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Dahshur

Dahshur (Arabic دهشور Dahšūr, often incorrectly rendered in English as Dashur) is an Egyptian archaeological locality some 10 km to the south of Saqqara and therefore 35 km south of the Egyptian capital Cairo.

Understand
Dahshur is best known as a more tranquil, if also more isolated, site in which to visit several large pyramids - at least, when compared to Giza and Saqqara. Visitor numbers are much smaller, queues are way shorter and there is far less hassle.

Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Dahshur formed part of the extensive necropolis of ancient Memphis during the Old Kingdom - the so-called "Pyramid Age". The pharaoh Sneferu (sometimes spelt Snofru), founder of the 4th Dynasty and the father to Khufu - builder of the Great Pyramid at Giza) - managed to erect two complete pyramids at the location, in addition to completing another pyramid (for his predecessor Huni) at Meidum. In sheer volume alone, the father definitely out-did his son!

Somewhat later, Pharaohs of the Middle Kingdom's 12th Dynasty erected their own pyramids at the locality - though on a greatly reduced scale.

Dahshur is very much off the traditional tourist trail around Cairo, having been a restricted military zone until 1996. The Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities is encouraging travellers to visit Dahshur, in an attempt to relieve some of the pressure on the Giza pyramids.

By tour
A number of hotels and travel agencies, in Cairo and Giza, offer guided coach tours to Dahshur.

By taxi
Dahshur is probably best accessed by hired taxi from Cairo, usually as an extension to a day trip to Saqqara and/or Memphis.

By train
There is at least one local train from Ramses Station in Cairo, no. 142 to Al Fayoum aka Fayum, which starts at 8:45AM and also stops in Al Mazghona (LE3). From Mazghona take a tuk-tuk (LE15 as of Jan 2018) to the entrance of the Dashure area.

By metro
Likewise, you can take a metro to Helwan Station (LE2) and a tuk-tuk from there (LE30-40 as of Jan 2018, not more!). Tuk-tuks aren't allowed into the site, which is a 30-min walk from the gate to the Red Pyramid, and another 20 minutes walk to the Bent Pyramid, with no shade.

Fees and hours
The is about 1 km northwest of Dahshur village, right behind the police checkpoint.

The Dahshur Necropolis site is open daily 8AM-5PM. Tickets are LE100 (as of May 2023).

Get around
The Red Pyramid is 2.5 km straight west from the ticket office along the road. The pyramid field extends over 3.5 km north to south, which can be walked or done with the vehicle you arrived with.

Do

 * Hike around the area from the Red Pyramid, to the Bent Pyramid, to the forgotten Temple, to the Black Pyramid and finally back into Dahshur village.
 * Climb down into the Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid.

Cope

 * When hiking in summer, take enough water and sun protection with you.
 * If you think of hiking directly from Dahshur village to the pyramids, it is possible but guards at the Bent Pyramid and the entrance of the Red Pyramid will unfortunately request your ticket.

Go next

 * Saqqara – An extensive number of pyramids and tombs on a plateau above the Nile Valley, just north of Dahshur.
 * Meidum Pyramid – A forgotten step pyramid in the countryside more than 30 km northeast of Fayum.
 * Fayum – A town neglected by most tourists but worth a visit considering the many interesting sites there.

title: Dahshur


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Dahuk

Dahuk (also spelled Duhok or Dohuk; Kurdish: دهۆک, Dihok; Syriac: ܢܘܗܕܪܐ Nūhadrā; Arabic: دهوك Dahūk) is the capital of Duhok Governorate in Iraqi Kurdistan, it is a Kurdish city with a population of approximately 250,000 inhabitants, consisting mostly of Kurds and Assyrians. The city is encircled by mountains along the Tigris River.

By bus
Coming from Zakho near the Turkish border, buses and taxis run regularly and cost no more than US$10. Soldiers are stationed every few kilometers on most roads and every village, town and city has checkpoints going in and out. As a foreigner, you almost certainly will be questioned, but given the trouble in the rest of Iraq, this is a routine yet very necessary precaution.

By plane
Fly to Erbil or Sulaymaniyah Airport and from there by bus or taxi to Duhok.

Get around
Taxis within Dohuk should cost around 3,000 dinars. Public transportation can be found on and off the main street at the bus station and nearby taxi stands. Buses stop in front of hotel "Baghdad".

See

Duhok offers a few touristy things to do, but those things are better than you will experience anywhere else. For starters, Dream City is the most popular amusement part among Duhok's natives. And a trip to mazi mall, a ginormous supermarket feels like a field trip of itself.Another admirable thing is the waterfalls, as well as the Duhok Bazaar.There is an ancient mosque in the center of bazaar and a folklore museum near hotel Bircin. Spectacular waterfalls and ruins of a Zoroastian temple are located north of the town (c. 20 minutes walk). The city has made some major changes and is more tourist friendly than a lot of big-shot places elsewhere.

Eat

 * Wooden House - on KRO road past Mazi Plus Mall, wooden house is a fancier restaurant with excellent mezze dishes, as well as an assortment of grilled meats and some western dishes.
 * In the central market area there are several good restaurants for traditional Iraqi food including kebab and paja. Khan Kebab and Al Andalus restaurant are next door to each other in the central area between the market and Khani Hotel. Paja is a stew of sheep parts (intestines, offal, cheek meat) served over bread.
 * Sadeer Restaurant - apparently popular among local population (c. 6,000 dinars for a dinner).
 * Duhok Paradise - located near the waterfalls, packed with tourists coming from Baghdad or Basra (c. 12,000 dinars for a dinner)

Drink
Many stores sell fruit juice in plastic bags. The grape and pomegranate flavours tend tp be the best since they are made from real fruit. These bags are meant to be taken home. Each bag is 1000 dinars.

Water (pronounced "My" or "Af" in Kurdish) can be found in sealed bottles for about 250 dinars at most restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores. It is not recommended that you drink the tap water.

There are several Christian clubs that serve food and beer. They are located around town, and usually have plastic tables set outside on a grass lawn. Some examples include Doctor's Club, Artist's Club, Assyrian Club.

You can get the best kinds of beers and spirits from around the world. Vodka, Scotch Whisky, and beer are the most common alcohols sold and drunk. They are clearly displayed within stores that sell them. Alcohol is typically imported from Greece, Turkey, and Jordan

There are also several liquor shops in the center of town up the hill from the old market past Newroz Hotel on the right side.

Sleep
Many hotels located on the two main streets that run through Dahuk. Prices vary from 24,000 dinars up to 72,000 dinars for a triple room. The lack of tourism means that prices are negotiable.

Stay safe
Following the conflicts in Iraq, Dahuk is one of the places that has remained relatively safe for foreign visitors. Dahuk is only a short drive from Mosul and Kirkuk, which are certainly not safe for visitors and heading in those directions should be avoided. As a foreigner, you can walk the streets safely. Although some may stare, their stares are those of confusion as Iraq is the last place most tourists go and as the Kurdish north was isolated for so long, there never was any history of tourism.

Westerners can walk and talk freely although it is possible the police or military may question you and ask for identification. Unlike other countries, this isn't a scam and they don't want money. Given the violence in the rest of the country, all non-Kurds are distrusted and checked. Don't take it personally. The stares are from the past, people of Dahuk are well used to foreigners so don't worry about it; in fact there are some westerners who live there like retired Americans or those who work for government.

Go next
Shared taxis start from Kawa Road next to the money exchange, referred to as bursa (opposite the art gallery).

Regular taxis go when full to Erbil which is around 3 hours and costs US$50 for a taxi with 4 people.

The trip to Sulemania will be 30-40,000 dinar.

One spot for a shared taxi to Mosul should cost 10,000 dinar (make sure you have a visa).

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

title: Dahuk


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Daingerfield

Daingerfield is a town and county seat of Morris County in Northeastern Texas. It is the 4th oldest city in Texas.

Get in

 * From Dallas/Fort Worth take Interstate 30 East to Mt. Pleasant; take Exit 160; follow State Highway 49 to Daingerfield
 * From Texarkana take I-30 West, exit on State Highway 259 South to Daingerfield
 * Greater Morris County Airport is 7 miles north of Daingerfield

Do

 * Morris Theatre, 108 N Lamar St. One of those classic art-deco theaters of the past. Enjoy a movie or better yet the ambience. Tel: +1 903-645-2219.
 * Morris Theatre, 108 N Lamar St. One of those classic art-deco theaters of the past. Enjoy a movie or better yet the ambience. Tel: +1 903-645-2219.

Sleep
The state park has tent and RV camping and even a few cabins.

title: Daingerfield


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Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest is a tropical rainforest in the Far North of Queensland. With a landscape and ecosystem that resembles more like that of Southeast Asia's instead of Australia's, the Daintree Rainforest is the world's oldest surviving rainforest that stands today. Parts of the rainforest are protected as part of the Daintree National Park a Queensland national park, though many of the rainforest's attractions, villages and POIs are outside the national park. In 1988, it was recognised as such and inscribed on the world heritage list as part of the Wet Topics of Queensland.

The rainforest itself meets all the four natural criteria for selection to be a World Heritage Site, although it is just part of the Wet Tropics site which is one of only twelve natural World Heritage Sites which fulfill all four criterion. The Daintree Rainforest is bordered to the Great Barrier Reef on its coastline, which is another World Heritage site making it the only place in the world where two natural World Heritage Sites meet.

Although there is no well defined border, it's generally said that it starts at the settlement of Mossman and continues up till Bloomfield, but regardless of where the borders are, the rainforest has many options for visitors. The more southerly Mossman Gorge tends to be more accessible and therefore more crowded, but the northern section near Cape Tribulation is the heart of the rainforest, but less accessible and therefore gets less visitors. Nevertheless, both sections are unique experiences.

History
The Daintree Rainforest is extremely ancient; it is thought to be over 135 million years old. About 430 species of birds live among the trees. The primitive flowering plants Austrobaileya scandens and Idiospermum australiense are also endemic to the Daintree.

As part of the 450 km long Wet Tropics of Queensland coastline between Townsville and Cooktown, the park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. More than 75 percent of the area consists of tropical rainforest and is considered an exceptional example of ecological evolution and biological diversity.

The rainforest was named by Scottish explorer George Dalrymple after the Australian geologist and photographer Richard Daintree (1832-1878).

The rainforest has not had many controversies in the recent past, but in 1983, the controversial Bloomfield Track was constructed between Cape Tribulation and the Bloomfield River through coastal rainforest, drawing international attention to the rescue, which eventually culminated in a local campaign of blockades by activists. Although the conservationists ultimately lost the battle for the road, this led to a rethink at the federal level of the previously practiced toleration of commercial logging.

Landscape
Daintree is about 3 hours north of Cairns, 1-2 hours north of Port Douglas (PD). It is much quieter than either Cairns or PD, owing to the distance, crossing the Daintree river (a ferry may take cars and buses across, for a toll), conservation efforts and being off the power grid. The Daintree region is in flux regarding conflicting demands of population and economy growth and preservation of the spectacular natural environment.

The quiet environment makes for a very pleasant, laidback tropical stay, somewhat distanced from the mass tourism of Cairns and Port Douglas although Cape Tribulation is a popular day-trip for visitors and amenities for tourists abound.

Flora and fauna
The most iconic one of all in the Daintree is the cassowary, but the park consists largely of broadleaf lowland tropical rainforests and upland tropical rainforests, although there are also significant mangrove and fan palm communities. The rainforest is an amazing array of biodiversity. Look out for the cassowary, a large non-flying bird with a "helmet" growth on its head to protect it as it runs through the forest. Of course, as with all of far northern Australia, saltwater crocodiles are present.

The Daintree Rainforest contains about 30% of the frog, marsupial and reptile species in Australia, and 65% of Australia's bat and butterfly species. 18% of bird species in the country can be found in this single rainforest not to forget there are over 12,000 species of insects in this rainforest. All of this diversity is contained within a single rainforest that takes up only 0.2% of Australia.

Climate
Tropical climate with moderate seasonal variations. The southern summer (November to March) is the rainy season and is best avoided – that time of year is also cyclone season.

Tourism websites

 * Official tourism website
 * Queensland Parks
 * Mossman Gorge

By car
The most accessible way to the world's oldest living rainforest is via car.

From the tropical city of Cairns, use State Route 44 Captain Cook Highway from either National Route 1 or State Route 91, passing through Port Douglas continue until you reach the town of Mossman. Once you have arrived at Mossman, you have basically arrived at the forest, but the routes divert into two. If you are heading to the Mossman Gorge, turn onto Johnston Road, and if you're heading north to places like Daintree Village or Cape Trib, continue straight.

If you want to get to Cape Tribulation, you will need to take the Daintree River ferry, which is free of charge taking you across the Daintree River. Once you have crossed the river, the road just heads north and most of the POIs are along the way.

By bus
TransNorthBus services has bus services from Cairns to Wonga.

Fees and permits
There are no fees to enter into the rainforest, or the national park. However, tour buses may charge a fee, including the shuttle bus from visitor centre to the walks in Mossman Gorge.

You will need camping permits if you plan to camp at the grounds.

Get around
It's easiest to get around by car, but buses run from Cairns and Port Douglas all the way up to Cape Tribulation. Many companies offer packages of accommodation and transport to the area.

Some of the hostels rent bicycles which is a pleasant way to get around Daintree Village and see the sights while you're there. The ride from Cow Bay to Cape Tribulation is about each way and a nice daytrip, although a bit hilly in the Noah Range area.

The road is an asphalt road all the way to Cape Tribulation and all rental companies allow cars to travel as far as the Cape. 4WDs are required only for the Bloomfield Track.

Do
Ocean Safari runs great 1/2-day tours to the Barrier Reef from Cape Tribulation.

River cruises
There are several operators running riverboats so you can spot crocodiles on the banks of the Daintree River and also Cooper Creek.

Walks
There are several walks in the park. All of them are accessible through some sort of way with four of them being in the Mossman Gorge section while five of them are in the Cape Tribulation section of the rainforest.

The ones in Mossman include:
 * Baral Marrjanga (coloured  on map)
 * Lower river track (coloured  on map)
 * Rex Creek bridge (coloured  on map)
 * Rainforest circuit track (coloured  on map)

While the ones in Cape Tribulation include:
 * Jindalba boardwalk (coloured  on map)
 * Jindalba circuit track (coloured  on map)
 * Madja boardwalk (coloured  on map)
 * Dubuji boardwalk (coloured  on map)
 * Kulki boardwalk (coloured  on map)

Buy
Lemon myrtle oil is produced by tropical plants native to the area. It has a pleasant lemon scent and is said to have antimicrobial properties. Lemon myrtle essential oil and bath products are available (and marketed as an Australian-made product for visitors to purchase) to purchase at the Daintree Spa and some other businesses in the area. Lemon myrtle products are cheaper and easier to find up here than in Cairns or other areas of Australia.

Eat
Daintree Tea is also available to buy at shops and restaurants in the village and at Cape Tribulation and is very much the local specialty of Daintree.

There are a number of small shops in the Daintree area. There is one at Wonga Beach, one at Daintree, one at Cow Bay and two at Cape Tribulation. Mason's Store at Cape Tribulation has takeaway alcohol, groceries, and even a cafe. Check out the swimming hole there too. Being a remote rainforest destination, there are no Coles and the only Woolworths is in Mossman, so if you require the services of a multinational, go there before you come to the area!

Drink
Most lodges and hotels will have some sort of bar with them.

Lodging
There are a couple of hostels at Cape Tribulation (Cape Trib Beach House and PK's Jungle Village), and Crocodylus Lodge about 20 km south of the Cape at Cow Bay.

Backcountry
As it is hard to go off the beaten track in the Daintree Rainforest, backcountry camping is near impossible. Additionally, due to wildlife, camping outside designated campgrounds is prohibited.

Stay safe
There are significant crocodile numbers in the Daintree River and other creeks in the region, as well as in the ocean itself. Sometimes the riverbed will have a warning sign, but not everywhere. Stay away from the shore of the river and other creek beds. Attacks on visitors do occur, with a tourist being killed during a late night swim on Thornton Beach in May 2016.

Marine stingers are present in the water during the summer season. Some beaches are signposted with warnings for this.

You can bushwalk up to a spectacular view at Mount Sorrow in the Noah Range, but take care when you do the walk (approximately 6-8 hours - please check). Leave early in the morning with plenty of time left in the day to ascend and descend while it is still light. Walkers have gone missing on the trail.

Go next

 * Head back to Cairns, the nearest city in the area

title: Daintree Rainforest


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Daisen

There is more than one place called Daisen:

Japan

 * Daisen (Tottori) - A town in Tottori Prefecture.
 * Daisen (Akita)- A town in Akita Prefecture.
 * Mount Daisen - A mountain in Tottori Prefecture.

title: Daisen


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Daisen (Tottori)

Daisen (大山町 Daisen-chō) is a town in Tottori Prefecture. Mount Daisen is the tallest peak in Western Japan at 1,729 meters, and many outdoor activities are available year-round.

Tourist information site
The local Tourist Bureau has a bilingual guide site.

Get in
There are 5 stations along the San-in Line in Daisen; Daisenguchi Station, Nawa Station, Mikuriya Station, Shimoichi Station, and Nakayamaguchi Station. All of the stations however are located along the coast, so they do not provide access to Mount Daisen, the town's major draw.

For public access to Mount Daisen, buses depart from Yonago Station.

Go next

 * Yonago
 * Hoki
 * Kofu
 * Kurayoshi
 * Kotoura
 * Hokuei
 * Yasugi
 * Matsue
 * Niimi

title: Daisen (Tottori)


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Daisetsuzan National Park

Daisetsuzan National Park (大雪山国立公園 Daisetsuzan-kokuritsukōen, also pronounced Taisetsuzan) is in the mountainous center of the island of Hokkaido. Formed by a large number of volcanoes which get mostly covered in snow during the winter, the Daisetsuzan is truly a land of ice and fire, with some of the most amazing landscapes of Hokkaido and Japan.

Understand
At 2267.64 km², Daisetsuzan is the largest national park in Japan. The name means Great Snowy Mountains, an apt description of these peaks — 15 of them over 2000 meters — that offer some of the most rugged hiking in Japan. The Ainu name for Daisetsuzan, kamui-mintara, translates to "playground of the gods".

Other than multi-day hikes, the national park offers a plethora of activities for different styles of traveller, including day hikes, leisurely walks, flower- and autumn foliage-viewing and skiing.

Landscape
It is common to confuse the Daisetsuzan National Park with the "Daisetsuzan Mountains", which are actually the north-most of the three groups of volcanoes that compose the Daisetsuzan National Park, although undoubtedly the most famous and most visited. The southwestern group are the Tokachi Mountains and the southeastern group are the Shikaribetsu mountains.

At high elevations, there is varied vegetation which is excellent for autumn leaves viewing by the second half of September, picturesque ponds and sulphur springs. At lower elevations there is lush forest, lakes, waterfalls and the autumn leaves are best viewed in the first half of October.

Flora and fauna
At the base of the mountains you are likely to see several birds, deer and foxes, and bears also roam the forests of the national park, especially the Daisetsu Kogen trail. Naturally, as you go up in the mountains the number of animals decreases.

Climate
The mean annual temperature observed on the top of Mt. Kurodake (1,984 m) from October 1989 to September 1990 was -2.3°C. The lowest temperature was -21.8°C in January, and the highest one was 18.7°C in July. From October to June is a harsh season, with severe cold and snowfall. The monthly mean temperature was below zero from October 1989 to April 1990, and the study area was completely under snow until early May in 1990. Winter snow usually starts disappearing in May with some snow patches remaining year round.

Tourist information

 * Ministry of Environment has an official guide pages in English.

 * Organizations administering the park have an official Japanese-only guide site.

By bus
There are no train lines within the park. The nearest stations are Asahikawa (west), Furano (south) and Rubeshibe (east). The best way to get to the park is the 09:10 bus from the front of the Asahikawa Station to the Asahidake Ropeway (¥1300) or to Sounkyo Onsen. There is also a bus from the Kami-Furano Station to the trailheads of Tokachi-dake and Furano-dake. If you plan to stay at one of the onsens, enquire before travelling since some of them offer a discount for the bus, or they may even provide a shuttle bus from Asahikawa Station to the onset.

By car
Unless you are going for multi-day hikes, it's generally better to visit the national park by car if you plan to do multiple activities during your stay there. Many attractions of the park are inaccessible by public transport (such as Ginseidai), or buses are only available during peak visitations period (such as Daisetsu Kogen). A car would also give you far more flexibility due to the low frequency of buses.

Fees and permits
There is no park entry fee. Free parking is available. Some parking lots are not free, but they are obvious and can be easily avoided.

Get around
Basically there are only two effective ways to get around the national park: by car or by hiking. There are a few buses that go to certain attractions during peak visitation periods, and some onsen hotels are also to provide bus transfers. If you don't plan to neither drive or to do multi-days hikes, it is perhaps best to base yourself in Sounkyo, which has direct access to the Kurodake, convenience stores, and a number of good walking trails.

Note that the roads basically circle the national park, rather than crossing it, which means that driving distances can be quite long for places that look relatively near in a map, for example Asahidake and Kurodake.

Daisetsuzan Mountains
The Daisetsuzan Mountains are the most impressive and famous volcanic group of the national park, and for that reason, often confused with the national park itself.

They can be described by a circle of volcanoes surrounding a vast caldera, the Ohachi caldera. A typical multi-day hike consists of climbing one of the mountains, circling the Ohachi caldera, and descending via another mountain of the park. The mountains are surrounded by hills covered in lush forest which offer more leisurely walks.

Tokachi Mountains
The Tokachi Mountains can be better described s a long line of volcanoes that extend from the Daisetsuzan Mountains in Kamikawa all the way to Furano. They can be explored by either a multi-day transverse or by day hikes to individual mountains, which can be done as sidetrips from Biel or Furano.

Shikaribetsu mountains
The Shikaribetsu mountains are the least visited volcanic group of the national park. They are more spread out than the other volcanic groups, and only practically accessible via multi-day hiking, although they can be viewed from a distance at the Mikuni pass. At the southern end of the mountains lies is the Shikaribetsu lake which is a popular attraction and relatively close to Obihiro.

Winter
Furano, on the southern side of the park, is a popular ski resort. Asahidake and Sounkyo Onsen also have ski slopes. Asahidake is particularly popular for snowboarding.

If you want to try something different, join a guided tour to walk down from the top of the Asahidake cable car using snow shoes. You will have time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and walk on deep powdered snow. You can enquire at the visitor center in Asahikawa.

Summer and Autumn
Summer is the top hiking season, where you can view alpine flowers and where the weather is more suitable for multi-day hikes. Second half of September is the top autumn leaves viewing season for the mountains, while first half of October is top autumn leaves viewing season for the base of the mountains. Day hikes are also extremely popular in this season, but multi-days hikes are more common among experienced hikers as the weather in the mountain top can be unpredictable at this time.

Eat
Small eateries and snack bars can be found at the top of the Asahidake and Kurodake ropeways. There is a Seicomart and a 7-Eleven in Sounkyo with the usual assorted lunch boxes (bento). Sounkyo has also some restaurants, mostly curry or ramen shops. Most hotels inside the park provide breakfast and dinner.

There is no food for sale in the hiking paths themselves, so bring your food with you. You will have to keep your trash until you come back to a city. Do not eat in forested areas in order to not attract bears.

Sleep
The main bases inside the national park are Sounkyo Onsen at the base of the Kuro-dake, and Asahidake Onsen at the base of the Asahi-dake. For long stays, Sounkyo is generally preferable as it gives easier access to more parts of the park, and has a much larger range of accommodation, as well as a few restaurants and supply stores. At Asahidake Onsen, note that hotels need to be booked way in advance for the autumn leaves viewing peak season.

There are a few onsen hotels scattered through the national park, including Aizankei Onsen, Daisetsu Kogen Onsen (at the base of Midori-dake), Tenninkyo Onsen, Tokachidake Onsen (at the base of Tokachi-dake) and Tomarauchi Onsen (at the base of Tomarauchi-yama). Try to book them far in advance.

If you are on a budget or couldn't find a hotel in peak season, an alternative is to stay outside the national park. A convenient base to visit the western Daisetsuzan Mountains is Asahikawa, which is about 1 hour by car from the Asahidake and Tenninkyo Onsen. Furano, Kamifurano and Biel can be used as a base to explore the Tokachi Mountains.

title: Daisetsuzan National Park


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Daito Islands

The Daitō Islands (大東諸島 Daitō-rettō) are a tiny archipelago 360 km east of Okinawa Island, Japan.

Municipalities and Islands

 * Minamidaito village
 * Minamidaito — the southern main island, larger and slightly more populous
 * Kitadaito village
 * Kitadaito — the northern main island, smaller in size and population
 * Okidaito — also known as Rasa, once the most populated and most central of the islands, it was commandeered after World War II as a US Navy base, then returned to Japan in 1972. It is now practically uninhabited.

Understand
The Daito Islands are a part of Okinawa Prefecture, but their earliest developers came from Hachijo Island south of Tokyo. The culture and dialect has therefore become a unique blend of Okinawan and Tokyo culture. For example, the Daito Islands are the only places in Okinawa that celebrate the mainland Honen Festival, but they do so in Okinawan visual and musical style; the only place in Japan that holds the event in this manner.

Tourist Information Sites
Each village has a Japanese-only guide site.
 * Minamidaito village
 * Kitadaito Village

Talk
Most people understand standard Japanese. However, in casual conversation people will use their heritage dialect. For the majority this is the language of Hachijo, the only variety of Japanese descended from the "Eastern Dialect" of the Nara period (see the short phraselist at Kitadaito). For the minorities, namely Okinawan migrants, the native language is Okinawan, though due to the bi-heritage nature of the population Standard Japanese is gaining more currency, especially among the minorities. Some Okinawans also speak Hachijo.

Get in
The only way to get to the Daitos is from Naha, either by plane or ferry. There are two flights per day from Naha to Minamidaito and one to Kitadaito, which can be reserved up to two months in advance from Naha Airport or by telephone. Round-trip flights cost around ¥40,000 and last about 70 minutes. The ferry is significantly cheaper, but has a sporadic timetable and takes 12-17 hours each way. And you may feel like being a cargo when landing - see the banner photo.

The flight between Minamidaito and Kitadaito lasts for six minutes, and has the distinction of being the shortest flight in Japan - just 13 km. It is scheduled to discontinue in Aug 2024.

There are also two flights from Minamidaito to Naha, and one from Kitadaito.

title: Daito Islands


text:
Dajipur

Dajipur is a small village in South Maharashtra, India.

Understand
Dajipur is known for the nearby Bison Wildlife Sanctuary and the Gagangiri Maharaj in Gagan Bawda.

By train
The nearest rail head is Kankavli on the Konkan railways.

Kolhapur is the nearest railhead if travelling from Pune.

By car
If travelling from Mumbai (which is about 490 km away from Dajipur), you need to take the NH17 and from Kankavli you need to take a deviation top reach Dajipur via Phonda ghats.

If travelling from Pune, you need to take the deviation from Kolhapur towards Radhanagri and reach Dajipur via the road connecting to NH17. Radhanagari is 40 km away from Dajipur.

See

 * Bison National Park — This wildlife sanctuary is home to bison, wild deer, chital, gawa and many more spectacular wild animals and birds. Surrounded by rugged mountains and dense forests, this secluded little place is completely cut-off from any kind of urbanization.
 * Math of Swami Gagangiri Maharaj  — Gagangiri Maharaj is a great yogi. With unique capacities, vision and synthesis; Gagangiri Maharaj, and the math is renowned as a spiritual destination for domestic and foreign travelers. The Math is located in the midst of dense forests and thick green vegetation near Dajipur.
 * Radhanagari Dam — Radhanagari Dam and the reservoir offer some very beautiful sights about 100mts above the sea level. Radhanagari Dam, constructed by Shahu Maharaj is constructed across Bhogawati River. This century old dam is used mainly for irrigation and power generation. The dam is 1037 m long, covering 11000 hectares of wooded hills surrounding it. There is a hydroelectric project with an installed capacity of 10 MW.
 * Phonda Ghats — At about 1200mts above sea level these ghats offer some sweeping images of the valleys. During monsoons the glistening shades of green offer a majestic view of the Konkan.

Do

 * Safari to the wild life sanctuary — 21 km into the thick forest takes you to the heart of the sanctuary where sighting of the bison, wild deer, chital, gawa and the barking deer is quite common.
 * Walk through the Ghats — The walk through the ghats is quite an exciting option with beautiful views of the valley and sparkling waterfalls and streams.

Sleep
The jungle resort of Dajipur is a youth hostel run by the Maharashtra government which provide some very basic accommodation (certainly not a very good place to stay, though). The only good thing about this resort is the food provided.

Dajipur is one of the best campsites in Maharashtra.

Go next

 * Goa is less than 150 km from here.
 * Guhagar or Sindhudurg & Vengurla are other beaches that you could visit less than 100 km from here.

title: Dajipur


text:
Dakar

Dakar is the capital and largest city of Senegal and is often regarded as the cultural and commercial center of French-speaking West Africa. The metropolitan area is home to about 3.3 million people. Dakar is often the first stop in exploring French-speaking West Africa because it has good flight connections with Western Europe, whereas the other main French-speaking West African city, Abidjan, does not.

Understand
Dakar lies on the end of the Cap Verte peninsula, which is the westernmost point of the African mainland.

The Senegalese are very proud of their reputation for "teranga", or hospitality. Locals are extremely friendly and helpful, but as you would anywhere else, watch out for scams and pickpockets. Petty crime here is relatively high, so be cautious.

History
The peninsula was settled by the Lebou people, closely related to the Wolof people, when the Portuguese first reached it in 1444. The original villages: Ouakam, Ngor, Yoff and Hann, still constitute distinctively Lebou neighbourhoods of the city today. The Portuguese were repulsed by the locals at first (the first Portuguese ships were slave-raiders), but peaceful contact was made in 1456. The bay was an important stop for the Portuguese India armadas of the early 15th century and Portuguese armadas en route to Brazil. It is believed that during a stop here in 1501, when an armada returning from India and one heading to Brazil met, an explorer with the latter (Amerigo Vespucci) compared notes with explorers returning from East Asia and realized that Asia & the New World couldn't be the same continent; it was a letter published upon his return that is heralded as the first postulation of America as a separate continent.

The Portuguese established a settlement on the island of Gorée in the early 16th century and, on the mainland, the Lebou established the town of Ndakaaru to service the needs of the Portuguese. It would be captured by the Dutch in 1588 and switch hands several times between them until the British captured the island in 1664 and the French gained control in 1677. The settlement would mostly support the slave trade. The infamous House of Slaves was completed in 1796.

In 1795, the Lebou revolted against Cayor rule and established the Lebou Republic with Ndakaaru as its capital. In 1857, the French established a military post on the peninsula and annexed the Lebou Republic. With slavery outlawed, the French supported peanut cultivation. Gorée island proved ineffective as a port, and so with the booming peanut trade, the French supported the growth of Dakar and its port. Dakar replaced Saint-Louis as the capital of French West Africa in 1902. During this heyday, the city was one of the most important cities in the French empire (comparable to Beirut or Hanoi).

In 1959, Dakar became the capital of the Mali Federation and, upon its breakup, became the capital of Senegal in 1960. The city maintains strong ties to France, boasts a large French expatriate population, and hosts offices for many French businesses involved in West Africa.

Climate
Dakar is warm and humid year-round with a rainy season that lasts from July–October. Temperatures are warm, but moderated by cool sea-breezes and not as hot as inland cities in the region (like Bamako or Ouagadougou). The warmest months are Jul–Oct with highs of 30 to 31°C (86 to 87°F) and lows of 24.5°C (76°F). Jan–Mar are the coolest months, with highs around 25°C (77°F) and lows around 17 to 18°C (63°F).

Average yearly rainfall is 495 mm (19.5 in), of which just 19 mm (0.75 in) falls outside the rainy season! During the rainy season, roads around the city can turn into rushing rivers and without proper sewers in some parts of the city, standing water is contaminated and not safe to walk through.

By plane

 * From Europe: Amsterdam (TUI), Barcelona (Air Senegal and Vueling), Brussels (Brussels Airlines); Geneva (Air Senegal), Lisbon (TAP Air Portugal); London-Stansted (Air Senegal), Madrid (Iberia); Marseille (Air Senegal), Milan (Neos); Nantes (Transavia), Paris-Charles de Gaulle (Air France and Air Senegal); and Istanbul (Turkish Airlines)
 * From North America: New York City-JFK (Delta Air Lines)
 * From Asia: Dubai (Emirates)
 * From Asia: Dubai (Emirates)

 * From West Africa (some airlines fly multi-city routes and therefore direct flights are only available in one direction to or from Dakar and the listed city): Abidjan (Air Côte d'Ivoire, Air Senegal, ASKY Airlines, Kenya Airways, Mauritania Airlines); Abuja (Air Senegal); Accra (Air Senegal, and Arik Air); Bamako (Air Burkina, Air Cote d'Ivoire, Air Mali, Air Senegal, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Mauritania Airlines); Banjul (Air Senegal, Arik Air, Brussels Airlines, Guinea Airlines, Transair); Bissau (Air Senegal, ASKY Airlines, Transair); Conakry (Air Cote d'Ivoire and Air Senegal, Brussels Airlines, Guinea Airlines, Mauritania Airlines, Transair, Tunisair); Cotonou (Air Senegal and CEIBA International); Freetown (Air Senegal, Mauritania Airlines, Transair); Lagos (Air Senegal, Arik Air); Lome (ASKY Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines); Niamey (Air Senegal); Nouakchott (Air Senegal and Mauritania Airlines); and Ouagadougou (Air Burkina and Air Senegal).

 * From North Africa: Algiers (Air Algerie); Casablanca (Air Senegal and Royal Air Maroc); Tunis (Tunisair)
 * From Eastern Africa: Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines, via Lome); Nairobi (Kenya Airways, via Abidjan and Bamako)
 * From Central Africa: Douala (Air Senegal); Libreville (Air Senegal), Malabo (CEIBA International)
 * From Cape Verde & Canary Islands: Gran Canaria (Binter Canarias); Praia (Air Senegal, ASKY Airlines, Transair); Sal (Cabo Verde Airlines), Tenerife-North (Vueling)
 * National carrier Air Senegal operates domestic flights from Dakar to Cap Skirring & Ziguinchor in the western part of Casamance. Regional airline, Transair, operates to Cap Skirring, Kolda and Ziguinchor.

Taxi rides from the airport to the centre of Dakar are around CFA20,000, negotiated with taxi drivers. Insist on using the toll motorway (autoroute à payage), you will be expected to pay the toll, as it will save a lot of time during the day, and the local roads are unsafe at night.

There is probably a bus to Gare Routière de les Beax Mariniers.

Be prepared to refuse touts and taxi drivers. See Stay safe for details.

By rail

Dakar is the western terminus of the Dakar–Niger Railway, built by French colonialists in the early 20th century. The line connects Dakar with Bamako in Mali and was for a long time very popular with travelers. Unfortunately, large sections of the railway has fallen into disrepair and there has been no long-distance trains since 2010.

While there are no long-distance trains running as of 2022, there have been investments in a new modern regional service. The Train Express Régional (TER) now connects the central railway station with Dakar's eastern districts, ending in the nearby city of Diamniadio. The next phase will see the line extended to connect with the international airport and with Thies, to the east.

By road
The main method of travel around the country is by sept-places (French for "seven seats"), questionable station wagons in which they will pack seven people so that you are basically sitting on the next person's lap throughout the journey. You can also come with a group and rent out an entire sept place, but this will be expensive. If you are obviously a tourist, they WILL try to rip you off, so make sure to set a price before you agree to a driver. There are set prices to often-travelled locations. Watch out for pickpockets!

All minicar and sept-place arrivals and departures have moved to Dakar's new Gare Routiere Beaux Maraicheres, which is in Pikine on the outskirts of Dakar. To get to the city centre you will have to take a taxi for between 4,000 and 6,000 CFA. There may also be Dakar Dem Dikk busses passing by (possibly number 218). DDD bus number 15 passes near-ish going to Place de l'Independance.

By ferry

A state-owned ferry runs between Dakar and Ziguinchor in Senegal's Casamance region (below The Gambia). The Joola, one of the former ferries on this route, capsized in a storm while overloaded in 2002, regarded as the second deadliest maritime disaster in recent history. 1,800-1,900 people are believe to have died while only 64 survived (the ship was built to carry 580 people!) and the disaster remains on the minds of many Senegalese. The Aline Sitoé Diatta, built in 2008, is the current ferry. Changes have been made to ensure a disaster such as the Joola never happens again, so passengers shouldn't feel too worried.

The ferry runs overnight and takes around 16 hours in each direction. A seat costs CFA15,000. Cabins are available with 2-8 beds, but are more expensive (around €100) and are fully booked in advance, especially during tourist season. Departures from Dakar are Tuesdays & Fridays. Departures from Ziguinchor are Thursdays and Sundays (arriving in Dakar on Fridays & Mondays, respectively).

By bus
The Dakar bus system, known as Dakar Demm Dikk (Dakar coming and going), is fairly dependable. Fares are CFA150 and there are no free transfers permissible with each ticket. There's not much in the way of a map of the bus system, so you'll have to figure it out on your own. The number 10 bus runs along the Corniche de l'Ouest and turns into the suburbs at Rue Aime Cesaire. The number 1 bus runs along the VDN.

Cars Rapides. These are the usually blue, yellow or white mini-buses that careen through Dakar and some of Senegal's other cities. There are somewhat fixed rates for certain distances, but you need to check with a Senegalese beforehand. As of 2011 CFA150 would cover most destinations. To find out where one is going, flag it down and shout out your destination at the apprenti, the boy in charge of collecting fares who hangs out the back. If she shouts back at you the destination you want, signal it to stop and hop aboard. To stop, bang loudly on the side of the bus, on the roof or signal to the apprenti you want off. Apprentis don't always speak French, so be prepared to communicate otherwise if you do not speak Wolof. Be careful about asking for your destination, as the apprenti will often tell you it is going there just to get you on the bus, no matter its actual destination. If possible, ask where it is going rather than if it is going to your destination.

By taxi
Cheap and safe and everywhere. Just don't mind the broken windshields. All taxi fares are negotiated beforehand and will require bargaining. If you're not from Senegal, you will probably have an outrageous price proposed, so check with locals before to get an idea of what they pay, in order to know what you will be able to get. Even if you have negotiated a price, once you arrive your taxi driver will pretend he has no change on him, even if he had assured you he had.

Ride-hailing apps Heetch and Yango are available.

By rail
The first section of Dakar Train Express Régional (TER), between the central railway station in the city centre and Diamniadio in the eastern suburbs, opened in December 2021. While the service is mainly aimed at commuters, it can be useful for tourist to reach destinations in the eastern parts of the city. Over the next few years the TER network will be extended to reach the international airport among other destinations.

See

Do

 * Dakar has a vibrant music scene and is very popular with young people. Check out the incredibly rich and variant styles. Places like Club Thiossane, Just 4 U are a must for World Music fans.

Buy

 * Islam Couture/ Embroidery Dakar has some amazing (and amazingly expensive) stores specialised in haute-couture, embroidered traditional west African Muslim clothes.
 * Marche HLM A smaller market geared primarily towards fabric vendors, Marche HLM is slightly less hectic than Sandaga. Huge selection of fabric to buy and then get tailored into perfectly fitting traditional Senegalese wear (if you will be in Dakar for awhile, ask a Senegalese person who his or her tailor is, and go there. A little less convenient for those who will only be staying a week). Most vendors won't sell less than 3 to 6 metres of fabric. A reasonable price is CFA1,000 per metre.
 * Marche HLM A smaller market geared primarily towards fabric vendors, Marche HLM is slightly less hectic than Sandaga. Huge selection of fabric to buy and then get tailored into perfectly fitting traditional Senegalese wear (if you will be in Dakar for awhile, ask a Senegalese person who his or her tailor is, and go there. A little less convenient for those who will only be staying a week). Most vendors won't sell less than 3 to 6 metres of fabric. A reasonable price is CFA1,000 per metre.

Eat

Peanuts: The roasted peanuts you can buy on the street or get with your order of beer in any bar are delicious. These nuts are not greasy and have just the right amount of salt, and sometimes are still slightly warm from being roasted.

Budget
All these are in the city centre:

Drink
Gazelle is the local favourite beer - it comes in serious bottles, or Flag, which is stronger and more expensive.

Sleep
There is a wide selection of hotels, from the basic to the best 4 star chains. Many first time visitors stay at the expensive Meridien. There are, however, some good and reasonably priced places to stay.

Mid-range

 * Al Afifa Hotel, (city centre), Clean air-con rooms. Wi-Fi works most of the time and is free. Small outdoor pool, the main restaurant/bar alongside it. Food is good and the breakfast excellent with fresh croissants. Ask a waiter to prepare a mango or other fruit at the buffet. Expect to pay around CFA45,000 for a single room plus CFA3,600 for a breakfast. This hotel also has an "American bar" and a nightclub attached. Walking distance to the main attractions in Dakar and the best restaurants such as Café de Rome and Chez Loutcha.

Stay safe
Petty crime in Dakar is relatively high; crime against tourists is common, even around Place de l'Indépendance. Use common sense: women should not walk around alone after dark. Watch your pockets in crowded places, such as Sandaga, and keep a close eye on your belongings. There are many different scams to get money from tourists, so be wary. The favourites such as "I work at your hotel and have run out of fuel, please can I borrow €10", etc. are common, so don't be fooled.

Crime around the airport is extremely high. Do not change money at the airport. Con artists wait inside the arrival terminal by the baggage carousel. They inform you that they work for the airport and that they do not need any money from you. They snatch your bags out your hands, and lead you to a restaurant where you are told the kitchen is closed. They will all sit around you and demand money before they let you or your bags go. Some may offer to take you to "an affordable hotel" such as Hotel Tahiti. They then lock themselves in the room with you and demand money. They do not settle for anything less than USD10-25. They do not care if you have enough money for food or to get back to the airport. They will threaten you. Be warned.

Avoid the beaches at night. Try not to wear any outwardly expensive items of clothing or jewellery. In generally the Senegalese are not violent. Some people turn to stealing so that they can drink and eat. Overall, though, the Senegalese are an incredibly friendly and hospitable people and you will meet many people who are interested in talking to you.

Senegal is one of the most politically stable countries in Africa. The police force is useless for your safety, although they all speak French, and hence are helpful with directions when asked.

You should avoid walking in the evenings and nights along the Corniche, particularly the stretch between the International School of Dakar and the Club Olympique.

Cope
There are many beggars in Dakar, and so this can be an uncomfortable situation. One way to handle it is with a simple, polite "ba BEN-een yohn" ("next time" in Wolof). They may be persistent, but be firm without being rude. Another option is to give the talibes food. Also, keep in mind the Islamic tradition of giving daily after you've given once, you can say, "sah-RAHK-sah AH-gah-nah," which means "charity has already been done."

Embassies and consulates

 * 🇨🇦 Canada
 * 🇪🇬 Egypt
 * 🇩🇪 Germany
 * 🇬🇷 Greece
 * 🇷🇴 Romania
 * 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
 * 🇺🇸 United States

BBC World Service radio broadcasts in English and French in Dakar on 105.6 MHz.

Go next
Travelling outside of Dakar can be manic and harrowing but is definitely worth it.

 * Saint-Louis — The old French capital of Senegal, it is on the northern border, near Mauritania, and has fantastic colonial architecture and nightlife. Popular destination for travellers. Many bird parks are in this area.
 * Sine Saloum Delta — Just north of the border with Gambia, the Delta has amazing mangrove forests that you can tour by pirogue (a motored canoe). Negotiate a fair price with a guide, and remember that once you get into the Delta, it's difficult and expensive to get around any way besides by pirogue.
 * Casamance — The southernmost region of Senegal, the Casamance, boasts some of the most spectacular beaches and friendliest people in the country. The capital is Ziguinchor, nice to visit but not much to do. Cap Skirring is the main tourist destination, and there are many hostels as well as a Club Med ("Club Merde" as the locals call it). The Casamance has been involved in a secessionist conflict for years; though the warring factions do not purposely attack tourists, there have been tourist deaths. The overnight ferry from Dakar to Ziguinchor is affordable and comfortable.
 * Details on the ferry: The boat leaves from Dakar on Tuesdays and Fridays at 20:00 and from Zig on Thursdays and Sundays at 15:00, arriving 15–17 hours later. Office hours in Dakar are M-F, business hours with a break for lunch. To purchase tickets, you must go to either the port in Dakar or the one in Zig. You cannot buy tickets online, or over the phone. Bring your passport to purchase. Advance purchase is advised, if possible, but not always necessary. Price for a couchette in a two person room is CFA30,500 and for a four person room is CFA28,500. Both include private bath and breakfast. Phone # for the Dakar ticket office is +221 33 821 29 00. They will be able to give you information on availability, prices and office hours.
 * Touba — Senegal's religious centre, Touba makes a great day trip. Non-Muslims are no longer allowed inside the mosque, which is enormous. Women will be asked to wear long skirts and cover their heads to tour the grounds.
 * Banjul - the capital of The Gambia. There is one daily bus departing at 07:00 from Parcelles Dem Dikk terminus.
 * There are no options to buy the ticket either beforehand or online. Be there at 06:00 to buy a ticket and get a seat. Ticket price is CFA10,000; for one piece of luggage they charge CFA1,000.
 * The trip normally takes 8 hours, but the real time depends on the border and ferry conditions.
 * The buses have air-con, but the seats are narrow.

title: Dakar


text:
Dakhla Oasis

Dakhla (Arabic الداخلة) is an oasis in the Western Desert of Egypt, 740 km from Cairo. It extends some 80 km from east to west and 25 km from north to south.

Towns and villages

 * (or Mout, Madinat el-Dakhla) – The main town in the oasis, at the junction of roads (and historic trade routes) from Kharga, Farafra and south all the way through Sudan.
 * – Less built up and has retained its traditional village centre.
 * – A village 21 km north of Mut with many 18th century buildings. Note the old mosque and Ottoman-era graveyard.
 * – A village with an interesting old centre; more accessible from Mut than similar such villages. Five km further on is the Roman graveyard of Beit el Ara'is, which you can't enter, but can view from besides the watchman's hut.
 * – 4 km from Ed Duhus, an interesting old village but sadly tumbledown. The old mosque is 12th C.
 * – 11 km east of Mut is mostly modern, and the old village is a sorry ruin.
 * (or el-Qasr) – Another attractive traditional village with well-preserved old buildings.
 * – 43 km from Mut, a large village with a ramshackle old quarter, still inhabited. There is a small museum, and southside an old graveyard.

Understand
Like the other western oases, the climate is hot desert, 40°C and above summer and 5–10°C in winter. There is zero rainfall and all the oasis supply is "fossil water" extracted from the aquifer, a non-renewable resource.

By bus
Upper Egypt Bus Co. runs daily buses from Asyut, which is on the Cairo-Luxor main road and railway line. These leave around 8AM and take 3-4 hr to Kharga Oasis, then the same again to reach Dakhla towards 4PM.

They also in the past ran direct buses from Cairo Turgman Terminal, via Bahariyya and Farafra oases, but it is not known if these still run in April 2020.

By taxi
Getting here direct from Cairo, Luxor or northern oases, you will probably need a taxi. The price might be reasonable between two or more visitors.

By plane
Dakhla has an airport but no longer has scheduled civilian flights.

Get around
There are 4 or 5 buses per day from Mut to Balat at the east edge of the oasis, and to Qasr at the north edge.

The bus stand is just north of the main road junction in Mut.

See

 * 8.5 km from Mut along the highway to Farfara is the cemetery of El Uweina and El Hinda villages.
 * 8.5 km from Mut along the highway to Farfara is the cemetery of El Uweina and El Hinda villages.
 * 8.5 km from Mut along the highway to Farfara is the cemetery of El Uweina and El Hinda villages.
 * 8.5 km from Mut along the highway to Farfara is the cemetery of El Uweina and El Hinda villages.
 * 8.5 km from Mut along the highway to Farfara is the cemetery of El Uweina and El Hinda villages.
 * 8.5 km from Mut along the highway to Farfara is the cemetery of El Uweina and El Hinda villages.
 * 8.5 km from Mut along the highway to Farfara is the cemetery of El Uweina and El Hinda villages.

Do

 * Dakhla Oasis Project has since 1978 directed archaeological research in this region. Their base is 3 km east of Mut.
 * Dig deeper into Egyptian history. The German description of Dakhla (on sidebar left) runs to 24 pages of documentation, and that on Gilf Kebir (below) to 18.
 * The historic route between Dakhla and Farafra, used since Roman times, continues north for 200 km; but the modern road swings west and is 300 km. That's to avoid the mountains, shifting sands and the difficult, littered with huge limestone blocks. The crest is only 200 m, but the terrain will defeat all but a rufty-tufty experienced off-road driver. Or take an 11 km hike from the nearest roadhead to enter through Bab el Cailliaud, named for Frédéric Cailliaud (1787-1869) of Nantes, whose work in these regions helped decipher ancient hieroglyphics.

Eat

 * Also in Mut are Dawia, Shahab, and Abu Zeid Qalamuni cafe.
 * Also in Mut are Dawia, Shahab, and Abu Zeid Qalamuni cafe.
 * Also in Mut are Dawia, Shahab, and Abu Zeid Qalamuni cafe.
 * Also in Mut are Dawia, Shahab, and Abu Zeid Qalamuni cafe.
 * Also in Mut are Dawia, Shahab, and Abu Zeid Qalamuni cafe.

Drink
Mint tea is always a good choice hereabouts.

Mid-range

 * Also in Mut are Anwar Hotel and El Negoom Tourist Hotel.
 * In Bier El Gabal is Hathor-Chalet.
 * Also in Mut are Anwar Hotel and El Negoom Tourist Hotel.
 * In Bier El Gabal is Hathor-Chalet.

Splurge

 * Qaṣr ed-Dāchla has the Badawiya Dakhla Hotel and Desert Lodge Hotel.
 * Qaṣr ed-Dāchla has the Badawiya Dakhla Hotel and Desert Lodge Hotel.
 * Qaṣr ed-Dāchla has the Badawiya Dakhla Hotel and Desert Lodge Hotel.

Cope

 * Tourist Information – New Mosque Square, tel: 820407, fax: 820782, and on the main road to Qasr, tel: 821686, fax: 820782, open daily 8AM-2PM.
 * Mut Hospital – Beside the petrol station on the main road.
 * Bank Misr – Tahir Square, open Su-Th 8:30AM-2PM, money change only Sa-Th 7PM-9PM.
 * Gasoline stations – At each entrance of Mut, and several tire repair shops on the main road.

Stay safe
See the Egypt article for information on the security situation.

Stay healthy
Do not swim or fish in the lake north of Mut, it is heavily polluted.

Go next

 * The usual route is back to Asyut, then either north to Cairo or upriver to Luxor and Aswan.
 * You can hopscotch north through the oases of Farafra, Bahiriya, then west to Siwa and reach the Med coast at Marsa Matrun.

title: Dakhla Oasis


text:
Dakshina Kannada

Dakshina Kannada or South Canara is a district in the Karavali region of Karnataka.

Cities

 * is the district headquarters of Dakshina Kannada district.

Understand
Dakshina Kannada (D.K.) district was earlier known as South Canara or South Kanara (S.K.) district. It lies in the coastal region (Karavali) of Karnataka state, India. The D.K. district is area between Western ghats and Arabian sea. Mangaluru (Mangalore) is the district headquarters of Dakshina Kannada district. The district has some finest beaches along with dense evergreen jungles on the foot of Western ghats (Malenadu). Paddy fields, Coconut gardens, Arecanut plantations which once covered district has been fast replaced by Houses, Apartments,( High rise buildings) and Shopping Complexes. This degradation started tremendously in the beginning of 21st century. There is a petroleum crude refinery near Surathkal. The district is the birthplace of five major banks of India namely Canara bank, Syndicate Bank, Corporation Bank, Vijaya Bank (now merged with BOB) and Karnataka Bank. Tulu is the mother tongue of most natives in  Dakshina Kannada district and widely spoken.

Get in
Dakshina Kannada district is connected by many means of transport. There is Mangalore International Airport which has daily flights from Bengaluru, Mumbai and from middle east countries.There is an all weather sea port at Panambur ( New Mangalore Port ). Dakshina Kannada district is connected by trains ( railway ) to Bengaluru via Hassan, Sakleshpura. It is connected to Kerala and Mumbai ( Maharashtra ) by Konkan railway route. The prominent railway stations of the district are Mangaluru City (MAQ), Mangaluru Junction ( MAJN ),  Surathkal ( SL ), Mulki, Kabaka Puttur and Subramanya Road.

The district is connected by many roads, The national highways 66,73,75,169 and 275 pass through the district. There are many Karnataka state highways connecting to other districts of state like 70,101. Numerous district roads connects small towns and villages of D.K. district. Inland waterways ( river ways ) are rarely used these days.

Get around
By buses, taxis and autorickshaws (popularly known as "autos").

See
Beaches : Ullala, Someshwara, Taneerubavi, Panamburu, Sasihitlu, Surathkal.

Temples: Mangaladevi, Kadri Manjunatha, Gokarnatheshwara all at Mangaluru city, Dharmasthala Manjunatha, Kukke Subramanya, Kateelu Durga devi, Puttur Mahalingeshwara, Vitla Panchalingeshwara, Polali Raja Rajeshwari, Talapadi Durga Parameshwari, Iddya Mahalingeshwara, Surathkal Sadashiva, Thokur Subramanya, Kudipu, Krishnapura Matha, Krishnapura near Suratkal  and many more.

Pilikula Nisargadhama : There is a Herbarium, Science centre, Lake, Zoo and Golf course at this place. There is a Guthu house which represents culture and tradition of Tulunadu.

Bhuta Kola which is worship of spirits.

Nagaradhane which is worship of serpent god.

Yakshagana which is traditional theatre art form of Dakshina Kannada district.

Basidi ( Temple ) of Jain in and around Moodabidri.

Do
If you are adventurous then you can try water sports, trekking spots on Western ghats are available at various places in the district.There are few waterfalls in the region.

Few of trekking places (Western ghat range peaks) are

 * Kumara parvata (KP) with Kukke Subramanya as base.
 * Gadaikallu (Jamalabad or Narasimha Gada) Beltangady town as base
 * Amedikallu, Ettina Bhuja with Shishila village as base
 * Ombattu Gudda.

Water falls which can be visited after rainy season are Bandaje waterfalls with Mundaje village as base, Ermayi waterfalls  near Kajoor village,  Kadamgundi waterfalls near Kajake village. Beltangady (Belthangadi) is the nearest town to all these waterfalls.

Eat
The district is famous for delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The district offers variety matched by another. Try Golibajje, Patrode (colacasia), Kadubu (a type of idli), Pelakai Gatti or Gujje gatti (Jackfruit dumpling). Various fried snacks made from plantain, raw jackfruit, sweet potato, brinjal, ridge gourd, capsicum and green chilli.

Drink
Filter Coffee, Tender Coconut water, Juices of different fruits

Sleep
There are many hotels to stay in Dakshina Kannada district. The Mangaluru city has hotels to suit every one's budget. There are also decent accommodation available at Taluk headquarters namely Bantwal, Beltangadi, Mudabidre, Puttur and Sullia. There are also many guest houses at pilgrim centres of Dharmasthala and Kukke Subramanya. Few homestay options are available at villages near to tourist spots.

Stay safe
If you are driving yourself then drive carefully as most of the roads are not wide enough and have blind curves.Do not swim in the Arabian sea as most beaches in the Dakshina Kannada district have deep shore line. The waves and currents of the sea are very strong to drown or carry away human beings. Do not sit on the rocks near sea shore as high tide waves can pull you down.It is advisable not to got to sea shore or near to river during rainy seasons. While walking through jungles beware of venomous snakes and wild animals. Many areas of the district are prone to floods and water logging during monsoon. Roads can become muddy during rains.

Go next

 * Udupi (District )
 * Murdeshwar
 * Gokarna

title: Dakshina Kannada


text:
Dakshin Dinajpur

Dakshin Dinajpur is a district of West Bengal, India. Its history dates back to Pala and Sena times and has a unique cultural heritage.

By car
NH 512 runs through this district. SH 10, a bypass highway, connects the district with Raiganj and Siliguri.

title: Dakshin Dinajpur


text:
Dalaman

Dalaman is a resort town in Lycia on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. The town and surrounding district had a population of 43,036 in 2020.

In tourist literature, "Dalaman" can refer to any of the resorts served by Dalaman airport, the largest being Dalyan and Marmaris west, and Fethiye east, described on their own pages. Dalaman town itself is a workaday nondescript place, but there's a beach and cluster of hotels at Sarıgerme 10 km south.

Understand
This area is rugged, but the small Dalaman river has carved out a fertile plain, so around town is agricultural - one notable landowner was Abbas II the last Ottoman ruler of Egypt and Sudan. Dalaman town was (and remains) an insignificant market centre, until western tourism to Turkey got going from the 1970s. The flat plain was an obvious site for an airport, so this was built just south of town to open in 1981. It's been upgraded since, with the second terminal opening in 2018, and has boosted tourism along a 200 km stretch of coastline that had previously involved a long coach transfer from airports such Izmir or Antalya. (Milas-Bodrum airport gave a similar boost to resorts further north.) Dalaman's own resort strip of Sarıgerme is small, so most tourists who book holidays marketed as "Dalaman" will be whisked away by their package coaches and never set foot here.

By plane
To town: Muttaş Bus 8-11 runs from the airport to Dalaman town centre and the edge-of-town bus station. It's every 90 min or so, timed to connect with the Istanbul flights. Muttaş buses also run direct from the airport to Marmaris and Fethiye. Havaş buses from the airport to Marmaris also stop at the bus station and Ortaca, but they charge you the full fare to Marmaris.

By bus
Buses from Istanbul take 13 hours via Gebze, Bursa, Balıkesir, Akhisar, Manisa, Izmir, Aydin, Muğla, Köyceğiz and Ortaca. In 2023 the single adult fare is 1000 TL. There are about 12 per day, and many of them continue east to Göcek and Fethiye. Buses from Ankara take 10 hours and from Izmir 4 hours 30 min. Intercity bus lines include Metro Turizm, Pamukkale and Flixbus.

Muttaş is the local bus line run by Muğla city. Muttas Bus 48-13 runs from Marmaris every 30 min. Bus 48-2 runs from Fethiye via Göcek every 15 min.

the bus station is on D555 five km north of town - see below for the local buses, but you probably need a taxi or dolmuş to get where you want to be. The station is reasonably clean with helpful staff.

By road
From Istanbul follow O-7 and O-5 (toll) to Izmir, then D550 through Muğla and Akyaka, onto the coast highway D400. This nowadays bypasses Dalaman, loop south on D555 to reach town, the airport and resort strip. D400 wends and winds onwards east through Göcek and Fethiye (for Ölüdeniz) - as one of the historic primary routes of Turkey it continues all the way past Adana to the borders with Syria and Iran.

Get around
Muttas Bus 8-12 runs hourly between Dalaman town centre and Sarıgerme.

Bus 8-5 runs every 15 min from Dalaman Hospital and downtown to the bus station and Ortaca village.

Buses also run to Gürleyik, Köyceğiz, Menteşe and Sarsala beach.

See

 * Dalaman town is modern. The central mosque (Merkez Cami) is in traditional style but only built in 1991, and Düç Mosque west end of main street is similar.
 * is really the State Farm offices, Tarım İşletmesi Müdürlüğü, but a modern myth tells that it's a station built by mistake, hundreds of km away from any railway. Abbās Ḥilmī Pāshā (1874-1944) was the last Khedive of Egypt and Sudan (the hereditary Ottoman viceroy) and owned vast tracts of farmland around Dalaman. In 1905 he supposedly commissioned a hunting lodge here plus a railway station in Alexandria, and the plans and materials got swopped. Some versions of the legend add a stretch of railway track leading nowhere. The building is a fine late Ottoman mansion that doesn't remotely resemble a railway station (look at that tiny main door, and where's the clocktower?) and Alexandria already had two sturdy stations by that date. Abbās was a better farmer than a statesman, establishing model farms in Egypt; he probably intended the same here and that is what the building has become. But he antagonised the British, who side-lined him and then deposed him in 1914 when the Ottomans allied with Germany in the First World War.
 * village lies below the hilltop ancient city of Kalynda. The ruins are scrappy and you'll probably need a local guide to find them.
 * is a tranquil lagoon and nature reserve south of Sarsala beach. There's no road access, but it's a popular spot for boat trips. The sand is composed of ooids: spherical limestone crystals, like miniature pearls, that grow by accretion. The ruined hamam is also known as Cleopatra's Bath, because of a legend that Mark Antony constructed it and the beach for her - similar ooids are found in Egypt. It's equally likely that he was really trying to build a railway station.
 * Twelve Islands are the archipelago beyond the bay in the Gulf of Göcek, reached by boat trip from Sarıgerme beach or Göcek.

Do

 * Sarıgerme beach is sandy, with water sports shacks.
 * Scuba diving here is mellow and suitable for beginners. Sarigerme Diving offer courses.

Buy

 * Lots of small stores, A101 is the main chain.

Eat

 * The hotels are the best bet and may serve non-residents.
 * Dalaman town has a cluster of little eateries, no stand-out.

Drink

 * As with eating, hotels are the best bet. Several cafes in Dalaman town serve alcohol.

Connect
Dalaman and its approach roads have 4G from all Turkish carriers. As of June 2023, 5G has not rolled out in Turkey.

Go next

 * Dalyan the next resort west has the extensive ruins of Kaunos.
 * Göcek the next resort east has easier access to the islands in the gulf.
 * Fethiye is the large resort further east.

title: Dalaman


text:
Dalanzadgad

Dalanzadgad is the capital of Ömnögovi province, 575 km south from Ulaanbaatar. This town ofv25,000 people (2017) is the base for explorations into the Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park. With black smoke coming from the power station, and its dusty roads, it's not a very interesting town, but it's a good place to stock up with food for your excursion into the desert.

Get in
There is a pretty fast and efficient daily bus from Ulaanbaatar at 08:00 and 16:00 (about 10 hours, 28,000 ₮ (as of January 2015)). It leaves at the Bayanzurkh bus station which you can reach by the Electrobus #4 or City Bus #30 from Chinggis Square (Blue Sky Tower). Ask a bus worker to let you know when to get off.

Minibuses ("Porgons" and "Mikrs") leave from the Ulaanbaatar "Black Market" (Narantuul Zakh) when they are full (that means, really full: 16 people!), usually in the afternoon between 12:00-17:00 and cost around 30,000 ₮. Expect frequent breakdowns and up to 24hr traveling time.

By plane
The airport serves workers at several large mines nearby and generally uses larger planes than other domestic flights in Mongolia. The paved runway is the 2nd longest in Mongolia after Chinggis Khaan International.

Local air ticket agents:

Agents speak moderate to advanced English.

Phone: 976-11-313131, 976-11-323232 976-11-323232, 976-11-333333 976-11-303030, 976-11-330101 976-11-331390 Email: info@airtrans.mn http://www.airtrans.mn
 * Air trans:

Phone: +976-70105050 Email: info@airmarket.mn http://www.airmarket.mn
 * Air market:

Phone: 976-18001818, 976-70141818, 976-70131818, 976-11-311818, 976-70121818, 976-70161818, 976-70151818, 976-70101818 Fax: 976-11-322350 Email: info@airlink.mn http://www.airlink.mn
 * Air link:

Phone: 976-11-311001, 976-11-311002, 976-11-311193, 976-70141001 976-70113313 Email: info@monairtour.com http://www.monairtour.com
 * Mon Air tour:

Phone: 976-11-320910, 976-11-310910 Email: info@airexpert.mn Fax: 976-11-330910 Phone: +976-77114466 Email: info@airexpress.mn http://www.airexpress.mn facebook.com/AirExpressTravel
 * Air expert:
 * Air express travel:

Get around
There is a taxi service that will take you anywhere inside Dalanzadgad for 1000 ₮ (+976 19001565 - there is a 500 ₮ charge added onto your total fee if you call). Fare to the bus station: 2000 ₮; to the airport: 5000 ₮.

See

 * Dalanzadgad Temple
 * Ömnögovi Aimag Museum
 * Ömnögovi Aimag Children's Park
 * The Khermen Tsav Canyon is 450 km from Dalanzadgad. It is an alluring red looking canyon that stretches for 15-20 km. 65-250 million years ago Khermen Tsav was an ocean bed. After it dried out, millions of years wind and water erosion formed this majestic looking canyon with moon surface like shapes. The site is known not only by its beauty of natural formation, but also by its findings of dinosaur fossils and eggs. The first full skeleton of a dinosaur was found from there.

Do

 * Camel riding can be arranged with some locals if you negotiate well or even some locals offer you cheap good camel rides depending on different hotels premises.

Buy

 * Nearby hotels sometime random local gift shops open and sell unique local souvenirs.

Eat
There are a few good restaurants in town. Most hotels will have a restaurant. There are a few good supermarkets as well.

Some non-hotel restaurants:
 * Marvel Pub
 * Gobi Restaurant

Drink
Draft beers are only available at Marvel Pub. The cocktail or mixed drink selection at the hotels will be very limited.

Sleep
These are the major hotels.
 * Dalanzadgad Hotel
 * Khaan Uul Hotel
 * Gobi Sands

You can find smaller hotels around the city.

Go next
There are two daily buses to Ulaanbaatar at 08:00 and 16:00 (about 10 hr, 22,900 ₮ (as of 2015)). It leaves from the northern edge of town, next to the children's park and is probably the fastest overland option. Porgons to Ulaanbaatar leave from the market and from Nomin supermarket.

title: Dalanzadgad


text:
Dalarna

Dalarna, latinized form Dalecarlia, is a province and county in the region Svealand, in Sweden. It has a population of almost 280,000; nearly half of them in the southeastern twin cities Borlänge and Falun. Except those cities, most villages and towns of Dalarna are small, and known for being an archetype of Swedish folk culture; especially around lake Siljan. Northern and western Dalarna have vast forests and tall mountains for outdoor life.

Regions
Dalarna is Svealand's largest province, where the scenery differs a lot between the mountainous wilderness in the northwest, and the flat southeastern farmlands.

Cities

 * , small town where you'll find the largest Dala Horse in the world
 * , a blue-collar town and friendly rival of its sibling Falun
 * , known for its copper mine, and two of its by-products: red paint and sausage.
 * , famous for its Midsummer celebrations and ice hockey team
 * , home of the Dala Horse
 * , with nice small-scale skiing and Europe's largest bear park
 * , with great views over lake Siljan
 * , known for its annual river swimming contest

Other destinations

 * — a popular ski resort
 * — an even more popular ski resort
 * — A small village, but a major tourist resort in Siljansbygden, known for its Midsummer festival.

National parks

 * - in Älvdalen in northwestern Dalarna.
 * - in Älvdalen in northwestern Dalarna.

Understand
Dalarna is an important province in Swedish history. In contrast to many other provinces, Dalarna was devoid of a noble elite, and foreign influence was small. Several uprisings against foreign and domestic rulers started in Dalarna. The most famous is the Liberation War of the 1520s, in which Gustav Vasa travelled to Dalarna to stage an uprising against the Danish rulers of Stockholm. The truth of his legendary adventures in Dalarna is disputed; nevertheless, they are commemorated by Vasaloppet, an annual ski race.

In the 19th century, Sweden's nationalist movement sought to define a Swedish identity. They perceived the folk culture of Dalarna, especially in Siljansbygden, to be purely Swedish, and it was elevated into an archetype (and, in some cases, stereotype) of Swedish national identity. Falu Rödfärg (the red paint typical to Swedish farmhouses) and Midsummer celebration are some Swedish icons originating from Dalarna. While the Dala Horse, dalahäst, has been a handicraft object since the 17th century, it became a symbol of Sweden only in 1939, at the New York City World Fair. This phenomenon can be compared to Bavaria, which is the origin of many icons of German culture.

Dalarna has a thriving pop music scene, with the Peace and Love festival in Borlänge, and acts such as HammerFall and Miss Li.

Talk
As in the rest of Sweden, everyone, except the elderly, speaks some English. When it comes to local language, Dalarna has a special-sounding dialect. The dialect of Älvdalen is usually considered a language distinct from Swedish.

Get in
Resrobot is a search engine for all public transport inside Sweden.

By plane

The Borlänge and Mora airports do not have any scheduled flights any more.

By train
Most cities are reachable by rail, either operated by SJ or by the regional company Tåg i Bergslagen. Tickets for both can be bought at the website of the Swedish railway company SJ.

By bus
Going by bus is usually slightly cheaper than by train. You can buy tickets at the website of MasExpressen (Available in English).

Get around
Travelling inside Dalarna is by train (Tåg i Bergslagen. Ticket purchase in English on sj.se) or by bus (Dalatrafik). Ticket purchase can be done onboard.

Travelling within cities is by bus, and the ticket can be used multiple times in one hour.

See

 * Falun copper mine. Known as the Great Copper Mountain, the millennium-old mine and its surroundings are on the UNESCO World Heritage List since December 2001 and a must-see when in Falun.
 * Dala Horse factory in Nusnäs, Mora
 * Santaland in Gesunda

Do
Dalarna is great for outdoor life; especially winter sport, as the province is usually snowier than southern Sweden, and has many mountains.

Information and rental addresses are found in this region south of Malung
 * Canoeing: In the region of Tyngsjö is one of the nicest things to do in the Swedish summer.

 * Winter sport. In the northern part of the province there are several popular ski-resorts, such as Sälen and Idre. There's also a pretty big alpine resort i Borlange, called Romme Alpin.
 * Vasaloppet, a cross-country ski race, is a leg of the Swedish Classic Circuit.
 * Vansbrosimningen in Vansbro.
 * Dalhalla, in an old quarry outside Rättvik, ranks as the fourth best outside-arena in the world (by Austrian Magazin Festspiele). During the warmer half of the year lots of concerts and theatre plays are shown here.
 * Hiking; Södra Kungsleden is a route from Sälen to Storlien.

Buy

 * Kupolen. The largest shopping-mall in the province with over 80 stores and several more nearby, located in Borlänge.
 * Dala Horses in Nusnäs, Mora.
 * Mora knives.

Eat
There are dishes from all over the world available at restaurants. Domestic and international fast-food companies are well established.

A local specialty of Falun is the falukorv, a big sausage. Hard bread, knäckebröd is made around Dalarna, more famous for its role as a cornerstone of Swedish cuisine, than its taste.

The forests provide game and berries, and there are many places for foraging.

Stay safe
See cold weather and driving in Sweden.

In the mining districts, abandoned mining holes are a serious risk factor, as they have blended into nature.

title: Dalarna


text:
Da Lat

During the colonial era, Da Lat (Đà Lạt), also Dalat, in the South Central Highlands of Vietnam, was the playground of the French, who built villas in the clear mountain air to escape the heat and humidity of the plains and coastal areas.

Understand
Dalat looks somewhat like a cross between Vietnam and rural France. Many of its hotels and houses are built in a European/French style. The city spreads across a series of pine-covered hills, with a small lake in the centre and surrounded by a man-made lake and higher peaks, making for some lovely scenery quite different from the rest of Vietnam. Temperatures are pleasantly warm by day, and cool at night, down to perhaps 10°C.

Dalat is surrounded by some of the best mountain biking, hiking and canyoning opportunities in Vietnam, with hills of coffee and tea plantations, which evoke images of the colonial hill stations of the north of India.

Dalat's high altitude (1,500–2,000 m) and fertile landscape make it one of Vietnam's premier agricultural areas, producing varieties of fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, and flowers that don't grow in the lowlands. In markets as far north as Hanoi and Haiphong, vegetable and flower vendors will tout their "grown in Dalat" produce.

Dalat is a favorite destination for company-sponsored weekend outings, family getaways, and honeymooners.

By plane
Some hotels offer special arrangements with taxi companies to ferry hotel guests to and from the airport for around 200,000 dong. Hotels can try to rip you off by asking for anything between 300,000 to 400,000 dong for an airport transfer. Be adamant on 200,000 dong. Taxi service with have a fixed price of 250,000 dong. Malinh taxi charges 300,000 dong to the airport. If going by meter, it comes to around 577,000 dong (distance around 35 km).

Or catch the airport shuttle for 60,000 dong per person (Aug 2022). They will ask what hotel you're staying in, and the airport shuttle bus will take you there. You can get the shuttle back to the airport at the Intercity Bus Station (Bến xe Liên tỉnh), also for 60,000 dong, last bus at 7 pm (Aug 2022).

By bus
Most local and foreign travelers arrive in Dalat by bus, including those traveling on the famous Sinh Cafe Hanoi-HCMC open-tour buses.

Phuong Trang Busline runs several daily services to Dalat from Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City. From Nha Trang the bus ride is about 5 hours, with the obligatory stop at a dilapidated Cham temple/tourist site. From Nha Trang, the travel time to 3–4 hours, including a 30-minute breakfast/WC stop about one hour out of Nha Trang. From Ho Chi Minh City the bus ride is about 7 hours (9 hours if there is bad traffic leaving Saigon). If coming from Mui Ne, be careful as the road is rough most of the way, so try to book a large bus or at least a seat towards the front.

From Mui Ne: ..

From Danang - Danang Central Bus Station, sleeper bus from Danang to Dalat with air-cond, toilet on bus, departs from Danang at 17:00 and arrives Dalat at 08:00 - 09:00 (15 hours), it costs 265,000 dong/ticket, you may come directly to the Bus Station or online booking via email danangdalatbus@gmail.com.

For foreign visitors, it may be best to book a ticket on a bus without a television. The entertainment offered could be loud and unappealing if you prefer sleeping before arriving at their next destination.

Alternatively, catch a local bus at Ho Chi Minh City, Bien Hoa, Phan Rang, Nha Trang or Buon Ma Thuot.

By motorbike
Motorbikes are also a good choice for adventurous travelers who like to travel in an experiential style and save money. From Saigon to Da Lat is about 300 km, it takes about 7 – 10 hours if traveling by motorbike. Although it takes quite a long time, these will be quite interesting experiences, as well as help you discover many beautiful scenes along the way. A legit motorbike driving license is required to rent a motorbike in Vietnam.

Get around
Depending on where you stay, you can walk to most parts around town. You can catch a xe om (motorbike taxi) from most corners, so if you're going somewhere farther out of town, you have a fast way to get there. You can also book via app using Grab Bike. Taxi cars are also abundant and reasonable in price, yet watch the meter, as meter fixing is a common practice from north to south. As of July 2018, meter-fixing is a much diminished problem and almost all taxi meters click into life after the vehicle has traveled a few metres. The occasional taxi may take you on a circuitous route to get to your destination but opening Google maps and pointing out that you know the way reduces incidents of this kind. Taxis are cheap and an ideal way to get round Dalat.

There is a local bus which passes near most of the main tourist sites. Heading south you can catch it at the bus shelter by the lake. Otherwise, the bus hub can be found on Hoa Binh Square (Khu Hoa Binh - behind Hoa Binh theater), just up from the market. The last bus each day is at 17:30.

There are many places around town to rent a bicycle, tandem, or motorbike. Please consider carefully before you rent a motorbike, as according to the Vietnamese law you must be in the possession of a valid Vietnamese driver's licence to be able to drive a motor vehicle in the country. Failure to have one cancels any insurance that the bike might come with and makes you liable for any damages. In Southeast Asia, you are always liable, as you are always guilty, as you are presumed to have more money than the other party. Hence you will have to pay for damages to the bike and its full value, damages to other people and their property, as well as ruining your holiday. Need a private car, contact mrlee from Mimosatravel, excellent English guide and driver

See

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Buy
Most visitors to Dalat are Vietnamese, and most of them leave loaded with stuff. What they like to take home is dried and candied fruits, strawberry preserves, coffee, green and artichoke tea, local wine, dried venison, orchids, strawberries, avocados, and other fresh produce. If you take any sort of organized tour, chances are you will be off-loaded for a half hour at a shop selling these items. Local treats are also for sale in abundance in the large central market in the area around Nguyen Thi Minh Khai and Le Dai Hanh. Partly covered and partly outdoors, the market has dozens of small stalls selling fruits and vegetables, clothing, and a variety of other goods. There is a supermarket on the top floor selling necessities for travellers. Strolling around the market is a favourite evening activity, and every night it buzzes with thousands of visitors.

Dalat does not offer lot of high-end handicrafts of the sort favoured by overseas tourists. Dalat is famous, however, for its beautifully crafted silk embroidered pictures, which can be purchased at a massive mark up from the many galleries around Dalat or at a fraction of the price from the central Dalat market.

Dalat also has an abundance of fruit, vegetables, and flowers available for purchase if you plan to stay for a few days and want to liven up your hotel room or cook your own meals.

Go next
Buses leave regularly from the Phurong Trang (FuTa) Bus Terminal in the south of the city.
 * Ho Chi Minh City, 350,000 dong, 7-8 hr trip
 * Mui Ne, 200,000 dong, 4-hr trip
 * Nha Trang, 200,000 dong, 4-hr trip
 * Buon Ma Thuot

title: Da Lat


text:
Dalhart

Dalhart is a city in the High Plains of the Texas Panhandle. It is known as the "Gateway to the Rockies" because it is an important stopover and resting place for many Texans on their way to the ski slopes of northeast New Mexico and Colorado.

Get in

 * US 87 connects Dalhart to Clayton, New Mexico to the northwest and Dumas to the southeast.
 * US 57 connects Dalhart to Guymon, Oklahoma to the northeast and Tucumcari, New Mexico to the southwest.
 * From I-40 west of Amarillo, take Highway 385 north from the small town of Vega, about 80 minutes.

Get around
As with most other towns in the area, a car is a necessity.

Go next

 * Rita Blanca National Grassland, contact office in Clayton, New Mexico, 505 374 9652. To the north and northwest of town, over 77,000 acres of what was once the XIT ranch are now preserved in this parcel of Cibola National Forest. The area provides excellent birdwatching and offers limited antelope hunting by special permit.
 * Stratford, northeast on Texas 54, is a small historic depot town with many homes from 1900-1910.

title: Dalhart


text:
Dalhousie (India)

Dalhousie is a hill resort town in the Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh in India at 2000 metres (6400 feet) altitude.

Understand
Dalhousie is a quiet hill station with little nightlife, best suited for people who want to de-stress, who like the quiet, serene atmosphere, and for honeymooners, ideal for long walks picnics and treks. It is not recommended for people who want discos, malls and multiplexes. While there is plenty to do, see and experience, Dalhousie exudes an old-world charm and it almost seems like it hasn't quite caught up with the rest of the world.

History
Lord Dalhousie founded the town in 1854 because its fresh and peaceful atmosphere and healthy surroundings enchanted him. The British acquired five hills — Kathalagh, Potreyn, Terah (now called Moti Tibba by the locals), Bakrota and Bhangora — from the ruler of the Chamba State for developing the area as a sanatorium; in return, his taxes were reduced. The project originated with Lt. Col. Napier, then Chief Engineer of Punjab; (‘afterwards Lord Napier of Magdala”). Dr. Clemenger of the 49th Native infantry did the surveying. In 1851 a spot where the Dayan Kund Ridge (now Dain Kund) breaks in to spurs was selected for the project and Kathalagh was identified for the construction of Convalescent Depot.

The British visited this place for their summer vacations, and the bungalows are in an English style. The modern town is situated among the five hills, facing the Pir Panjal range of snow-capped and pristine mountains, surrounded by thick forests of pine and deodar trees.

Climate
It is usually warm in the morning and afternoon in June–July, gets cold early in the evening, and is quite cold at night: pack woollens and jackets; T-shirts can be worn in the daytime while the sun is out. The weather gets quite cold when it rains.

In winter, the temperature can drop to freezing when heavy woollens are required. The summer temperature are mild and light woollens / cottons are recommended.

Get in
The trip to Dalhousie is a long one if you are heading from Delhi. It usually involves taking an overnight train to Pathankot (about 10 hr) and then a 2–3 hr drive from Pathankot to Dalhousie. The options for overnight trains are Delhi-Pathankot or Delhi-Chakki Bank train. Chakki Bank is only 4 km away from Pathankot which gives you the pleasure of being on train at right time (around 21:00) and being in Chakki Bank at morning (06:30)

There are frequent bus services from Pathankot to Dalhousie, which cost ₹70, as well as one bus a day from Delhi. A taxi from Pathankot costs between ₹800 (unofficial) to ₹1,350 (official taxi).

The nearest airports are:

There are also local buses to Kangra, Dharamsala (07:15, ₹155), Khajjiar and Chamba. For example, a local bus from Kangra to Dalhousie will cost only ₹150/- per ticket and will give some best scenic views on the way. You will also get a chance to interact with local people on the way who are nice. Seeing villages having merely 5-10 houses in the middle of mountains is a good experience.

Get around
The greatest activity in Dalhousie is on and around the three-level malls which were laid in the early 1860s for promenades, carriages, horses, dandies, etc. these roads and the steeper by-lanes which connect them to the bus-stand are still the arteries of the town. The malls around Moti Tibba and Potreyn hills are the most popular with tourists as the two are level and most of the business activity and hotels are around them. Gandhi Chowk, Upper bazaar. Subhash chowk, Catholic church of St Frances, Sadar bazaar and the Convent founded by an Order of Belgium nuns and their Sacred Heart School are on these two malls. Dalhousie’s third and highest mall was built around the upper Bakrota hill nearly a 1,000 feet above the G.P.O. (Gandhi Chowk). This mall was the favourite of Dr Hutchison: “of these Upper Bakrota mall is finest and the longest being fully 3 miles round and from it extensive views are obtained of the low hills and figure of eight walk on the two malls encircling Moti Tibba and Potreyn hills is very pleasant and popular among local people and tourists.

As Shimla finds its focus in the mall, in Dalhousie action gravitates in the evening to the G.P.O. which presents a riot of colours and activity. Sometimes it even becomes difficult to surge ahead without jostling and elbowing. Most of the good eateries and handicraft emporia, hotels and of course the ever attractive Tibetan market are all around the G.P.O. There is a library and a reading room at the G.P.O. for the convenience of the tourists.

The main mode of transport is a car or motorcycle; it can get very cold in the evening so a car is recommended. Pony rides are available in G.P.O. and Khajjiar, but this is mostly a recreational activity rather than a functional one. The ponies are called khachhars (mules), crosses between horses and donkeys: don't expect thoroughbred horses! Walking around Dalhousie is a good option, but to see Khajjiar and Chamba you will have to use some kind of transport. Taxis to these destinations are easily available from the main market.

See

Ask the locals for more detailed directions and advice about these places. Dain Kund, Upper Bakrota, and Ganji Pahadi are lesser-known but quite long and enjoyable walks. Pack a picnic basket: there are a lot of open, empty spots where one can sit and enjoy a meal and a good view.

Do
Dalhousie is known for its great valleys and high mountain ranges. Places like Panchpula are known for trekking. There are waterfalls, places to trek, or to sit down, relax, and experience nature. It is 5 km from G.P.O. Dalhousie Chowk. Going there is easy by bus, taxi, etc., but going on foot is a marvellous experience. This Place Registered its Name in History. As here Lies the Memorial of Amar Ajit Singh (Uncle of Shaheed Bhagat Singh)

 * Go to the Tibetan market and have a look around just for fun.
 * Enjoy long walks; carry an umbrella if its cloudy.
 * Picnics are the thing to do in Dalhousie.
 * Have a barbeque if your hotel has the facilities to do so.
 * Star-gaze: the sky is exceptionally clear in Dalhousie at night (bring your binoculars/telescope).
 * Enjoy a ride on the ponies in Khajjiar.
 * Trek: it's a fantastic place to trek.
 * Go see the sites: ask the locals, there are a lot of places not covered in this wiki.

Buy
There are dozens of shops in the main market. D.C. Khannah local general store has everything from paint to everyday things; ask a local for directions-nearby Hotel Basera on court road Dalhousie.

 * G.P.O. - The main market is popularly called G.P.O. because of the post office.
 * Tibetan Handicraft Centre - It is 3 km from G.P.O. on the way to Khajjiar. On the left is a slip road leading to this centre. It has great carpets and other handicrafts. You will have to ask a local whether the centre is open to visitors at the time of your visit.
 * Tibetan Market - A market run by Tibetans, it has all kinds of knick-knacks, electronics and toys (mostly from China).
 * Mantra Arts- at Hotel Mount View is a great Curio antique Shop One if it's kind in Dalhousie

Eat
There are quite a few restaurants; the better ones are usually in the hotels themselves. Kwality restaurant is one of the oldest, is located at G.P.O, is not the most sophisticated place, but is usually full and serves great dosa and Indian food. There are lots of small eating places at G.P.O. and Khajjiar. You can also try out some momos, a type of dumpling that is hugely popular with tourists).

 * Cedar Cafe* ..Awesome food and happening place at Hotel Mount View
 * Cedar Cafe* ..Awesome food and happening place at Hotel Mount View
 * Cedar Cafe* ..Awesome food and happening place at Hotel Mount View
 * Cedar Cafe* ..Awesome food and happening place at Hotel Mount View
 * Cedar Cafe* ..Awesome food and happening place at Hotel Mount View
 * Cedar Cafe* ..Awesome food and happening place at Hotel Mount View
 * Cedar Cafe* ..Awesome food and happening place at Hotel Mount View

Drink
There is a liquor store at G.P.O. and bars in the hotels, but no pubs as such.

 * Hotel ManiMahesh - Bus Stand
 * Vatika Restaurant - (4 km back, on the way)

Sleep
There are various hotels available. Please book your room in advance in July; it also helps to enquire about the condition and facilities available in the hotel. Guest houses and some houses are available on rent. The houses are more expensive but better maintained and more luxurious. Hotels differ in prices: the more expensive ones have better views and more services offered; one can have a look around to find the type of accommodation needed.

Go next

 * Dharamsala - is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh, famed for its large Tibetan community centred around the activities of the Dalai Lama

title: Dalhousie (India)