a town in the Pays de la Loire (Loire-Atlantique department) in western France.

"Ville et pays d'art et d'histoire" since 2004, Guerande is famous for its medieval town. It is one of the rare cities to have to preserve his ramparts in its entirety. Guerande, it is also its Salt Marshes and her famous salt, "la fleur de sel".

Understand
Guerande is a medieval fortified town. During the Middle Ages, Guerande was the principal town in the estate owned by dukes of Brittany which covered the entire peninsula, the "Presqu'île Guérandaise". Its strategic position at the top of a hill gave it an overview of the ocean and a role as protector of the Salt Marshes.

The town entered a golden age with the last dukes of Brittany, who built its formidable ramparts. The period gave it charm, a picturesque flavour and an exceptional heritage which led the celebrated writer Balzac to describe it thus "Guérande is one of those rare towns to have retained the true physiognomy of the feudal centuries".

By plane
Arrival at the international airport of Nantes Atlantique: + 33.2.40.84.80.00

Nantes - Guérande by car: 1 hour (80 km approx).

By train
Coming from Paris Montparnasse: 3 hours by TGV

For information: +33 8.36.35.35.35

By bus
Wherever you are in the departement of Loire Atlantique, you can travel for only €2 per journey.

You can buy the bus ticket on the bus. It is valid for 2 hours. This ticket also enables you to have access to the bus networks in Nantes and Saint Nazaire. Bus timetables

Another way of getting around is Métrocéane. This ticket allows you to travel by train, bus and tram. Each ticket is valid only for 24 hours.

By car

 * A11 (Paris, Le Mans, Angers and Nantes)
 * N171 (Saint-Nazaire)

See

 * THE MEDIEVAL TOWN OF GUERANDE

The ramparts (XV-XVI)

In 1343, following the destruction inflicted on Guérande by troops commanded by Charles de Blois, Jean de Montfort demanded that the town be properly protected by improving its fortifications. Work started soon after and continued for more than a century, with the town's architecture adapted to reflect the latest artillery developments. It was not until 1488, or 145 years later, that these ramparts, by then complete, were inaugurated during the reign of Duke François II (father of Anne of Brittany), a few months before his death.

1434 m long, the ramparts are pierced by four gateways: St Michel to the east, Vannetaise to the north, Bizienne to the west and Saillé to the south).

The Saint Aubin's Church (XV-XVI)

One of the main site of interest of the medieval town. XV-XVI century.

 * THE SALT MARSHES

An area of 2000 hectares divided in two zones, the largest is around the Traict du Croisic and extends over the villages of Batz-sur-Mer, Guérande, and La Turballe. The second is located beyond the “coteau” guérandais and covers an area of 350 hectares which includes Mesquer, Saint-Molf and Assérac.

This area is classified since 1996. Today in the salt marshes, around 250 “paludiers” i.e. salt workers harvest approximately 12000 mt of salt a year.

 * THE NATURAL PARK OF LA BRIERE

It was one of the first natural parks to be listed as a “Parc Naturel Régional” in 1970.

Do
To get some more information, it is possible to go to the Tourist office center of Guerande next to Saint-Michel gate. The website has major shows listed

 * Office de tourisme de Guérande: 1, place du Marché au Bois - 44 350 Guérande - 0.820.150.044

Visit the Salt Marshes: Many structures offer to discover the Salt Marshes with several types of visits: museography, guided tours on an operational salt-pan, walk on a typical local wagon, etc...

 * La Maison des Paludiers: 18, rue des Prés Garnier - 44 350 Guérande - 02.40.23.82.79
 * Terre de Sel: Route des Marais Salants - 44350 Guérande - 02.40.62.08.80
 * Le mulon de Pen Bron: Route de Pen Bron - 44 350 Guérande - 02.40.15.64.28

Visit the wetlands of La Brière: The wetlands of La Brière are not like the Salt Marshes. There are many ways to discover this territory but the most popular is the visit in chaland (craft).

 * L'arche briéronne: Port de Bréca - 44 410 Saint-Lyphard - 02.40.91.33.97
 * Barques Crusson: La chaussée neuve - 44 117 Saint-André-des-Eaux - 02.40.01.24.64
 * Barques Mahé Anthony: Port de la Chaussée Neuve - 44 117 Saint-André-des-Eaux
 * Barques Moyon Jean: Ile de Fedrun - 44 720 Saint-Joachim
 * Brière évasion: Port de la Pierre Fendue - 44 410 Saint-Lyphard
 * Chez Chantal et Jacky: 3, île de Fédrun - 44 720 Saint-Joachim
 * Faune Briéronne: 356 Port de bréca - 44 410 Saint-Lyphard
 * La Tanière: 80, île de Fédrun - 44 720 Saint-Joachim

Discover the history of the region: Many sites enable you to understand the history of Guerande and its area with the help of museography, exhibitions and many other ways.

 * Le musée de la porte Saint-Michel (histoire de la cité médiévale) Porte Saint-Michel - 44 350 Guérande - 02.28.55.05.05
 * Le musée de la poupée (reconstitution): 23, rue de Saillé - 44 350 Guérande - 02.40.15.69.13
 * Le musée des Marais Salants (history of Salt Marshes): 29 bis, rue pasteur - 44 740 Batz-sur-Mer - 02.40.23.82.79
 * Le musée du grand Blockhaus (histoiry of "Saint-Nazaire pocket"): Route de la côte Sauvage - 44 740 Batz-sur-Mer - 02.40.23.88.29
 * Le musée de la Maison de la Pèche (histoiry relating to ports): Port de la Turballe - 44 420 La Turballe - 02.40.11.71.31

Buy
There are 2 marketplaces in the medieval town: the great market on Sunday and the little market on Wednesday (the fishes's market is everyday except Monday and Thursday).

Eat
In Guerande, visitors can find mainly 3 types of restaurants: traditional restaurants, pizzeria and "crêperies" (traditional Breton food). Major part of restaurants are in the medieval city.

Sleep
There are many accommodation types like campsites, hotels (one, two and three stars), guestroom and many others. The list (not complete) of accommodation is available on the tourist center's website

Learn

 * Athanor cultural center: Avenue Anne de Bretagne - 44 350 Guérande - 02.40.24.75.91
 * Samuel Beckett multimedia library: Centre culturel Athanor - Avenue Anne de Bretagne - 44 350 Guérande - 02.40.24.75.91
 * Cybercenter: 22, faubourg Saint-Michel - 44 350 Guérande - 02.40.15.64.16
 * Music school: BP 5219 - 44 352 Guérande cedex - 02.40.24.72.55

Emergency phone numbers

 * Firefighter: 18, boulevard du général De Gaulle - 44 350 Guérande - phone emergency: 18
 * Police station: 3, boulevard du général De Gaulle - 44 350 Guérande - 02.40.24.90.42

Go next
Each year, the city organize "the Medieval Party" on May.

title: Guerande


text:
Guerneville

Guerneville is a town along the Russian River in California. Pronounced "Gurnville", the town is known for environmental and gay activism, and for its beautiful redwood forested riverside site.

Get in
The nearest large airport is San Francisco International Airport. The closest small airport is Charles M. Schultz Sonoma County with nonstop service to/from Seattle, Los Angeles, and Portland.

By car from San Francisco, follow Highway 101 North to the "River Road" exit just past Santa Rosa. Turn left at the traffic signal. Guerneville is 16 miles west.

Get around
Having a car is important. You can get to Guerneville using public transportation, however is not easy or convenient. Once you are at 'the River' (as it is also known) having a car will help you explore the stunningly beautiful countryside. There are bicycle rentals available in town (seasonally), but much of the terrain is very hilly and the roads are narrow without much of a shoulder for getting well out of traffic.

Buy
Shopping in Guerneville is like walking back in time. With eclectic shops, art galleries, wine cellars, and antique stores you are sure to find what you are looking for. The 5 & 10 Store on Main Street sells treats, candies, games and more. At Etc. Etc. you'll find one-of-a-kind items from around the world.

Groceries can be purchased at the local farmers market, organic food store or Safeway. Every weekend sports a small flea market and local artists can be seen all over town.

Sleep

Go next
Guerneville is about 90 minutes north of San Francisco.

title: Guerneville


text:
Guernica

Guernica (Basque: Gernika) is a Basque town known for its Monday market day which has for decades been considered as a holiday in the town.

Airborne bombing by the German Condor Legion in support of Spanish fascists in 1937 destroyed much of Guernica's old town, but several parts were spared and many were rebuilt. Today, Guernica is a thriving commercial town of 37,000 people (2018) with several museums. Because of its history, it has also become an important symbol of Basque culture and identity.

Understand
Guernica is the traditional seat of the Basque people's liberties, where the juntas generales (the parliament), established in the 15th century, would assemble under the shadow of an oak tree in the town. The tree, commonly called "The Tree of Guernica" (Basque: Gernikako arbola), symbolises the Basque people's historic and traditional rights (Spanish: fueros), and is represented on both Guernica's and Vizcaya's coat of arms.

The town was the site of the first airborne bombing attack on a civilian town during the Spanish civil war. The bombing, by the Condor Legion of Germany's Luftwaffe in 1937, inspired Picasso to paint the landmark cubist work Guernica, now on display at the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia in Madrid.

Get in
Guernica lies roughly 35 km north-east of Bilbao on the N635 road to Bermeo. There is a Euskotren train connection from Bilbao's Zappikaleak (Casco Viejo) station on line E4 departing every 30 minutes on weekdays and hourly at weekends with a journey time of around an hour. Alternatively there is a bus which could be slightly quicker. You can use a Barik card on either.

Get around
The centre of Guernica is easily covered on foot. Free car-parking is available near the Ertzaintza police station (follow road-signs). From there it is a short walk to the tourist office at Artekalea 8. All the main sights can be reached within 10-15 minutes walk from there.

See

 * Church of Santa María de la Antigua: Built in 1826-33 by Antonio de Echevarría in the purest Neo-classical style, this building is used as the plenary meeting hall of the General Assemblies of Biscay.
 * Park of the Peoples of Europe (Spanish: Parque de los Pueblos de Europa) with sculptures by Henry Moore and Basque artist Eduardo Chillida
 * Assembly House and the Tree (Basque: Batzarretxea eta Arbola, Spanish: Arbol y Casa de Juntas)

Do
There is a Henry Moore sculpture, "Great Figure in a Shelter", in a small park behind the Picasso Guernica ceramic.

Go next
Guernica is in easy reach of Bilbao and also has train (indirect) and bus connections to San Sebastian, and the coastal resort of Bermeo, 14 km to the north.

The picturesque fishing village of Elantxobe, perched at the foot of sheer cliffs, is another short bus ride away, and as a bonus, you can watch the bus being spun around on a turntable before it can make its journey back up the narrow cliff-face road.

Other nearby beaches are at Mundaka and Lekeitio

title: Guernica


text:
Guernsey

The Bailiwick of Guernsey (French: Guernesey, Guernesiais: Guernési, Sercquiais: Gyernëzi) is a group of islands in the English Channel, part of the Channel Islands. Guernsey itself is the main island, some 50 miles west of the Cotentin Peninsula in France. It's about 6 miles long by 3 miles wide, with St Peter Port as its chief settlement, and in 2019 had a population of 62,792.

This page only describes the main island of Guernsey, with Alderney, Sark and Herm described on separate pages.

Understand
In 1066 William Duke of Normandy gained the crown of England, so his descendants ruled many parts of France as well as ruling England. A series of wars, and peace treaties followed by more wars, wrested European territory away from England to the growing Kingdom of France, until all that remained were the Channel Islands. And so they remain today. The Bailiwick of Guernsey, like that of Jersey, is therefore a "Crown Dependency". They are not subject to the UK parliament or legislation or - crucially - taxation in any way, and were never part of the EU, but they cede control of defence and most international affairs to the UK. The rules of this arrangement are unwritten and all parties have shied away from testing them. Although Guernsey and Jersey share many similarities, they are as constitutionally separate from each other as they are from mainland Britain, and there is no political entity called the "Channel Islands".

Guernsey grew up as a fishing port but from 1700 found that smuggling paid better, as mainland taxes rose sharply. Even more lucrative was piracy (illegal) and privateering (much the same thing, but legal if it was against the King's enemies). The islands were occasionally fought over (for instance during the English Civil Wars), but more often they were heavily fortified against invasions that never came. One such phase was during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, another was during the German occupation of the Second World War. So as they weren't attacked, the fortifications remain in good condition, and provide some of the main sights on Guernsey.

Post-war development was faltering: light industry, tomatoes and horticulture (undercut by the Dutch), and offshore finance (risky even when legitimate). Mass tourism never started, and so Guernsey has concentrated on high-end tourism. Come here and feel like a swell.

Islands

 * Guernsey itself is the main island, with St Peter Port the capital of the Bailiwick, largest town, and traditional point of arrival. The built-up area straggles north to St Sampson and south to St Martin, and less densely west across the whole island. There's not much open countryside on Guernsey, but it's an attractive bucolic landscape.
 * Lihou is a tidal island with a ruined priory, reached by a causeway from Guernsey.

 * Alderney is ringed with Victorian forts, and has a lot of accessible open countryside.
 * Burhou, a tiny island off Alderney, is a bird sanctuary.
 * Les Casquets are uninhabited rocky islets west of Alderney with a lighthouse.

 * Sark is the last feudal society in Europe, which means no traffic. Its main area of Grande Sark is linked by a precipitous walkway to Little Sark.
 * Brecquou 100 yards west of Sark is privately owned by the Barclay twins, the media tycoons, and you can't visit.

 * Herm is a small, charming island close to Guernsey.
 * Jethou, a tiny island close to Herm, is privately owned and you can't visit.

Talk
Overwhelmingly English is spoken, but Norman-French Guernesais is taught in schools in a bid to preserve it.

Get in
Entry regulations are the same as for Jersey, see Channel Islands.

See Alderney, Sark and Herm for routes to those islands. Unless you have your own boat, Herm is always reached via Guernsey. Reaching Alderney and Sark is usually so but they do have some connections to Jersey and the UK and French mainlands.

By plane
Aurigny are based in Guernsey and fly from London Gatwick, Birmingham, Bristol, Dublin, East Midlands, Exeter, Leeds-Bradford and Manchester. They also fly to and from Jersey and Alderney, and a day trip is possible.

The Jersey airline Blue Islands has direct flights to Guernsey from Southampton, and connections via Jersey from Birmingham, Bristol, Dublin, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Exeter, Glasgow, Newcastle and Norwich. Loganair flights from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle upon Tyne connect in Southampton with the Blue Islands direct flight.There are several flights daily between Guernsey and Jersey and a day trip is possible.

is in the south of the island. Bus 71 runs to St Peter Port M-F 06:30-20:30 every 30 min, hourly Sa Su, taking 30 min, flat fare £1. A taxi to town should be under £10.

By boat
Condor Ferries sail to Guernsey from Poole (3 hours) and Portsmouth (7 hours) in England, St Malo (1 hour) in France and from Jersey (1 hour). These ferries are year-round and take vehicles, with daily sailings in summer, but the fast-cat from Poole is more likely to be cancelled in bad weather. Day-trips are possible to & from Jersey.

Manche Iles sail to Guernsey from Diélette in Normandy. These are for foot-passengers only and are scheduled for day trips from Normandy, with one outward sailing in the morning and one return late afternoon. They likewise have day-trips from Guernsey to Jersey (weekends July-Aug) and Alderney (weekends May-Sept).

is the landing point for all ferries. With your own boat, moor at Victoria Marina the small inner harbour. The pontoons can accommodate boats up to 42 ft (12.8 m) with a maximum draught of 6 ft (1.8 m). It's accessible about 2.5 hours either side of high water.

Get around
Buses ply most of the island roads, all converging on St Peter Port, for a flat fare of £1, just pay cash on the bus. To tour around the island (e.g. to circumnavigate it on Routes 91 or 92) you need a Day Pass, one day for £5 or two for £8.50. There are three late night routes, to Bordeaux Harbour, Grandes Rocques and Pleinmont, flat fare £2.50. A Puffinpass is a pre-payment card for £15, topped up in multiples of £5.

Car hire is available at the airport from Hertz, Avis, Europcar and Hallmark. Best pre-book as their fleets are small and will sell out in peak periods.

Bike hire is available from Adventure Cycles. Other shops do sales and repairs but don't hire.

See

 * Royal Courthouse on St James St has housed the Bailiwick's courts since 1803, so you just admire the exterior.
 * Royal Courthouse on St James St has housed the Bailiwick's courts since 1803, so you just admire the exterior.
 * or "Ivy Castle" is what's left of a Norman moated castle. The ruin was re-fortified in the Napoleonic wars then again fell into ruin as the Governor's garden, a pigsty and liquor distillery. A bunker was built under German occupation. The surrounds are a nature reserve, accessible 24 hours.
 * La Vallette Underground Military Museum is a collection of occupation memorabilia in wartime tunnels half a mile south of town.
 * or "Ivy Castle" is what's left of a Norman moated castle. The ruin was re-fortified in the Napoleonic wars then again fell into ruin as the Governor's garden, a pigsty and liquor distillery. A bunker was built under German occupation. The surrounds are a nature reserve, accessible 24 hours.
 * La Vallette Underground Military Museum is a collection of occupation memorabilia in wartime tunnels half a mile south of town.
 * or "Ivy Castle" is what's left of a Norman moated castle. The ruin was re-fortified in the Napoleonic wars then again fell into ruin as the Governor's garden, a pigsty and liquor distillery. A bunker was built under German occupation. The surrounds are a nature reserve, accessible 24 hours.
 * La Vallette Underground Military Museum is a collection of occupation memorabilia in wartime tunnels half a mile south of town.
 * The Little Chapel half a mile west of the underground hospital is an oddity, just 16 ft long by 9 ft wide, covered in a mosaic of seashells, pebbles, and broken China. Its creator Brother Déodat Antoine was aiming for something like Lourdes, but twice demolished his work as unsatisfactory; the third and present version was built 1923–1939.
 * at the southeast tip of the island is about the best of many scenic clifftop strolls along the south and east coasts. It's an obvious defensive position and Jerbourg's structures range from the Neolithic to the occupation of World War II.
 * is a small tidal island off L'Erée headland, reached by a 1300 ft (400 m) causeway at low tide. Lihou and L'Erée are a wetland nature reserve, and access to some parts may be closed during the seabird nesting season, e.g. to the adjacent islets of Lissroy and Lihoumel. The main sight on Lihou is St Mary's Priory, established in the 12th century but ruined after the 16th century dissolution of monasteries. The farmhouse is modern.
 * at the southeast tip of the island is about the best of many scenic clifftop strolls along the south and east coasts. It's an obvious defensive position and Jerbourg's structures range from the Neolithic to the occupation of World War II.
 * is a small tidal island off L'Erée headland, reached by a 1300 ft (400 m) causeway at low tide. Lihou and L'Erée are a wetland nature reserve, and access to some parts may be closed during the seabird nesting season, e.g. to the adjacent islets of Lissroy and Lihoumel. The main sight on Lihou is St Mary's Priory, established in the 12th century but ruined after the 16th century dissolution of monasteries. The farmhouse is modern.
 * is a small tidal island off L'Erée headland, reached by a 1300 ft (400 m) causeway at low tide. Lihou and L'Erée are a wetland nature reserve, and access to some parts may be closed during the seabird nesting season, e.g. to the adjacent islets of Lissroy and Lihoumel. The main sight on Lihou is St Mary's Priory, established in the 12th century but ruined after the 16th century dissolution of monasteries. The farmhouse is modern.

Do

 * Beaches: over two dozen, those to the north and west being flat and sandy, those east rocky. The south has little coves beneath the cliffs, scenic (Renoir enjoyed painting them) but access is not as easy.
 * West, looking towards Lihou island, are Rocquaine & Portelet Bay, L’Eree, Vazon Bay (which has surfing), Cobo Bay and Grandes Rocques.
 * North are Port Soif (beware currents), Portinfer, Port Grat, Le Grande Havre, Chouet Bay, Ladies Bay, and Pembroke & L’Ancresse Bays - these latter are breezy and popular for windsurfing.
 * East around St Peter Port are Bordeaux, Belle Greve Bay, Havelet, Soldiers Bay, Fermain Bay and Marble Bay (Le Pied du Mur).
 * South around St Martin are Petit Port, Moulin Huet, Saints Bay, Le Jaonnet Bay (the trickiest to access) and Petit Bot.
 * Dogs are not allowed May-Sept on Fermain, Petit Bot, L’Eree, northern end of Vazon, Port Soif, Cobo, and L’Ancresse & Pembroke.

 * Golf: Royal Guernsey GC and L'Ancresse share a course at the north tip of the island. Golf19 is part of St Pierre Park Hotel. La Grande Mare on Vazon Bay is part of that hotel.
 * Live arts: St James Centre is on College St in St Peter Port. Princess Royal Centre is two miles northwest on St Ozouets Rd.
 * Cinema: those in St Peter Port remain closed in 2022. Mallard Cinema is just south of the airport.
 * Island Games are a biannual multi-sports event for small European islands that can't field their own Olympic teams. The next games are hosted by Guernsey on 8-14 July 2023.
 * Work or study: see Channel Islands as the two Bailiwicks have similar regulations.

Buy
Money: The Guernsey pound is on parity with British pound sterling. Notes from Jersey, England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man are also accepted in Guernsey. Guernsey pounds are not accepted in the UK, so change them for UK pounds before leaving the islands, although they can be paid in over the counter at British banks. Cash machines may offer a choice of which local or Sterling currency.

Eat

 * Cream teas are a Guernsey tradition, to take to the beach or eat in. The many outlets include Victoria Cafe in Candie Gardens, the kiosks in Saint's Bay, Port Soif or Portelet Bay (this one is more accessible for wheelchair users); or splurge at Old Government House Hotel.
 * St Peter Port options also include Pier 17, Sawatdi, White Rock Cafe and Le Petit Bistro.
 * Out of town try The Rockmount at Cobo Bay or Crabby Jack's at Vazon Bay, for sunset dining. On the east coast, which is better early in the day, is Fermain Beach Cafe.
 * St Peter Port options also include Pier 17, Sawatdi, White Rock Cafe and Le Petit Bistro.
 * Out of town try The Rockmount at Cobo Bay or Crabby Jack's at Vazon Bay, for sunset dining. On the east coast, which is better early in the day, is Fermain Beach Cafe.
 * St Peter Port options also include Pier 17, Sawatdi, White Rock Cafe and Le Petit Bistro.
 * Out of town try The Rockmount at Cobo Bay or Crabby Jack's at Vazon Bay, for sunset dining. On the east coast, which is better early in the day, is Fermain Beach Cafe.
 * Out of town try The Rockmount at Cobo Bay or Crabby Jack's at Vazon Bay, for sunset dining. On the east coast, which is better early in the day, is Fermain Beach Cafe.

Drink

 * The waterfront in St Peter Port is the main strip of pubs.
 * Wheadon's Gin is a London-style dry gin from a micro distillery within Bella Luce Hotel. They offer tours and tastings Wednesday & Friday at 6PM, £20, booking essential, tel +44 1481 238764.
 * Guernsey doesn't have a vineyard but has two breweries, both on St Georges Esplanade in St Peter Port: Randalls, and White Rock which is also a gin distillery. Tours possible, enquire locally.
 * Wheadon's Gin is a London-style dry gin from a micro distillery within Bella Luce Hotel. They offer tours and tastings Wednesday & Friday at 6PM, £20, booking essential, tel +44 1481 238764.
 * Guernsey doesn't have a vineyard but has two breweries, both on St Georges Esplanade in St Peter Port: Randalls, and White Rock which is also a gin distillery. Tours possible, enquire locally.
 * Guernsey doesn't have a vineyard but has two breweries, both on St Georges Esplanade in St Peter Port: Randalls, and White Rock which is also a gin distillery. Tours possible, enquire locally.

Sleep

 * St Peter Port other hotels include Yacht Inn (more like a sports bar with rooms), Pandora, Ziggurat and La Piette.
 * Out of town hotels are mostly along the sandy western beaches. They include Cobo Bay, Driftwood Inn and The Imperial. La Grande Mare changed owners in 2020 and has not yet re-opened.
 * are self-catering cottages at Camps du Moulin, St Martin's.
 * Campsites are mostly to the north, at La Bailloterie, Vaugrat, Fauxquets Valley and Guernsey Glamping.
 * St Peter Port other hotels include Yacht Inn (more like a sports bar with rooms), Pandora, Ziggurat and La Piette.
 * Out of town hotels are mostly along the sandy western beaches. They include Cobo Bay, Driftwood Inn and The Imperial. La Grande Mare changed owners in 2020 and has not yet re-opened.
 * are self-catering cottages at Camps du Moulin, St Martin's.
 * Campsites are mostly to the north, at La Bailloterie, Vaugrat, Fauxquets Valley and Guernsey Glamping.
 * are self-catering cottages at Camps du Moulin, St Martin's.
 * Campsites are mostly to the north, at La Bailloterie, Vaugrat, Fauxquets Valley and Guernsey Glamping.

Stay safe
The main hazards are natural, e.g. slippy rocks. Crime is uncommon but take usual care of your belongings and avoid the occasional idiot drunk.

You must have personal travel health insurance: the Bailiwick of Guernsey has no reciprocal agreements with the UK National Health Service, EU "EHIC" system, or any other nation. Medical treatment on any of these islands must therefore be paid in full.

Connect
The dialling code for Guernsey is +44, same as for mainland Britain and Jersey, so to call between them you don't dial +44. It's as if Guernsey was a mainland city with dialling code 01481 and UK domestic call charges.

Except for a very few dead spots, all of Guernsey island has 4G from each of its three carriers: Airtel-Vodafone, JT and Sure, and there is Wifi in many public places. As of Sept 2022, 5G has not rolled out on Guernsey. For the latest detailed coverage see GCRA, as Nperf doesn't track coverage in the Channel Islands.

Visitors from UK or Europe need to check their mobile provider for roaming charges.

Go next

 * Ferries to Herm, Sark and Alderney sail from St Peter Port.
 * Jersey: the ferry lands you in St Helier, where the castle is on a tidal islet.
 * Saint-Malo on the French mainland is a walled citadel, with museums and a chateau.
 * Portsmouth on the English mainland is modern but has the historic dockyards, with Mary Rose and HMS Victory.

title: Guernsey


text:
Guerrero

Guerrero is a state on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. Almost all of Guerrero's tourism is concentrated among the cities of Acapulco, Zihuatanejo and Taxco, which the state promotes as the “Triángulo del Sol” (Triangle of the Sun). Acapulco is by far the most important of the three.

Cities

 * — state capital, near the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park, which is famous for its caves
 * — the state's largest city, known for its beaches
 * — a very small fishing village sitting in a mangrove lagoon
 * — the home of Afro-Mexican culture, with a museum
 * — the birthplace of the Mexican flag has a flag museum and a giant flag pole
 * — a planned city with many resort hotels
 * — an undeveloped beach town known for its surfing
 * — a beautiful, hilly town that is a center for silver mining and smithing
 * — one of the most-visited areas in Mexico, it is popular with sports fishermen

Other destinations

 * - This national park near Taxco is an enormous show cave, and one of the largest in the world. Although more than 90 big rooms (salas) have been explored, only about 20 are open to visitors on tours.

Understand
The state is mountainous and rugged with flat areas limited to small mesas and the Pacific coastline. Tourism is the single most important economic factor of the state and Acapulco's tourism is important to the nation's economy as a whole.

Guerrero is home to a number of indigenous communities, including the Nahuas, Mixtecs, Tlapanecs, Amuzgos, and formerly Cuitlatecs. It is also home to communities of Afro-Mexicans in the Costa Chica region.

Get in
Two major airports serve Guerrero:

 * Acapulco International Airport (aka, Juan N. Alvarez)

 * Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport

Get around
Due to safety concerns, the best way for foreign travelers to get around is by plane, flying to safer areas, such as Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, or take a bus from Mexico City to the silver mining town of Taxco or the state capital of Chilpancingo.

If you decide to rent a car and drive, you are safest staying on the major federal highways through the state, MEX-95 through Taxco, Chilpancingo, and Acapulco, or MEX-200 (the Pacific Coast Highway) from Lazaro Cardenas, through Ixtapa and Zihuatenjo, Acapulco, and Cuajinicuilapa to the Oaxaca border. Exploring the backroads to lesser known towns may be risky as these towns are sometimes dominated by drug cartels.

Several bus lines provide service throughout Guerrero. ETN is the most luxurious line serving cities along MEX-95 between Acapulco and Mexico City. Estrella de Oro serves coastal cities such as Zihuatenejo.

See
Acapulco is one of Mexico's oldest and most well-known beach resorts, which came into prominence by the 1950s as a getaway for Hollywood stars and millionaires. Acapulco is still famous for its nightlife and still attracts many vacationers, although most are now from Mexico itself. Zihuatanejo has been paired with the modern tourist resort of Ixtapa, 5 km away. However, Zihuatanejo keeps its traditional town feel. Taxco was one of the primary mining areas during the colonial period. It has narrow winding streets with no sidewalks, due to being built in a narrow ridge on the side of a mountain. The town was declared a national monument by Mexico in 1990, with numerous historical buildings dating from the 17th to 19th centuries.

Archeological sites
Most of Guerrero's pre-Hispanic history is known through archeology. The state has 1,705 registered archeological sites, with seven open to the public. These include La Organera-Xochipala, Palma Sola, Teopantecuanitlán and Cuetlajuchitlán. La Organera-Xochipala is the best known of Guerrero's archeological sites because of its monumental architecture. The site has seven states of development with six patios, and thirty two structures. The site covers 1,600 m² and is located in the community of Xochilapa in the municipality of Eduardo Neri or Zumpango del Río, which is a mountainous and semi-arid region of the state. It was occupied from 650 CE to 1000 CE The tombs are the most notable constructions here and feature a number of Mayan “false arches.”

Palma Sola is a site on the south side of El Veladero in Acapulco. This site does not have any structure but rather it is important for 18 rocks with petrogylphs with images of humans, plants and animals. There are also figures which look to be calendar like and geographic in function.

Teopantecuanitlan is the most important Olmec era site in Guerrero. It is estimated to have been inhabited from between 1000 and 500 BCE. It is in the Valley of Copalillo where the Amacuzas and Mezcala (Balsas) Rivers converge. Cuetlajuchitlan was discovered accidentally during the construction of the Cuernavaca, Acapulco highway. To preserve the site, the Los Querendes Tunnel was built underneath it. It is calculated to extend 35 hectares (86 acres) but only 2 hectares (4.9 acres) have been explored. It was principally occupied between 200 BCE and 200 CE. It is identified as being with the Mezcala culture. The site stands out as an early example of a planned city which extends from the intersection two main roads.

Pueblo Viejo is located on the side of the El Tamarindo mountain just west of the city of Iguala. This site has an extension of 900,000 m² and is divided in two parts due to a ravine that runs through it. The exact number of structures here is not known because the site has not been fully explored. The site of Ixcateopan is located in the municipality of the same name. The explored site was a civic-religious center with a palace and an altar to Quetzalcoatl. Los Tepoltzis, outside the community of Tixtla, consists of a number of small sites including a ceremonial center 30 meters long, 3 meters high with stairways and a plaza. Huamuxtitlán is in the municipality of the same name. While the site is covers significant territory only one pyramid has been uncovered. Most of the rest of the site consists of living quarters. Near this site are smaller sites along the Tlapaneco River.

Do
The state has a number of sites suitable for ecotourism, including mountains, caves, wild areas for the observation of flora and fauna, camping and areas that offer extreme sports. Many of the extreme sports are offered in the Acapulco area including high-speed water jets, kayaking, canoeing, river rafting, rock climbing, spelunking, paintball, mountain climbing, parasailing and more. Activities in other parts of the state include rafting on the Papagayo River, kayaking and canoeing in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, rock-climbing in Chilpancingo and Taxco, mountain climbing in Ixcateopan, rappelling in Zihuatanejo, and bungee jumping and parasailing in Iguala.

There are a number of caves to explore such as Grutas Dos Arroyos in Dos Arroyos, various small caves in Pueblo Bravo and some in Acapulco. The best known caves in the state are in the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park. This park is home to the Grutas de Cacahuamilpa Caverns and the Grutas de Carlos Pacheco. The first is a live cave with many rock formations still in progress. This has infrastructure for tourists and guided tours. The second set of caves is a dry cave with less infrastructure and tours only by appointment.

Buy
Guerrero is well-known for its quality metalwork, especially jewelry. The best known work produced in the state is made with silver, centered in the town of Taxco. Each year this town holds the annual National Silver Fair (Feria Nacional de la Plata). Gold is worked in locations such as Iguala, Ciudad Altamirano, Coyuca de Catalán, Arcelia and Ometepec. Steel machetes and other items are produced in Ayutla, Tixtla, Chilapa, Tecpan deGaleana and Ometepec. Gold leaf is done in Tlacotepec, Tlalchipa and Cuetzala del Progreso. Costume jewelry is made in Acatlán, and Chilapa, producing buttons of various colors, pieces made of brass coated in nickel, glass and metal wire to produce items such as necklaces, bracelets, and more. Other jewelry is made by twisting and weaving fine strands of silver or gold wire. Silver is mostly done in Taxco, with gold pieces in Ciudad Altamirano.

Wooden items are locally painted and coated with a high-gloss lacquer (laca). The best pieces of this type are made of a distinctively aromatic wood called lináloe (from Bursera aloexylon). But due to lináloe's relative scarcity, cheaper ones are made from pine and treated to smell like lináloe. The making of lacquered items is centered in the municipality of Olinalá, but also in Temalcalcingo, Ocotepec and Acapetlahuaya. Items made include small boxes, chests, trays, masks, frames, jewelry boxes.

Pottery is a very traditional craft and is practiced in many of the communities of the state, although most of the wares produced are basic and meant for local consumption. These items include cooking pots, water containers, pitchers, candle holders and some sculptured decorative items. Most of these items have been made the same way since the pre-Hispanic period. The best quality ware is considered to be made in the central valleys in municipalities such as Zacualpan, Nuitzalapa, Atzacualoya, and others. Some areas have become specialized for certain types of pieces. The San Juan neighborhood of Chilapa make figures of a ceramic which is glassy after firing. Acatlán makes ceramic toys, and Ometepec specializes in the making of very large cántaro jars, traditionally used for storage.

Clothing and textiles are mostly made by indigenous communities such as the Nahuas, Mixtecos and Amuzgos, who use weaving and embroidery patterns to distinguish themselves from one another. The most distinctive indigenous clothing item is the huipil although rebozos and other items are also made. While much is made for local consumption, indigenous clothing can be found in tourist areas and other markets as well as tablecloths, napkins and other decorative pieces. Communities with reputation for their textiles include Tlacoachistlahuaca, Xochistlahuaca, Yoloxóchilt (San Luis Acatlán) and Acatlán (Chilapa).

Another craft, practiced mostly along the central and coastal areas, is that of palm frond weaving. With these fronds items like hats, bags, fans, mats, animal figures and more are made. A particular type of hat made in this fashion in Chilapa, Zitlala, Zapotitlán Tablas and Ahuacoutzingo is called a “costeño” hat.

Most handcrafted furniture is made in Taxco and Ixcatepoan, in which an aromatic cedar is found. Other furniture producing areas are Chilpancingo, Iguala, Teloloapan and Ciudad Altamirano. In addition to furniture, items such as masks and figures are carved from wood.

One craft which is specific to the state is painting using traditional amate or bark paper as a canvas. This craft began in the 1970s in Xalitla, located between Iguala and Chilpancingo. Since that time, these paintings or drawings have become known inside and outside of Mexico. The best known works today come from the communities of Maxela, San Juan, Ahuelicán and Ahuehuepan. Most of the themes of these paintings are related to agriculture, everyday life and religion.

Leathercrafts is mostly limited to saddlemaking and other items relating to horseback riding. This is prominent in areas such as San Jerónimo, Chilpancingo, Tixtla, Quechultenango and others. Other crafts include stone sculpting and the cutting of precious and semiprecious stones, buttons and other items for clothing and costume jewelry.

Eat
Cuisine in the state is most strongly influenced by the indigenous, the Spanish and, to some extent, the French. Corn, chili pepper, beans and meat are indigenous ingredients. Indigenous preparations include the various moles (red, green, yellow and others), chalupas, totopos, atole, pozole and many other dishes. Spanish contributions include wheat, leavened bread (including “chilpancingueñas") and dairy products. French influence comes from the French occupation of the country in the 19th century as well as French monks who had been in the area of Chilapa earlier.

Regional dishes include mole de jumil (made from a particular type of native beetle) in Taxco, bean tamales in Tepecuacuilco, quail dishes in Iguala and seafood cuatete in the Costa Chica area. Pozole blanco is widely and traditionally consumed on Thursdays and Saturdays in the state.

Drink
Chilate is a flavored atole (corn-based drink) served in the afro-mexican communities of the Costa Chica region of western Guerrero. The drink is flavored with cocoa, rice, cinnamon and sugar, and is served very cold and usually over ice.

A number of areas in the state produce mezcal and wine is made in the Huitzuco area. If you're exploring some of the smaller towns in Guerrero, keep your eye open for locally produced mezcals. Although Oaxaca is the state with the most mezcal distilleries, several artesanal distillers in Guerrero produce excellent mezcals.

Stay safe
Guerrero is definitely not the safest state in Mexico. If travelling from Oaxaca, you'll probably notice the increased presence of the Army. The usual advice applies here.

Go next

 * Oaxaca
 * Michoacan
 * Morelos

title: Guerrero


text:
Guerrero Negro

Guerrero Negro is a city of 14,000 people (2015) in Baja California Sur, on the edge of the Vizcaino Desert just south of the state border about halfway down the peninsula. It is best known for the whale watching, although its primary industry is salt. The entire Vizcaino region is a protected biosphere called the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve. The protected area includes the entire Vizcaino desert, the entire Sierra San Francisco mountain range, the Pacific coast lagoons where the grey whales reproduce, and the beaches and islands on the Sea of Cortes. Guerrero Negro is the best "home base" for visiting those sensitive environmental areas.

Get in
The easiest and more comfortable way is by plane: there is a company that flies from Ensenada to Guerrero Negro on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at 11:30, it makes a stop at Isla de Cedros. The company is Aeroservicios Guerrero, and the phone number is +52 615 157 01 37.

To get to Ensenada you may fly to San Diego and take the bus at the station that is just across the border in Tijuana. There is also a bus that leaves from the airport in Tijuana each hour since 08:30 and it arrives to Ensenada two hours later.

Other way is to rent a car in Tijuana and make the 12-hour drive, it is a long drive but it is worth the trip, and it is cheaper if you are two or more people.

The last way is to take a bus from Tijuana Central Station to Guerrero Negro it leaves at 12:15, 16:00 and 18:00 and it takes about 12 hours to get to Guerrero.

You can also fly to Los Cabos and to rent a car there or to take a bus to La Paz and from La Paz to Guerrero Negro (12 hours from La Paz) and it leaves at 10:00, 16:00 and 23:00.

Get around
Walking or taxi is the easiest way to get around in town. You'll want to hire a boat to explore the lagoons of Ojo de Liebre.

The lagoon complex of Ojo de Liebre has been recognized as a wetland of international importance by the Ramsar Convention and as a Hemispheric Importance Site for shore birds conservation so bird watching is a must. It is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

You can also visit the sand dunes around Guerrero Negro. There are guided visits to the largest open salt company, to the rock paintings at San Francisco and Santa Marta Sierras, and to the less well-known paintings of Mesa del Carmen, north from Guerrero Negro.

See
Guerrero Negro is the place with the highest concentration of grey whales in the world. Scammon Lagoon is one of three areas in Mexico where grey whales migrate to in winter to give birth and to mate. The whale watching tours in this area are almost mandatory, Also, visit the largest salt works in the world, bird watching in winter, giant sand dunes and one of the largest concentrations of Osprey's in the world (they hatch by the end of February), Malarrimo Restaurant have a little museum on the bar side with a nice collection of flotsam recovered from Malarrimo Beach. There were sand blasted bottles, fishing floats from Japan, pieces of ships, wooden oars, round army containers about 92 cm (3 feet) long and 20 cm (8 inches) in diameter, lots of construction helmets and a wooden ships wheel, etc.

Do

 * Eco-Tours Malarrimo was the first private operator permitted by the Mexican government to conduct tours in the area; even nowadays, Malarrimo Ecotours is the most popular whale watching tour in town. Besides, was the first one to offer cave painting tours, bird watching, salt tours, peninsula pronghorn and worked with film crews like CNN, Animal Planet, TBS Japan, Globo Brasil, Televisa, TV Azteca,ABC, three movies and TV commercials.

Tours leave at 08:00 and 11:00 and cost US$50 or M$650 (as of Feb 2012)
 * Mario's Tours offers a wide variety of tours including whale watching tours, bird watching and rock paintings.
 * Whale watching in nearby Scammon's Lagoon (Laguna Ojo de Liebre).
 * The town has a celebration each year to hail the annual arrival of the gray whales that calve in the lagoons of Baja California Sur . This festival occurs during the first half of February.

Eat
There are several restaurants scattered along Emiliano Zapata, and a few others to the north of that road. These include. Below is a listing for a taco truck:

Sleep
All accommodations are very basic.

Go next

 * Ensenada — third-largest city in Baja California
 * Guadalupe Island — large desert island in the Pacific Ocean
 * El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve — Mexico's largest protected natural area, breeding waters for gray whales

title: Guerrero Negro


text:
Guhagar

Guhagar is a city in the South Konkan region of Maharashtra, India.

Get in
The best way to get in is by road. Maharashtra State Transport (S.T.) buses ply from Mumbai, Thane and Pune. The S.T. Bus depot is right in the heart of town.

Chiplun is the nearest major city and is directly on NH17. The state highway turning off to the right when approaching Chiplun from Mumbai on NH17 leads to Guhagar which is approximately 40 km away.

People travelling from Pune can reach Guhagar by travelling to Satara on NH4 and then to Patan, Koayana Nagar and then by descending Kumbharli Ghat to reach Chiplun and finally Guhagar.

For those travelling southwards from Dapoli, there is a ferry service available from Dabhol to Dhopave (or Dhopav). Guhagar is approximately 15 km from Dhopave.

Get around
Given the small size of it, one can get around Guhgar Town by foot. However, there are other place worth seeing that require either your own vehicle or Local S.T. buses. However, given limited frequency of the S.T. Buses to most villages around, the former seems to be the best choice.

One can also hire auto rickshaw (3-seater) or Dumdum (6-seater) for the entire day and do a tour.

See

 * Vyadeshwar - This temple of Lord Shiva is literally a stone's throw away from the S.T. Depot, right in the middle of the bazaar. It is the Kuladaivat of a lot of Kokanastha Chitpavan Brahmins (Surnames like Patwardhan, Godbole, Damle, Oak, Phadke, Apte, Abhyankar, Soman, Bhat, Ranade, Joglekar, Agashe, Kelkar, Deodhar, Pethe, Gadre). The Main Pujari at this temple is Bhave Guruji, and Poojas are being offered by the trust.
 * Ufarata Ganpati - This temple of Lord Ganesha is 200 metres away from Bazaar, on the road to Anjanvel/Veldoor. The idol is carved in white stone (marble?) and was found by local fishermen around 300 years back. There is a legend associated with this idol, that's worth taking a note.
 * Guhagar Beach - Guhagar beach is one of the cleanest and less polluted beaches in Maharashtra. The bus station is only 200m inland. The beach looks pretty safe though there are warnings posted by local villagers. There are chat stalls on the shore.
 * Velaneshwar - Approximately 25 km south of Guhagar, along Guhagar-Hedvi road, is located this beautiful temple of Lord Shiva. The temple is right on the pristine sea shore. Just like Vyadeshwar, this too is Kuladaivat of lots of Kokanastha Chitpavan Brahmins. There are smaller temples of other gods like Shri Vishnu, Ganesha, Kalabhairav around the main temple. At the entrance is a tall Deepamaal.
 * Hedvi - Hedvi is a small village located at approximately 27 km along Guhagar-Narvan road, towards south of Guhagar. This small village is yet another popular location around Guhagar that boasts of 2 places worth seeing. Most famous is the temple of Dashabhuja (10 Hands) Ganapati. This temple dates back to age of Peshwas. The idol of lord Ganesha is carved in marble and is supposed to be from Jammu-Kashmir. The temple has been renovated and is very clean and simple. The second place is around 3 km away from the temple, by the sea side, called Brahman Ghal (Gorge). On the same sea shore is the temple of Uma Maheshwari. One has to go past this temple to reach the Brahman Ghal. This beautiful natural wonder is a gorge in the black rock patch and is around 20 feet deep, 35 feet long and 1-2 feet wide in dimensions. During high tide, the sea water gushes in.
 * Budhal - The sea shore of Budhal has both kinds to offer - serenity and danger. This very small town is located around 5 km from Village Adoor Phata along Guhagar Hedvi Road. The road is pretty bad and terminates at a spot that offers commanding view of the entire Budhal village and the rough rocky sea shore it has. One can also see a small temple and a virgin beach of yellow sand past the village.
 * Chandika Mandir - Chandika Mandir is located around 15 km north of Guhagar. One has to travel to Veldoor (10 km away from Guhagar) and cross the Dabhol creek by launch to reach Harbor Dabhol on the north side. From Dabhol the Chandika Mandir approach road is around 4 km when traveling towards Dapoli. The temple is 15-20 feet underground in a cave. Electricity is forbidden inside so it is only lit by lamps and candles. However, it was discovered only 300 years back. Outside the temple is a tomb of the discoverer of this temple.
 * Gopalgad - This ancient fort is located near Anjanvel - 11 km North of Guhagar, along the coast line. It is believed to be built at the start of 16th Century by the Siddis. It was captured by Shivaji Maharah in 1660. What remains today is only the ruins of this huge fort that spans 7 acres.

Buy
Home-made Konkan products such as Amba Poli, Phanas Poli, Kokam Agal, pickles, jams, flours etc.

Eat
Recommended restaurants include Hotel Suruchi and Hotel Vainateya (near bus station).

Drink
Kokam Sarbat and Coconut Water is sold everywhere. Try Hotel Suruchi's (Guhagar Bazar Peth) special konkani solkadhi.

Sleep
Most accommodations are for budget travellers and cost around ₹500 per day or less for a double room.

 * Damle's Hotel Suruchi, at Bazar Peth near Vyadeshawar Mandir. Dining and lodging facility is also available. M: 09421137937
 * Mody Villa (9892091313 ) offers accommodations and quality food at seaside.
 * Damle's Hotel Suruchi, at Bazar Peth near Vyadeshawar Mandir. Dining and lodging facility is also available. M: 09421137937
 * Mody Villa (9892091313 ) offers accommodations and quality food at seaside.
 * Mody Villa (9892091313 ) offers accommodations and quality food at seaside.
 * Mody Villa (9892091313 ) offers accommodations and quality food at seaside.
 * Mody Villa (9892091313 ) offers accommodations and quality food at seaside.

Go next

 * Dapoli - One can proceed to village Dhopave and cross Dabhol creek using Ferry Service available. From Dabhol, Dapoli is around 22 km.
 * Ratnagiri - One can proceed to Ratnagiri from Guhagar by travelling via Hedvi and Narvan.

title: Guhagar


text:
Guide

Guide (Chinese: 贵德 Guìdé) is a county in Qinghai.

Understand
Guide (Guìdé, 贵德) is a Tibetan county located south of Xining. Because of its name, you will find it hard to search for information about it in English. It is near the origin of the 3 rivers (Yellow, Yangtze and Mekong).

The county seat is the town of Heyin (Héyīn, 河阴).

As of 2016, new highways mean that Guide is an easy 3-hour return day trip from Xining. Book your return ticket when you arrive!

Get in
Buses for Guide leave from the Xining West Bus Station every 40 min or so between about 07:00 and 18:00. Cost is about ¥30 and the journey takes around 1½ hours. Returning buses to Xining Are from Guide Bus Station (贵德汽车站). The last return bus leaves at 17:45.

Get around
Taxis start at ¥5 within the county seat. You can also get around in 3-wheel cars or on the back of a trailer for slightly less.

See

Guide received massive investment in the tourism sector in the 2010s. As of 2016, a five-year plan to "refurbish" the old town within the city walls has resulted in the creation of "Guide Old Town" - a modern take on what was clearly once a beautiful historical place. The refurbishment is almost complete and with it has come the demolition of many of the towns old buildings. The walls are still there, but they now contain a large museum and new temples seemingly devoid of believers.

Do
Hire a cab to the Zha Chang hot springs (扎仓温泉) about 20 km outside of town in a small Tibetan Village. The water is very very hot in the summer and locals indicate it's better in the winter. Be prepared for naked old Tibetan men and women. As of 2016, there is a fee for entry.

This is the rare town where genuine interactions with locals is possible. Enjoy!

Buy
Lots of cheesy Tibetan stuff.

Eat
Hand made square noodles are a popular local dish. Restaurants seem to be located close to the bus station.

Sleep
Turn left out of the Bus Station and there is a hotel with decent doubles for about ¥100 (after bargaining) about 50 m up the road. This hotel can take foreigners.

Wen Quan Binguan (hot spring hotel, 温泉宾馆) is a more upmarket option with a hot spring heated swimming pool and spa. This is the default location for foreign tourists. Doubles start at about ¥200. Outside of summer you should be able to bargain hard.

title: Guide