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Lalibela

Lalibela is a rural town of 15,000 people in a stunning setting at an elevation of 2,600 m (8,500 ft) in the midst of the Lasta mountains in the eastern highlands of Northern Ethiopia. Its unique and remarkable monolithic churches hewn from living rock, most built more than 900 years ago, are one of Ethiopia's leading attractions and were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978.

Understand
Lalibela is a great little town to visit. Its complex of churches chiselled from pink volcanic rock have been called the "eighth wonder of the world". In addition, the wonderful year-round climate and exhilarating mountain views, combined with some of the finest lodgings outside of the capital, are reason to spend a few days soaking up the fine vistas. Lalibela's relative isolation and small size means you will get to understand more intimately and thoroughly the innate piety and hard lives of the rural poor.

To the north of Lalibela, Dewosach, where much of the decorating and illumination of holy books was done in the time of King Lalibela, rises more than another 1,000 m (3,280 ft) above Lalibela to 3,670 m (12,040 ft) while the much nearer and slightly lower Asheten with its distinctive flat top lies to the east. Asheten means smell in Amharic and this mesa was named during the reign of King Lalibela's nephew, King Neakutoleab, who burned frankincense while building Saint Mary's church on its summit – visiting monks said they found it by following the smell.

This is not to say that everything in the garden is rosy. Women here bear an unfair workload, and you may wince when you see little girls of five and six bent double and almost hidden from view by the immense load of firewood on their backs while their elder brothers play outside table tennis. Sanitation and public cleanliness is a bit haphazard so there are more flies here than in Tigray to the north.

To the south of the north-west complex of churches you can still see some older dwellings built in the style peculiar to Lalibela, neat round two storey dwellings built out of stone with conical, thatched roofs, but most other buildings are either wattle and daub structures or improvised buildings with corrugated roofs patched with thatch. There could hardly be more of a contrast with the ancient craftsmanship of the ecclesiastical buildings – which must surely be unique in all the world for having been built from the top down rather than from the ground up.

Guides in Ethiopia are licensed in different ways for different areas and sites by the Ethiopian government. The guides for the rock hewn churches are specialised-licensed for the 11 churches. The federally licensed tour guides can operate all around Ethiopia but cannot take you into the churches in Lalibela town.

History
Since the town, first called Roha, was founded by the eponymous King Gebre Mesqel Lalibela of the Zagwe dynasty more than 900 years ago as the "new Jerusalem", the later-renamed Lalibela has been a major ecclesiastical centre of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and a place of pilgrimage to its amazing concentration of rock-hewn churches. Pious Ethiopians often walk hundreds of kilometres in bare feet from all over Ethiopia to receive blessings.

Although all the church exteriors and interiors are carved from soft volcanic tufa, their architecture is extremely diverse: some stand as isolated monoliths in deep pits, while others have been cut into the face of a cliff. Establishing a sequence or chronology for a rock-hewn building is much more difficult than for a conventional one, especially when the churches in Lalibela are all in daily use for services. Consequently, there have been long running academic disputes as to both the time period and duration of construction.

The Ethiopian Orthodox tradition unequivocally recognises the huge task represented by the cutting of these churches and their associated trenches, passages and tunnels. It explains the completion of the excavation during the reign of a single saintly king by attributing much of the work to angels who, after the workmen had downed tools for the day, came in on a night shift and worked twice as fast as the human day shift had done. In this way, work proceeded so fast that all the churches are said to have been completed within King Lalibela’s quarter-century rule.

Some argue that the oldest of the rock-hewn features at Lalibela may date to the 7th or 8th centuries CE – about 500 years earlier than the traditional dating. These first monuments were not built as churches, although they were later extended in a different architectural style and converted to ecclesiastical use. Later – perhaps around the 12th or 11th century – the finest and most sophisticated churches were added, carved as three- or five-aisled basilicas and retaining many architectural features derived from those of ancient Aksum, which had flourished some 400–800 years previously. It is the last phase of Lalibela’s development which may, Phillipson believes, be dated to the reign of King Lalibela. The complex of churches was extended and elaborated. Several of the features attributed to this last phase bear names like the Tomb of Adam or the Church of Golgotha, which mirror those of places visited by pilgrims to Jerusalem and its environs. This naming has extended to natural features: the seasonal river which flows though the site is known as Yordanos (Jordan) and a nearby hill is Debra Zeit (Mount of Olives). It seems that it was King Lalibela who gave the place its present complexity and form: a substitute for Jerusalem as a place of pilgrimage. It may be significant that early in King Lalibela’s reign the Muslim Salah-ad-Din (Saladin) had captured Jerusalem, and for this reason Ethiopians may have felt excluded from making their traditional pilgrimage to the Holy Land across the Red Sea. Today, a cloth-draped feature in the Church of Golgotha is pointed out as the Tomb of King Lalibela.

By car
The roads to the small town of Gashena, south of Lalibela, are asphalted from Bahir Dar and Gondar to the west, and Woldia to the east. From there it is 1-2 hours over a road that is unsealed except for the last part from Lalibela Airport to the town. From Bahir Dar the drive takes about 7-8 hours and from Gondar about 10-11 hours. It is possible to get private drivers in both Bahir Dar and Gondar and would cost about 2,000-4,000 birr depending on negotiations, location and driver. There is also an unsealed road to Lalibela from the north, but even if coming from Axum and Adwa, it is quicker and easier to take the sealed road via Adigrat and Woldia.

By bus
There is a daily bus from Addis Ababa. It is a two-day journey with an overnight stop at Dessie. The bus passes through Woldia mid-morning and will pick up passengers from the bus station if it has room. Another bus runs daily from Woldia, leaving at dawn. Both the Woldia and Addis Ababa buses depart Lalibela at 06:00.

It is usually possible to get to/from Bahir Dar by bus in one day by changing buses at Gashena, about one or two bumpy hours from Lalibela depending on traffic and weather. If you are travelling to or from Gondar by bus, you will usually have to spend the night somewhere.

Coming from Axum the most plausible way would take about two nights with stopovers in Mekele and Woldia. However, if you are lucky you might be able to catch a shared taxi in Mekele which brings you along highway 1 to Woldia. The next day you can catch a bus heading towards Bahir Dar with a stop at the Gashena junction to Lalibela where you have to wait for another bus/car to bring you to Lalibela. This might take a few hours.

Get around
You may lose a few kilos walking up and down the streets (some cobbled, some dirt). You can rent bajajis/tuktuks or minibuses to drive you around town for about 25 birr per person (minimum 50 birr). Unlike bigger towns and cities in Ethiopia, no blue and white minibuses regularly run through Lalibela.

You can walk safely around town (and people will greet with many wanting to practice their English or offer their services or wares). School children may try to befriend you, and follow you around, perhaps beg. From 2010 onwards the government has tried to forbid begging, and the situation is now much better than before, but many people still beg after a long conversation or invite you to their homes where more successful begging can be done.

See
This town is known around the world for its churches hewn from the top down into living rock, most of which were built during the reign of the eponymous Lalibela, king of Ethiopia, when he moved his capital here in the Zagwe period. Contrary to certain spurious myths, they were not built with the help of the Knights Templar; rather, they were produced solely by medieval Ethiopian civilization. However, there is controversy as to when the churches were constructed. Some scholars believe that the churches were built well before Lalibela and that Lalibela simply named them after himself. They were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978.

The churches are open 06:00-12:00, and 14:00-17:00. In practice, they open about half an hour late and close half an hour early. Admission to all costs US$50 for adults, and USD25 for children aged 9-13 (ticket valid for 5 days). You must carry your passport with your ticket. You can pay in birr at the official exchange rate, so it is cheaper to pay in birr if you have changed your money on the black market. Entry is free for children under 9 and Ethiopians without a foreign passport. Licensed guides are available from the tourist office in Lalibela for 200 birr per day. These guides are well trained and have an excellent working knowledge of the churches and good relationships with the priests. Unlicensed guides will approach you all over the village, but they often know very little about the churches and are best avoided.

You must take your shoes off before entering the churches. As there are numerous churches, you will do this a number of times. You may find it easier to wear slip-on footwear, such as flip-flops. The rock between churches in each cluster, although uneven, has been worn smooth over the centuries, so you might even take a plastic bag to pop your footwear into, and walk barefoot between the churches as many pilgrims do.

It is well worth it to attend a dawn service. Arrive by 05:45 to hear the bass drums of the call to prayer. Services start at 05:50. There are also fewer flies and wanna-be guides pestering you. Ethiopian birds are colourful and more of them are about just after dawn. A great time to visit is on Sunday mornings, when hundreds of people descend on the churches for traditional Ethiopian Orthodox worship. If your alarm clock lets you down, don't fret – looking inside the churches is less intrusive after 10:00, and what you lose in birdlife is compensated by red, yellow and blue headed lizards scampering over the rough terrain.

The 11 churches are in three clusters, all within easy walking distance of each other:
 * The north-western group of 6 churches includes: (House of the Saviour of the World), home to the Lalibela Cross and believed to be the largest monolithic church in the world, probably a copy of Saint Mary of Zion in Axum. It is linked to Bet Maryam (St Mary's, possibly the oldest of the churches), Bet Golgotha (known for its arts and said to contain the tomb of King Lalibela), the Selassie Chapel and the Tomb of Adam.
 * The north-eastern group of 4 churches includes: (possibly the former royal chapel), Bet Merkorios (which may be a former prison), Bet Abba Libanos and Bet Gabriel-Rufael (possibly a former royal palace), linked to a holy bakery.
 * (St George's Church), unique in all the world in its cruciform style, is very well preserved and on its own 500 m to the south.

Farther afield lie the monasteries of Na’akuto La’ab (4 km south) and, and Yimrehane Kristos church (possibly 11th century, built in the Axumite fashion but within a cave).

Do

 * Visit the weekly market on Saturday. There's not much you would want to buy, some local weaving possibly, but it's an invaluable insight into local life. Make sure you visit the donkey park.

Buy
There is an ATM at Dashen Bank on the ground floor of the Aman Hotel close to the Ethiopian Airlines office, and another next door at the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia. The Dashen one permits up to 2000 birr in one transaction with multiple daily transactions possible up to your daily card limit. Only Visa is accepted. For other card holders the only option besides having an acquaintance send money via Western Union is to go to the Mountain View Hotel. They will charge MasterCard plus a 10% surcharge and give you birr.

Even in Addis Ababa, Ethiopian "supermarkets" are only glorified "sari sari" shops and the range of goods carried by even the tiniest village shop in the highlands of Scotland would put them to shame. The best stocked place in Lalibela is the "WOW Supermarket" on the west side of the steep Sebat Woyra Road about 200 m before it joins Adebabay Street by the Seven Olives Hotel.

Eat

 * Hotel Lalibela (in the south downhill, on the main street with the souvenir shops opposite Tukul Village Lodge). Excellent food in the attached restaurant for reasonable rates. 30-100 birr (Sep 2016).
 * The restaurant at the Seven Olives Hotel (listed in the Sleep section below) serves some of the largest and tastiest helpings in Lalibela. Their steak stuffed with rice and vegetables and served with a most delicious kita made from aga is delicious and large enough to feed two at less than 110 birr (June 2013). This delightful restaurant set in a mature garden in the commercial centre of town is circular, with a giant 10m diameter weaving forming the ceiling and making you feel like you are under the giant traditional cover of a mittad cooking injera!
 * The restaurant at the Seven Olives Hotel (listed in the Sleep section below) serves some of the largest and tastiest helpings in Lalibela. Their steak stuffed with rice and vegetables and served with a most delicious kita made from aga is delicious and large enough to feed two at less than 110 birr (June 2013). This delightful restaurant set in a mature garden in the commercial centre of town is circular, with a giant 10m diameter weaving forming the ceiling and making you feel like you are under the giant traditional cover of a mittad cooking injera!

Drink
In addition to the places below, there are cheaper local places with tej (honey wine) for 5-10 birr per bottle.

Sleep
Lalibela has an extremely high proportion of faranji seeking accommodation, as opposed to locals; consequently budget accommodation is scarce and overpriced.

There are many "tourist class" hotels whose owners and managers have often never visited Addis Ababa – never mind travelled outside Ethiopia – and seem to suffer the delusion that guests from Europe, Asia and Australasia will not understand prices in birr. Consequently they invariably will quote a laughably high price in US dollars at first.

Prices quoted below are for the low season of June-August and hoteliers will try to extort a much higher price during festivals and other busy times.

Most tourist class lodgings are concentrated in two areas:
 * Shimbrima at the north-western end of Adebabay St, many with stunning escarpment views and a gentle climb to the economic centre of town and a steeper descent to the church complexes
 * Getergie at the south-western end of town, on and off Getergie Rd and without the stunning escarpment views (but still with fine views of the surrounding buttes and mesas) but still a long way to the bus station on the eastern side of town. Hotels in this district have both a steep climb to the church complexes and then an equally steep climb to the economic centre of town. However, maybe it's better to stagger downhill to your bed after a day's sightseeing?

For those arriving by bus, this very basic hotel may save them both some dosh and a long uphill hike to the town proper:

North

 * Mar Telo Bar, (on the main road opposite Red Rock Hotel, easy to miss due to the small sign). Has cheap rooms for backpackers paired with a scenic view and cheap food and tej. The old lady running it may not understand English – you may need a translator. 250 birr single (Sep 2016).
 * Mar Telo Bar, (on the main road opposite Red Rock Hotel, easy to miss due to the small sign). Has cheap rooms for backpackers paired with a scenic view and cheap food and tej. The old lady running it may not understand English – you may need a translator. 250 birr single (Sep 2016).
 * Mar Telo Bar, (on the main road opposite Red Rock Hotel, easy to miss due to the small sign). Has cheap rooms for backpackers paired with a scenic view and cheap food and tej. The old lady running it may not understand English – you may need a translator. 250 birr single (Sep 2016).
 * Mar Telo Bar, (on the main road opposite Red Rock Hotel, easy to miss due to the small sign). Has cheap rooms for backpackers paired with a scenic view and cheap food and tej. The old lady running it may not understand English – you may need a translator. 250 birr single (Sep 2016).
 * Mar Telo Bar, (on the main road opposite Red Rock Hotel, easy to miss due to the small sign). Has cheap rooms for backpackers paired with a scenic view and cheap food and tej. The old lady running it may not understand English – you may need a translator. 250 birr single (Sep 2016).

Cope
Enterprising local children might ask you to buy schoolbooks and pens for them. Some say don't bother contributing to their education in this way, as they will return the books and keep the money.

Go next

 * Bahir Dar – to the west
 * Mekele – to the north
 * Simien Mountains. Lalibela is at 2,600 m, and so is good acclimatisation for the higher mountains, especially if you do some day walks in the hills surrounding the town.

title: Lalibela


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La Libertad

Surf's up in La Libertad, the most popular surfer's beach in El Salvador. It's also got a great malecon for evening strolls, with several good seafood restaurants with ocean views and spectacular sunsets.

Understand
La Libertad is a great beach with long, wide stretches of sand and blue waters. You can tan yourself, walk along the beach and collect shells, or hang out in town and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Most people coming to Libertad are here for the surfing though.

Get in
You can take bus 102 from the corner of 17a Av Sur and 6a Calle Poniente in the city center, US$0.60.

Get around
You can walk and surf in the nearest beaches. Buses from Liberad to other beaches like El Tunco and SunZal cost US$0.25 and catching a ride in a truck is always an option.

Do
La Libertad beaches are some of the best surfing beaches in Central America.

If you plan to surf, understand that these are the local's breaks also. Expect them to drop in on you, but if you drop in on them, they might say something. There are numerous places to rent boards and many of the hostels outside of La Libertad have a decent selection. Most rent per day for US$5-6 and up to US$12 per day at Hospital de Tables (best selection in one place). If you are new to surfing, SunZal is an easy point break but can be crowded on weekends. Surf boards are allowed on all buses with no additional cost. Enter through the back door where the seats are removed.

Eat
You can eat the world famous cocteles de camaron (shrimp cocktails) and a lot of seafood. Pupusas seem to be a staple food for travelers and 3 for a dollar is hard to beat. These are sold just about everywhere in Libertad and all along the highway. The local comedors along the highway and in town also sell large plates of tipico for US$2-4, well worth the splurge. There is a selection of higher priced gourmet restaurants dotted throughout the area also.

Drink
The neighboring town of El Tunco has most of the bars frequented by travelers and local surfers. Beer starts at a dollar in most places. Watch for event parties in Libertad on the weekends at the pavilion near the beach.

Sleep
There are many options along the coast ranging from $5 to $50 per night.

 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.
 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.
 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.
 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.
 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.
 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.

Stay safe
Staying safe in the city is very important. As many other cities in El Salvador, La Libertad is highly populated but unlike San Salvador it has a lower crime rate. Common sense rules apply as in most places:

 * Don't wear expensive jewelry.
 * Don't hang out in places that look abandoned.
 * If you rent a car don't rent a luxury car.

Go next

 * San Salvador
 * Los Volcanes National Park

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

title: La Libertad


text:
Lalish

Lalish is in Iraqi Kurdistan.

Get in
Return taxi from 'Duhok costs 40,000 dinars. It takes approx. 1 hour.

See

"Holy See" of the Kurdish Yezidi religion.

Religious festival takes place in September, the autumn Feast of the Assembly.

Lalish is an amazing area. get here on a popular day when the people are here. Take off your shoes, they walk bare foot here. Walk up the main street and there is a special underground part 100 meters or so on the right. you have to walk through a gate and into a square area. inside here there is a secret area. People are super friendly, they can show you around.

title: Lalish


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La Llacuna

La Llacuna is a small town of about 850 people (2018) in Catalonia, Spain. It is a tourist town; nearby destinations include Igualada, the Vilafranca del Penedès wine route, and the Monastery of Montserrat.

Get in
You can only get in by car or by bus.

By bus
There are not many buses.

See

 * Fountains - La Llacuna has a lot of beautiful fountains all around. Cuitora's Fountain is one of the most popular, but there are others like Hort's Fountain, Granotes Fountain (Frogg's Fountain) and Pla Novell Fountain. You can walk to all of them along beautiful tracks, about 30 minutes from the main square.
 * Diables, Ball de Diables is a traditional dance of Catalonia, represented by a group of demons with firecrackers.
 * Diables, Ball de Diables is a traditional dance of Catalonia, represented by a group of demons with firecrackers.

Do

 * In La Llacuna you can spend a lot of time walking around: forests and vine fields are of particular interest.
 * Explore the town, see the fountains and the walls, sit down and watch the lives of the people of La Llacuna.
 * Also you should visit The Castle, from where you will have a wide view of the valley.
 * Riding around and swimming are the best activities in summer.

Events

 * Fira de Sant Andreu the first Sunday of December where you can eat the best
 * Potada date variable, typically in April.
 * Aplec del Castell The last Sunday of May.

Buy
La Llacuna is best known for its inlays and meats. There are some shops that send all over Catalonia, to hotels, restaurants and particulars.

La Llacuna has two supermarkets, a pharmacy, a kiosk, a fish market, bakery (with tasty desserts). Electrical goods and a variety of other stuff is found in the Major square.

But you can't leave this village without buying some carquinyolis from Ca l'Americano, it's a typical dessert, like a cookie.

Eat

 * Ca l'Americano Restaurant
 * Cal Tiquets Restaurant
 * La Bona teca Restaurant

Drink

 * Cal Joan Bar
 * La pansa Bar
 * el Trull Bar

Go next

 * Igualada
 * Vilafranca del Penedés (wine route)
 * Montserrat (Spain), a monastery situated at the top of a mountain - impressive buildings, great views and good walks around the hill. Try the cable car ride up (although if you're afraid of heights it's probably best not to!)

title: La Llacuna


text:
La Louvière

La Louvière is an industrial city of 80,000 inhabitants in Wallonia, Belgium. It is centrally located between Charleroi and Mons.

By plane
The nearest airports are in Brussels and Charleroi.

By train
Trains run to La Louvière from many destinations. The train ride from Brussels takes approximately 30 minutes. The is located closest to the centre, while the  is located on the southern edge of the city.

By car
La Louvière is easily accessible by car, situated just off the E19 Road.

Get around
La Louvière has a local bus service.

See
La Louvière is an industrial city with little to attract tourists. However one aspect of this industrial heritage is particularly interesting, the Hydraulic Boat Lifts along the Canal du Centre are regarded as one of the finest industrial achievements in Europe and as such have been placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The four lifts are along the canal between La Louvière and Mons they are well signposted from the main road as les ascenseurs hydrauliques. Les Cantine des Italiens near lift 1 has a small museum and offers boat trips along the canal. The pump house at lift 3 has a small exhibition and welcome center.

Hydraulic boat lifts
Listed according to distance from the city centre starting from the closest. The four oldest ones were built around 1900 and are listed as a.

Guided tours in French, Dutch, and English. Advance booking is necessary.

Reservation and information: "Voies d'Eau du Hainaut", Rue des Clercs 31, 7000 Mons - tel: +32 65 36-04-64 - fax: +32 65 33-57-32.
 * Italian Canteen, E19/E42, exit 21 "Le Roeulx", follow the signs "Ascenseur n°1 Cantine des Italiens"
 * For Bracquegnies, E19/E42, exit 21 "Le Roeulx", follow the signs "Ascenseur n°3 Salle des Machines".

Do
There are several possibilities to hire boats to travel along the canal.

Go next

 * Brussels — the national capital is a major transport hub but also boasts a number of interesting sights.
 * Mons — the regional capital of the Hainaut province is nearby.

title: La Louvière


text:
Lamai

Lamai is a beach on the southeast coast of Ko Samui, Thailand.

Orientation
The southern third of the beach has the widest strip of sand, is the best for swimming, and has the most nearby eating and drinking and shopping options, though it is known for strong waves and occasional rip currents and also has a view Seadoo-rental companies. On the nearer end it is packed with beach chairs and tourists occupying them, though on the far end near Hinta Hinyai (see below) it is much quieter and better swimming. The more northeasterly part of the beach, beyond the bridge into Old Lamai over the lagoon of the now-blocked-by-new-sandbar Lamai River, the water doesn't get deep enough for swimming until you're quite some distance out, and is sometimes brackish because of a small creek that occasionally is flushed out to sea. The farther north you go along the beach, the narrower and quieter the beach becomes, eventually becoming rocky towards the headland, though some very fancy resort clubs and spas are in that area.

The North Lamai area, which begins north/east from where Lamai Beach Road meets the Ring Road (where there is a MacDonald's sign as a landmark), flanks this more northerly beach and has a nice atmosphere, and a prominent landmark in the form of the Buddy Oriental Resort and its tower and modern plaza; many nice small restaurants and shops line this stretch, and is very different from the tourist-commercial core of Lamai Beach Road, or the old Thai town near the temple. A lot of Lamai is away from the tourist area on the other side of the Ring Road, and also hidden within back roads in the triangle between it and the busy touristy strip, and has nice residential areas mixed with small stores and stall-eateries worth walking or exploring by bicycle. A road leads up from that area over the low pass to Maenam on the north side of the island.

Beyond that beach, through a small commercial area on the Ring Road where a large modern IT Center building is, and just before the Ring Road heads up the mountainside towards Chaweng, is what is acclaimed as the best swimming beach on Samui. Properly known as Hed Thongthakien, it is usually referred to by the names of either of the two last resorts before the road goes up the hill: Crystal Bay or Silver Beach. Other than those two, there are four or five others on the beach or immediately adjacent to it. Also in North Lamai, a side road leads out onto the point separating Lamai Beach from Hed Thongthakien, with some cheap places to stay, some restaurants with amazing views of Lamai Bay, and two very private deluxe major resorts, one of which, the Banyen Tree, has its own private cove and beach similar to Hed Thongthakien.

There are a significant number of girlie bars along the main street as well as in some side streets. They are most prevalent in the southern part of town, while the northern part is virtually free of them. The part of Old Lamai that is at the north end of Lamai Beach Road, near the McDonald's sign, has a number of French eateries and bars, plus a few owned by Germans and Italians, and is more relaxed than the loud and often too-busy tourist core. In that same area is the Public Market, behind the gas station, which has cheap eats and a number of stores leading towards it from the beach.

Get in
Minibus transfers between Lamai and Samui Airport cost about 150 baht/person; a private taxi charter costs around 300-400 baht.

A minibus from the ferry terminal (normally) sets you back 60 baht, but most tourists are asked (and do pay) 100 baht. See the Ko Samui section about how you may try to avoid that.

See

Hire a Jeep or motorbike and explore the surrounding area of Lamai as there are plenty of interesting attractions to see. Ko Samui's most popular tourist sites are in this locality so if you're getting bored swimming all day, try some exploring around the area instead. The south of Lamai, once you get past the Muslim Fishing village Hua Thanon, is Samui before becoming the popular tourist destination it is now. It gives you a view of lush greenery, livestock grazing in the fields, and little roadside cafes selling drinks and Thai dishes.

Between Lamai and Hua Thanon lies two famous rock formations: Hin Ta and Hin Yai also known as Grandpa and Grandma Rocks. These formations look like the male and female genitalia, respectively. What makes these rocks even more strange is that they are close to each other, giving way to a legend explaining how they came to be.

Near Hin Ta and Hin Yai is a small beach. It is not for swimming but it gives you time to cool your feet. Small souvenir shops sell clothes, postcards, drinks and snacks including the local sweet "galamae". Parking is convenient and viewing these popular formations is free. The setting has been spoiled somewhat by a children's zoo-type goat farm. Access to the beach in the direction of the main part of Lamai is not possible; you have to retrace your steps to the Ring Road and access it through one of the resorts along the Ring Road towards Lamai. The commercial area around there is also called Hinta Hinyai, and features a driving range and also the Lamai Post Office.

The Wat Lamai Temple has played host to temple fairs along with weddings, funerals and various religious festivals. It features concerts, fairground games, food and an outdoor cinema, but is normally very quiet, other than the sounds of children playing at the temple school. The temple fairs are week-long celebration and are worth seeing if you happen to be in Lamai during one. The strip south of the corner where the temple is has a number of good tourist souvenir shops and also French bakeries and other eateries, as well as Thai service businesses as is also the case with the strip from the temple corner back towards Tesco and the gas station and beyond.

The cultural hall within the temple contains a collection of artifacts from Samui's past. The collections range from brass and earthenware containers to a 2,000-year-old metal ceremonial drum dug out of a Lamai village. Like other wats on Koh Samui, the temple has a mummified monk but fittingly doesn't make a big deal out of "him".

Wat Khunaram, which is past Hua Thanon towards Na Mueang, houses the body of one of Samui's most famous mummified monks, Loung Pordaeng. Loung Pordaeng died in 1973, and, at his request, his body was placed in a glass case. His body has remained in the specially-made glass case since his death and amazingly, shows few signs of decay.

Diving
There are numerous dive shops in Lamai though they all have one thing in common, there is no diving on Ko Samui and so they all travel to Ko Tao for the day.

Eat

Connect
Internet cafes are plentiful and typically also offer international calls, fax services, and flight confirmation. The connection and speed is generally good. Expect to pay 60 baht/hr for Internet in most places.

Go next

 * Bang Rak
 * Bophut
 * Chaweng
 * Choeng Mon
 * Laem Yai
 * Mae Nam
 * Nathon
 * Samui South Coast

title: Lamai


text:
Lamanai

Lamanai is a Mayan archaeological site in Northern Belize. The name Lamanai means "submerged crocodile".

Get in
To reach Lamanai, one must travel up the New River for a 26 mile scenic boat ride through dense jungle. The trip is best organized in Orange Walk Town, where several hotels can book a boat trip for you. If you are arriving by cruise ship, you should prearrange your Lamanai excursion online. Along the New River one can see a variety of wildlife including exotic birds, Morelet's crocodiles, and howler monkeys. There are Maya people on makeshift canoes swimming and fishing along the New River. As you travel further down the river you pass many Mennonite villages. Young Mennonite children greet you as you arrive at Lamanai selling peanuts and homemade cookies. It is hard to turn down the barefoot innocence of these young entrepreneurs.

Get around
The area in the Lamanai ruin complex have fairly smooth walking paths, though they are rough enough to pose a problem for those using walkers, wheelchairs or scooters.

See
The ancient ruins of Lamanai are not completely uncovered yet. As you walk around you see many temples that are uncovered and many hills that upon closer observation are temples yet to be excavated. Wildlife is abundant around Lamanai. You see and hear howler monkeys and it has been known that jaguars are nearby. This is reflected in the stories of the locals as well as the architecture.

As for the temples you do see they are amazing. The temples rise from the jungle floor to a spectacular view above the jungle canopy. The temples have many carvings into them of the jaguars and crocodiles that inhabit the New River Lagoon. In fact on one of the temples, "El Castillo", you have the ability to climb to the top at your own risk. There is a rope and very narrow, tall, steep steps leading to the view of jungle. It is approximately 100 feet (30 m) to the top resulting in a breathtaking view.

Do
Cruise ship passengers arriving into Belize City are able to arrange tours to see Lamanai. These should be prearranged as port times can be limiting. The tour is approximately 6-7 hours and it is recommended that you go in a small group for the best experience.

 * Lamanai Cruise Ship Excursions, Belize Cruise Excursions. Providing small group tours and private tours to Lamanai Mayan ruins with flexible departure times set by your cruise ship arrival time.

title: Lamanai


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La Manga

La Manga is a seaside spit of Mar Menor on the coast of Murcia. It is a major sports and leisure resort.

There are sailing and skiing schools that run periodical courses, as well as windsurfing and catamarans, and canoeing. In the nearby town of Los Belones is a stadium, La Manga Stadium, known for hosting numerous football clubs from all over the world during the winter months. La Manga Cup at La Manga Club has been staged every year since 1999. The 2011, 2012, and 2013 Copa del Sol tournaments were also held partly at the stadium, as were many of the 2000–01 Nordic Football Championship matches.

Understand
The Mar Menor with its 5 islands and having shallow and protected waters, lends itself to being an international water-based sports station.

Do
Activities include tennis, football golf and watersports.
 * Surfing, windsurfing & kitesurfing at La Manga del Mar Menor: All along the Mar Menor are miles of stunning sandy beaches that are in kept to the highest conditions all year round. The crystal clear water at the Mar Menor provides Europe with one of the largest salt lagoons.
 * Play Golf at La Manga Club (near Mar Menor). This area is well known for the golf courses and resorts. The weather in this area is sunny and warm all the year.
 * Walking trails: La Manga is set around the Murcian mountains and enjoys stunning views over La Manga del Mar Menor. The area is on over 1500 acres of walking and riding trails. The activity centre at La Manga is able to provide suggested routes and detailed maps of these trails.
 * Sailing: Yachts enter the Mar Menor from the Mediterranean at Tomas Maestre Marina, through a 4-m dredged channel crossed by a 7-m-high swing bridge (Puente del Estacio) that opens for 15 minutes every 2 hours from 08:00 to 22:00. You can also find several boats for rent all around the coast.
 * Sailing: Yachts enter the Mar Menor from the Mediterranean at Tomas Maestre Marina, through a 4-m dredged channel crossed by a 7-m-high swing bridge (Puente del Estacio) that opens for 15 minutes every 2 hours from 08:00 to 22:00. You can also find several boats for rent all around the coast.

title: La Manga


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La Manzanilla

La Manzanilla is a small fishing village on the Bay of Tenacatita. South of Puerto Vallarta. From Puerto Vallarta, it takes about 3 hours by car to arrive in La Manzanilla. La Manzanilla is a quiet town with about 1000 people. La Manzanilla has a long, curving, gently sloping beach with gentle surf extending for about a mile. Good swimming, diving, fishing. Numerous restaurants line the beach.

Get in
Check with your travel agent as many airlines offer charter services to both Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo during the high season.

The most direct route is to fly to Manzanillo Airport (ZLO). Manzanillo Airport is approximately 45 minutes south of La Manzanilla. You can rent a car at the airport from many of the well-known US car rental companies. The rentals are on-site at the airport and reservations are recommended. Alternatively you can take a taxi from the airport. Taxis are approximately US$50 each way and there are plenty of taxis available as you exit the airport. There is no direct bus service from the airport to La Manzanilla.

If you fly to Puerto Vallarta there are two first class bus companies driving to Melaque which is 20 minutes south of La Manzanilla. Check the information on bus-schedules to and from Melaque.

Get around
There is bus service several times a day in and out of La Manzanilla. Taxis are also readily available. A bike is handy to have but not necessary as you can walk to everything in town.

 * Swim, stand-up-paddle or kayak out to the rocks and swim down to see the statue of María Asunción.
 * Visit the mangrove museum where you can see skeletal remains of some huge crocodiles.
 * Hike up river bed to the water falls.
 * Volunteer with La Catalina Educational Foundation, Cisco's Amigos or one of the other local nonprofits

Do

 * You can hire a local fisherman to go after Dorado, Sailfish,Tuna, and many other varieties of fish that frequent the bay.
 * Wildlife observation is popular for Spotted Porpoises, Whales, Brown Pelicans, Cormorants, Brown-footed Boobies, Frigates, and many more varieties of animals.
 * The active traveler will not be disappointed by a visit to La Manzanilla. There are ample hiking opportunities, snorkeling just off the beach, biking, kayaking, and boogie boarding.
 * La Manzanilla hosts a mangrove full of birds and other wildlife, including several hundred crocodiles. A tour of the La Manzanilla mangrove is a must during any visit.
 * During the high tourist season, mid-November to March, one can enjoy a number of classes in La Manzanilla, such as yoga, cooking and art. There is also an art gallery in La Manzanilla.
 * If local dining excites you, you'll find lots of restaurants in La Manzanilla.
 * There is plenty to do and see in La Manzanilla. Have fun doing everything or just relaxing on the beach.

Eat
There are a wide variety of restaurants to try: fine Mexican, Italian, European and even Asian cuisine. The beach is lined up with open palapa restaurants which offer sun shades and lounge chairs to enjoy your day on the beach.

Sleep
La Manzanilla hotels are modest but well-kept and usually include a private bath. Kitchens are typically shared, although some bungalow-style hotels include a private kitchen. Air-conditioning is not common, but televisions are becoming more popular in the hotels. When you arrive, if possible, check out a few rooms as usually each is different. Keep in mind high season is mid-November through March. It’s best to call ahead to confirm availability and pricing. Below is a listing of a few of the popular hotel choices. If you are looking for more upscale accommodations, they come in the form of vacation rentals.

There are also a couple of nice campgrounds in La Manzanilla.

Go next
From La Manzanilla it is relatively easy to travel to Manzanillo, Colima, Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. ETN is the most comfortable bus transportation in Mexico. The nearest bus-station from La Manzanilla is in Barra de Navidad. Another bus line to Colima, Guadalajara and Mexico City is Primera Plus which also leaves from Melaque.

title: La Manzanilla


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Lamar

There is more than one place called Lamar:

United States of America

 * Lamar (Arkansas) — A town in Arkansas.
 * Lamar (Colorado) — A town in Colorado.
 * Lamar (Indiana) — A town in Indiana.
 * Lamar (Mississippi) — A town in Mississippi.
 * Lamar (Missouri) — A town in Missouri.
 * Lamar (Nebraska) — A town in Nebraska.
 * Lamar (Oklahoma) — A town in Oklahoma.
 * Lamar (South Carolina) — A town in South Carolina.

title: Lamar


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Lamar (Colorado)

Lamar is a city in the Eastern Plains of Colorado.

Get in
Lamar is served by Amtrak via the once-daily Southwest Chief train between Chicago and Los Angeles. is located at 109 E Beech St.

title: Lamar (Colorado)


text:
Lamar (Missouri)

Lamar is a city in Missouri.

title: Lamar (Missouri)


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La Marsa

La Marsa is a beach-side settlement in Northern Tunisia.

Get in
Get the TGM train line from Tunis. La Marsa is the last stop. Trips cost less than 1 DT and take something over 30 minutes.

See

 * The beach is quite nice, but is reputedly popular with locals from Tunis on weekends.
 * There is a mosque with a fairly interesting tower near the train station

Do

 * Relax in a coffee shop

Buy
Bamboloni, a sort of donut shaped beignet made by several shops at the place du Safsaf and popular with locals. Less than DT1.

Eat

 * There is a fantastic restaurant literally above the water on the beach. A meal with two courses and a beer will run you just under 50 DT, but the impeccable service and view out over the ocean and down the beach is well worth it.

Drink

 * The O Bar at the Hotel Plaza Corniche is popular, as is the nightclub below (only starts around 01:00 outside of summer, mostly house music but a friendly DJ with much music who can likely play to suit your taste if you arrive early or with a large group. License finishes 02:00).

Sleep

 * The unique Hotel Plaza Corniche is on Rue de Maroc, a few hundred metres up from the train station (from the station, walk back down the train line on the coastal side. You can't miss the entrance). Not cheap, but offers pleasant enough rooms and a simple breakfast gratis. Quite an experience!

title: La Marsa


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La Massana

La Massana lies in the western border parish (administrative division) of the same name and en route to the town of Ordino in Andorra between Andorra La Vella and France.

By car
Leaving Andorra La Vella or Escaldes-Engordany, take route CG3 northwards 6km. La Pal is some 7 km further via the CG5, turning left at Erts and passing through Xixerella.

By bus
Passengers can take bus line L5 or L6 from Andorra la Vella, Arinsal or Ordino to La Massana. Connecting passengers can use their ticket within one hour to connect to La Massana's bus for free (and vice versa).

By taxi
Andy runs private transfers from Barcelona city centre and El Prat airport. Price starts at €279 to La Massana for a 4-passenger sedan (Dec 2023).

Get around
The parish runs its own bus routes, numbered M1 to M4. A single La Massana local bus trip costs.
 * M1 La Massana - Erts - Arinsal - La Massana
 * M2 La Massana - Erts - Pal - La Massana
 * M3 La Massana - Escas - Sispony - Anoys - L'Aldosa - La Massana
 * M4 La Massana - L'Adosa - Anoys - Sispony - Escas - La Massana

Skiing
The centre of the village is dominated by the cable car system which takes you up to the Pal-Arinsal ski area within about 10 to 15 minutes, making La Massana an ideal location to go skiing from.

Go next

 * Pal village: This village preserves the typical appearance of the traditional Pyrenean village and enters a Pal for Special Protection, passed in 1997.
 * Go north to Ordino for more attractions like museums.

title: La Massana


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Lamayuru

Lamayuru, also spelt Lamayouro, is a small village between Kargil and Leh in Ladakh, India.

Understand
Lamayuru is home to one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh, dating back to the 10th century. Local legend has it that the place was once a lake that dried up. The village has around 100 houses scattered around the Lamayuru Monastery.

Get in
Lamayuru village is 125 km from Leh on the Leh–Srinagar Highway. Any vehicle going from Leh to Kargil, or on to Srinagar, will invariably pass through Lamayuru. State transport buses ply from Leh bus stand to Lamayuru at 08:00 and 14:00; however, it's wiser to visit the bus stand a day before to confirm the timings.

Get around
On foot. It's a small village.

See and do

 * There are a collection of Buddhist murals, texts and figures on display. 50 rupees.

Eat
There are a number of restaurants in the village.

Sleep
There are a number of homestays that can be arranged for around 500 rupees (2018).

 * Singay guest house. Clean, has wifi, secure bike parking, friendly family. Double room around 500 for one person.
 * Singay guest house. Clean, has wifi, secure bike parking, friendly family. Double room around 500 for one person.

Go next

 * Alchi – small village with a gompa, or Buddhist monastic complex, 4 km off the road to Leh
 * Kargil – second-largest town of Ladakh after Leh
 * Leh – capital of Ladakh

title: Lamayuru


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Lambertville

Go next

 * Titusville (New Jersey)
 * Delaware Township
 * Flemington

title: Lambertville


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Lamego

Lamego is a city the Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro region in Northern Portugal.

Understand

Lamego (luh-MIH-goo, /ɫɐ.ˈme.gu/) is an ancient city (the oldest in the kingdom of Portugal), dating back to Roman times. It was definitively regained in 1057 by Fernando Magno de Leão from the Moors. It was in Lamego that the legendary Cortes de Lamego took place, where D. Afonso Henriques was acclaimed the first King of Portugal in 1140.

Get in
Lamego can be accessed via the A24, which connects the city to both Viseu and Vila Real (and from there to Porto ).

See

 * Desterro Church — The paintings, painted boxes that cover the ceilings, carving and tiles stand out from this church. The façade is distinguished by the full arch portal with Corinthian columns and the interrupted pediment to frame the coat of arms.
 * Desterro Church — The paintings, painted boxes that cover the ceilings, carving and tiles stand out from this church. The façade is distinguished by the full arch portal with Corinthian columns and the interrupted pediment to frame the coat of arms.
 * Desterro Church — The paintings, painted boxes that cover the ceilings, carving and tiles stand out from this church. The façade is distinguished by the full arch portal with Corinthian columns and the interrupted pediment to frame the coat of arms.
 * Desterro Church — The paintings, painted boxes that cover the ceilings, carving and tiles stand out from this church. The façade is distinguished by the full arch portal with Corinthian columns and the interrupted pediment to frame the coat of arms.
 * Desterro Church — The paintings, painted boxes that cover the ceilings, carving and tiles stand out from this church. The façade is distinguished by the full arch portal with Corinthian columns and the interrupted pediment to frame the coat of arms.
 * Desterro Church — The paintings, painted boxes that cover the ceilings, carving and tiles stand out from this church. The façade is distinguished by the full arch portal with Corinthian columns and the interrupted pediment to frame the coat of arms.
 * Desterro Church — The paintings, painted boxes that cover the ceilings, carving and tiles stand out from this church. The façade is distinguished by the full arch portal with Corinthian columns and the interrupted pediment to frame the coat of arms.

Do

 * Pilgrimage of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios — Occurs from the 6th to the 8th of September. It is one of the largest Portuguese pilgrimages, taking place in the sanctuary and in the city, with processions and floats.

Eat
Bola de Lamego is a specialty of the region. It is easy to find in the city of Lamego, mainly in the area of the cathedral. You can have several fillings, including cod, fried meat or ham, all wrapped in a kind of bread dough, the secret of which is very well kept by the manufacturers.

Also known for its gastronomy, in which its hams and "roasted lamb with oven rice" stand out. There are many specialties in the Lamego region, such as bean soups, corn with spare ribs, kid or rabbit in the oven, Teixeira's biscuit and the famous Lamego balls.

Drink
it is also a land of good wines, like Raposeira, Port wine, of which it is a part of the Demarcated Region, and sparkling wines.

Go next

 * Peso da Régua
 * Alijó
 * Vila Real
 * Viseu
 * Guarda
 * Pinhel
 * Porto

title: Lamego


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La Merced

La Merced is a town in Southern Sierra, it is the capital of the Chanchamayo Province in the Junín Region, Peru.

Understand
La Merced is 750 meters above sea level between the towns of Tarma and Pichanaki.

Get in
Buses from Huancayo take about 4 hours and leave from the multi-company terminal on Av. Ferrocarril.

Get around
The town center is very walkable. Mototaxis to most locations are S/1 (sol) per person during the day, a bit more at night.

See
La Merced is reasonably close to the waterfalls Catarata de Bayoz and Velo de la Novia, see the Pichanaki page for details.

Do

 * Puente Kimiri, in the direction of Oxapampa/Pichanaki (45 min walking from the center). Cross it, then follow the red arrows 30 min until a small wood house and a river. There are 3 waterfalls here. On the right Las Reinas, you have to walk in the water. On the left Hanuman (by the river or other path going up), then Gondika further, by the river.

A variety of tours have hawkers in the central plaza in the morning until about 10:00. Most of the companies offer the same options.

 * Perene Tour - this jungle overview tour is appropriate for all ages and abilities. It includes 2 waterfalls (you can swim at the bottom), a "native village", a coffee processor, a boat ride, and a stop for lunch.  It runs about S/35.
 * Indiana Jones Tour - not the real name, but they will know what you are talking about. This trip takes you up a creek bed with several waterfalls that you climb with a rope through the water.  At times you scale wet slippery rocks without a rope.  Good physical condition is highly recommended. Some groups also have 2 guides to help you up the waterfalls.  If you're nervous you may want to ask around for a 2-guide tour. S/25 per person.
 * Discoteca Kametsa Cafe Rock - A nightclub on the outskirts of town that is hopping on Saturday nights with a fun and friendly crowd. Plays a heavily Latin mix.

Buy
Coffee and cocoa are grown locally not to mention lots of fruit. Art and craft made by the Ashaninkas make good souvenirs also.

Eat

 * Try an ice cream in Bio fresh (S/3 for 2 balls, just before the terminal, or in the mainplace but you can't sit)
 * Casa de Allen has good burgers in 3 sizes, flaming crepes with ice cream (a bit further than the Municipal Albergue los Peregrinos, Av Peru, 40 min walking from the center). Allen knows the area well, he can give you good information (to go on the rio for instance).
 * You can try local selva food in various locations around town, but do not try local animals meat such as zamaño, cutpe, sajino (all are some wild pigs), venado (deer), or fishes such as doncella or zungaro as many of these are endangered.

Go next

 * Atalaya The Emerald of Ucayali. Boats travelling downstream to Pucallpa.
 * Huancayo
 * Oxapampa (S/10, 1hr 40min)
 * Pichanaki
 * Satipo
 * Tarma - The Pearl of the Andes.
 * Villa Rica

title: La Merced


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Lamesa

Lamesa is a city in the Llano Estacado region of Texas. It is heavy on the agriculture sector and gives off an authentic feel of provincial Texan life.

title: Lamesa


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La Mesa

La Mesa is a city in San Diego County in Southern California.

Get in
The local San Diego Trolley light rail system serves La Mesa with two lines: the Orange Line travels through much of La Mesa, heading south through Lemon Grove and on to Downtown San Diego. The Green Line travels through the northern part of La Mesa, going west past SDSU and through Mission Valley to San Diego's Old Town and Downtown. La Mesa has four trolley stations: Spring Street (Orange Line only), La Mesa Blvd (Orange Line only), Grossmont Transit Center (Orange and Green Lines) and Amaya Drive (Orange and Green Lines).

See

 * Mt. Helix Park, 4901 Mt Helix Dr, hilltop park affording 360° views including mountains and ocean and sunrise and sunset. Daily 5:30AM-7PM, free.

Do

 * Christmas in the Village
 * Walkway of the Stars
 * Antique in the Street

title: La Mesa


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Lamia

Lamia (Greek: Λαμία) (Population: 64,716 (2011)) is the capital of the Phthiotis region of West Central Greece.

Get in
Lamia sits almost in the middle between Athens (211 km) and Thessaloniki (295 km).

By bus
There are KTEL intercity buses starting at Lamia.

By train
Lamia is no longer on the main line Athens - Thessaloniki. Timetable is available on TrainOse website

See

 * — The railway bridge over the river Gorgopotamos is famous for one of the biggest sabotage acts of World War II, known as "Operation Harling". A British mission and 150 Greek partisans blew it up on 25 November 1942, cutting off German supplies being transported between Athens and Thessaloniki.
 * — The railway bridge over the river Gorgopotamos is famous for one of the biggest sabotage acts of World War II, known as "Operation Harling". A British mission and 150 Greek partisans blew it up on 25 November 1942, cutting off German supplies being transported between Athens and Thessaloniki.
 * — The railway bridge over the river Gorgopotamos is famous for one of the biggest sabotage acts of World War II, known as "Operation Harling". A British mission and 150 Greek partisans blew it up on 25 November 1942, cutting off German supplies being transported between Athens and Thessaloniki.

Do

 * Football: PAS Lamia 1964 play soccer in Superleague, the Greek top tier. Their home ground is Municipal Stadium (capacity 5500) 1 km north of town centre.

Go next
Loutra Ypatis - A spa town on the foothills of Mt Oiti, 20 minutes away by car.

title: Lamia


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La Mirada

La Mirada (LM) is a city in Los Angeles County in Southern California.

By car
Most people get to La Mirada by car. From the I-5/ Santa Ana FWY, take the Valley View exit. It dumps you off in the industrial outskirts of La Mirada. Follow the signs that direct you North toward Biola University which is near the city center.

From the 57 freeway in Brea, exit Imperial Highway and head West. From the 60 freeway, take the Azusa exit South toward Colima, turn right on Colima (headed West) and though this is a longer route, it's hilly and scenic at times (especially at night when the city lights are all aglow). Plus, it's a straight shot: Colima forks off into La Mirada Blvd (after you pass Whittier Blvd) and takes you right into LM.

By bus
You can also take the bus. Coming from Downtown Los Angeles, Montebello, and surrounding areas take the Montebello Bus Line #50. Coming from Orange County take the OCTA bus, either #20 from Yorba Linda or #29 from Huntington Beach. For maps and more details check out the city's map of local bus routes.

Nearby Norwalk and Fullerton have Metrolink train stations which have connecting bus routes and accommodate travelling further distances which can be painfully slow by bus. Check the 91 Line or the Orange County Line schedule.

By plane
Most major airlines serve Long Beach Airport which is the area's regional airport, it is 10 miles (16.0934 km) from the airport which is in Long Beach.

Get around
Sometimes La Mirada resembles Mayberry USA (of Andy Griffith Show fame) but it is undeniably Southern California in at least one way: you need a car. Access to a car is required to thrive in and around La Mirada.

But if you're on vacation or your life is pretty centralized around LM, then by all means ditch the gas-guzzler and try life in the bike lane. LM has extensive bike lanes and sidewalk space, making it relatively safe for cyclists and pedestrians.

La Mirada Transit, sometimes referred to as "Dial-a-Ride," also offers convenient door-to-door shuttle service Monday-Saturday at varying times for $1 one-way. It's a bus-taxi hybrid that is quite reliable and especially helpful on rainy days or for those without driver's licenses. Their website lists the phone number to arrange pick-up and their hours of operation.

Seasonal

 * La Mirada Stadium. From August to early November, the La Mirada Matadores football team can be seen playing here on Friday nights. At La Mirada High School.
 * La Mirada Stadium. From August to early November, the La Mirada Matadores football team can be seen playing here on Friday nights. At La Mirada High School.
 * La Mirada Stadium. From August to early November, the La Mirada Matadores football team can be seen playing here on Friday nights. At La Mirada High School.
 * La Mirada Stadium. From August to early November, the La Mirada Matadores football team can be seen playing here on Friday nights. At La Mirada High School.
 * La Mirada Stadium. From August to early November, the La Mirada Matadores football team can be seen playing here on Friday nights. At La Mirada High School.

Learn

 * Biola University, Private Christian Liberal-arts College. Home to 6 graduate schools. They offer adult certification programs that don't have all the stipulations of a standard degree. Auditing classes is also an option.
 * The Community Center across the parking lot from Regional Park, behind the Firehouse, offers a variety of classes and workshops open to the public. Everything from Jazzercise to memoir-writing. You must register for classes, so if you aren't here for at least a semester, it's not likely they'll let you join for one class session (unless you have a friend in the class).

Drink
Coffee and tea:

Adult beverages:

There are only dive bars in La Mirada. Yesterdays, The Golden Brick, Tubby's. They are standard dive bars with the standard regulars hangin' over the bar and the standard underage drinkers crowded in the corners.

For a classier place to get a drink, maybe on a date, try Pisces Sushi or Mr. Z's. If you're looking for something in between the dive bar/ restaurant divide, or if you're alone and new in town, head over the hill to La Habra where Red Robin, Chili's, and Applebee's offer the dive bar experience set within a casual, family restaurant.

Connect

 * The Public Library has free internet access with library card.
 * Java Co. and Panera Bread have free Wifi.

Go next

 * Fullerton for nearby college nightlife
 * Anaheim for Disney-ga-ga-galore
 * Los Angeles

title: La Mirada


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Hong Kong/Lamma

Lamma Island (南丫島), also known as Pok Liu Chau (博寮洲) or simply Pok Liu (博寮), is the third largest island in Hong Kong.

Understand
Lamma Island has a very different pace of life to nearby Hong Kong island. There are no cars on the island, and all apartments must be built with a maximum 700 square feet per floor. That being said, the weekend attracts many Hong Kong people and each time the ferry docks the town gets very full quickly.

Note that although there are hoards of westerners living on the island, it is almost opposite of the sterile culture of Discovery Bay (An expatriate community on Lantau Island). People tend to come and live here for an alternative lifestyle rather than modern living, which makes it great for relaxation.

There are three villages on Lamma Island:

 * Yung Shue Wan in the north is the main town where most of the island's population lives. It is connected to the central piers.
 * Sok Kwu Wan in the south is basically a street lined with large seafood restaurants. It is connected by ferry to Aberdeen and the Central Piers.
 * Mo Tat Wan is a tiny village to the east with a few houses and a couple of restaurants. The ferry between Aberdeen and Sok Kwu Wan actually stops here, so after eating a large lunch you can stroll over here before catching the ferry back.

Get in

The only way onto Lamma island is by boat:

 * Ferries to Lamma Island leave from Hong Kong Central Piers to
 * Ferries to Lamma Island leave from Hong Kong Central Piers to
 * There is ferry between Aberdeen in the south of Hong Kong island and Sok Kwu Wan. Mondays to Saturdays adult fare HK$12, Sundays and public holidays HK$18.

Get around
If you don't wish to walk or bike, the only regular motorised transport links on the island are coastal ferries between Yung Shue Wan and Pak Kok and between Sok Kwu Wan and Mo Tat Wan, with both boats continuing onwards to Aberdeen. Speedboats have been known to wait at the Sok Kwu Wan pier, providing a water taxi service to any destination around the island at a higher rate than scheduled ferries, but it is best not to count on one being available.

See
Lamma island is not a place full of tourist attractions, but rather for peace and relaxation. However, there are plenty of restaurants, beaches and hiking trails.

Do

 * Sea Kayak Tours. Sea Kayak Hong Kong offers sea kayak tours around the coast of Lamma Island. There are 2 distinct tours around Lamma Island, both originating from Sok Kwu Wan in the centre of Lamma Island. Tour 1 - the southern Lamma Island tour which comprises paddling past stark granite hills dropping into the South China Sea with remote, unvisited beaches and Sham Wan (Turtle Beach). In contrast, the northern tour of the island tour takes you up the East Lamma Channel facing Hong Kong harbour. The contrasts between the two coasts are startling, almost surreal with Lamma being uninhabited (small local villages) while just across the channel is south Hong Kong Island with skyrise apartments towering over well-developed beaches. The trip finishes in Yung Shue Wan so kayakers can catch a ferry back to Hong Kong. More details can be found on the Sea Kayak Hong Kong website.
 * Sea Kayak Tours. Sea Kayak Hong Kong offers sea kayak tours around the coast of Lamma Island. There are 2 distinct tours around Lamma Island, both originating from Sok Kwu Wan in the centre of Lamma Island. Tour 1 - the southern Lamma Island tour which comprises paddling past stark granite hills dropping into the South China Sea with remote, unvisited beaches and Sham Wan (Turtle Beach). In contrast, the northern tour of the island tour takes you up the East Lamma Channel facing Hong Kong harbour. The contrasts between the two coasts are startling, almost surreal with Lamma being uninhabited (small local villages) while just across the channel is south Hong Kong Island with skyrise apartments towering over well-developed beaches. The trip finishes in Yung Shue Wan so kayakers can catch a ferry back to Hong Kong. More details can be found on the Sea Kayak Hong Kong website.
 * Sea Kayak Tours. Sea Kayak Hong Kong offers sea kayak tours around the coast of Lamma Island. There are 2 distinct tours around Lamma Island, both originating from Sok Kwu Wan in the centre of Lamma Island. Tour 1 - the southern Lamma Island tour which comprises paddling past stark granite hills dropping into the South China Sea with remote, unvisited beaches and Sham Wan (Turtle Beach). In contrast, the northern tour of the island tour takes you up the East Lamma Channel facing Hong Kong harbour. The contrasts between the two coasts are startling, almost surreal with Lamma being uninhabited (small local villages) while just across the channel is south Hong Kong Island with skyrise apartments towering over well-developed beaches. The trip finishes in Yung Shue Wan so kayakers can catch a ferry back to Hong Kong. More details can be found on the Sea Kayak Hong Kong website.
 * Sea Kayak Tours. Sea Kayak Hong Kong offers sea kayak tours around the coast of Lamma Island. There are 2 distinct tours around Lamma Island, both originating from Sok Kwu Wan in the centre of Lamma Island. Tour 1 - the southern Lamma Island tour which comprises paddling past stark granite hills dropping into the South China Sea with remote, unvisited beaches and Sham Wan (Turtle Beach). In contrast, the northern tour of the island tour takes you up the East Lamma Channel facing Hong Kong harbour. The contrasts between the two coasts are startling, almost surreal with Lamma being uninhabited (small local villages) while just across the channel is south Hong Kong Island with skyrise apartments towering over well-developed beaches. The trip finishes in Yung Shue Wan so kayakers can catch a ferry back to Hong Kong. More details can be found on the Sea Kayak Hong Kong website.
 * Sea Kayak Tours. Sea Kayak Hong Kong offers sea kayak tours around the coast of Lamma Island. There are 2 distinct tours around Lamma Island, both originating from Sok Kwu Wan in the centre of Lamma Island. Tour 1 - the southern Lamma Island tour which comprises paddling past stark granite hills dropping into the South China Sea with remote, unvisited beaches and Sham Wan (Turtle Beach). In contrast, the northern tour of the island tour takes you up the East Lamma Channel facing Hong Kong harbour. The contrasts between the two coasts are startling, almost surreal with Lamma being uninhabited (small local villages) while just across the channel is south Hong Kong Island with skyrise apartments towering over well-developed beaches. The trip finishes in Yung Shue Wan so kayakers can catch a ferry back to Hong Kong. More details can be found on the Sea Kayak Hong Kong website.

Buy
Generally speaking, there isn't a lot to buy on Lamma Island.

Yung Shue Wan has a variety of small shops with some art & craft. You can also buy beach supplies here, and there is even a HSBC bank branch.

Sok Kwu Wan has stores that sell dried fish.

 * Peanut Candy is available in So Kwu Wan, Lamma Island.

Eat

 * Yung Shue Wan has many seafood restaurants as well as western style cafes and bars.
 * There is a strip of seafood restaurants in Sok Kwu Wan. Expect to pay around $100 - 150 per head for the set meals, which will include fried clams, lobster, crab, prawns as well as fried vegetables, rice and drinks. A steamed fish will cost around $100 depending on the weight.
 * There are numerous general stores on the island selling drinks, snacks, prepackaged food, everyday supplies and toys. There are several such stores in Yung Shue Wan, a few in Sok Kwu Wan, one in Mo Tat Wan and at least one in Pak Kok.

Drink
There are some bars in Yung Shue Wan.

Sleep
The best location for accommodation is Yung Shue Wan.

Connect
Internet is available on the island, although speeds are low on land lines. 4G LTE mobile phone access is available throughout the island.

title: Hong Kong/Lamma


text:
Lampang

Lampang (ลำปาง), also known as Nakhon Lampang (นครลำปาง), is a city in the river valleys of Northern Thailand.

Understand
Lampang, in the Wang River basin, has been occupied by various civilisations, including Hariphunchai, Lanna, and Burmese, for more than 1,000 years and has a rich archaeological record. It is also known for its nostalgic local transport: horse-drawn carriages, rather than tuk-tuks.

By plane
Lampang Airport (LPT) is served by two daily turboprop (ATR72) flights by Bangkok Airways from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) taking 1½ hours (2000 baht and up, departures 11:55, 16:55 daily).

Another option is to take a low-cost flight (Air Asia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air) to Chiang Mai, then connect to Lampang by bus or train. But it is at least two hours by road from Chiang Mai to Lampang, plus you'll need to connect from the airport to the bus or train station across the city.

By train
The Northern railway line from Bangkok to Chiang Mai passes through Lampang. As such, there are several trains in either direction every day. The journey from Bangkok takes 10-12 hours; 2nd class air-con sleeper ticket costs 734-804 baht, air-con seat car is 574 baht. 2nd class fan sleeper is 150-200 baht cheaper than air-con.

From Chiang Mai, the trip takes around 2 hours. Express fan car tickets are 23 baht. Air-con car tickets are just over 100 baht.

By bus
Many buses run from Bangkok's Mo Chit terminal, most of which continue on to Chiang Mai. First-class air-con bus ticket costs around 400-450 baht, the trip takes 8-9 hours (as such, overnight buses are recommended).

From Chiang Mai (Arcade bus station), buses are very frequent, and it takes 1-1½ hours to get to Lampang. The price is 40-90 baht, depending on the class (first class air-con bus costs 90 baht)

Finally, many buses going from Chiang Mai to various other destinations in central and northeast Thailand stop in Lampang, so it is pretty well connected.

By car
From Bangkok take Highway 32 to Nakhon Sawan. then Highway 1 via Kamphaeng Phet and Tak to Lampang. Distance from Bangkok is 600 km.

Get around
There are no tuk-tuks, so either use the horse-drawn carriages or the songthaews, which can be hired like a tuk-tuk. If it is not on a fixed route, ask the driver for a price but ensure that you both understand whether the price is for the trip or per person. Renting a scooter on the road of the bus terminal is quite expensive (400 baht, Jan 2020).

See

 * Thanon Talat Kao or Thanon Talat Chin or Thanon Khon Doen "Kat Kongta" (ถนนตลาดเก่า หรือ ถนนตลาดจีน หรือ ถนนคนเดิน "กาดกองต้า") is a market next to the pier. In the past, it was a prosperous market. The buildings on both sides of the river bank are a combination of European, Chinese, and Burmese architectural styles. Thanon Khon Doen, "Kat Kongta" presents a local lifestyle of the Kat Kongta community.

 * The Khun Tan mountain range, where the Doi Khun Tan National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติดอยขุนตาล) is located, forms a natural boundary between Lamphun and Lampang Provinces. The Khun Tan Range has deciduous dipterocarp forest and dry evergreen forest on the mountainsides, as well as hill evergreen forests and wide stretches of grasslands combined with pine tree clumps at higher altitudes.

 * Chao Pho Pratu Pha Shrine (ศาลเจ้าพ่อประตูผา) - Legend has it that Chao Pho Pratu Pha was a great warrior of the Lampang ruler. He once fought Burmese invaders to block their advance at Pratu Pha and died fighting with his two swords still in his hands and his body still leaning against the hillside. To honour the brave warrior, the people built the shrine which has since become a sacred and revered place of worship.

 * Tham Pha Thai National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติถ้ำผาไท) is between Mueang Lampang and Ngao Districts just off the main highway at km665-666, some 60 kilometres from town.

 * Ban Chang Luang (บ้านจ้างหลวง หรือ ศูนย์ศิลปะชุมชนเมืองงาว) is a facility established by Khru Kam-aye Dejduangta (ครูคำอ้าย เดชดวงตา). It has an extensive collection of wood-carvings made by Kru Kam-aye, and serves as a school to train those intending to become artisans and to provide occupations for the local people.

 * Namtok Wang Kaeo (น้ำตกวังแก้ว) is Lampang's largest waterfall.

 * Kiu Lom Dam (เขื่อนกิ่วลม) is about 38 km from town.

In the city

 * Wat Phra That Mon Phaya Chae (วัดพระธาตุม่อนพระยาแช่) - is on a hillside and it affords a clear view of Lampang. Its most outstanding feature is the long staircase leading to the chedi enshrining a holy relic.

 * Wat Phra That Sadet (วัดพระธาตุเสด็จ) - one of Lampang's major sites, it is believed to have been built by Queen Chamthevi some 500 years ago.

Outside the city

 * Wat Chong Khem was completed in 2006 and is the tallest temple in the district. It houses an extensive collection of Buddha images from wood and stone, semi-precious stone such as jade and other semi- and precious metals in glass cabinets the full lengths and breadth of the inner walls.

Do

 * Horse carriage ride. 60-200 baht.

Events

 * Lampang Trains and Horse Carriages Day (งานวันรถไฟรถม้าลำปาง) is organized at the Nakhon Lampang Railway Station at the beginning of April to commemorate the first royal train that arrived at the station on 1 April 1916. In the event, there will be an exhibition and Kat Mua market, where the participants will dress up in the traditional style of costume of some 80 years ago, when the horse carriage was first used in Lampang. The carriage service is also provided in the event.

 * Salung Luang Procession and Songkran Festival (งานแห่สลุงหลวงและสงกรานต์) is the Songkran festival of Lampang, organized from 12–14 April every year. On 12 April, the Salung Luang procession will be beautifully decorated (salung means 'water bowl' and luang means 'large'). The participants in the parade dress up in the ancient Lanna style and carry a giant silver bowl around the city to receive lustral water soaked with turmeric and acacia from the people to be poured onto the Phra Kaeo Don Tao, the revered Buddha image of the town enshrined at Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang. Then, during 13–14 April every year, there will be a merit-making ceremony at the temple, sand pagoda making, ceremony of pouring water onto the elderly, splashing of water, fairs and various forms of entertainment.

Buy

 * Hand-made cotton (ผ้าทอมือ) comes in different patterns designed by different villages.

 * Terra-cotta or ceramics (เซรามิก) produced in Lampang are of the best quality in Thailand. The indigenous clay, added by the local craftsmanship, has helped to make Lampang the centre of such products, with scores of factories and shops dealing in this craft.

Budget

Go next

 * Hang Chat
 * Doi Khun National Park
 * Chao Pho Prato Pha Shrine, 50 km from Lampang
 * Kiu Lom Causeway
 * Tham Pha Thai National Park, 60 km from Lampang
 * Ban Chang Luang, woodcarving centre. 33 Mu 9, Ban Khoi, Tamboon Bang Rong, near the road from Phayao to Lampang
 * Chaeo Son National Park, Mueang Pan District

title: Lampang


text:
Lampeter

Lampeter (Welsh: Llanbedr Pont Steffan) is a town of about 3,000 people (2011) in Ceredigion, Wales, on the River Teifi (which meets the Irish Sea at Cardigan).

Understand
Welsh language and culture continues to thrive in Lampeter. The town is best known for the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David (formerly University of Wales, Lampeter and before that St David's University College), which was founded in 1822 as a theological college. Its central building is modelled on an Oxbridge quadrangle and was completed in 1827. Lampeter University is the third oldest university in Britain, after Oxford and Cambridge.

The earliest written reference to Lampeter is believed to be 1187, when Owain Gwynedd destroyed the English king's castle of Pont Steffan ('Stephen's Bridge' in Welsh). The castle's remains formed the foundations for the college building and still forms part of the university campus.

By train

 * From London Paddington, train to Carmarthen (a few trains are direct, but generally will need to change in Swansea). Bus from Carmarthen to Lampeter, journey time approximately 1 hr There are four buses each way on a Sunday and an hourly service on other days. The last bus leaves Carmarthen at 7PM on a weekday. The bus to catch is the T1 service operated jointly by Traws Cymru. It stops outside Carmarthen Railway Station.
 * From Birmingham (New Street Station), catch train to Aberystwyth then catch bus from Aberystwyth to Lampeter (Traws Cymru route T1 from Stand 7 opposite the station; hourly service M-Sa, last bus 9:40PM, and four on a Sunday, last bus 7PM, takes approximately 1 hr).

Train times are available from National Rail Enquiries, from within the UK. Bus times are available from Traveline, (premium rate and can not be dialled from many countries outside the UK).

Get around
Since the closure of Lampeter's train station a number of years ago, travel options in and around Lampeter are restricted to buses and taxis. Buses are reliable and go to the nearby towns of Aberystwyth and Carmarthen.

Lampeter is a small town; vehicles are not necessary to explore the town, only to travel to other towns and cities, although there are local services to surrounding areas.

Learn

 * Liberal arts at the University of Wales, Lampeter.

title: Lampeter


text:
Lamphun

Lamphun (Thai: ลำพูน) is a city and province in the Northern River Valleys of Northern Thailand.

Understand
Legends handed down for more than 1,400 years refer to this ancient town as Hariphunchai. Its first ruler was Queen Chamthewi who was of Mon extraction. In the late 12th century, King Mengrai overran the town and subsequently integrated it into the Lanna Kingdom.

Today, Lamphun still retains its enchanting ambience of a small but old community. It is some 670 km from Bangkok and only 26 km from Chiang Mai. Located on the banks of the Kuang River, its attractions include ancient sites and relics as well as forests and mountains and delightful lakes. Lamphun is Thailand's most famous producer of longan fruit.

Get in
This is a fairly small city compared to most places Westerners go. Buses come here from Lampang bus station, and also from Chiang Mai, only 25 km distant. The bus is about 50 baht. The bus station itself is a little out of town, as most are in Thailand, but there are motorcycle taxis and samlors (if you are lucky with the latter) at the bus station. There are no tuk-tuks at all.

Lamphun is on the Northern Line of the Thai train network: at least a dozen trains pass through here on Weekdays. Ordinary trains take 30 minutes to travel between Lamphun and Chiang Mai, tickets cost 12 baht.

Get around
Walk, take a samlor, or a motorcycle taxi. It is not all that far to walk anywhere.

See

 * Hariphunchai National Museum (พิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติหริภุญชัย), across the road from Wat Phra That Hariphunchai. Displays and exhibits include historical development and archaeological items found in Lamphun. Another displays ancient utensils, Lanna indigenous arts, and carvings.
 * Phra Nang Chamthewi Statue (อนุสาวรีย์พระนางจามเทวี) is in Nong Dok public park in town commemorating the first ruler of Hariphunchai.
 * Suthewa Ruesi Statue (อนุสาวรีย์สุเทวฤาษี) - Legend has it that the Rusi, or ascetic, was the actual founder of Hariphunchai. As an ascetic refraining from worldly affairs he invited Phra Nang Chamthevi, a daughter of the King of Lopburi, to ascend the throne and helped her to firmly establish Buddhism in the land.
 * Wat Mahawan (วัดมหาวัน), an old temple built in the times of Queen Chamthewi. Enshrined here is a Nak Prok statue (statue with mythical serpents overhead) which was brought to the temple by the queen. Commonly known as Phra Rot Lamphun (พระรอดลำพูน), it serves as the model for the famous votive tablet.
 * Wat Phra Yuen (วัดพระยืน), an old temple from the 11th century about 1 km east of the old town centre. The huge chedi with a large square base and four tall standing Buddha images dates from the beginning of the 20th century.
 * The Ku Chang-Ku Mah Chedi (กู่ช้าง-กู่ม้า), northeast of the old town, is surrounded on four directions by standing statues. The chedi itself is cylinder-shaped and commemorates Queen Chamthewi's war elephant and her son's steed.
 * The Ban Nong Chang Khun (บ้านหนองช้างคืน) is the most famous longan growing area in the country. The fruits are in season during July–August. Longans were introduced to the area during the reign of King Rama V and have since spread into neighbouring provinces.
 * Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha (วัดพระพุทธบาทตากผ้า) - Legend has it that the Lord Buddha once stayed here, leaving a trace of likeness of monk's saffron robe and his footprint on stone ground.
 * Ban Hong (บ้านโฮ่ง) - It has several old temples built in admirable indigenous style, e.g., Wat Phra Chao Ton Luang (วัดพระเจ้าตนหลวง), Wat Pa Puai (วัดป่าป๋วย), and Wat Dong Rusi (วัดดงฤาษี). The later two temples both maintain 100-years-old Ho Trai (scripture halls) built with wood in delicate patterns.
 * Wat Phra Bat Huai Tom (วัดพระบาทห้วยต้ม) is the largest temple in the district, boasting a large Lanna-style chedi and an extensive place of worship built in laterite by Karens living in the vicinity who were admirers of the highly revered Phra Kru Ba Chaiwongsa.
 * Chedi Ha Duang (เจดีย์ห้าดวง). The site is believed to have been an ancient town.
 * Mae Ping National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติแม่ปิง) - Its main feature is the Ping River.
 * Chedi Ha Duang (เจดีย์ห้าดวง). The site is believed to have been an ancient town.
 * Mae Ping National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติแม่ปิง) - Its main feature is the Ping River.

Do

 * The most well-known event in Lamphun is the Song Nam Phra That Hariphunchai (งานสรงน้ำพระธาตุหริภุญชัย), which dates back to olden times. Held to celebrate the province's principal religious site, it takes place in May.
 * Another event is the Longan Fair (งานเทศกาลลำไย) in August which is designed to promote this hugely popular fruit. There are the beautifully decorated longan parade and longan contests.

Buy
The Pha Mai Yok Dok (ผ้าไหมยกดอก) is an elaborately woven material in traditional method. Originally used in the northern royal court, it became popular during the reign of King Rama VI. The distinctive craftsmanship and skills in producing this type of silk have endeared it to those who prefer the traditional designs.

A hand-made cotton fabric (ผ้าฝ้ายทอมือ) - It is moderately priced and of designs and colours which have been improved yet retaining the indigenous feel and tradition. It is generally made into tablecloths, place mats, drapes, and other household items.

Wood carvings (งานไม้แกะสลัก) are made from softwood into animal figurines, dolls, utensils, and decorative items. The natural textures of the wood are clearly visible which adds beauty to the products.

Eat
This is rarely a foreign tourist destination. Most foreigners go to Chiang Mai, and miss the laid back experience of this place. There is little written or spoken English, so unless you speak some Thai, you will need to use body language and work your way about, but these are friendly people, and the restaurants are very cheap. You can get a good Thai meal for 100 baht or less, including a full-sized bottle of Chang beer. Charoenraj Rd (the north-south main street) is the road to Chiang Mai and is called Chiang Mai-Lamphun Rd in Chiang Mai.

title: Lamphun


text:
Lampung

Lampung is a province in Sumatra, Indonesia.

Cities

 * - the capital city of the province
 * - capital city of Way Kanan Regency
 * - capital city of Pesawaran Regency
 * - capital city of Central Lampung Regency
 * - capital city of South Lampung Regency
 * - capital city of Tanggamus Regency
 * - capital city of North Lampung Regency
 * - capital city of Pesisir Barat Regency
 * - capital city of West Lampung Regency
 * - capital city of Tulang Bawang Regency
 * - capital city of East Lampung Regency
 * - capital city of Mesuji Regency
 * - capital city of Tulang Bawang Barat Regency
 * - capital city of Pringsewu Regency
 * - capital city of Pringsewu Regency

Other destinations

 * — the southernmost national park in the Barisan mountain range, including the montane forests as well as coastal forests and mangroves. It is one of the three parks listed as World Heritage as part of the Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra. The largest remaining population of the critically endangered Sumatran elephant lives in the park.
 * — in the far southeast of Sumatra, Way Kambas consists of swamp forest and lowland rain forest. The key Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary of the International Rhine Foundation is within the park.
 * — in the far southeast of Sumatra, Way Kambas consists of swamp forest and lowland rain forest. The key Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary of the International Rhine Foundation is within the park.

By plane
Lampung is served by Radin Inten II Airport about 20 km north of the provincial capital Bandar Lampung. There are regular flights from Jakarta (both Soekarno-Hatta and Halim airports), and flights from a range of other Indonesian cities including Bandung, Medan, Palembang, and Batam.

By car
Lampung is the southern terminus of the three (i.e. the Western, Central, and Eastern) Trans-Sumatran Highways The main road into the region is the Eastern Trans-Sumatran Highway (also known as Asian Highway AH25, although this is not signposted), which provides connections from cities such as Palembang, Jambi, and Pekanbaru. Keep in mind that road conditions are variable, and especially in the rainy season suboptimal.

By ferry
There is a highly frequent ferry connection from Merak on the island of Java to Bakauheni in the southeast of Lampung.

See

 * Sekura Festival which is held a week after Eid Al-Fitr in West Lampung.
 * Krakatoa Festival in Bandar Lampung.
 * Stabas Bay Festival in West Coast.
 * Semaka Bay Festival in Tanggamus.
 * Way Kambas Festival in East Lampung.

Do

Surfing at Karang Nyimbor, Tanjung Setia, are highly recommended.

Eat
Some local specialities are:
 * Seruit is grilled freshwater fish with special spicy sour sauce made of fresh small chilli, baked shallot, shrim-paste, with sour taste taken from either 'blimbing wuluh' or 'rampai' with sparkles of citrus juice, serves with fresh salad or boiled cassava leaves or boiled eggplants. You can find this speciality at Rumah Warung restaurant in Kawasan Sentra Industri Keripik (banana chips industry area) Kedaton, Bandar Lampung
 * Pindang Lampung is made from either seawater fish (Kembung or Baung) or fresh water fish (gold fish or Patin) with tasty sour soup, served with fresh cucumber and kemangi, you can find as well in Rumah Warung, for info call +62 721 9011173
 * Tempoyak is preserved durian to make sambal, just add spice and stirfry or cook with other dish, smells delicious, tasty duriant
 * Kopi Lampung is special home made arabica coffee
 * Kripik Pisang - crunchy fried banana chips available natural, or adulterated with chocolate, cheese, strawberry, milk or a range of other flavours.
 * Kripik Raja Ikan - fish flavoured crispy fried crackers.
 * Sambal Lampung - even by Indonesian standards this sambal (spicy sauce) is fierce and fiery. Look for it freshly made at roadside vendors, or in bottled form at food stores.
 * Mie Kodon - a wheat based noodle served in a huge variety of ways, often with Sambal Lampung. Could be fried or in a soup format.

Sleep
Accommodation in the relatively undeveloped, remote regions of Lampung Province, is very basic and few people are fluent in English. Bandar Lampung has many hotel in the city with a wide range of budgets.

Stay safe
Roads in Lampung are pretty much in a bad shape with holes every one meter, tread carefully.

Go next

 * Banten — across the Sunda Strait, the westernmost part of Java island.
 * South Sumatra and Bengkulu — the provinces bordering Lampung on the north side.

title: Lampung


text:
Lamu

Lamu is a town in Coastal Kenya. Its old town is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Understand
This is the main town on Lamu Island which is in turn part of the Lamu Archipelago.

Lamu is vastly different from most cities in Kenya, most particularly due to the almost complete lack of motor vehicles and corresponding traffic. Culturally Lamu also differs from interior of the country as it has retained its historic character as the oldest continually inhabited town in the country and one of the most important Swahili settlements. Lamu's religious history as an Islamic center is also immediately evident as most residents wear traditional robes and headscarves along with the dozens of mosques that broadcast the call to prayer throughout the day.

The Old Town is located on Lamu's North-Eastern shore. The Southern coast of Lamu is a 12 km long sand beach called "Shela Beach". About 3 km South of the Old Town, at the Eastern end of Shela beach, you will find "Shela Village"; an area with plenty of hotels and restaurants.

Talk
Locals involved in the tourism industry speak English, however Swahili is the dominant language of the town. The local Bajuni dialect differs noticeably from standard Swahili, but all locals will understand and can speak the standard variety as well. Learning basic Swahili phrases and traditional Muslim greetings will help show respect and interest in the local culture.

Get in

 * Lamu town on Lamu island is best reached by air at Manda Airport, either directly from Nairobi (Jambojet and Fly 540 from Jomo Kenyatta airport; Safarilink and Air Kenya fly from Wilson Airport), Mombasa (Mombasa Safari Air), or Malindi (Jambojet and Fly 540). The airport is on Manda Island opposite the main village necessitating a short five minute boat ride. This short trip should not cost more than Ksh 200, while Shela is Ksh 1500 (1200 if you negotiate).
 * For those on a tighter budget a daily bus service does run from Mombasa via Malindi. This route was notorious for attacks by Somali bandits and buses have in the past been stopped and robbed. The trip from Mombasa to Lamu (Mokowe on the mainland) takes 5-7 hours depending on road conditions. The last part from Garsen to Mokowe is a mud road and can be rough. Get a seat in the front of the bus (book in advance) to get a pleasant trip. Several bus companies operate the route but few are express (no unnecessary stops). Two express buses are Tawakal and Najaah. To get to Lamu from Mokowe on the mainland you must take a slow and crowded ferry, a shared speed boat, or hire your own speed boat. All options will take you to Lamu Town. You can usually negotiate to be taken to Shela if this is your final destination.
 * It's also possible but expensive to hire a car from Mombasa or Malindi.

Get around
There are no options for transport apart from boat or donkey, though everything is within walking distance. Donkeys create an unfortunate mess on the main streets as they are the primary form of heavy transport on the island and are allowed to relieve themselves wherever they want. As such be cautious about where you are walking as you may accidentally step in something you wish you hadn't.

It should also be noted that lighting at night of the narrow streets is very minimal. A flashlight is a recommended accessory for walking around at night. If you don't bring one with you, many of the tiny shops sell cheap lighters that come with small built in LED flashlights.

There are motorcycle taxis that will take you between Shela and Lamu. Its Ksh 100 during low tide, and Ksh 200 during high tide. If you ride with two passengers you can get a little discount.

See
The main attraction is the old town ((UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001) with its old traditional houses, its winkling streets and the special atmosphere

Do

 * Wind surfing. There is a shed next to Peponi Hotel where an instructor will teach you for Ksh 3000 per hour.
 * Wind surfing. There is a shed next to Peponi Hotel where an instructor will teach you for Ksh 3000 per hour.
 * Wind surfing. There is a shed next to Peponi Hotel where an instructor will teach you for Ksh 3000 per hour.

Beaches
On Lamu Island:

On Manda Island:  Interesting lonely beaches, but difficult to reach, partly naturist suitable

Eat
The seafront restaurants in Lamu Town offer excellent seafood at reasonable prices. Delve further back from the dock for more traditional Swahili fare. Traditionally, the food is eaten with your fingers. Sometimes it is good to bring your own utensils, otherwise you will find yourself trying to eat oil-soaked rice with your fingers - not the easiest task. All better restaurants provide cutlery, if you want. In the streets around the covered market you will find many stalls with cheap and delicious street food. The tourist oriented restaurants in Shela tend to be more expensive as there is less competition.

Drink
The nightlife is rather quiet, also because in a Muslim place only in licensed places alcohol are sold.

Sleep
When choosing accommodation that is listed and rated in the most popular Internet hotel booking sites, you can book either in Lamu City, Shela Beach or the beach in Kipungani at the end of the island. Depending on whether you prefer more peace and quiet or the life in the city. Especially Kipungani is quite remote, but also very romantic.

Most of the year, it's possible to simply show up and book through a tour guide, if you're willing to spend the first day of your trip tromping around in the heat.

in Lamu town
There are many hotels along the seafront. They have a nice view, but the noise level can be surprisingly high (from motorbikes and boats). Inside of the old town, there is no noise from vehicles, but everyday at 5am, you might notice there's a mosque next door.

Kipungani area
It's very quiet and romantic.

Go next

 * Dodori National Reserve & Boni National Reserve:The parks are hardly ever visited because of the high level of insecurity in the area, which is looted by Somali guerrillas. A visit to these reserves, especially Boni, is therefore strongly discouraged.
 * Malindi
 * Mtwapa
 * Mombasa
 * Diani Beach
 * Nairobi

title: Lamu


text:
Lanai

Lanai or Lanaʻi is the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii (141 square miles). It is also known as Pineapple Island because of its past as an island-wide pineapple plantation.

The only city on Lanai is Lanai City. Most of the island's restaurants and shops can be found in the town square that surrounds Dole Park.

Understand
Most of Lanai can only be seen with a vehicle or via a tour. There is a free shuttle between the ferry port and Lanai City, but there are no other transportation options.

Larry Ellison, the co-founder of Oracle Corporation, owns most of the island.

Get around
Lana‘i has an island-wide transportation system offered for a nominal fee that is available through the Four Seasons Resorts, Hotel Lana‘i and Expedition Ferry (to and from Maui). The island shuttle offers an easy way to get from the airport to the hotels in Lana‘i City and Hulopoe Bay, the golf courses, and the Expedition Ferry. The shuttle is convenient and runs frequently.

Most rental vehicles on the island are Jeeps. In addition to the agencies listed below, Jeep rentals are sometimes available through private Lana‘i residents.

There is only one gas station on the island and it is in Lana‘i City, so make sure that enough gas is available. Lana‘i may be a small island, but routes such as the Munro trail have limited access and take a long time to traverse.

 * Expeditions The Maui-Lanai ferry operator offers Jeep tours and rentals. +1-800-695-2624
 * Lana‘i Eco Adventure offers safari-style Jeep Wranglers, complete with ferry pickup. +1 808 565-7373
 * Dollar Rent-A-Car  offers 4x4 Jeep safari vehicle rentals and mini van rentals. +1-800-JEEP-808

Do

 * Snorkeling and swimming at Hulopoe Beach Park

Scuba diving
Lanai’s southern coast is known for its 'Cathedrals I' and 'Cathedrals II' dives, swim-throughs, archways, and lava structures.

Several Maui-based dive operations offer day trips from Lahaina to the dive sites along the south shore of Lanai (45-minute boat ride).

Buy
Great local art at The Lana’i Art Center.

Sleep
Accommodations are limited on the island, so make sure you've booked ahead. Rooms for April and December high seasons book up months in advance.

Stay safe
Crime is usually not an issue on Lana‘i due to the small population, but that still doesn't mean that it is not a good idea to be watchful.

Go next

 * Maui
 * Honolulu

title: Lanai