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Idagunji

Idagunji (Kannada: ಇಡಗುಂಜಿ) is a city in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka.

Get in
Idagunji is 480 km away from Bangalore, 140 km from Mangalore and 195 km from Goa. There are many bus connections available like Seabird, VRL, SRL, and Sugama. A train (Konkan Train) connection is available from Mangalore. There are also Sleeper/seater buses like Seabird, VRL and SRS that depart from Bangalore and go to Murdeshwara and Honnavara. You can get on a minibus from there to Idagunji which takes around 30 minutes at most.

See

 * Ganesh Temple. The Blackstone Idol portrays Lord Ganesha in a magnificent standing pose which is unique to this famous place.

Buy
There are numerous outlets around Idagunji which sell Ganesha idols, pendents, Puja articles, Conches, brass articles.

Eat
There are a few small hotels around the temple which serve tea, South Indian dishes, and soft drinks.

Sleep
There aren't really any good accommodations in Idagunji to recommend; better lodges and restaurants can be found in either Murdeshwara or Honnavara.

Go next

 * Murdeshwara is around 30 km from Idagunji. The beach offering watersports activities, and a very beautiful Shiva temple are the main attractions there.
 * Gokarna, around 70 km further from Mudeshwara, also has a beach and a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha as well as a neighbouring one dedicated to Shiva.

title: Idagunji


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Idaho

Idaho is a state in the Rocky Mountains region of the United States. Idaho is known for its wilderness; there are snow-capped mountains that reach to  above sea level. One of the whitewater rivers runs through the country's deepest river canyon. Most of the land north of Boise is national forest or state forest.

Regions
North Idaho is sometimes considered part of the Pacific Northwest. It's where the rolling grain-covered hills of the Palouse give way to the Bitterroot (Rocky) Mountains. South Idaho is usually considered part of the Intermountain West, and is in the Mountain timezone.

Cities

 * — Idaho's capital and largest city, Boise focuses on public art and heritage. It has urban conventions while maintaining a small town feel. In Boise, high-tech companies, including Micron, employ many of the working people in the area. There are many memorials, a discovery center, an art museum and a vibrant downtown. There are also a handful of movie theaters, the Morrison Center Theater and an ice skating rink. A local airport and various hotels, locally and nationally owned, will make it easy to plan a trip there.
 * — A North Idaho city nestled in mountains with excellent recreational lakes.
 * — The commercial and agricultural center of Eastern Idaho, home of the Idaho National Engineering Labs
 * — Home of the University of Idaho, combination agricultural and college town
 * — Southern Idaho town. Home of Idaho State University
 * — Great skiing and a great lake
 * — Home of the Spud Day celebration
 * — Proximity to the Sawtooth Mountains offers numerous outdoor activities, including visiting Red Fish Lake, directly underneath the Sawtooths.
 * — Idaho's youngest major city and the hub of the South Central Idaho region.

Other destinations

 * — the first great ski resort in the U.S.
 * — volcanic park with vast fields of seemingly lifeless lava, fun lava tubes to explore
 * Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness — follows the Snake River through Hells Canyon (as deep as 9,300 feet, much deeper than the Grand Canyon) north towards Lewiston, where the Clearwater and Snake River meet
 * — the world's oldest national park and home to the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states is mostly within Wyoming, but the most notable feature, Old Faithful is probably most easily reached from Idaho Falls via West Yellowstone, Montana - though the park road is only open to cars in summer (May to early November) but open to snow vehicles during winter months.
 * The — home to Native Americans whose forebears helped Lewis and Clark through the winter during their expedition, is just East of Lewiston.
 * — on the southern edge of the state. Popular with hikers and rock climbers for its maze of massive boulders (some over 100 meters in height).
 * — between May 1804 and September 1806, 32 men, one woman, and a baby traveled from the plains of the Midwest to the shores of the Pacific Ocean. They called themselves the Corps of Discovery.
 * — largest national recreation area in the United States
 * — largest national recreation area in the United States

Understand
Idaho's nickname is "The Gem State," although the motto on the state's license plates reads "Famous Potatoes." Unfortunately, as a result, people imagine the state as a vast expanse of potato farms, with grizzled inhabitants living in cabins with no running water. In reality, Idaho is increasingly becoming a mix of both city and rural life. Some Idahoans do live in cabins in the middle of nowhere, but others live in urbane condominiums in downtown Boise. Indeed, Boise is now the largest metropolitan area in the Rocky Mountains region of the US outside of Colorado. Most of the other major cities in Idaho have also experienced significant growth over the past 20 years.

Idaho is typical of several other western states, e.g., Oregon, Washington, and California, in that there are really two types of travel destinations in one state. The northern part of Idaho is characterized by mountains, lakes, forests and rivers. While the southern half has some spectacular mountains (the Owyhees and parts of the Tetons), it is mostly high-plains desert similar to the Inland Empire of southern California.

Most of the world-famous Idaho potatoes are grown in Eastern Idaho. Onions are an important cash crop in southwestern Idaho near the Oregon border, while sugar beets are prevalent in the Twin Falls area. As many crops are irrigated in the otherwise arid Snake River Plain, water is an extremely important and potentially explosive political issue in Idaho.

North Idaho farming is characterized by dry land wheat, barley, and legume crops. Logging is also a big part of the North Idaho economy, although not as much as in the past. A favorite bumper sticker in north Idaho is "If You Don't Like Logging, Try Using Plastic Bags For Toilet Paper." Similar to Washington and Oregon, there is a great disparity in the population of each half of the state. North Idaho is significantly less populated than the southern half.

Idaho is second only to Utah in the number of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, or Mormons, as a percentage of the population. Mormon religion and culture are particularly prevalent in Eastern Idaho, where the faith is at least as strong as anywhere in Utah. However, the LDS Church's influence diminishes considerably as one travels north of Boise towards the panhandle.

Southern Idaho is home to one of the largest populations of Basque people in the world outside the Basque Country itself. Public displays of Ikurriña flags and car stickers are somewhat common, even in rural areas. Next scheduled for 2025, a major Basque festival known as Jaialdi is celebrated in Boise every five years.

A common misconception is that Idaho is somehow a racist or Neo-Nazi state. Around 1980, a Neo-Nazi and white separatist brought a band of followers to Hayden Lake near Coeur d'Alene and began regularly making the local and national news with his racist provocations. Although the local residents vigorously disapproved and regularly held much bigger counter-demonstrations, the Neo-Nazi image has stuck. Idahoans breathed a collective sigh of relief in 2001 when the 20 acre compound owned by the "church" was handed over to a woman who had filed a lawsuit against them after being assaulted by their guards, and many of the racists left the state.

Southeastern Idaho, with its sparse topsoil, was greatly affected by the rising water level of prehistoric Lake Bonneville to the south, a lake which covered most of what is now the states of Utah and Nevada. At Red Rock Pass south of Pocatello, the rising waters broke through into the region in an ancient, massive flood, channeling the floodwater westward for what is estimated to have lasted for approximately seven weeks, almost completely draining the ancient lake and creating the massive, lengthy, and spectacular Snake River Canyon that we know today. The massive flood stripped the region's topsoil down to bedrock, tumbling huge, multi-story high boulders downstream, where eventually the boulders and other heavier materials dropped out and were deposited in and along the Snake River streambed. The stripped topsoil, a much lighter material, eventually was deposited well to the west, creating fertile farming regions well adapted to growing potatoes. Because of the great flood and the stripping of the region's topsoil, much of the agriculture in southeastern Idaho's thin layer of topsoil must be supported by fertilization as well as irrigation.

Idaho observes all the federal holidays, and has no additional ones.

Tourist information

 * Visit Idaho website

Talk
English is almost universally spoken and understood, except that potatoes are sometimes called "spuds" and there's a bit of a rural twang as you get out to the logging and farming areas. Spanish is not as widely spoken as a second language, although it is prevalent in each of the major cities.

By plane
There are no direct international flights into or out of anywhere in Idaho. If you're coming in from overseas, rest assured you'll go through United States customs before boarding a flight to an Idaho location.

By far the largest airport in the state, Boise Airport is the main airport in southern Idaho. Flights to and from Boise are available from most major cities in the western United States, as well as Minneapolis and Chicago. Boise Airport also offers a good selection of charter flight services.

North Idaho is primarily served by Spokane International Airport, in eastern Washington approximately 20 miles (32 km) from the Idaho border. The non-stop schedule to and from Spokane is similar to Boise. For the far northeast panhandle (via US Hwy 2), Glacier Park International Airport near Kalispell, Montana is another option. However, it has far fewer flights than Spokane, and in most cases, the distance is slightly further. Despite the name, there are no scheduled international flights to either Spokane or Kalispell.

Other Idaho airports include Idaho Falls Regional Airport in eastern Idaho, and the seasonal, tourist-based Friedman Memorial Airport  near Sun Valley. Idaho Falls is a good flight destination for nearby Yellowstone National Park.

Smaller airports, such as in Lewiston, Twin Falls and Pocatello  offer only a limited commercial flight schedule. In the case of the latter two, the only commercial flights available are to and from Salt Lake City.

Airlines serving Boise include Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Alaska Airlines/Horizon, Southwest, and United. Spokane is served by the same carriers.

SkyWest Airlines serves Boise and/or several Idaho cities from its Salt Lake City and Seattle hubs for Delta Connection; for United Express from its hubs in San Francisco, Denver and/or Los Angeles and for some of the Alaska Airlines for flights from Portland and Seattle (other Alaska Airlines flights are operated by Horizon Airlines or Alaska Airlines themselves). Don't be surprised if you board a plane marked in SkyWest colors. Your baggage ends up in the same place.

By car
You could also drive to North Idaho from Seattle or more easily from Spokane.

By train
Amtrak's Empire Builder service stops in Sandpoint on the Panhandle in the middle of the night (just before midnight westbound, about 2:30AM eastbound) on its daily runs between Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul/Minneapolis, Glacier National Park, Spokane, and Portland/Seattle. The route that passes through the state crosses the panhandle in the north only and does not come close to major population centers like Boise.

By bus

 * Greyhound Lines also has connections from Utah and Oregon, connecting Salt Lake City to Portland via Burley, Twin Falls and Boise along I-84/86. This connection is also an Amtrak thruway service (From the California Zephyr in Salt Lake City).
 * Jefferson Lines passes through Idaho between Spokane and Missoula with stops in Couer d'Alene and Kellogg along I-90.
 * Northwestern Stage Lines has connections to and from Spokane, Washington.
 * Salt Lake Express has connections from Montana, Utah, and even to and from Jackson in north-western Wyoming via the I-15 corridor.

Get around
Apart from modest public transportation systems in the major cities, Idaho has no mass transit to speak of. The only Amtrak stop in the state is in Sandpoint in the far northern panhandle. Otherwise it's all driving or flying.

By car
Idaho is served by several Interstate highways. I-90 in North Idaho passes through Coeur d'Alene. I-84 enters Idaho at the Oregon border, serves the Boise metro area and passes near Twin Falls en route to Salt Lake City. I-15 serves the Eastern Idaho cities of Pocatello and Idaho Falls. The short I-86 in South Central and Eastern Idaho connects I-84 and I-15.

Most other main roads in the state are two-lane highways. In more remote locations unpaved roads are commonplace. Pay close attention to current road conditions while traveling, particularly in winter. You know you're from Idaho when your elderly grandparents think it's normal to arrive at Christmas (or even just for a weekend visit) after driving 400 miles through blizzards and along winding two lane river roads.

Crossing into Montana often involves going through mountain passes. This is particularly true when not on I-90 or I-15. In the winter, check with the highway department for pass conditions -- many passes are closed from the first snow until mid-April.

The two-lane US 95 and Idaho State Highway 55 serve as the only intrastate connections between North Idaho and the rest of the state. Even in ideal weather conditions, traveling by car from North Idaho to Eastern Idaho invariably involves a drive through Boise or through Missoula, Montana. Either way, you'll drive 600 - 700 miles when it's something like 300 miles as the crow flies.

By plane
Flying is an expensive but wonderful way to get around and see the majestic scenery. Although many of the state's smaller airports have no commercial flights at all, while others (such as Twin Falls) don't have regular flights to other parts of the state, backcountry flights are available from many locations, and you get to fly through canyons and into remote airstrips that are nearly unreachable any other way. Examples are McCall Aviation and Selway Aviation in Central Idaho.

By bus
Information on transit can be found from APTA.

North Idaho
There are many bald eagles in North Idaho. A good place to see them is Lake Coeur d'Alene. Take I-90 East and exit at the Harrison exit. Lake Coeur d'Alene is 25 miles long with more than 135 miles of shoreline. The lake is an average of 120 feet deep.

Coeur d'Alene (pop. 38,388 in 2004 census) has become known as the playground of the Pacific Northwest for luxury accommodations and a wealth of recreation and attractions in a stunning natural setting. The lavish Coeur d'Alene Resort draws thousands annually to be prepared by its Mobile four-star accommodations and to play its posh golf course.

Finished in 1853, The Cataldo Mission, east of Coeur d'Alene on I-90 is the oldest standing building in Idaho. The Old Mission (built 1848-1853) was a combined effort of the missionaries and over 300 native Catholics.

Silver Mountain Ski and Summer Resort, 30 miles east of Coeur d'Alene, is home to the world's longest single-stage gondola. Enjoy a scenic ride and take in the great views along the 20-minute ride to the top.

Wallace, on I-90, has many buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Wallace is also famous for its mining history and included in that history is the Oasis Bordello Museum. When the final occupants of the Oasis Rooms left in January 1988 (the last recorded date in the "hotel" registry), they seemed to have left in a hurry. Clothing, makeup, toiletries, food and personal items were all left behind. An accurate and tastefully-presented twenty-minute tour of the upper rooms explains the mystery of the ladies' hasty departure and gives a glimpse into the town's bawdy past with details that range from poignant to hilarious. Also of interest in the Wallace area is the Sierra Silver Mine Tour. This is the only tour of its kind in the Northwest. It offers a rare opportunity to personally experience the underground world of mining in the richest silver district on earth. Also the main city in which the movie Dante's Peak, starring Pierce Brosnan, was filmed. Wallace is also nicked named "The Center of the Universe" - when entering the town walking or driving there will be a sign pointing down towards a cross walk which is where the center of the universe is supposed to be.

Not far from Wallace, Kellogg has metal sculptures of a dragon and knight, a gold panner, an elk (in front of the local chapter of the ELKS), a big wildcat (which is the high school's mascot) in front of the local pool, a miner and donkey, and the best was the Red Baron. All seemed to be made of scraps of metal from different things, but they are large! Mine tours (approx. 30 min.) are given at Crystal Gold Mine. Kellogg was the site of one of the worst U.S. mining accidents; a statue of a miner holding high a rock drill guards dozens of impromptu headstones at the Sunshine Mine Disaster Memorial. Miner's Hat Realty, a building shaped like a big miner's hard hat, complete with giant carbide lamp can be seen from I-90 on the north side of the road.

Central Idaho
A giant dog created in Cottonwood, Dog Bark Park is one of America's latest additions to the type of roadside architecture popular in the early days of automobile vacation travel when travelers would often buy gas, eat meals or stay overnight in a building that looked like something else. Dog Bark Park Inn offers an expansive continental self-serve breakfast featuring their family's secret recipe for The Prairie's Best Fruited Granola.

Southern Idaho
Craters of the Moon National Monument, 18 mi W of Arco on Hwy 20, is an amazing part of the natural landscape. The visitors center and the opportunity to climb a cinder cone make this a worthwhile stop on an otherwise uneventful road. Be sure to bring water, especially in spring and summer. With a couple flashlights, you can explore the lava caves.

Idaho Potato Expo, 130 NW Main St., Blackfoot. Hours: Nov-Mar, M-F, 9:30AM-3PM; Apr-Oct, M-Sa, 9:30AM-5PM. Perhaps most amazing: the world's largest potato chip, a 25x14-inch Pringle created in 1991 by Procter & Gamble engineers. This pizza-sized potato snack is in its own display case.

Do
Winter activities such as, skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and even camping are popular, both with tourists and residents.

Summer activities In the summer, Idaho has world-class boating (try a jet boat leaving from Lewiston), whitewater rafting, camping, hunting, fishing, mountain biking, and hiking. Rodeo is also popular in the more rural areas.

The Lewis and Clark Trail runs through North Idaho, through the twin cities of Lewiston, Idaho, and Clarkston, Washington.

A bicycle trail, the Trail of The Coeur d'Alenes, runs in North Idaho from the west all the way to Montana. Other trails that are popular include: the Route of the Hiawatha trail, tha Latah Trail, and the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail. These trails range anywhere from 7 miles to 72 miles long. The rails-to-trails project is responsible for transforming abandoned train routes to hiking, biking, and walking trails. One of the longest trails in the nation is being worked on in North Idaho.

Gateway to Recreation
 * Idaho has more whitewater rafting than any other state excluding Alaska.
 * Top-destination ski resorts
 * Saint Anthony Sand Dunes, Bruneau Sand Dunes
 * Pristine Wilderness areas including one of the largest continuous wilderness areas in the lower 48 states: The Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness.
 * Destination resort towns
 * Thousands of lakes
 * Rugged mountains including Mount Borah, Idaho's tallest at 12,662 feet.
 * back-country vistas
 * Hot Springs- Idaho has the most usable hot springs pools in the nation, with approximately 130 'soakable' out of 340.

Idaho's Salmon River of No Return originates just south of Stanley. Idaho's Salmon River, the longest free-flowing river in the United States floats through the largest wilderness in the Lower 48. This trip is usually six days long and includes historic ranches and homesteads, fishing, hot springs, and class III - IV rapids. A limited number of private boaters and rafting companies explore 85 mile wilderness section of the Salmon River.

Buy
As in the rest of the United States, credit cards are widely accepted. You'll have little to no difficulty with Visa or MasterCard. American Express and Discover are also accepted but not quite as universally, especially in smaller towns. You may very well have problems if you present a JCB card for payment as most Idahoans have neither seen nor heard of them.

Travelers checks are likely to warrant confused looks if presented outside of tourist areas, and personal checks rarely accepted without prior arrangements.

If paying in cash, US dollars are the way to go, although Canadian dollars may be accepted by some merchants in the extreme north near the border. Occasionally Canadian coins become intermingled with US change and may be accepted at face value, or even given as change back to you. This can and does occur even in southern Idaho. Even so, don't be put off if they're refused. Paper currency, however, is all US dollars; if you're south of Sandpoint, don't even try anything else.

Sales tax in Idaho is 6 percent, which is assessed on most goods including food. The tax is collected at the time of sale, regardless of whether you're from Idaho or not. Some municipalities (mainly in tourist areas), as well as Nez Perce County in north central Idaho also assess a local sales tax in addition to the state tax. There are also taxes included in lodging costs at hotels, motels and campgrounds. Some services are not subject to sales tax.

Native American tribes in Idaho are exempt from charging sales taxes on tobacco products. The Nez Perce Tribe charges an alternative tobacco tax to fund scholarships on the tribe's reservation near Lewiston, while the Shoshone Bannock Tribes on the Fort Hall Reservation near Pocatello don't charge tobacco sales taxes at all.

Tipping your server or bartender is considered good etiquette at sit-down restaurants and bars, but is generally not expected elsewhere. Even so many Idahoans consider tipping optional — especially in rural areas — so good tips tend to be appreciated by waitstaff much more so than in other places.

Idaho souvenirs almost always follow one of two themes: outdoor topics such as hunting, camping, fishing and skiing, or potatoes. The latter can be particularly kitschy, with characters such as "Darth Tater" and "Spudbob Starchpants" available for purchase at just about any convenience store or truck stop.

Eat
The food is pretty much middle American. There are a few ingredients that are Idaho specialties, like Idaho Rainbow Trout, and of course the Famous Potatoes. In a similar vein, Moscow proclaims itself the "Dried Pea and Lentil Capitol of the World,". In the college towns (Moscow, Boise, Pocatello, Idaho Falls), it's pretty easy to find organic and vegetarian food, but in the rural areas you might have a hard time finding a meal without beef.

In much of Idaho, particularly the southern portions, a popular condiment is "fry sauce," a combination of ketchup and mayonnaise. Fry sauce is primarily a Utah condiment but it is also popular in nearby areas, especially those with significant Mormon populations.

If you want something fun for your social media feed, keep an eye out for an Idaho ice cream potato. This ice cream dessert, disguised to look like a baked potato, was invented in downtown Boise in the 1940s. Vanilla ice cream is rolled in cocoa powder to look like the potato skin. Sweet whipped cream takes the place of sour cream on top, coconut can be "cheese", and chocolate cookie crumbles represent the "black pepper".

Drink
Idaho liquor laws aren't as stringent as in neighboring Utah, but they are more restrictive than places like Nevada. As in the rest of the United States, 21 is the drinking age; expect to get carded if you look like you're under 30.

Specific rules governing bars vary slightly from county to county, but generally speaking bars close at 2 AM in the larger cities and 1 AM just about everywhere else. Last call means last call in Idaho; bar owners risk hefty fines or worse if they're caught serving even one minute past closing time. In 2012 smoking was outlawed in Boise bars and restaurants, however it remains legal in nearby Garden City.

Full-strength beer and wine are readily available in supermarkets and convenience stores. The microbrew industry has boomed in the 2010s, especially in the Boise area. Although selections have improved even outside the major cities, if you're not a fan of mass-produced American-style lagers they can often leave something to be desired. Hard liquor must be purchased at a state store. Freestanding state liquor stores are common in the larger cities, although private markets double as the local state store in small towns. Liquor stores are usually closed by 9PM (or earlier). Other stores stop selling beer and wine at the same time the bars close in that particular county.

There is a modest liquor production industry in Idaho. The Boise-based Bardenay restaurants distill their own rum. Local potato vodkas – including Glacier, 44° North, Koenig, and Blue Ice – are worth trying.

The college towns have a good selection of bars, including the occasional microbrewery. Downtown Boise has a vibrant night life as well. Otherwise you'll have to look hard to find any sort of interesting music scene in any but the largest cities. In the more rural areas, you'll be stuck drinking at a country western bar or... well, that's about it. You might come across a place that plays classic rock, but even those are hard to find, unless you know where to look. Ask a local, because podunk and nice are usually synonyms out there.

On the plus side, almost every bar but the very swankiest has drink specials at least 3 nights a week. $1.50 wells, $2 pints, doubles for single prices.

Stay safe
Idaho cities are by and large quite safe. While seedy neighborhoods and organized street gang activity exist, people rarely get into trouble without actively looking for it first. Local police tend to be courteous, professional and at times even lenient provided they don't suspect you of any major wrongdoing. They do, however, take an especially dim view of drunk driving and illegal drug possession.

In stark contrast to several of its neighbors, marijuana remains highly illegal in Idaho. Even medical marijuana and oils will get you in trouble here.

Major highways are routinely patrolled by the Idaho State Police (ISP), noted for the distinctive diagonal stripes on their vehicles. ISP officers are quick to lend a hand if they see someone in trouble along the side of the road.

The most pressing safety concerns in Idaho often involve the outdoors. Idaho weather can be fickle and extreme compared to other parts of the world. Mountains make their own weather, and it can be sunny one moment and stormy the next.

It's extremely easy to get lost in the heavily wooded back country. What's more cell phone service is by and large nonexistent in forested areas. Disastrous encounters with large wildlife (including bears and moose) aren't unheard of. Don't venture away from established campsites or trails unless you're with an experienced guide. In other words if you are taking part in some outdoor activity, be prepared. Most importantly, use your common sense.

Even if election results indicate a strong support for the republican party, Idaho is moderately libertarian when it comes to most social issues. Non-whites and members of the LGBTQ community might attract stares in rural areas, but physical attacks are much less common than one might imagine. Large cities like Boise are more accepting and tolerant.

Cope
Idaho lies within two time zones, curiously split between north and south instead of east to west. Southern Idaho, including Boise, Idaho Falls, Pocatello and Twin Falls, is in the Mountain Time Zone (UTC -7, DST UTC -6). North Idaho, including Coeur d'Alene, Sandpoint, Lewiston and Moscow, is in the Pacific Time Zone (UTC -8, DST UTC -7). The small town of Riggins on U.S. Route 95 approximately 150 miles (240 km) north of Boise is often considered the de facto dividing line between the two zones (and consequently between northern and southern Idaho in general), although the actual time zone boundary is along the nearby Salmon River. If traveling south on US 95 from the Panhandle to Southern Idaho, don't forget to allow for an extra hour if you need to be somewhere at a certain time.

Respect
Generally speaking societal norms in Idaho are similar to other areas in the United States. However, Idahoans do tend to be slightly more familiar than others in the country. Especially in rural areas, complete strangers will wave to you as you drive by. Don't be afraid to wave back.

Idahoans are extremely sensitive to any allegation that the state is somehow a neo-Nazi enclave, and will be very quick to inform you otherwise if the subject comes up. This is particularly true in the Coeur d'Alene area, which experienced a very small but highly publicized group of neo-Nazis firsthand.

While Idahoans are genuinely proud of their potato-growing heritage, a litany of "spud" jokes and references tends to wear thin quickly.

Conflict between Mormons and non-Mormons is nothing new in Idaho and remains sensitive here, perhaps even more so than in Utah. While anything resembling open hostility on either side is exceptionally rare, the subject can make some people visibly uncomfortable.

Connect
In late 2017, Idaho gained its second telephone area code. The 208 area code is joined by 986, however 208 remains by far the most common code. The new area code is a statewide overlay, a distinction Idaho now shares with West Virginia.

Cell phone service is reliable in all of the major cities as well as most other parts of the state. The only places you're likely to encounter trouble are deep in the mountains. But large no service zones exist; the further you travel into the back country, the less likely you'll be able to call someone if you get in trouble. In rural areas some carriers may have a noticeably better presence than others.

All Idaho ZIP postal codes begin with "83-". Only the larger cities use more than one ZIP code.

Public WiFi access is increasingly available at most hotels, restaurants and bars, as well as in parts of Ketchum in Blaine County.

Go next

 * Washington - Across Idaho's northwestern border the state of Washington offers a less-traveled landscape that varies from mountainous to desert-like conditions.
 * Oregon - The state's southwestern neighbor is known for lush forests and craggy mountains, but the portion of the state that immediately borders Idaho is sparsely-populated and features a near-desert landscape.
 * Nevada - The Silver State borders Idaho to the southwest and is home to the adult playground of Las Vegas.
 * Utah - The rugged mountains and excellent skiing of Utah are a short drive across Idaho's southern border.
 * Wyoming - To Idaho's southeast, Wyoming is home to most of the landmass of Yellowstone National Park and provides an excellent opportunity to experience America's cowboy heritage.
 * Montana - Some of America's most rugged and remote country is shared along Idaho's eastern border with Montana.
 * British Columbia - Crossing the state's tiny northern border into Canada leads into the mountainous terrain of southeastern British Columbia.

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

title: Idaho


text:
Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls is a city in Eastern Idaho. Idaho Falls serves as the commercial, cultural, and healthcare hub for Eastern Idaho. The city attracts many tourists visiting nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Jackson Hole, and fishing on the Snake River. Due to its proximity to high-profile outdoor destinations, in 2009, Idaho Falls was named to National Geographic's list of the "100 Best Adventure Towns".

Understand
It is the county seat of Bonneville County and the largest city in Eastern Idaho. It has a population of about 63,000 (2019) and the metro area has about 145,000 people.

Neighborhoods
Snake River Landing - SRL is a large, mixed-use development on the west side of the river near I-15, which includes residential, restaurant, park, and community event space, including a planned mid-sized indoor arena. It now hosts the Melaleuca Freedom Celebration, a large Independence Day event.
 * Downtown - Historic downtown Idaho Falls sits on several blocks of the original townsite along the east side of the river. It features restaurants, plazas, shops, and cultural amenities including the Museum of Idaho, Colonial Theatre, Art Museum of Eastern Idaho, Idaho Falls Public Library, and Japanese Friendship Garden. It is home to the Idaho Falls Farmers' Market and many other community events.
 * The Numbered Streets - The numbered streets area was the first planned neighborhood in Idaho Falls. The streets run west and east between South Boulevard and Holmes Avenue. Traffic on the odd-numbered streets travels east, and west on the even-numbered streets. Kate Curley Park is located in the neighborhood, as is the Wesley W. Deist Aquatic Center and the Eleventh Street Historic District.
 * West Side - The West Side houses Idaho Falls Regional Airport and I-15. It has retained more of a small-town feel than the east side, which has grown and developed much more rapidly since the 1980s.

By plane

Often the cost of flying in/out of Idaho Falls is not economical. For this reason, many residents of Idaho Falls drive to Salt Lake City International Airport. Salt Lake City is to the south. Typically, this drive takes about 3 hours, but due to weather and Salt Lake City traffic it can easily take an additional hour. During the winter months the drive time can significantly lengthen due to poor visibility and road conditions.

By car
Idaho Falls can be easily reached by I-15 (North / South) or by Highway 20 (East / West). The Utah border is about 120 miles south, the Montana border is about 75 miles north, the Wyoming border is about 72 miles to the east, and the Oregon border is about 334 miles to the west. Another way is to come in through US-20 from Yellowstone and Rexburg.

Get around
There are several rental car companies, and most have representatives at Idaho Falls Airport.

Idaho Falls is small and the majority of the hotels are located centrally enough that a small walk will get you to most destinations. The distance to some locations would warrant a taxi service. There is fair competition in the taxi business and service is very good for a town this size. You can generally get a ride anywhere in town and even Ammon, which borders Idaho Falls, for under $15 (Idaho Falls city limits, $10). It is more economical to rent a car if you have several destinations over the duration of a day. If you have fewer than five or six stops, taxis are excellent. SafeRide and Easy Way Taxi offer 24/7 service.

Do

 * The Willard Arts Center, the Colonial Theatre and Civic Auditorium host musical concerts, plays, and events.
 * The Willard Arts Center, the Colonial Theatre and Civic Auditorium host musical concerts, plays, and events.
 * The Willard Arts Center, the Colonial Theatre and Civic Auditorium host musical concerts, plays, and events.

Eat
Despite Idaho Falls' small town environment, there are numerous locations that serve outstanding cuisine, and since most of them are locally owned there is a great customer appreciation found at each of them. Restaurants close to the river include:

Some more common restaurants that are close to the river area are Outback Steakhouse, Chilis, Applebees, Olive Garden, and Ruby's Steakhouse. Even more restaurants are located across town near the Grand Teton Mall. These restaurants include Sizzler, TGI Friday, Texas Roadhouse, Perkins, IHOP, Wingers, Johnny Carino's, Red Robin, Chuckarama, and Bajio.

Sleep
Most of the hotels are located near I-15 and the airport along the river.

Go next

 * Grand Teton National Park is about 100 miles to the east. Heading east out of Idaho Falls on US-26 will go right into the south entrance.  This entrance is open year round.
 * Yellowstone National Park is about 100 miles to the north east. US-20 goes all the way to the west entrance.  Yellowstone can also be entered through the south entrance from the Grand Tetons.  Both entrances are closed from November to April.
 * Targhee National Forest is about 60 miles to the north east on US-20. The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway goes through the forest and leads to the Upper and Lower lookouts of Mesa Falls.

title: Idaho Falls


text:
Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs is a city of 1800 people in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It is known also as the Gem of the Rockies.

Understand
The most populous settlement in Clear Creek County, Colorado, it was founded in 1859 during the Pikes Peak Gold Rush, and sits 7543 feet above sea level, about 30 miles from Denver.

By road
Interstate 70 (cosigned with US-6 and US-40) passes through Idaho Springs. Colorado-103 begins at I-70 Exit 240.

Climate
Always check the weather. It is in the Rocky Mountains which can have fluctuating temperatures. So its always a good idea to see what the weather is predicted and what it actually is.

The colder weather months (Nov-Feb) often bring snow and ice to area roads. Visitors who park their cars should be prepared in case their car is "snowed in" by snow removal trucks. Also, pay strict attention to parking rules and snow emergencies to avoid being towed away at the car owner's expense. During the winter months, a snow brush, ice scraper, and plenty of windshield washer fluid is essential, and many natives opt to carry a shovel, some sand, and a bag of ice melt/road salt in the trunk just in case.

Get around
To get around all you really need is your two feet; park your car in the downtown area and you can pretty much walk to everything you need to see in the area. To get to other places around town you just drive. Parking can be difficult during the tourist season (May 15 through October 15).

See

Do

Hiking
You must remember you are hiking in the Rocky Mountains where weather can change very quickly. Always have plenty of food and water and check local weather conditions. Ranger Contact: U.S. Forest Service Idaho Springs +1 303-567-3000.

Eat
Doesn't have a lot of fast food but it does have a McDonalds, Quiznos and a Carls Jr.

Prices for food may seem to be a little higher than what you would pay elsewhere but this is a big tourist spot so expect to pay a little more. Most of the places to eat are on Miner Street or in the surrounding area.

title: Idaho Springs


text:
Idar-Oberstein

Idar-Oberstein is a city in the Rhineland-Palatinate region of Germany and is in is at a narrows, between rocky cliffs and the banks of the Nahe. Since every square meter of land is at a premium here, the river has been covered over in the town. As a result, since 1986, the Nahe flows underneath the town for several kilometers.

The world famous Felsenkirche (1482-1484), the construction of which is traced to a story of fratricide, is built upon a vertical rock wall high above the old town. It gives the town a unique atmosphere. The steep steps leading up to the Felsenkirche are climbed by countless visitors from all over the world every year. Their efforts are more than rewarded by a view of the impressive artwork. Examples are the gothic winged altar of 1410 and a beautiful Stumm organ from the year 1756. The setting of the old and the new castles high above the Felsenkirche, give the visitor a feel for how proudly enthroned above their town the lords of Dhaun and Oberstein castles were, in the Middle Ages. Deceptively small when viewed from town Felsenkirche is capable of holding up to 500 people at a time.

The town is also well known for its agate cutting. Originally, the agate cutters worked on semiprecious stones from the region (commercial mining 1375-1875) in their small cutting shops along the streams which flowed from the Idarwald and Hochwald into the Nahe. Today, the gems are imported from all over the world. With time, agate cutting evolved into a large jewelry industry dealing with precious stones and pearls as well. Idar-Oberstein became an international center for the jewelry industry. The Deutsches Edelsteinmuseum (Precious Stone Museum) exhibits various types of stones from around the world in both their raw and finished forms.

By plane
The town is 30 km south of Hahn airport over minor roads. There is a direct bus link.

By train
There are a number of regional lines providing connect to the town from Saarbrücken, Neunkirchen (Saarland), Bad Kreuznach, Mainz and St Wendel. Some (but not all) connect directly to Frankfurt Airport and Frankfurt main station.

By car
The B41 connects to the A61 at Bad Kreuznach and the A62 and on to St. Wendel and Neunkirchen.

Go next

 * Bad Sobernheim

title: Idar-Oberstein


text:
Idrija

Idrija lies among the green hills of western Slovenia in the Julian Alps. The is between the Alpine and the Karst regions.

Understand
As the oldest Slovenian mining city, Idrija grew with the development of the mercury mine. A mining settlement was founded at the end of 15th century. In 18th century Idrija as a city was considered one of the most important centers in Slovenia.

Until World War I Idrija stayed the second largest city in the region of Carniola. It was well connected with the most important European provinces and cities (Venice, Amsterdam, Vienna) and was a very interesting destination for scientific and technical elite of the time (Steinberg, Scopoli, Haquet, Lippold). Many of them left their mark on the city. Still today, names of many parts of the city remind us of various technical achievements from the old times: Bašerija - ore preparation, Prejnuta and Pront - ore furnace, Lejnštat and Riže - wood storehouse, Gasa - narrow street, etc.

Today Idrija has almost 7000 inhabitants. The mine closed down in 1996, but there are also mainly electronical and metalworking industries in the city. But even with the deviation to more modern industrial fields, the city is trying to preserve its links with 500 years of mining traditions.

A half millennium of mining mercury in Idrija and its surroundings left an exceptionally rich heritage of technical, cultural, and historical monuments and points of interest available to visitors as museum displays. The city's traditions in mercury mining has earned it an inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List, shared with the town of Almadén in Spain.

Do

 * Lake Divje jezero is a carst spring, 2 km to the south, is at least 160 m deep. You can enjoy the rich flora and fauna in its serene surrounding. The lake is accesible via Rake Channel leading from Idrija.

Buy
One of the most adored Slovenian traditional crafts is Idrija Lace.

This fine, handmade traditional Slovenian product can be adored in the city museum. Those who won't  settle just for looking, can also visit various galleries and studios, making and selling lace and lace products.

Eat
The traditional local cuisine is both rich and diverse in which the foremost place belongs to the delicacy popularly known as idrijski žlikrofi. It is a bit similar to ravioli stuffed with potato and chives. Traditionally it is served with bakalca, a stew made of mutton and onions. For dessert pick zelševka, a regional type of potica filled with chives instead of traditional walnut.

title: Idrija


text:
Idyllwild

Idyllwild is a city in Riverside County in Southern California. It is situated at mile high elevation in the San Jacinto mountains. Visitors are attracted by alpine scenery, rock climbing, hiking, shopping, and outdoor camping.

By car
Most visitors to Idyllwild will arrive by car. Idyllwild is reachable by three main routes. Highway 74 connects Hemet to Idyllwild in about 30 minutes driving. Highway 243 connects to Banning and Interstate 10. Highway 74, known as the Palms to Pines highway, also connects the desert communities of Palm Springs and Palm Desert to Idyllwild via a scenic route that passes through many ecological zones and spectacular landscapes.

By foot
It is possible to reach Idyllwild by hiking 10 miles from the top of the Palm Springs Tramway. This is perhaps the most stunning route to the town. Be sure to have a car waiting at Humber Park, or arrange for a ride to town, as it is another couple miles from the trailhead to the center of town.

The Pacific Crest Trail, which extends along the west coast from the Mexico border to Canada, passes by Idyllwild. Idyllwild is a good place to stop for supplies, and maybe a shower and clean bed.

Get around
Much of Idyllwild can be visited by walking, though a car is useful to get to trailheads, and some of the hotels and rental cabins are located a bit outside the center. Occasionally a horse-drawn cart transports visitors between the main attractions in the town center.

See
The views from town are beautiful. Tahquitz peak and rock are probably the most photographed. Marion mountain is also visible from town. Panoramas of Hemet and the greater Los Angeles area are visible from many lookouts near town. You can even see the Pacific Ocean on a clear day.

The center of town is full of shops, art galleries, restaurants, and a movie theater.

There is a world class secondary arts school, the Idyllwild Arts Academy that frequently offers free gallery exhibitions, classical music concerts, and theater performances on campus.

The local newspaper, the Town Crier, provides local news and a calendar of events.

Idyllwild TV lets you see the town, its people, events and natural attractions from the eyes of locals and tourists.

Rock Climbing
Idyllwild has world class rock climbing on Tahquitz Rock (sometimes referred to as Lily Rock), and Suicide Rock. Tahquitz Rock has longer climbs, some of them 6 pitches. Suicide Rock has mostly 2 pitch climbs. Both offer a range of difficulty and excellent views.

Hiking
There is an extensive, well maintained trail network throughout the San Jacinto mountains. These are administered by the San Bernadino National Forest, and the San Jacinto State Park. Pick up permits at the rangers station in the center of town before leaving. Permits are recognized by both the National Forest and State Park.

Recommended hikes:

Buy
There are over 15 art galleries in Idyllwild representing over 200 artists. Nomad Ventures sells rock climbing and other outdoor equipment.

Eat
A range of restaurants caters to all budgets.

Drink
Some restaurants have bars, but they are not open very late. Instead, open a bottle of wine and share it with friends around the fireplace at home, or a campfire outdoors. There is a liquor store, and supermarkets sell wine, liquor, and beer.

Sleep
There are a number of hotels, and rental agencies offer cabins. Camping is a popular option. Several campsites are run by the State Park, while others are administered by the national forest. Both car camping and sites that are only accessible by hiking are available.

Go next
Idyllwild is located 30 minutes by car from Hemet, and approximately 45 minutes drive from Palm Springs. The Temecula wine country is about an hour away. Los Angeles and San Diego are both a couple hours away to the west and south respectively.

title: Idyllwild


text:
Ierapetra

Ierapetra is a city in Crete.

Having the distinction of being the southernmost city facing the African coast, Ierapetra enjoys the smoothest, almost rainless weather in Europe, with a temperature that rarely drops below 12 °C all year. It has the largest population in the prefecture of Lassithi (East Crete) and the fourth largest in all Crete. In 2021 it had almost 27,000 inhabitants.

By bus
The KTEL intercity buses connect Ierapetra to Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, to Sitia and other towns.

By plane
The closest airport (58 km) with frequent domestic and charter flights is Sitia airport. There is also a ferry line from Athens (Piraeus) to Sitia.

Get around
There is basically no public transport. The city itself is walk-able, however getting into the surroundings by foot is lengthy. The area is quite flat, so a bike is a good option - otherwise there are numerous car rental services scattered around.

See
The visitor can take a leisurely walk in the vivid city centre, along the coast, in the small municipal park near the Town Hall, or in the quiet picturesque narrow streets of "Kato Mera", the old part of the town.

Gorges

 * and are generally only suitable for experienced climbers with at least basic equipment.
 * and are generally only suitable for experienced climbers with at least basic equipment.
 * and are generally only suitable for experienced climbers with at least basic equipment.
 * and are generally only suitable for experienced climbers with at least basic equipment.
 * and are generally only suitable for experienced climbers with at least basic equipment.

Buy
The character and charm of the old warm neighborhood has been retained, whilst it has been given new life as a shopping and eating experience for the visitor. A tempting variety of shops, open-air cafes, bars, restaurants and traditional taverns, makes Ierapetra the ideal place to relax, enjoying shopping, eating, drinking or simply wandering around.

Drink
The prefecture of Lassithi produces probably the best "raki" in Crete, a white spirit made from grapes. Try it at some local "taverna" or "kafenio", together with "meze".

Sleep
Huge, luxurious hotel complexes have been built in the last years inside and around Ierapetra. There are also lots of small guest houses and rent rooms.

Go next
The street near the Town Hall is where most bars and small night clubs are gathered. They are popular with locals, especially during the holidays (July–August, Christmas and Easter), and on Friday and Saturday nights.

Eating and drinking is a major part of the Cretan merry-making, and can make a great night out. You get find some excellent food in taverns in the villages around Ierapetra, either on the sea side, or further higher on the surrounding mountains.

title: Ierapetra


text:
Iffendic

Iffendic is a commune in the department of Ille-et-Vilaine in Brittany. The Meu River goes through the town. It is 20 km from Rennes and is surrounded by Montfort-sur-Meu, Bédée, La Nouaye, Breteil, Pleumeleuc, Talensac, Saint-Gonlay.

Understand
Two hypotheses exist concerning the etymology of the name of the town: "district of the yews" ("yews" is "ifs" in French), or "In fine" with the suffix "ic" for "border village" as this territory was at the border of the Coriosolites and the Redones.

Iffendic was at the crossroads of two Roman ways: the north–south way from Corseul to Nantes and the east–west way from Rennes to Carhaix. Traces from the Gallo-Roman period still exist, such as the menhir of Pierre Longue (neolithic) near the villages of La Barre and Vau-Savelin.

Normans devastated the district during the 10th century. A church was rebuilt in 1122 by a certain Jacob, at the place where it is now. In 1189, the church of Iffendic was given to Noirmoutier en Touraine Abbey which founded then a priory in the region. After the settlement of the Benedictines, the diocese of Saint-Malo kept sizable rights in the parish of Iffendic.

The parish was divided into 11 sections, in order to collect taxes: the town centre, Allansac, la Barre, Boutavent, Canlou, Couacurel, Pintillac, Tréez, Tréhieuc, Trévit, and Vaubeuzet.

During the Middle Ages, Iffendic had many buildings in the area, like castles and manors. The castle of Boutavent (12th century) accommodated the Lords of Montfort when the castle of Montfort was destroyed. They stayed in Boutavent for nearly two centuries before settling back to their former castle, the one in Montfort. After that, the site seemed to be abandoned, there is no proof that it was uninhabited at that time.

The population of the town was in favour of the changes brought by the French Revolution, above all after the end of the Reign of Terror. The major revolutionary event is the one celebrating the execution of Louis XVI, accompanied by a hatred oath to royalty and anarchy. It has been celebrated since 1795.

By plane
The closest airport is in Rennes.

By train
Railway station of Montfort-sur-Meu, direct lines from Rennes.

By bus
Illenoo Bus, line 2: Breteil, Iffendic, La Nouaye, Montfort-sur-Meu, departing from the railway station of Rennes.

By car
Take RN24 (Rennes / Vannes-Lorient) and exit at Talensac-Montfort.

See

 * Saint Eloi church  The Gothic style church Saint-Eloi has a stained glass window (1542). The porch (1607) is topped by a gallery used as an ossuary. The stained glass window and the gate are classified as Historical Monuments by the decree of the 11th of June 1926.
 * Saint-Barthelemy chapel  The chapel was built in 1883 where a former chapel was built by the Lords of Montfort.
 * Castle of Treguil  The castle of Treguil is dated at least from the 16th century. It was the property of earls of Montfort and was also part of the defence of the town. The castle, as we can see it nowadays, is a reconstruction from de beginning of the 19th century, around 1820. The northwestern detached house is the oldest part of the castle. It houses a wooden spiral stairway and a fireplace from the 14th or 15th century.
 * Former shophouses in the town centre  Traces from the medieval commercial activity of the town can be seen thanks to several shophouses in the town centre.
 * Castle of Breil It was built around 1860–1863. It had a neo-Renaissance style but had been damaged by a fire in June 1903.
 * Castle of Le Pin This residence was built during the 19th century on the site of a former manor.
 * Valley of the Chambre au Loup  Near the land of Trémelin, the valley of the Chambre au loup has been dug by a subsidence due to rifts which appeared in the fold of the schist, and to the erosion caused by the river. This valley is also called the "small canyon".
 * Land of Trémelin The land of Trémelin is a natural site stretching over more than 220 hectares. The site has a big forest, moors, and areas classified as a natural area of ecological interest.
 * Land of Careil Departmental natural area of 96 hectares, the land of Careil gathers many birds of many different species.
 * Land of Boutavent Near the land of Trémelin and the Chambre au loup, the land of Boutavent is marked with the imprint of an old feudal castle built by the Lords of Montfort (from the 11th to the 14th centuries). It also constitutes a "conservatory" of landscapes where forests, moors and hedged farmlands are next to each other.
 * Arboretum  Created in 2003, the arboretum offers a place for a walk in the heart of the town of Iffendic. Sculptures of local artists can also be seen on the edge of the Meu River.
 * Forest of Iffendic It stretches over more than 300 hectares and is principally located around the land of Trémelin, the Chambre au Loup and themill on Le Casse. The trees are mostly oaks, beech and pines.
 * Valley of Le Casse Adorned of rocky puddingstone blockfield, big cracks cut the rock. In one of them, an oak seems to be fixed to the side.

Do
- Tree climbing circuit from 3 years old, 4 circuits for all ages. - Electrical boats, pedalo, canoeing. - Bungee trampoline, mini-golf, playgrounds. - Supervised swimming in summer. - Challenges, track games. - Hikes, horse-rides and ATV. - Accommodation, gastronomy, and reception of groups on the scene all year. - Paint-Ball.
 * L'Aparté, is a structure in the district of Montfort, on the land of Trémelin. It is a place for contemporary art which opened its doors in May 2010. Every year, there will be 4 to 5 temporary exhibitions. This contemporary art space is also a place where schools of the district of Montfort can come and learn about art and participate to educational activities led by artists.
 * Land of Boutavent  Discover the natural, historical and medieval site endowed with an archaeological value.
 * Trémelin leisure base Many activities are offered:

 * Climbing Climbing site in the valley of the Chambre au Loup which has a dozen of different climbing circuits.
 * Horse riding - Equestrian activities centre of Les Quatres Routes in Iffendic.

Buy

 * Les Vieux Verger Apple juices and vegetables.

Eat

 * Restaurant Du Lac Restaurant in the heart of Trémelin. Bar, car park, terrace, accommodations as well.
 * Les Quatre Routes Traditional cooking, couscous a speciality, workmen meals.

Drink

 * Le Saint Michel 35750 Iffendic

Sleep

 * Monsieur Leborgne Guesthouse designed for big families.
 * La Roche Trébulente Guesthouse adjoining to the owner's.
 * La Guerche Spacious and well-designed to accommodate a big family.
 * La Coudray Stone guesthouse near the valley of the Chambre au Loup and the Land of Trémelin.
 * La Roche Trébulente Guesthouse adjoining to the owner's.
 * La Guerche Spacious and well-designed to accommodate a big family.
 * La Coudray Stone guesthouse near the valley of the Chambre au Loup and the Land of Trémelin.
 * La Guerche Spacious and well-designed to accommodate a big family.
 * La Coudray Stone guesthouse near the valley of the Chambre au Loup and the Land of Trémelin.
 * La Coudray Stone guesthouse near the valley of the Chambre au Loup and the Land of Trémelin.

Go next
The towns nearby are Montfort-sur-Meu, La Nouaye, Bédée, Pleumeleuc, Saint-Gonlay, Talensac and Breteil.

title: Iffendic


text:
Ifrane

Ifrane is a city in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco.

Understand
Ifrane is one of the most beautiful places in Morocco, residing on the Atlas mountain with a population of roughly 80,000 people. The projects of the current Moroccan king - like the university and huge new hotel - have had a large impact on the town. It is not a large town with the majority of the population being farmers, sheepherders, etc, and living outside of the town borders.

The main language in Ifrane is Berber, but you can also hear a great deal of Arabic and French. It is home to Al-Akhawayn University, an American-style university taught in English, French, and Arabic. Nearly all university students will be able to converse fluently in English, but most of the native residents can not.

The climate is mostly cold with a beautiful mild summer, with a great deal of rain in the first few months of the year. The people are overall very friendly.

Overall, there is very little reason to specifically visit Ifrane if you have limited time in Morocco. Unless you're a student here or a member of the king's entourage when he visits, there's not a huge amount to visit here- a carved lion, some parks, funky roofs, lots of storks, outdoorsy things, and a Sunday souq pretty much summarize the town.

Get in
Most of the buses comes from Fez and Meknes, which are the two major neighboring cities, or pass through on their route from Marrakesh to Fez.

By grand taxi
The easiest way to get into Ifrane is by grand taxi from Fez or Meknes. Both cities are an hour away. Grand taxis in Fez leave near the Fez CTM station.

A ride to either town costs 25 dirham, but can be more expensive (30 dirham) on weekends, when half of Fez and Meknes come there. If you find yourself to take a whole taxi yourself, multiply the price by six places (i.e. 150 dirham). At some times (very late/early, during strikes), you may have to pay a good bit more.

By bus
CTM has an office at the east end of the marché and buses are likely to stop / depart from there. CTM buses are known to being cleaner and slightly quicker, but the sometimes sketchy buses from other companies are equally safe. They most likely depart from the new Gare Routière which is somewhere southwest from the marché. These buses can be a lot dirtier and a little cheaper. Some might have more stops (longer trip), but they also leaving more often and are thus easier to catch.

Get around
Most places are within walking distance, but petit taxis are also readily available. The minimum fare is 5 dirham for small distances (e.g. marché → centre ville), longer distances will be 10 dirham.

Grand taxi drivers are a little more unscrupulous, so try to be aware of how much you should be paying for any given trip.

See

Places to visit:
 * Barbary Macaques. A huge number of macaques live in the woods around the town, and if you're lucky, you can sometimes see them in the town itself. The southern edge of the town, near the marche, often has gangs of apes hanging around.
 * Barbary Macaques. A huge number of macaques live in the woods around the town, and if you're lucky, you can sometimes see them in the town itself. The southern edge of the town, near the marche, often has gangs of apes hanging around.
 * Barbary Macaques. A huge number of macaques live in the woods around the town, and if you're lucky, you can sometimes see them in the town itself. The southern edge of the town, near the marche, often has gangs of apes hanging around.
 * Barbary Macaques. A huge number of macaques live in the woods around the town, and if you're lucky, you can sometimes see them in the town itself. The southern edge of the town, near the marche, often has gangs of apes hanging around.
 * Barbary Macaques. A huge number of macaques live in the woods around the town, and if you're lucky, you can sometimes see them in the town itself. The southern edge of the town, near the marche, often has gangs of apes hanging around.

Do
However, Ifrane's main attraction is its natural beauty. It is highly encouraged to hike in the area. You can easily rent a horse and guide for a few hours. It is also only a short distance from Ifrane to a place where you can find and feed wild monkeys.

- Foret Cedre Gourant: A good starting point for many trekking/hiking routes. You can go there by car and park in a touristic area where you can take some photos of monkeys and old trees, or rent a guide for excursions.

Centre ville

 * Various cafes. All of the cafes are priced roughly the same, and have roughly the same quality of food. Normally a safe bet, though you can expect only the standard fare: pizza, tagine, harira, brochettes, etc.
 * My Lil Rome. A very small restaurant that sells delicious hand-made pizzas that blow all other pizzas in the town out of the water. You may have to wait a while if the guy running the places has just run out of dough, but it's well worth the wait. 50-70d for a large pizza.
 * Various cafes. All of the cafes are priced roughly the same, and have roughly the same quality of food. Normally a safe bet, though you can expect only the standard fare: pizza, tagine, harira, brochettes, etc.
 * My Lil Rome. A very small restaurant that sells delicious hand-made pizzas that blow all other pizzas in the town out of the water. You may have to wait a while if the guy running the places has just run out of dough, but it's well worth the wait. 50-70d for a large pizza.
 * My Lil Rome. A very small restaurant that sells delicious hand-made pizzas that blow all other pizzas in the town out of the water. You may have to wait a while if the guy running the places has just run out of dough, but it's well worth the wait. 50-70d for a large pizza.

Marché
A good recommendation for the marche would be to avoid most of the restaurants on the outside edge of the area, as well as most of the restaurants around the square in the middle. These places tend to sell overpriced, low quality food that is aimed at tourists. A lot of the food here is, quite frankly, quite bad, but there are a few places worth eating at.
 * For You. Sells decent junk food type meals such as pizzas, tacos and loaded fries, as well as sushi. One of the better places in town, and very popular with students. Located about 3 minutes away from the marche by foot. Expect to pay anywhere from 35-65d, depending on what you order.
 * For You. Sells decent junk food type meals such as pizzas, tacos and loaded fries, as well as sushi. One of the better places in town, and very popular with students. Located about 3 minutes away from the marche by foot. Expect to pay anywhere from 35-65d, depending on what you order.
 * For You. Sells decent junk food type meals such as pizzas, tacos and loaded fries, as well as sushi. One of the better places in town, and very popular with students. Located about 3 minutes away from the marche by foot. Expect to pay anywhere from 35-65d, depending on what you order.
 * For You. Sells decent junk food type meals such as pizzas, tacos and loaded fries, as well as sushi. One of the better places in town, and very popular with students. Located about 3 minutes away from the marche by foot. Expect to pay anywhere from 35-65d, depending on what you order.
 * For You. Sells decent junk food type meals such as pizzas, tacos and loaded fries, as well as sushi. One of the better places in town, and very popular with students. Located about 3 minutes away from the marche by foot. Expect to pay anywhere from 35-65d, depending on what you order.

Drink
There are two centers of nightlife in Ifrane: Grand Hotel, and Aglemem.

 * The Grand Hotel has a dance club and offers expensively priced alcohol. The clubs are most popular on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, and play only House/Techno music.
 * Aglemem is a bar/restaurant that occasionally holds live music events.
 * Cafe le Chamonix also sells alcohol. It is probably the cheapest place in town, but still quite expensive.

Sleep
There is no budget accommodation in Ifrane. The best is probably to stay in Azrou (15 minutes by grand taxi, ~6 dirham).

Apartments can be rented from 100-150 dirham per day, although finding one with clean sheets seems to be impossible.

Several midrange/splurge hotels are found in the city center:

Go next
The grand taxi (share taxi) station, which is connected to the bus station, has regular connections to Fes and Meknes, as well as to smaller towns in the area such as Al Hajeb, Azrou and Immouzer Kandar. None of the smaller towns have any mind-blowing attractions, but are worth a visit if you want to see something of the real Morocco away from the tourists. The taxi drivers all seem honest and do not seem to charge foreigners any more than Moroccans, and because of the university, many of the passengers are likely to be students who are able to speak English and are likely willing to help you navigate.

The bus station has regular coaches to major cities throughout Morocco, but because departure times to many cities are very irregular, it may be worth checking the bus times the day before you plan to leave.

title: Ifrane


text:
Iga

Iga (伊賀), also known as Iga-Ueno (伊賀上野), is a city in Mie prefecture, Japan.

Understand
Iga — or, more specifically, the town of Ueno (上野) within its borders — is best known as the birthplace of two famous people: haiku poet Matsuo Bashō (松尾芭蕉), the author of Narrow Road to the Deep North, and ninja clan leader Hanzō Hattori (服部半蔵), celebrated in fiction and found even in Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill.

Tourist information sites

 * The local tourist association has a multilingual guide site.
 * The city government has another multilingual guide site.

Get in
Iga is about halfway between Osaka and Nagoya, and about an hour and a half from Kyoto. The main stations are Iga-Kanbe (伊賀神戸駅), on the Kintetsu Osaka Line, and Iga-Ueno (伊賀上野), on the JR Kansai Main Line. The two stations are linked by the Kintetsu Iga Line, which takes you to Ueno-shi station (5 minutes, ¥220). The train windows may be adorned with solemn ninja pigs and triangular ninja heads, which can't help but stir up some excitement for what lies ahead.

If coming from Osaka, take the subway to Tanimachi Kyuchome Station. Walk east for 10 mins to Osaka Uehommachi Station on the Kintensu Osaka Line. The local (普通) subway fare is the cheapest at ¥1110 but takes 1½ hours. The limited express (特急) costs ¥1980 but takes around 45 min. Alight at Iga-Kanbe Station.

Get around
The castle and museums are located in Ueno Park (上野公園), a short walk directly north of Kintetsu Ueno-shi station (近鉄上野市駅). There's a tourist information booth near the station; just look for the cartoon ninjas.

See

 * The highlight of Iga is the mysterious statue of Sonic the Hedgehog.

Buy
Several small shops in Ueno Park sell amusing ninja souvenirs. If you're hoping for an authentic set of throwing stars or some Hanzō steel, though, you'll have to look elsewhere.

Sleep
There are a few business hotels in town, but no youth hostels.

Go next

 * You've learned about the Iga ninja; now head to Koka, in Shiga prefecture, to hear their rivals' side of the story.
 * Kameyama
 * Tsu
 * Nabari
 * Matsusaka
 * Yamazoe
 * Minamiyamashiro
 * Kasagi
 * Wazuka

title: Iga


text:
Igarassu

Igarassu (or Igaraçu) is a city in Pernambuco, Brazil.

A short drive from Recife, Igarassu is home to Brazil's oldest church and Latin America's largest collection of baroque paintings.

Get in
Igarassu is in the Metropolitan Region of Recife. Can be reached by Recife's Guararapes International Airport. The city is only 26 kilometers north of Recife on federal highway BR-101.

Distance from other cities:
 * Itamaracá Island: 18 km
 * Goiana: 46 km
 * João Pessoa: 104 km
 * Caruaru: 159 km

Get around

 * Buses

See
The two main attractions are Brazil's oldest church, Igreja dos Santos Cosme e Damião, and the Franciscan monastery of Santo Antônio. A five-minute walk separates the two historical buildings. The Museu Histórico and the Convento Sagrado Coração de Jesus are located next-door to Cosme e Damião church.

 * Igreja dos Santos Cosme e Damião (1535), Saints Cosmas and Damian Church, Brazil's oldest church.
 * Convento do Sagrado Coração de Jesus (1742), Jesus' Sacred Heart Monastery, Brazilian seat of Sisters of Jesus' Sacred Heart religious order. Style: Baroque.
 * Casa de Câmara e Cadeia (1564).  First local Government House  in Brazil, was destroyed by the Dutch in 1640 and reconstructed in the late 17th century.  It was the seat of the Executive, Legislative and Judiciary, including the jail house.  It is also known as the Emperor's House (Casa do Imperador) due to the 1859 visit of Emperor Dom Pedro II.
 * Museu Histórico. Founded in 1954, it occupies three residential houses from 19th century.  Exhibitions include religious, numimastic and weaponry pieces.  Open Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM; Saturday-Sunday, 9AM-noon.  At Rua Barbosa Lima, 18.  Tel.: +55 81 3543-0435 (ext. 236).
 * Capela de São Sebastião (1735), Saint Sebastian Chapel. Style: "Maneirista", with baroque influence.
 * Capela de Nossa Senhora do Livramento (1774), Our Lady of Freedom Chapel. Restored in 1972 and 1984. Style: Baroque.  At Rua Dantas Barreto.
 * Capela de Nossa Senhroa da Conceição
 * Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem do Pasmado
 * Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Dores
 * Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário
 * Igreja de São José
 * Marco de Pedra (1535), stone column erected by Duarte Coelho upon arrival in Brazil. Indicated the dividing line between the Captaincies of Pernambuco and Itamaracá.  Among the oldest still standing structures built by the Portuguese in all of Brazil.
 * Ruins of Igreja da Misericórdia
 * Engenho Monjope (mid 1700s), historical sugarcane plantation. Emperor Dom Pedro II spent the night of 5 December 1859 at Engenho Monjope.
 * Sitio dos Marcos, place where some of the first contacts between Europeans and Native Brazilians occurred in the 1500s. In 1516, Cristovão Jacques erected the "Feitoria de Pernambuco".  In 1535, Duarte Coelho arrived with first settlers.
 * Sitio dos Marcos, place where some of the first contacts between Europeans and Native Brazilians occurred in the 1500s. In 1516, Cristovão Jacques erected the "Feitoria de Pernambuco".  In 1535, Duarte Coelho arrived with first settlers.

Do

 * Gamboa/Mangue-Seco beaches and boat ride to Coroa do Avião and Itamaracá Island.
 * Water-sports in Nova Cruz district (water-skiing, jet-skiing, windsurfing, kayaking, fishing).

Events

 * Buscada de São Gonçalo (January, moving holiday): Nautical religious procession, dating from 1861. Leaves from Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Dores, in the Nova Cruz district of Igarassu and goes to the pier of the neighboring town of Itapissuma.  Countless fishing boats, recreational boats and canoes.  Live music.

Sleep

 * Camping at CCB-PE-01(Engenho Monjope), Cruz de Rebouças district. Access: BR-101 Sul, km 45 (for 5km); tel.: +55 81 3543-0528 / +55 81 3543-1011.
 * Camping at Zumbi Safari Camping & Mar. Access: Estrada De Mangue Seco, Km 11; tel.: +55 81 3465-5947.
 * Camping at CCB-PE-01(Engenho Monjope), Cruz de Rebouças district. Access: BR-101 Sul, km 45 (for 5km); tel.: +55 81 3543-0528 / +55 81 3543-1011.
 * Camping at Zumbi Safari Camping & Mar. Access: Estrada De Mangue Seco, Km 11; tel.: +55 81 3465-5947.
 * Camping at Zumbi Safari Camping & Mar. Access: Estrada De Mangue Seco, Km 11; tel.: +55 81 3465-5947.

You can also stay at one of the countless hotels in Recife.

title: Igarassu


text:
Igarka

Igarka (Russian: Ига́рка ee-GAHR-kuh) is a city in the extreme north of the Krasnoyarsk Region, 163 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle.

Understand
Igarka was founded in 1931. The city got its name from the channel on which it was located, which was in turn named after a local fisherman, Yegor Shiryaev.

Igarka is infamous as the starting point for Stalin's railway to nowhere, constructed between 1949 and Stalin's death in 1953. The project failed and thousands of the gulag laborers died in the process.

It is the main port via which the timber harvested in the Yenisei River basin is shipped to Europe.

It has a population of approximately 6,000 people and has been in decline.

By boat
PassengerRechTrans operates boats in the summer on the Yenisey River to/from Krasnoyarsk. The journey takes 3 days.

Go next

 * Taymyria - adventurous expeditions in northern Siberia

title: Igarka