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Akajima

Akajima (阿嘉島), also written and pronounced Akashima, is an island belonging to the group of Kerama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. The island is commonly referred to as Aka and is popular with tourists from Okinawa and mainland Japan.

Get in
Kerama Airport on the neighboring uninhabited island of Fukaji would be easily accessible, but as of 2009 has no scheduled services.

The usual approach is thus to take the high speed ferry from Naha city on Okinawa Island. The journey takes about 1 hour and usually makes a stop at the larger Zamami island before stopping at Aka Port. There is a cheaper ferry but you will get less time to enjoy the island. Return ferries to Naha usually depart around 17:00 and costs about ¥3,000.

Get around
Aka can easily be explored on foot, bicycle or kayak. The heat can make moving about difficult but there are plenty of opportunities to jump in the sea and cool off.

The islands of Geruma (慶留間), population 81, and Fukaji (外地島), population zero plus the airport, are connected to Akajima by bridge.

See
Venture around the island to discover remote beaches. There are 3 observation towers on Aka where you can take photographs of Aka's unspoilt beauty. When leaving Aka Port the locals like to wave goodbye and perform acrobatic dives into the sea. Watch out for the giant Okinawan tree spiders if you take the beaten paths down to the sea. There are also deer that swim between the islands.

Do
Snorkel, scuba dive or kayak from any beach and you will soon encounter a rich variety of tropical sea life.

Buy
Buy snorkeling equipment before you arrive. Other than food and drink there is not much to buy on Aka.

Eat
There is a shack style restaurant near Aka Port but amenities on the island are basic. The locals are extremely friendly and will soon point you in the right direction. If staying at a local guest house you can often eat with your hosts.

Drink
There are plenty of drink vending machines on Aka and you can usually get a cold glass of Orion (Okinawan beer) at any place that sells food.

Sleep
There are some guest houses and rooms to hire on Aka but no large hotels. Camping on beaches is strictly forbidden, although it's quite acceptable to drink and eat on the beaches until sunrise. You might want to befriend a local Okinawan to help you source accommodation.

Go next
After a day on Aka you will not want to leave, but the neighbouring islands within the Kerama Islands group are all worth a visit.

title: Akajima


text:
Akan National Park

Akan Mashū National Park (阿寒摩周国立公園 Akan-Mashū-kokuritsu-kōen) is a large national park in the eastern part of the Japanese island of Hokkaido. In the name, Mashū was added in 2017.

Understand
The park's attractions are its three sparkling clear mountain lakes, the eponymous Lake Akan (阿寒湖 Akan-ko) to the west, Lake Mashū (摩周湖 Mashū-ko) to the east and Lake Kussharo (屈斜路湖 Kussharo-ko) between them. The largest settlement nearby is Teshikaga (弟子屈), to the south of Lakes Kussharo and Mashu.

Information Site
Ministry of Environment has an official bilingual webpage for the park.

Untouched Hokkaido is a bilingual guide site by local tourism associaitons, mainly focusing on nature.

By plane
The nearest airports are in Kushiro, an hour and a half to the south, Nakashibetsu, an hour to the east, and Memanbetsu, an hour and a half to the north.

By train
The JR Senmō Line (釧網本線) runs north–south across the park on its way from Abashiri (網走) to Kushiro (釧路), stopping at Kawayu and Teshikaga (Mashu station). There are around 4 trains daily to Abashiri (2 hours, ¥1600) and 6–7 to Kushiro (1 hr 40 min, ¥1790).

By bus
There are 4 buses daily between Akan and Kushiro station. Infrequent buses connect the lakes to each other and the train station at Bihoro. In the high season (May–October) busses run to Lake Onnetto, serving the Meakan and Akan Fuji trail-heads.

Get around
Buses are infrequent and cover only the main routes. A rental car will come in very handy here.

A 2days pass is available at hotels, convenience store and train stations. It gets you around the area with Eco-friendly buses (run on bio diesel fuel) and it's also valid on the JR Senmo line between JR Mashu and JR Kawayuonsen. More info here.

See

Do

 * Canoeing along the nearby Kushiro river is a popular if expensive activity, with a 90-minute guided trips from ¥5500.
 * These hot spring resorts offer, surprise surprise, hot springs:
 * There are many excellent hikes in the region.
 * In summertime at the Akan Kohan ski ground (阿寒湖畔スキー場), there are two interesting short hikes, one 550-m, the other 2.2-km. The shorter one takes you to a ski slope with an excellent view of Lake Akan, its islands and the surrounding forest. The longer one starts off climbing about 900 m up a ski slope before delving into the surrounding forest and taking you past a hot water creek (47 °C), and several bokke (ボッケ), an Ainu word referring to hot mud caused by volcanism.
 * Another hike from the Kawayu Onsen Visitor's Centre to Iwo-san (2.4 km) is a very flat and easy but extremely interesting one starting off in luxuriant forest on a moss path before petering out into desert-like scrub as you approach the poisonous vapours of Iwo-san.
 * There are many excellent hikes in the region.
 * In summertime at the Akan Kohan ski ground (阿寒湖畔スキー場), there are two interesting short hikes, one 550-m, the other 2.2-km. The shorter one takes you to a ski slope with an excellent view of Lake Akan, its islands and the surrounding forest. The longer one starts off climbing about 900 m up a ski slope before delving into the surrounding forest and taking you past a hot water creek (47 °C), and several bokke (ボッケ), an Ainu word referring to hot mud caused by volcanism.
 * Another hike from the Kawayu Onsen Visitor's Centre to Iwo-san (2.4 km) is a very flat and easy but extremely interesting one starting off in luxuriant forest on a moss path before petering out into desert-like scrub as you approach the poisonous vapours of Iwo-san.

Buy
On the shore of Lake Akan, the small village of Ainu Kotan is home to one of the largest concentrations of Ainu artisans in Hokkaido. There are numerous galleries and studios selling textiles, paintings and carved works for the well-heeled.

Go next

 * You're already almost at the end of Japan, so why not head north to the outermost point of all, Shiretoko National Park?
 * Bihoro Pass, a scenic drive on the way to Bihoro, may be worth a drive.

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

title: Akan National Park


text:
Akaroa

Akaroa is a charming harbourside town on the eastern side of Akaroa harbour, in southern Banks Peninsula in the Canterbury region of New Zealand. Its early settlers were French and British. It was the only French settlement in New Zealand. Aspects of its French heritage remain, such as names of streets and businesses.

Understand
"Akaroa" is Maori for "Long Harbour". The village is snuggled into a wide bay on the eastern side of the rugged harbour, with Onuku Marae a little further south. The permanent population of around 600 (2013) in this historic village swells significantly over summer.

Akaroa's harbour is home to an array of wildlife, most notably the rare Hector's dolphin. Cruises and dolphin swimming are popular attractions.

By car
Akaroa is 85 km (80– to 90-minute drive) from Christchurch on SH75, which winds over the hills of the rugged Banks peninsula with breathtaking views.

By bus

 * Akaroa French Connection bus departs Christchurch daily at 9AM. Departs Akaroa daily at 4PM. $45 return.
 * Akaroa Shuttle bus departs from Christchurch at 8:30AM (all year) and 1:30PM (Nov-Apr). It departs Akaroa Adventure Centre, 74 Rue Lavaud, at 10:30AM and 3:45PM (Nov-Apr), and 3:35PM (May-Oct). $35 one way, $50 return.

Both buses depart Christchurch from Canterbury Museum on Rolleston Ave.

By ship
Akaroa is a tender port for cruise ships anchored in the harbour. Tenders bring passengers to the shallow-water main wharf in the centre of town. The small town can be easily walked and explored in several hours. To get to the centre of town, walk north on Beach Rd with the French Bay waters on your left for about 10 minutes to get to Rue Balguerie. On cruise ship days, a free shuttle operates every 15 minutes from the main wharf to the centre of Akaroa (Akaroa Tourist Information Centre) and to the Recreation Ground (end of town).

Akaroa is the base port for excursions to Christchurch (the port of Lyttelton has been closed to cruise ships since being badly damaged in the 2011 earthquake). Christchurch city is 1.5 hours drive away. Shuttle services: Akaroa Shuttle (white and red) and French Connection (CityLine) buses to Christchurch leave from the main wharf.

 * Akaroa Shuttle Christchurch Direct Shuttle bus departs Akaroa at 9:45AM and travels to Rolleston Ave, close to Hagley Park, Botanic Gardens, Punting on the Avon, and the Museum. Departs Christchurch at 3PM and arrives back at Akaroa at 4:30PM. $45 return.
 * Akaroa French Connection Christchurch Direct Shuttle bus departs Akaroa at 9:30AM, arrives in Christchurch within walking distance of the Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Art Gallery, Punting on the Avon and local cafes, and arrives back at Akaroa at 4:25PM. $45 return.

See

 * The Akaroa Historic Area along the waterfront of Akaroa Harbour is easily explored by foot. The main axis comprises all of the Rue Lavaud, part of Beach Road, and includes streets and areas to the east of these two principal arteries. The axis of the area runs roughly north and south with the northern end beginning at the junction of the Rue Lavaud with Woodills Road, and the southern end terminating at the Garden of Tane, about a half an hour walk end to end. The eastern boundary of the area includes the L'Aube Hill Reserve and French Cemetery, and Stanley Park. The western boundary is the French Bay, marked by Dalys Wharf at the end of the Rue Balguerie and by the Main Wharf at Beach Rd and Church St.

title: Akaroa


text:
Akashi

Akashi (明石) is a city in Hyogo prefecture, Japan, to the west of Kobe.

Understand
Despite its name, the Akashi-Kaikyō Bridge (明石海峡大橋) is not in Akashi. This second longest suspension bridge in the world connects Awaji Island to Honshu via the city of Kobe. However, if you'd like to admire the bridge from below, ferries to Awaji (see ) that pass right under it depart Akashi every 20 min or so.

Tourist information site
The local tourist association has a Japanese-only guide site. Clicking on Language>English opens a 6-page guide pamphlet.

By train
Akashi is on the JR Sanyō Main Line between Kobe (15 min from Sannomiya) and Himeji (25 min).

To the south is the Sanyo Akashi Station, run by the private company Sanyo Electric Railway. It is on the Sanyo Electric Railway Main Line which connect Himeji to Kobe and runs parallel to the JR line.

The Shinkansen passes through Akashi at Nishi-Akashi (西明石) station. The Kodama, Hikari, and some eastbound Nozomi trains stop here.

By ferry
Jenova Line ferries from Iwaya on the northern tip of Awaji cross over to Akashi every 20 min or so. ¥450 one-way, 13 minutes.

Get around
The JR station and ferry are within easy walking distance of each other.

Buy
Akashi is a major port particularly well known for its seafood, retailing local specialities like sea bream (タイ tai), octopus (タコ tako) and conger eel (穴子 anago).

Eat

Akashi's claim to culinary fame is Akashiyaki (明石焼き), an eggy version of the ubiquitous takoyaki (octopus balls), often dipped into dashi broth before eating. Akashi is also famous for its nori seaweed (明石のり) and bream (鯛).

Go next

 * Inami
 * Harima
 * Kakogawa
 * Takasago
 * Kobe
 * Himeji
 * Tatsuno
 * Ashiya
 * Aioi

title: Akashi


text:
Akçakoca

Akçakoca is a beach resort in the Western Karadeniz or Black Sea Region of Turkey, with a population of 27,878 in 2022.

Understand
The town in antiquity was called Diapolis and was one of a string of small ports along the Black Sea coast, fortified in the 13th century by the Genoese. The Ottomans captured the region in the 14th century, without any battle here, whereupon it was called Akçaşehir. In 1934 it was renamed Akçakoca for the fellow who'd captured it. The town has industry and fishing but is nowadays mainly a tourist resort.

Get in
Akçakoca is at the junction of Highway D010 along the coast and D655 which winds through the mountains from Düzce the provincial capital. Düzce is astride the main route between Istanbul and Ankara, and the drive from either is about 3 hours to Düzce then another 30 min to Akçakoca. This makes the place a weekend getaway from the big cities but too far for a day trip.

Buses from Istanbul run every couple of hours and take 4-5 hours via Gebze and Düzce, for a fare in 2024 of 600 TL; they continue along the coast to Zonguldak. Four buses per day from Ankara take 3 hr 30 min via Bolu and Düzce. Bus lines include Metro Turizm, Pamukkale and Flixbus.

the bus station is at the highway junction 2 km east of town centre. Its facilities are seldom open. Dolmuşes run downtown and your ride should be included in your inter-city bus ticket, enquire when booking.

Get around

 * Buses and dolmuşes shuttle between downtown (çarşı), the bus station (otogar) and outlying districts.

See

 * or "lighthouse" is just a harbour light at the end of the breakwater, with views back over town.
 * Old Town is no more. Here and there you might find traditional Ottoman houses on the slopes above the beachfront, but they're either tumbledown, or caught in the crosshairs of the developers' sights, or modern retro creations.
 * Mehmet Arif Bey Köşkü in the east of town is shown on some maps as a museum, but it's a private mansion, and you can't really see the exterior behind the high walls.
 * Mehmet Arif Bey Köşkü in the east of town is shown on some maps as a museum, but it's a private mansion, and you can't really see the exterior behind the high walls.

Do

 * Beaches are narrow and suffer from erosion; island breakwaters stand east of the Marina breakwater to limit this. Değirmenağzı Plajı (Windmill Beach) 1 km west of town centre is larger, at the outlet of a stream. Kale Plajı (Castle Beach) just below the Genoese castle is a further km west.
 * Watch films about Lenin though you'll probably have to find them on an art-movie TV channel. In 1991 a wooden bust of Lenin was washed up hereabouts, presumably chucked away in some Soviet dominion after the fall of communism and the USSR in 1989. It lay for some years in a warehouse while the citizens debated what to do with it, but it's now a movie prop. Hoşgeldiniz Lenin was a short documentary of 2016, and in 2021 a full-length film You Me Lenin fictionalised the event, though its release coincided with covid and few got to see it. This film portrays the repressive 1990s, when Turkey's leaders detested communism yet showed themselves its successors by murdering or "disappearing" their political opponents.

Buy

 * Lots of convenience stores along Istanbul Cd a block back from the shore.

Eat

 * East from the Marina are Kamelya, Çapa, Bahce Cafe Lounge and Kuzin.
 * Balik Evi is at the Marina, then west are Kordon Cafe, Seyir Cafe and Gurme.

Drink

 * Cafes may serve alcohol, there's no free-standing bar.

Sleep

 * is an outlying resort district east of the bus station. Eftelya is the main hotel here, and campsites are further along the coast.
 * is an outlying resort district east of the bus station. Eftelya is the main hotel here, and campsites are further along the coast.
 * is an outlying resort district east of the bus station. Eftelya is the main hotel here, and campsites are further along the coast.
 * is an outlying resort district east of the bus station. Eftelya is the main hotel here, and campsites are further along the coast.
 * is an outlying resort district east of the bus station. Eftelya is the main hotel here, and campsites are further along the coast.
 * is an outlying resort district east of the bus station. Eftelya is the main hotel here, and campsites are further along the coast.

Connect
Akçakoca and its approach roads have 4G from all Turkish carriers. As of March 2024, 5G has not rolled out in Turkey.

Go next

 * Zonguldak east is a grubby former mining port. Continue east for more attractive Amasra.
 * Bolu inland is on the Ankara-Istanbul trading route, with a museum and several historic mosques.

title: Akçakoca


text:
Aklanon phrasebook

Aklanon (also Akeanon) is a language spoken in the Philippines, mainly in northern parts of Panay.

Aklanon is unique among Philippine languages since it possesses the digraph ea ("l" pronounced with rolling "r" sound). According to legend, the digraph originated from the first ruler of Aklan, Datu Bangkaya, who had a short tongue and therefore could not pronounce the "l" sound.

Akeanon tongue-twisters:

Ro anwang nagaeugaeog sa eugan-eugan. (The carabao is swimming in the mud.)

Ro kaeamay nagaeapuyot sa kaeaha. (The sugar stuck on the pan.)

Animals

Bird : Pispis Carabao : Anwang Dog : Ayam Cat : Kuring Monkey : Amo Worm : Ueod Snake : Sawa

Food

Rice : Humay Fish: Suea Meat : Karne Pork : Baboy Beef: Baka Bread : Tinapay Vegetable : Tinuea Mushroom : Amamakue

Akeanon Words

Crazy : kaumangon Gold : bueawan

Pronunciation guide
Common

Basics

 * Hello. : Hello. ( )
 * Hello. (informal) : Hay. ( )
 * How are you? :  Kumusta?
 * Fine, thank you. : Mayad man.
 * What is your name? : ano ro imong pangaean? ( ?)
 * My name is ______ . : Akon nga pangaean hay _____. ; ako hay si ______ . (  _____ .)
 * Nice to meet you. : Kamayad nga nagkakilaea ta kita. ( )
 * Please. : paki- ; pangabay. ( )
 * Thank you. : Saeamat . ( )
 * You're welcome. : Uwa ron. ( )
 * Yes. : Ho-o . ( )
 * No. : Bukon. ( )
 * Excuse me. (getting attention) : Paagi. ( )
 * Excuse me. (begging pardon) : Pahuman nga. ( )
 * I'm sorry. : Pasensyahe guid. ( )
 * Goodbye : Mauna eot ang. ( )
 * Goodbye (informal) : Mauna eon aq. ( )
 * I can't speak Akeanon [well]. :[ ]Uwa aq kabaeo maghambae nga Akeanon it mayad. ( [ ]) Indi ako kantigo maghambae it akeanon
 * Do you speak English? : Antigo ka mag hambae it English?
 * Is there someone here who speaks English? : May una baea iya nga kantigo maghambae it Ingles? May iya nga tigo maghambae it english?
 * Help! : Bulig! Tabang!
 * Look out! : Pagtan-aw! ( !)
 * Good morning. : mayad-ayad nga agahon . ( )
 * Good evening. : mayad-ayad nga gabi-i. ( )
 * Good night. : mad-ayad nga hapon. ( )
 * Good night (to sleep) : pagkatueog eon. ( )
 * I don't understand. : Indi ko maeobtan. ( )
 * Where is the toilet? : Siin ro casilyas?

Numbers

 * 1 :isaea
 * 2 :daywa
 * 3 :tatlo
 * 4 :ap-at
 * 5 :lima
 * 6 :an-om
 * 7 :pito
 * 8 :waeo
 * 9 :siyam
 * 10 :pueo
 * 11 :pueo ag isaea
 * 12 :pueo ag daywa
 * 13 :pueo ag tatlo
 * 20 :daywang pueo
 * 30 :tatlong pueo
 * 40 :ap-at ka pueo
 * 50 :limang ka pueo
 * 100 :isaea'ng gatos
 * 200 :daywa'ng gatos
 * 300 :tatlo'ng gatos
 * 400 :ap-at nga gatos
 * 500 :lima'ng gatos
 * 1,000 :isaea'ng libo
 * 2,000 :daywa'ng libo
 * 3,000 :tatlo'ng libo

Time
Morning :Agahon; Noon :Udto ro adlao; Afternoon :Hapon; Evening :Gabi-i; Now :Makaron Later :Hinduna

Clock time

 * one o'clock AM :ala una it agahun
 * two o'clock AM :alas dos it hapun
 * noon :udto
 * one o'clock PM :ala-una it hapun
 * two o'clock PM - :alas dos it hapun
 * midnight

Days

 * Monday :Lunes
 * Tuesday :Martes
 * Wednesday :Mierkules
 * Thursday :Huebes
 * Friday :Biernes
 * Saturday :Sabado
 * Sunday :Dominggo

Months

 * January :Enero
 * February :Pebrero
 * March :Marso
 * April :Abril
 * May :Mayo
 * June :Hunyo
 * July :Hulyo
 * August :Agosto
 * September :Septiembre
 * October :Oktobre
 * November :Nobyembre
 * December :Disyembre

Colors
white-puti, red- puea, green- berde, yellow- dueaw, black- itum, blue - azul; asul

Taxi
Car - Saeakyan

Bicycle - Sikad

Money

 * Money - cuarta
 * I have no money - Owa ako it cuarta.
 * change - sinsillo;
 * ten cents - dies centimos or centavos
 * five cents - bakud

Eating
Breakfast - pamahaw

Lunch - ilabas

Snack - meryenda

Dinner - ihapon

Food - pagkaon

Rice - humay

Toasted/burnt rice - dukot

Viand - suea

(to) Boil (something) - ea-ga

Spoiled - ban-os

Overripe - samad (usually an exaggeration)

Driving
Speed up - dasig/i/a

Slow down - hinay/i/a

Brake - menor

Let's go - panaw ta

Stop - pundo

I'm going out (of the car) - manaog eun ako

title: Aklanon phrasebook


text:
Oslo region

The Oslo region is the central area of East Norway including the capital Oslo and the Akershus district surrounding it. It's a contiguous metropolitan area with more than 25% of Norway's population and the visitor can regard it as one city. The Oslo region is Norway's economic centre of gravity and transport hub. Oslo Airport sits at Gardermoen on the flatlands near Jessheim. In addition to Oslo Airport, Norway's major roads (E6, E18, E16) as well as all railway lines to/from Oslo pass through.

Regions

 * City of Oslo
 * Former Akershus county
 * Bærum (including Sandvika) and Asker suburbs west of Oslo
 * Follo - southern towns and suburbs including Nesodden peninsula, Drøbak and Ski.
 * Romerike which make up most of the area east and north of Lillestrøm, includes Lillestrøm town/suburb, agricultural areas on the flatlands, Oslo Airport (Gardermoen) and Eidsvoll

Cities/towns

 * - Norway's capital and the heart of the region

 * Southern towns and suburbs

 * Western Suburbs

 * Further afield
 * - hosted the 1814 Norwegian Constituent Assembly that introduced democracy and civil liberties
 * - suburb and hub just outside Oslo at a river delta in Øyeren lake
 * - suburb and hub just outside Oslo at a river delta in Øyeren lake

Understand
Oslo and Akershus make up one contiguous metropolitan area and the visitor can regard it as one city. Large parts of Akershus are effectively suburbs for Oslo and also home to important industrial and business districts. While this is a single urban area it is relatively spaciously laid out, Greater London for instance has 10 times higher population density than the urban area. Only the eastern and northern agricultural districts of Akershus are clearly not part of the metropolis. If forests and agricultural areas are included the population density of Oslo region is similar to the Netherlands. Oslo airport sits at Gardermoen on the flatlands near Jessheim. Oslo and the former county combined are home to more than 25% of Norway's population. Oslo and Akershus has traditionally been governed as one district for instance with a joint governor.

Romerike area in the north is relatively flat or gentle hills. Norway's largest rivers (Vorma and Glomma) flows through the eastern parts of the region and there are major lakes and countless smaller lakes. The northern end of the area touches the south end of Mjøsa, Norway's biggest lake. There is also some rugged, low altitude terrain in Bærum and Asker and in Østmarka (east Oslo forest).

Follo is a traditional district located between Oslo and Østfold and includes southern suburbs of Oslo with a total of more than 100,000 inhabitants. Ski is the centre of Follo. Several settlements in Follo are situated along this coastline, like Nesoddtangen, Drøbak and Son, as well as several beaches that are well frequented in the summer. During the winter there are good opportunities of skiing in Østmarka and Sørmarka. 'Follo' presumably derive from 'Foldin', the old name for the wider reaches of the Oslo Fjord. Drøbak was for centuries the winter and transshipment harbour for Oslo. Hølen, Son, Hvitsten and Drøbak are all small coastal towns whose history as important trading ports is still very evident. The many discoveries of prehistoric hill forts, burial mounds and rock carvings in the areas cultivated during the Stone and Bronze Ages indicate that the Follo region has always been an attractive place to live in. Norway's largest collection of Stone Age dwellings and implements was discovered next to the Bunnefjord. Son, Drøbak and Hvitsten first became known as artists' colonies in the mid-nineteenth century. Edward Munch found inspiration for several of his paintings in this coastal landscape.

The urban area is concentrated around the northern (inner) part of Oslofjord in a horseshoe shape along a driving distance of some 50 kilometers. Within this horseshoe most people live with a view of the fjord or within minutes of the shore. In addition there is a north-eastern axis from central Oslo through the eastern valley and a low elevation to Lillestrøm at the other side of the waterdivide. Drøbak sits at the strategic narrow entrance to inner Oslofjord. The Oscarsborg fortress was installed to control this narrow strait. Inside the strait the Oslofjord is a sheltered small ocean with countless islands and peninsulas.

Oslo, Bærum and Asker are separated from the surrounding areas by hills and forests, and there are several smaller rivers flowing to Oslofjord. There are countless lakes in these uplands. These undeveloped hills and forests are collectively known as Marka and are protected by law. Marka covers about one third of the Oslo region. The largest part of Marka stretches for some 40-50 km north from the city to Lunner in Oppland. There are additional wide forests covering large parts of the region, about 60 % of the area is covered by forest. There officially some 3000 lakes covering 7 % of the region.

Norway's first railway line, Hovedbanen (literally "The main line"), was built between Oslo and Eidsvoll via Lillestrøm in 1854. This stretch is still Norway's main transport corridor and main roads E6 and E16 runs across the plains north of Oslo. When Oslo airport was constructed on the Romerike plains in the 1990s, the main line was shifted to include the airport.

By boat
Oslo is connected to Denmark and Germany by car ferry. Color Line runs services to Kiel (Germany) daily. DFDS runs daily services to Copenhagen (Denmark), and Stena Line provides service to Frederikshavn (Denmark).

You may also want to consider Color Lines high-speed boats from Larvik (2 hours south of Oslo on E18, or easily reachable by hourly Vy train) or Kristiansand (4½ hours south of Oslo on E18, or reachable on five daily trains or near-hourly buses) to Hirtshals (Denmark). They both take some 3½ hours to reach Denmark.

The train station in Kristiansand is close to the ferry quay, while in Larvik the quay has been moved to a location which is a bit of a trek from the station.

Ferry company Fjord Line operates ferries on the route Langesund (by the E18, 3 hours south of Oslo by car) to Hirtshals (4½ hours).

The cruise ports in Oslo are on four different Sentrum piers, from west to east: Filipstad (330 m (LOA), 8.5 m draft), west of Aker Bryyge; Søndre Akershuskai (345 m (LOA), 10.3 m draft), the main pier by Akershus Fortress; Vippetangkaia (249 m (LOA), 7.3 m draft), south of Akershus Fortress; Revierkaia (294 m (LOA), 8.3 m draft), south of the Opera House. Annually, about 200,000 cruise passengers visit Oslo from these cruise piers.

By plane

 * Sandefjord Torp Airport near Sandefjord (1 hour south of Asker) has flights to some major and minor cities around Norway and Europe, including Amsterdam, Copenhagen, London, Warsaw, and some tourist destinations in southern Europe. There is a free transfer bus to a nearby railway station.
 * Sandefjord Torp Airport near Sandefjord (1 hour south of Asker) has flights to some major and minor cities around Norway and Europe, including Amsterdam, Copenhagen, London, Warsaw, and some tourist destinations in southern Europe. There is a free transfer bus to a nearby railway station.

By train
Oslo Central Station (Oslo Sentralstasjon/Oslo S, T-bane, tram, bus: Jernbanetorget) is at the eastern end of the downtown Oslo. Oslo S is the center of rail travel in Norway as all lines (including the airport express train) terminate at Oslo S. Trains between other western, southern and eastern towns in Oslo region runs through Oslo S. The major express buses go to the bus station next door to the train station.

Trains from Bergen and Stavanger (via Kristiansand) pass through Asker and Bærum (Sandvika) towards Oslo S. Trains from Trondheim (including Åndalsnes) and Røros pass through Eidsvoll and Lillestrøm towards Oslo S. Trains from Stockholm pass through Kongsvinger and Lillestrøm. Trains from Østfold and Gothenburg pass through Ski.

Local trains from Oslo, or regional trains from surrounding areas, or from Gothenburg in Sweden. See nsb.no

By car
For more details see: Driving in Norway

International highways E6 (from Malmö and Gothenburg), E18 (from Saint Petersburg, Helsinki and Stockholm) and E16 (Bergen-Oslo airport-Gävle) meet inside Oslo or just outside. E6 and E18 intersects twice: downtown Oslo and at Tusenfryd amusement park near Ski.

The E6 is the main north-south road of Norway, and continues north to Trondheim, Alta and Kirkenes, with branches to most Norwegian cities. The E134 runs to Haugesund and the E18 lead south-west to Drammen, Grenland (Skien/Porsgrunn/Langesund) and Kristiansand. Other notable roads into Oslo include Rv4 from Gjøvik, Rv2 from Charlottenberg (Sweden) and Kongsvinger and Rv7, an alternative road to Bergen passing Gol and Geilo..

The E16 runs west to Bergen and east to Kongsvinger ending up in Gävle, Sweden. While the E16 runs just north of Oslo through Hønefoss and Oslo airport, there is, confusingly, also a branch of E16 between Hønefoss and Sandvika where E16 is connected to E18.

Get around
Rental cars and taxis are often available, but are rather expensive in Norway in general. The public transportation system is relatively good. All railway lines run through the area and serves long distance as well as local trains. Oslo itself has a fine public transport network of frequent metro, tram and bus departures. Some metro and tram lines cross the city line to Bærum. Buse lines cover the whole urban area as one integrated system. There are buses going between the major cities and stopping at bus stops marked with a sign (blue with a white bus on it, rectangular) and/or an open air booth with the place name written above with white lettering. Public transport is reasonably inexpensive though costs can build up if you buy tickets every time you get on, day/week/month/season passes can be purchased at the major stops. At the central bus station in any town, cashiers will speak English. For local buses, see http://ruter.no. Public transport focused on Oslo has an integrated ticket system.

See

 * Eidsvoll 1814 in Eidsvoll is where the 1814 constitution was signed, and a democracy museum.
 * Lake Mjøsa near Eidsvoll is Norway's largest lake and one of the deepest in Europe. Norway's first railway was the Oslo-Eidsvoll-line, simply called the "main line" (1854), station at Vorma river in Eidsvoll from where boats could sail to Lillehammer. The Svanfoss locks & dam allows boats to sail the Vorma river. The dam controls the outflow from Mjøsa lake.
 * Tusenfryd Amusement Park, Ås, is the largest amusement park in Norway. Carousels, roller coasters, and a ghost castle.
 * Oscarsborg Fortress lies like a jewel in the Drøbak Sound. In summer, Oscarsborg is perfect for families and for those interested in nature, culture and history. Oscarsborg Fortress Museum presents the history of the place and organises guided tours. The fortifications are a central part, as is the story of the sinking of the German cruiser Blücher on 9th April 1940.
 * Norsk Landbruksmuseum is a museum dedicated to contemporary agricultural history. Children's department, museum shop, café.
 * Follo Museum is the regional museum of Follo. The open air museum has an attractive and childfriendly location at Seiersten near Drøbak and contains both buildings and artefacts from Follo, as well as a bookshop with reading matter of local interest, a museum shop and café.
 * Roald Amundsen’s home "Uranienborg": The polar explorer lived here from 1908 to 1928. The house stands exactly as Amundsen left it when he departed on his last expedition and so gives us a good insight into his life.
 * Tregaardens Julehus is the only Christmas shop in the Nordic region to open all year. Wide selection of Christmas decorations and other items. Greetings to friends are stamped with Father Christmas' own postmark at Father Christmas's Post Office.
 * Ramme Gaard Farm, Hvitsten, an eco-cultural meeting place Exciting cultural programme, with concerts, festivals and exhibitions. Garden days, market days and Christmas market. Diversen Café, with home cooked food and the chance to buy the farm's organic produce.

Do

 * Kolsåstoppen summit, north of Sandvika, is a hill and summit in Bærum, that has a nice view over the Oslo Fjord from the top.
 * There's also an even better hill in Asker with an even more excellent view.

Drink
Norway has high water quality and tap water is completely safe. If you still want bottled water, most stores carry several brands of non-artificially treated water.

Stay safe
Most areas in Akershus are more or less crime free, and you should not be afraid to walk around alone day or night, though you should always take precationary measures and follow your common sense when in a new country. Signs and maps are usually in Norwegian, but do not be afraid to ask for directions; the vast majority of Norwegians speak enough English to help out a lost tourist.

Go next

 * Hedmark
 * Oppland: Valdres, Gjøvik
 * Buskerud: Drammen, Ringerike
 * Sweden: Värmland
 * Copenhagen
 * Kiel

title: Oslo region


text:
Akhaltsikhe

Akhaltsikhe (Georgian: ახალციხე, "New Fortress") is a small city of about 18,000 people (2014) and the capital of Samtskhe-Javakheti. It's a rather sleepy town, but its Old City and Old Turkish baths are worth a visit, and it's a great base for exploring the surrounding areas, including Sapara Monastery in the immediate vicinity and Vardzia to the south with Khertvisi and Tmogvi Fortresses along the way.

Understand
The city has been around for at least 800 years, and was the seat of the House of Akhaltsikhe, dukes of Samtskhe, for several centuries. In 1576 the Ottomans took the city; they built most of the old buildings a tourist can see here. During the Russo-Turkish War of 1828–1829 Russians captured the city. Until the 20th century Akhaltsikhe was mostly Armenian, but today around 27% are Armenians and the rest are Georgians. There is some language tension between city inhabitants.

By marshrutka
All marshrutkas from major Georgian cities stop at Borjomi and at Khashuri bus station. Hence, if you missed your ride, it's not terribly difficult to catch a marshrutka going between Akhaltsikhe and Khashuri before dinner time.

(As of Mch. 2022 the prices quoted have risen 20-25%.)

From specific destinations:
 * Tbilisi (Didube bus station) – 08:00–19:00 hourly. 3 hr. 15 lari. (updated Sept 2022)
 * Kutaisi – 08:20, and 13:00. 3½ hr. 10-12 lari.
 * Gori – 08:30. 2½ hr. 10 lari. (updated Apr 2022)
 * Batumi (from old bus station near Batumi train station, via Khashuri) – 08:30, and ~10:30. 5½-6 hr. 20 lari.
 * Borjomi – Every 30-60 min. 1 hr. 3 lari.
 * Vardzia – 9:00, 13:00 and 15:00. 1½ hr. 6.50 lari. (updated Apr 2022)
 * Nakalakevi/Tmogvi (near Vardzia) – ~08:10-08:20.

To specific destinations (vice-versa, if not listed above, should be similarly frequent):
 * Ninotsminda – 08:15, and 15:00. 1½ hr. 7 lari. They obviously also go by Akhalkalaki.
 * Gori – 08:15, and 13:00. 2½ hr. 7 lari.
 * Kutaisi – 10:40, 15:00, and 18:10. 3½ hr. 17 lari. (updated Apr 2022)
 * Batumi (via Khashuri) – 08:30, and 11:30. 6 hr. 20 lari.
 * Batumi (via Khulo, Jun-Aug) – 10:00. 6 hr. 18 lari.
 * Vardzia – 12:20 and 17:30. 1½ hr. 6.50 lari. (updated Apr 2022)
 * Mirashkhani (passing through Vardzia) - 10:35 and 16:00. 1½ hr. 7 lari. (updated Apr 2022)

There are few direct marshrutkas from/to Yerevan, Armenia, or several connections from Armenia when making a stopover in Akhalkalaki. There is also a daily connection from Gyumri, which starts at 10:00 (3½ hr, 4,000 dram).

By thumb
The direct road from Batumi to Akhaltsikhe is not served by marshrutkas, probably due its bad state and the mountain pass. Nevertheless, you should be able to catch a (4WD) ride on that road. But it will be bumpy and probably still take at least 4 hr.

By car
The principal route to Akhaltsikhe runs from Georgia's main East-West highway (E60) at the spur in Khashuri leading to Borjomi.

There's also a route from Batumi via Gorzerdzi pass (4WD needed, closed in winter, scenic views).

By train
There was a train in the past, but nowadays the nearest railway station is Borjomi with connections from Tbilisi and Khashuri.

Get around
Most of the centre can be explored on foot. However, the highway between Borjomi and Vardzia is about 2 km east of the centre and 2.5-3 km east of the castle.

Sleep
The street from the underpass near the police station and the castle gate is lined with small family-run hotels, in all 15-20. Most of them close during winter. Expect to pay 30-50 Lari (2022).

If you can make yourself understood, you can overnight in the Sapara Monastery's chambers, 10-12 km outside of Akhaltsikhe.

Inside Georgia

 * Vardzia — the cliff-side cave monastery, a former city, is the biggest reason to visit Akhaltsikhe, and the region more generally. A round trip by taxi from Akhaltsikhe might cost about 50-60 lari (or marshrutka 7 lari one way, as of July 2022).
 * Abastumani — an interesting and off-the-touristic-map, former Soviet spa town with still functioning sulphur and thermal baths.
 * Akhalkalaki — the center of Armenian culture in Georgia is nearby to the southwest, easily accessible via marshrutka from Akhaltsikhe.
 * Borjomi — every Soviet traveller’s favourite Georgian retreat, for its parks, Romanov palace, and internationally renowned natural mineral water.
 * Khashuri — an interesting small town with an abundance of hammocks.

Outside Georgia

 * Armenia — There are two marshrutkas to Yerevan, Armenia, at 04:00 and 07:00 (7 hr, 20-35 lari). If you miss them, go to Akhalkalaki, from where marshrutkas leave to Yerevan almost every hour. Either the same or an additional one also goes to Gyumri at 07:00 (4 hr, 20 lari).
 * Turkey — You can buy bus tickets to Turkey from the central bus station. Ticket to Posof (city on the Turkish side) is US$10 and leaves at 14:30 (could not be confirm in May 2019). There's a bus to Kars with Kars Vipturizm 4449188. It goes Wednesday and Sunday at 13:00 and costs 70 TL (or 35 lari) (May 2019). Hitching to Kars is also a very easy option and can be done in far less than a day. From the central bus station, ask for the road to the Turkish border (Turetskoĭ granitsy) and start flagging cars about 1 km from the bus station down the road. The road will pass through the small town of Vale. You are able to walk across the border.

title: Akhaltsikhe


text:
Akita

Akita (秋田) is the capital of Akita prefecture in the northern Tohoku region of Japan's Honshu island.

Understand
Akita is the largest city in the prefecture, and as such is the hub for transportation, sports, and shopping. Its longitude is about the middle of the prefecture, and so is reachable from both the north and south.

Climate
In Akita, late June to late July is the rainy season. The spring and summer before and after that tend to have fairly moderate amounts of rain, and are good for outdoor activities. In November, it is common for some cold weather thunder storms to occur—this is said to mark the end of fall and the beginning of hatahata (a local fish) season. In the winter, Akita sees some snow, though certainly inland areas get more.

Tourist Information Site
Akitachi Plus is the city's official multilingual guide site.

By plane
Akita has an airport, with domestic flights coming in from such places as Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka and Sapporo. Buses connect the airport with Akita Station (秋田駅) -- a ride costs ¥980 and takes 40 minutes.

By train
Akita can be reached by Shinkansen (bullet train) along the Akita Shinkansen Line (秋田新幹線). Komachi (こまち) trains are available from either Tokyo or Ueno stations in Tokyo and make stops at Omiya, Sendai and Morioka before slowing down to travel to Shizukuishi, Tazawako, Kakunodate, Omagari (where it changes direction), and finally Akita over conventional rail lines. The trip takes just under four hours and costs about ¥10,000 in a standard class car.

When the Akita Shinkansen runs on conventional lines it slows down to regular train speeds and it will stop several times to allow other trains to pass. This will be a bit of a disappointing shock after zooming through northern Japan at top speeds as far as Morioka. In return, the views from the slowed down of the interior of Tohoku are beautiful.

Be aware that the Komachi trains are coupled to Hayabusa trains, which split at Morioka, but as all seats are reserved, the chance of getting in the wrong car is minimal at best. For foreign tourists traveling from Tokyo, the better deal is to purchase a JR East Rail Pass or the national Japan Rail Pass.

By bus

 * JR Bus operates the Dream Akita-Yokohama overnight bus to Akita from the bus terminal at Yokohama Station (9 hr 45 min, ¥9,500) and from Tokyo Station (8 hr 45 min, ¥9,100).
 * Odakyu and Akita Chuo Kotsu run the Flora overnight bus from Shinjuku (8 hours, ¥9,450).
 * The Senshuu daytime bus runs from Sendai with multiple departures (3½ hours, ¥4,000).

Get around
You can get around by bus, taxi, car, or bike. Many bus routes start in front of Akita Station. In the winter, there can be snow and ice, so drivers should decrease their speed.

On the 2nd level of the JR Akita train station is a Tourist Information office. From there you can organize free bicycles.

Eat
The most well-known Akita dish is kiritanpo. Kiritanpo is essentially a tube made of rice, generally formed around a disposable chopstick. It is often roasted, sometimes after being smothered in miso paste. It is also eaten in kiritanpo nabe, a stew of sliced kiritanpo, vegetables, and chicken or fish, most commonly eaten during the winter. Of course, there are many non-local styles of food available in Akita City, including a wide variety of ramen and Indian restaurants.

Drink
As one of Japan's most famous rice-growing regions, Akita has some of the best local sake in all of Japan. A great place to find many different bottles for sale (and usually free samples) is in the Prefectural Goods Shop (あきた県産品プラザ, akita-renritsu puraza) in the basement of the Atorion Concert Hall.

Stay safe
There are bears in Akita. You won't find one trundling along Chuo Odori outside Akita Station, but visitors who are in Akita to enjoy its semi-rural outskirts such as Akita Onsen or the Our Lady of Akita Convent should familiarise themselves with bear safety. You will see signs scattered around warning of bear danger but if you cannot read Japanese they won't be much good to you. It's always best to assume that bears may be in the area, including in the colder months.

The Asian black bear is a retiring kind of beast. It's unlikely to bother you if you don't bother it and for that reason its best to avoid startling a bear, so make noise as you walk and keep a look out. Having said that, it could easily maul you to death so caution is advised. See Dangerous animals.

Go next

 * Kakunodate, one of Japan's last true historical towns and filled with old samurai houses open to the public, is only about an hour away by shinkansen.
 * Lake Towada, a beautiful blue lake, is several hours away.
 * Lake Tazawa, with great hiking and skiing, is several hours away.
 * Mt. Chokai, in southern Yurihonjo, is two hours to the south.
 * Daisen
 * Oga
 * Senboku
 * Katagami
 * Gojome

title: Akita


text:
Akita (prefecture)

Akita Prefecture (秋田県 Akita-ken) is in the northeastern Tohoku region of the main Japanese island Honshu.

Understand
Akita is the original home of the Akita dog (Akita inu), the famously loyal dog of Hachiko fame. In 2010, the prefecture's population was just over 1 million people.

Tourist Information Site
Stay Akita is the prefecture's official multilingual guide site.

Cities

 * - the prefectural capital
 * - coastal town at the foothills of Mt. Chokai
 * - hometown of Hachiko
 * - the western peninsula, famous for namahage
 * - city with hot springs, Lake Tazawa and historical town remains Kakunodate
 * - one of Japan's popular hot springs resorts
 * - famous for its winter kamakura events, yakisoba and manga museum
 * - home of Mt. Chokai
 * - home of Mt. Chokai

Other destinations

 * - a town near Yokote famous for Takeuchi Festival
 * - located in south-central Akita

By train

 * The Akita Shinkansen provides hourly service from Tokyo station to Akita station. Trains are all-reserved and are known as Komachi (こまち) trains. The trains only stop at Ueno, Omiya, Sendai and Morioka before slowing down to travel to Shizukuishi, Tazawako, Kakunodate, Omagari, and finally Akita over conventional rail lines. Trains also reverse direction once at Omagari, the stop before Akita. Komachi trains from Tokyo reach Akita in four hours and cost ¥16,800 each way. Beware that the Komachi trains are coupled to Aomori-bound Hayate trains, which split at Morioka, but as all seats are reserved the chance of getting in the wrong car is minimal at best. For foreign tourists traveling from Tokyo, the better deal is to purchase a JR East Rail Pass or the national Japan Rail Pass.
 * The Akebono overnight sleeper train from Tokyo's Ueno station, and the Nihonkai from Osaka and Kyoto, stop in Akita before terminating in Aomori.

By bus

 * JR Tohoku Bus operate a long distance bus Dream Akita/Yokohama Express from Tokyo and Yokohama. It leaves daily from Tokyo station southern Yaesu exit at 21:50 (20:55 from Yokohama station east bus terminal), and arrive Akita station at 06:35 the following day. ¥9,100 single (¥9,500 from Yokohama).
 * Odakyu Bus also run an overnight bus service, the Flora, from Shinjuku to Akita. Two departures each night (8–9 hours, ¥9,450 one-way).
 * Shuhoku Bus (秋北バス) runs a bus from the Tobu side of Ikebukuro at 22:00 each evening arriving in Kazuno (06:20), Odate (07:05), Takanosu (07:35) and Noshiro (08:35).

Talk
Few people speak English in Akita. If you don't speak Japanese well, factor this into consideration when planning.

The dialect of Japanese spoken in Akita is called Akita-ben. While the accent isn't particularly strong in most of the area, in rural areas it can be very heavily used and consequently incomprehensible even to native Japanese speakers.

Eat
Akita's weather and clean water are said to be ideal for growing rice, and the local akitakomachi variety is prized throughout the country.

Perhaps the most well-known Akita dish is kiritanpo. Kiritanpo is essentially a tube made of rice, generally formed around a disposable chopstick. It is often roasted, sometimes after being smothered in miso paste. It is also eaten in kiritanpo nabe, a stew of sliced kiritanpo, vegetables, and chicken or fish, most commonly eaten during the winter.

Though consumed throughout Japan, Akita's Oga Peninsula is known for inago, a sweet teriyaki-like dish made of grasshoppers cooked in sake, soy sauce, and sugar.

In late winter, hatahata, or sailfin sunfish is popular, usually cooked in a stew. It has a strong flavor, and females with intact egg pouches are most prized.

Drink
Akita is famous for its rice akitakomachi for food, but different varieties, such as sakekomachi, are used to brew many brands of sake, some of which are popular throughout Japan. Many of Akita's towns have a local sake brewery, some of which offer tours.

On the outskirts of Kakunodate is the Tazawako Brewery. This microbrewery brews a handful of craft beers, and contains a restaurant with all the brewery's beers on tap.

Go next

 * Aomori Prefecture
 * Iwate Prefecture
 * Yamagata Prefecture
 * Miyagi Prefecture

title: Akita (prefecture)


text:
Akko

 * For the Akko in Gombe State, Nigeria, see Akko (Gombe)

Akko (Hebrew: עכו), also known historically to Arabs as عكّا ('Akka) and Westerners as Acre, lies on the northern edge of the Bay of Acre in northern Israel and receives many Baha'i pilgrims. On its present site, Akko possesses a long history of various cultures: Israelites, Greeks, Romans, Crusaders and Arabs. Akko is the holiest city in the Baha'i Faith and has been recognised as a as a site of extraordinary significance to the world's cultural heritage.

Get in
Getting to Akko is very simple, as it is on the Mediterranean Coast directly to the north of Haifa and on the main Israeli railway track.

By bus
has a slow (especially at rush hour) connection to Akko for ₪11.7 from Haifa and from Carmiel. Take lines 271/361/500 from Haifa (Merkazit Hamifratz - the eastern bus station in Haifa Bay), 361 from Safed, and 500 from Kiryat Shmona. There are also some less frequent routes you can take, so whenever an intercity bus comes, ask if it goes where you need.

Note, buses from Haifa to Akko start outside of Haifa at the Merkazit Hamifratz (Bay Central) bus station. To get there, you have to take a local bus for ₪5.90. Considering this, it is mostly always better to take the train directly.

Between Akko and Nazareth take bus 353, going about every hour but ending early in the afternoon. Bus 343 also travels this route, but it's extremely slow, visiting each of the small villages along the way. If bus 353 is not available, take a bus/train to Haifa and then another bus to Nazareth.

By taxi

 * A "service taxi" (Hebrew: מונית שרות; moNEET sheROOT) is an interurban van carrying 10 passengers. These travel frequently from the Hadar neighborhood of Haifa to Akko. They cost about the same as the bus. Look for a Hebrew-only sign saying "Akko Nahariya" or "Akko Karmiel" in the front windshield of the service taxi. If you don't know Hebrew, go to Herzl Street in Haifa, point an index finger at a 45 degree angle with the ground (the Israeli hitchhiking signal) when a service taxi drives by, and ask where it's going. They pick up and offload passengers at bus stops. Unlike public transportation (bus and train) which cease service during the Jewish Sabbath, this line runs up to midnight on Fridays and during the day on Saturday.
 * Private taxis are available but are very costly. This is an option if you're traveling in a group of up to 4 passengers and/or have a lot of luggage.

By boat
A foot-passenger ferry plies between Haifa and Akko on four days a week. It sails M Tu W from Akko at 10:00 and 15:00, returning from Haifa at 11:00 and 16:00. Saturday it sails from Akko at 09:30, 12:30 and 16:30, returning at 11:00, 13:30 and 17:30. This means a day trip is possible in either direction. It's only a small boat so sailings are cancelled in bad weather. The departure point from Akko is the new terminal within the Old Port. Fares are ₪30 one way and ₪55 round trip. Online booking is only possible in Hebrew, otherwise call 04-9913890 or just go to the terminal ticket office.

Akko has a marina but is not a port of entry into Israel. Vessels from abroad must first head for Haifa port where there are 24 hour facilities for immigration and customs clearance.

Get around
The Old City is very small, and easily walked across. It is also within walking distance of the train and bus stations. For the Bahai holy site, though, you will likely want to take a taxi or bus (271 as it continues north of Akko toward Nahariah).

Historic sites
Many historic sites require an entrance fee. There is a combined (adult) ticket for all sights (mostly Citadel, Knights Hall and Templar Tunnel) for ₪62 including the Turkish bath and ₪40 without it available. Students, disabled people or children pay between 20-40% less.

Do

 * Take a boat ride around the walls of the old city.
 * Relax on the beach north of the old city.

Eat
You can find delicious hummus throughout Akko, and baklava in the old bazaar. One of the best hummus you can eat in Israel is at "Hummus Sa'id" in the Old City, but don't be too late - as soon as the hummus is finished the restaurant closes, usually at about 13:00-14:00.

Akko is famous for its fish restaurants serving regional (Middle Eastern and Mediterranean) side dishes. Some of the best are located in the port area, Donyana and Abu Khristo are popular for those seeking a great meal in a great location overlooking the sea. Farther north is a local branch of the renowned Arab restaurant El-Babur, spacious and elegant (for its moderate prices) with an up-close view of the sea.

The restaurants along the beach area are very good, even though some of them may be expensive. In Salah ad Din Street there is a small bakery with classic Arab sweet pastries featuring honey and nuts.

If you are looking for an upscale menu, just north of the lighthouse on the coast promenade (Hahagana Street) is Uri-Buri, named for its chef and rated one of Israel's Top Ten seafood restaurants. Next to it with a similar menu is Beit Maha that is also a great coffee bar.

A little far away from the crowds of the Old City is the locals favorite Gallery Simaan restaurant, located on Ben Ami street (no. 63).

Sleep
Decent and at the same time inexpensive accommodation options are sparse in Akko.

Go next

 * Haifa – The second-holiest city in the Bahai faith, including its great garden down the northern slope of the city.
 * Nazareth – The largest Arab city in Israel and best known as the boyhood home of Jesus of Nazareth.
 * Tiberias – A large Israeli town in the east and great starting point for the Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights.
 * Nahariyya – A beach town founded in 1934 by German Jews fleeing Nazi oppression.

title: Akko


text:
Aklan

Aklan is the oldest province in the Philippines dated since 1213 AD. It is located in the northwestern part of Panay Island in the Western Visayas Region. This province is the home of the country's version of Mardi Gras Ati-Atihan Festival.

Many travellers pass through Aklan because it is the gateway to the fine beaches and other attractions of the popular resort island Boracay.

Municipalities
Aklan is subdivided into 17 municipalities namely:

 * - the historic and oldest capital of Aklan
 * - provincial capital and air gateway, Home of the famous Ati-Atihan Festival
 * - another air gateway to Boracay Island
 * - nature lover's haven, venue for Bariw Festival offers products of mat and hat made of native woven grass
 * - known for its Sampaguita Garden and Pink Sisters Convent
 * - launches its project Bugna it Tangalan which showcases eco-tourism project from reforestation to beaches
 * - provincial capital and air gateway, Home of the famous Ati-Atihan Festival
 * - another air gateway to Boracay Island
 * - nature lover's haven, venue for Bariw Festival offers products of mat and hat made of native woven grass
 * - known for its Sampaguita Garden and Pink Sisters Convent
 * - launches its project Bugna it Tangalan which showcases eco-tourism project from reforestation to beaches
 * - another air gateway to Boracay Island
 * - nature lover's haven, venue for Bariw Festival offers products of mat and hat made of native woven grass
 * - known for its Sampaguita Garden and Pink Sisters Convent
 * - launches its project Bugna it Tangalan which showcases eco-tourism project from reforestation to beaches
 * - launches its project Bugna it Tangalan which showcases eco-tourism project from reforestation to beaches
 * - launches its project Bugna it Tangalan which showcases eco-tourism project from reforestation to beaches

Other destinations

 * is one of the country's top resort areas. It is administered as part of, and usually reached via, Aklan province. Geographically, it is an island just off the north coast of Panay.
 * ‚ a fourth -class interior municipality 29 km southwest of the capital town of Kalibo. It has a vast land area, a relatively colder weather condition and beautiful natural scenery consisting of green valleys, upland farms, high mountain ranges, virgin forests, tropical flora, fauna and wildlife, numerous waterfalls, natural springs and creeks. Rich in natural resources and blessed with fertile soils favorable to agriculture, this town has become the leading producer of Abaca fiber in Western Visayas. Almost all 24 barangays are now accessible to transportation using motorcycles except for the two farthest barangays, Oyang and Dalagsaan which could only be reached by foot for 2-3 days.

Talk
The Aklanons primarily speak Akeanon. The people also speak Hiligaynon, Tagalog, and English.

See

 * Residence of His Eminence Jaime Cardinal L. Sin, the late Catholic Archbishop of Manila located at the heart of the poblacion. It contains a chapel & houses several pieces of paintings presented to him as price of the church.
 * Immaculata Adoration Chapel & Convent- more well known to Aklanons as Pink Sisters Convent located in Polo, New Washington. The convent belongs to the contemplative order of the Holy Spirit. It is a great honor to the Aklanons especially to the people of Polo, New Washington having the convent. The tranquility and peacefulness of the convent offers anyone the opportunity to really pick up the pieces of his heart and recollect himself towards a grandeur conversion. Everything is perfect there even small and big plants that surrounded the convent. Its beauty does absolutely influence one’s mind and heart. It could balance the disturbance in human’s body and soul. It can give a place of comfort for the lamenting hearts and even confused minds. Indeed, it is one’s soul sanctuary. Sisters Convent in Barangay Polo is interesting in the sense that it is the only contemporary nunnery in Aklan & in the whole region VI. If you come to Aklan for any reason it is surely worth the visit to take a moment to rest the soul. Best to come during the week or early on Sunday. It's a busy place on the weekends and religious holidays.
 * Beach cottages/restaurants: Lyca, Sampaguita Gardens, Sikini & others. These restaurants offer delicious foods consisting of fresh fishes, shells, crustaceans etc. Swimming pools are featured at Aklan Sampaguita Gardens Resort and Spa including a convention center, precious moments gallery, hotel rooms, 43-ft aquarium, butterfly farm, the Thai Mansion that exhibits beautiful furniture, paintings & home decor.
 * Basang cave
 * Igpangi Falls
 * Magirok Falls
 * Magsulong Falls
 * Pinatuad Falls
 * Sakaan Falls
 * Sayaw Falls
 * Tagubtub Falls
 * Tagororoc Community Based Ecotourism Site
 * Sumalaysay Falls
 * Well-preserved cold springs  Huromhurom
 * Fern Valley
 * 21-km-long winding coastline
 * Subongcogon Diving Point

Do

 * The Nabas Bariw Festival which is celebrated (every May 12-15).
 * Bakawan Eco-Park: An extraordinary eco-park that features the 75-hectare mangrove reforestation considered as the Best in Asia and recipient of the Golden Eagle Award for Excellence in environmental preservation. An "eco-walk" made of bamboos will take you into the heart of the mangrove plantation.
 * Nabas has one of the last remaining low elevation intact rainforests that is home to various endemic flora and fauna. Nabas also cradles numerous waterfalls providing soothing and interesting recreational areas. A perfect place for ecotourist, it has several therapeutic cool dipping basins.
 * The wild rivers near the mouth of the Aklan river are ideal for bamboo rafting and kayaking that would complement the experience of the "white beaches" of Boracay.

Go next

 * Antique
 * Capiz
 * Guimaras
 * Iloilo

title: Aklan


text:
Aklera

Aklera is a city in Hadoti Region of District Jhalawar.

By plane

 * Bhopal, 92 miles
 * Indore, 123 miles
 * Jaipur, 177 miles

By train

 * Kota Juncation 140 km (Well connected to Delhi and Mumbai)
 * Bhopal (M.P.) 200 km (Well connected to Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Nagpur, Kolkata)
 * Indore (M.P.)

By bus
Aklera is directly connected to Jaipur, Kota, Bhaopal, Indore, Baran, Jhalawar.

Get around
Aklera City is small city and you can get around here by walking, cycling or motorbike. Local taxis (like Jeep, Maruti 800, Boloro) are cheap to go to nearby attractions. As weather conditions in Rajasthan are hot, an air-conditioned car is recommended.

The local language is Hadoti, but its very slimier to Hindi and most of peoples can speak Hindi.

Connect
Emergency: Police : 100 Ambulance :101 Hospital : Lifeline hospital : 09414886533 (Abhishek) Bus depot: Taxi booking:

title: Aklera


text:
Ako

Ako (赤穂) is a city in Hyogo.

Tourist information site
The local tourist association has a multilingual guide site.

Go next

 * Aioi
 * Tatsuno
 * Himeji
 * Bizen
 * Setouchi
 * Okayama
 * Taishi
 * Kamigori
 * Sayo

title: Ako


text:
Akron

Akron is a city of almost 200,000 people (2019) in the Northeast Ohio region in Summit County. Akron is proud of its heritage as a center of industry, and now offers visitors a wide range of recreational and cultural attractions, food experiences, and shopping.

Understand
Akron is called the City of Invention but used to be known as the Rubber Capital of the World, and before that, as the original home of Quaker Oats, and before that, as a pottery works. It was built right on the southern edge of the Connecticut Western Reserve. It is on the shortest possible line drawn between the Cuyahoga River (connecting to the Great Lakes - Lake Erie), and the Tuscarawas River (connecting to the Ohio River and ultimately to the Gulf of Mexico.) The Portage Path, the shortest path for carrying a canoe from one water shed to the next, has connected the two since time immemorial, and is the primary reason Akron grew just where it did.

By plane
There are non-stop flights to Akron Canton Regional Airport from the following cities (some cities may be seasonal or only offer service certain days of the week): Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Fort Myers, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia and Tampa.

There are buses to/from the airport: Metro RTA bus 110 goes a number of times a day between the airport and downtown Akron on a local route through southern Summit County - fare $1.25 and duration approximately 1 hour; SARTA Route 81 travels between downtown Canton, the Belden Village area, the airport and the downtown Akron Metro RTA Transit Center via I-77 Monday through Friday. Route 81L runs from the Airport to the Belden Village area and downtown Canton only (the 81L Saturday route does not travel to Akron) - fare $1.50. Catch the bus at the north end of the airport terminal (new location).

 * Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, - an approximately one hour drive to the northwest of Akron and a hub of United Airlines.

By train
Akron lost its Amtrak station in the last round of cuts, so you'll have to go into Cleveland or Alliance.

By car
Akron has wonderful interstate highway support. I-76 is an excellent way in from the East or West, and I-77 is an easy route to take between Cleveland and Akron. Further south on I-77 is Canton, home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Once in the city, there are two other freeways Route 8 and Route 59 (Innerbelt), both of which serve the center of the city. There is very little in the city that is more than 10 minutes from an expressway. One nice by-product of this system is that rush hour is less than an hour.

Nature

 * Portage Lakes State Park, 5031 Manchester Rd. 74 non-electric campsites, 400 horsepower limit on lake, 8 boat launch ramps, boat rentals, fishing, hunting, beach, five miles of hiking trails, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, basketball court, hunting waterfowl in designated areas.

Annual events

Work
Akron boasts the headquarters location for the following Fortune 1000 Corporations:

Drink
Highland Square the "cultural" district, has a number of bars on West Market Street. Guidance about what location would suit your needs is best dispensed by (younger) locals. Downtown between Exchange and Cedar Streets, has a couple dozen different college oriented establishments, including bars, clubs, and lounges. Kenmore Boulevard is accessible from I-76 and has a number of unique establishments.

Splurge

Stay safe
Given the size of the city, and diversity and activity there, it's really pretty safe. There's almost nowhere in Akron anyone shouldn't go in the daytime, and very few places at night.

Generally, the west side of the city near Copley road is regarded as the worst section of town. With a higher rate of violent crimes and theft, it is best avoided by outsiders. Some housing projects - most notably Joy Park project in the vicinity of the Zoo and Elizabeth Park under the All-American Bridge - are also somewhat unsafe and should be bypassed altogether by foot and car.

If visiting the University of Akron, it's best to stay west of the Market / Buchtel intersection. The near-East neighborhood of which this is the "border" (Middlebury) is not necessarily unsafe, but does have a lot of medium-scale drug activity and the occasional assault and non-violent robbery.

Go next

 * Go north to Cleveland. There's a lot going on up there.
 * To the west lies Medina and other quaint rural hamlets, many of which have preserved town squares.
 * Get a blended taste of the outdoors and American industrial history by touring the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The Canal Byway extends from Lake Erie in Downtown Cleveland through Akron and south through Canton, New Philadelphia and into rural Bolivar and Historic Zoar.
 * Portage Lakes State Park, 5031 Manchester Rd. 74 non-electric campsites, 400-horsepower limit on lake, 8 boat launch ramps, boat rentals, fishing, hunting, beach, five miles of hiking trails, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, basketball court, hunting waterfowl in designated areas.
 * Cuyahoga Valley National Park - Short distance from Akron and Cleveland. Fifth most frequently visited National Park.

title: Akron


text:
Akrotiri

Akrotiri (Greek: Ακρωτήρι) is a town on Thira, the largest island of the Santorini archipelago. It is on the southwestern side of Santorini and though it offers great view of the caldera and volcano, it is not as overrun by tourists like Fira and Oia. It has become famous by the discovery of an ancient Minoan settlement just outside the modern town.

Understand
Akrotiri is about 15 km south of Fira, on the south-western tip of Thira, the largest island of the Santorini archipelago. Built on the slopes of a hill, it is a popular travel destination because it offers spectacular views of the caldera. The top of the hill also features ruins of a 13th century Venetian castle, constructed as a defensive fortification to protect Thira from raiders. Most of the modern town is built around the castle ruins.

What Akrotiri is perhaps the most famous for is the Minoan Bronze Age settlement that was discovered 2 km to the south-east of the current town. When the Santorini volcano obliterated the former island and created the present day archipelago in ca. 1600 BCE, the Minoan settlement was buried in volcanic pumice and ashes. As a result, it was exceptionally well preserved, unlike other Minoan settlements in the Cyclades, and the Akrotiri archaeological site is considered the most valuable Minoan era scientific evidence because it was covered at the height of the Minoan civilisation. The comparison with Pompeii is often made, and rightfully so. Many artefacts were unearthed in the ruins of the Minoan town but no bodies were discovered, which suggests the Minoans had evacuated prior to the eruption.

Get in
.

There are direct bus services from the Fira central bus station, which stop in the town centre (get off at ) and also directly to the where services terminate.

Get around
Akrotori is small enough to get around by foot, even the lighthouse at cape Akrotiri can be reached within an hour walking. From the town centre, the Minoan settlement archaeological site is 2 km to the south.

Do
From Akrotiri, you can walk to the Red Beach or get a boat to it, which also makes stops at the White Beach and the Black Beach. It is return but you don't receive any ticket or receipt (nor do they have the means to give you one). However, there is only one boat so they trust if you come back by it, you must have come so you aren't asked to pay again, only when you leave Akrotiri. The only stop with a pier is Akrotiri so if you intend to get off, tell them explicitly or they won't know to stop (though they often ask) and be prepared to get off directly into the sea and walk through the water to get to the beach. They always stop in waters shallow enough to walk in for adults (highest it comes to is the waist) so it is possible to bring bags, but make sure you can lift them above your head.

Go next
Take the bus back to Fira and get off at Megalochori, or walk directly to Emporio or Exomytis.

title: Akrotiri


text:
Aksa

Aksa is a popular beach vacation spot at Malad close to Malvani, Mumbai.

Understand
This beach was one of the most silent and least visited beaches. It was very clean you could find a large variety of snails and shells.

It is popular with youth as a weekend destination. Dotted with many private cottages and hotels some of which are rented out for tourists and visitors.

Get in
It is accessible from Malad W station by Best buses 271 and 269 from Borivali Station, on route to Madh island, and by private transport and autorickshaws. 9 km from Malad station and 12 km from Borivili.

See
This beach has INS Hamla (Naval base of India Navy) at one end and a small beach called "Dana Paani".

Do
It is unsafe to swim as the currents are strong and the sands of the beach keep shifting because of the waves and people often misjudge if they standing on firm ground. Very few people know that this area is hub of very rare breed of poisonous snakes but due to ever increasing tourists their numbers have now gone down.

title: Aksa


text:
Aksaray

Aksaray is a city in Central Anatolia, 240 km southeast of Ankara and about 50 km west of Cappadocia. In 2021 the city had a population of 247,147, with another 68,000 living in the small towns and villages of Aksaray Province.

Aksaray is highly underrated—it is lively and authentic with barely any tourists, cheap accommodation and countless interesting sights around.

Understand
Cappadocia was a Persian kingdom from 331 BC to 17 AD and its last independent ruler Archelaus thought it would be neat if this town was named Archelaïs. He was unpopular with his subjects and ran out of money - the Romans invited him to Rome to discuss ways they could help, and when they'd done discussing, Archelaus was mysteriously dead. So the Romans took over the territory and renamed the town Colonia, just so everyone understood their status.

The town was on the Silk Road, the trading highway to Konya from the east of the country, and away over the far mountains from Persia. It came under the rule of the Seljuks from the 11th century, who adorned it with their distinctive architecture, building stout caravanserai to protect the travelling traders. The next brief dynasty was the Karamanids, then the Ottomans won it in 1470. By then the town had its present name of Aksaray meaning "white palace", of which no trace remains. Many residents relocated to Constantinople at that time, so there's a neighbourhood of Aksaray in present-day Istanbul.

Later trade was of salt (essential in the days before refrigeration) harvested from the great salt lake to the north. Aksaray today is an industrial town that you pass through on the road to Cappadocia but don't linger.

By bus

Buses from Istanbul run every hour or so via Gebze and Ankara, taking 10 hours for a single fare in 2022 of 300 TL. (From Ankara takes 3 hr 30 min.) These buses continue via Konya and Isparta to Antalya, another 9 hours.

Buses from Izmir run every hour or two via Uşak, Afyon and Konya to Aksaray; from Konya takes 2 hours. They continue across Cappadocia via Nevşehir, Göreme and Avanos to Kayseri.

From Nevşehir bus station (west of town) a local minibus is no more than about €3 (50 TL as of May 2022). Larger bus companies will also take you along the ride, just don't pay more than for the minibus. Get off near the center of Aksaray, not at the bus station.

By road
By road from Istanbul head east past Ankara onto O-21 towards Adana. Exit at Acıkuyu onto D757 / D750 into town. D300 is the east-west highway Kayseri-Cappadocia-Aksaray-Konya. D750 south eventually rejoins O-21.

By train
There is no railway service to Aksaray. YHT fast trains run from Istanbul to Ankara and Konya.

Get around
It would make sense to rent a car (check Google Maps and ratings), but as soon as you are out of the city hitchhiking is also possible. So, it can be a good idea to rely on buses and your thumb if you are not in too much of a hurry.

See

 * Governor's Office and other handsome early Republican buildings are in the square 200 m southwest of Grand Mosque. The street on the square's north flank is optimistically called Turizm Cd.Sultanhani Caravanserai, Turkey (23944555856).jpg
 * Kılıçaslan Hamams are 12th century bath houses on the riverbank opposite Red Minaret Mosque. In modern times they became garbage dumps but are under restoration.
 * Kılıçaslan Hamams are 12th century bath houses on the riverbank opposite Red Minaret Mosque. In modern times they became garbage dumps but are under restoration.
 * Kılıçaslan Hamams are 12th century bath houses on the riverbank opposite Red Minaret Mosque. In modern times they became garbage dumps but are under restoration.

Further afield
Many more places are in close reach around Güzelyurt, like Ihlara valley.

Do

 * Ihlara valley – For hiking and rock-climbing near Güzelyurt.
 * Ihlara valley – For hiking and rock-climbing near Güzelyurt.

Buy

 * Migros is the main supermarket, on Atatürk Blv opposite Eski Garaj. It's open daily 09:00-22:00.
 * Nora City is a shopping mall 200 m northeast of Migros on Atatürk Blv.
 * Lots of small neighbourhood stores, A101 is the main chain.

Eat

 * Riverside along Ebulfeyz Elçibey Cd is the main eating strip. Choices include Sofra, Etci, Künefeland, Has Döner, Şehzade, Çiğerci Bahattin, Elçibey, Domino's Pizza, Omur Baba and Kardeşler.
 * Several more in the park upriver.
 * Several more in the park upriver.

Drink

 * Mert Birahanesi is at Kalealtı Cd 58. Don't look for head-banging music in Teknobar just south, it's a construction company.
 * Many cafes and restaurants serve beer.

Sleep

 * Tezcan Otel is a basic but acceptable place off Vehbiby Cd, a block east of Zinciriye Madrasa.
 * Tezcan Otel is a basic but acceptable place off Vehbiby Cd, a block east of Zinciriye Madrasa.
 * Tezcan Otel is a basic but acceptable place off Vehbiby Cd, a block east of Zinciriye Madrasa.
 * Tezcan Otel is a basic but acceptable place off Vehbiby Cd, a block east of Zinciriye Madrasa.
 * Tezcan Otel is a basic but acceptable place off Vehbiby Cd, a block east of Zinciriye Madrasa.
 * Tezcan Otel is a basic but acceptable place off Vehbiby Cd, a block east of Zinciriye Madrasa.
 * Tezcan Otel is a basic but acceptable place off Vehbiby Cd, a block east of Zinciriye Madrasa.

Connect
Aksaray and its approach roads have 4G from all Turkish carriers. As of Nov 2022, 5G has not rolled out in Turkey.

Go next

 * Güzelyurt and Ihlara valley – 30 km southeast are the closest parts of strange Cappadocia scenery, a fantastic landscape of volcanic tufa and ancient religious sites.
 * Nevşehir, Göreme and Avanos – Cappadocia's main tourist bases.
 * Kayseri – Further east has an ancient citadel and old town.
 * Konya – Was the home of the Mevlani, the Sufi "whirling dervishes".
 * Ankara – North, is a sprawling modern city but with many sights of interest in its historic centre.

title: Aksaray


text:
Axum

Axum (አክሱም, also spelt Aksum) is a city of 56,000 in the Tigray region of Ethiopia, just south of Eritrea, with which it shares the language of Tigrinya.

It was for nearly 800 years the administrative centre of one of the great empires of the old world along with those of Rome, Persia and China and remains the ecclesiastical capital of the Ethiopian church. It is famous for its stelae, churches, monasteries, tombs and the ruins of palaces and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980.

It is one of the cleaner and better kept Ethiopian towns with cobbled side streets and attractive flame trees providing shade in the main street.

By plane
Given the often trying conditions of Ethiopian roads, flying into Axum is a much more reasonable option.
 * Shire Airport. 1 hour drive
 * Mekele Airport. 4 hour drive
 * Mekele Airport. 4 hour drive

It is likely that you will be security checked 3 times before getting onto your flight out of Yohannes IV/Axum Airport - as there is a security check on the road to the airport, a security check as you enter the airport and a security check after check-in.

By bus
Buses from Addis Ababa take a minimum of three days to travel via Dessie and Mekele. It is a very taxing ride over rough roads.

From Gondar, take the dawn bus to Shire (aka Inda Silasie) and change there for Axum – you can get through in a day. The section from Debarik/Debark to Inda Aba Guna (70 km before Shire) is one of the most spectacular in Africa, and used to be very rough, but most of it was paved by the end of 2017. From Shire to Axum is another 90 minutes on tarmac.

From Debarik and the Simien Mountains, the only bus heading north to Shire is the one from Gondar. It is often already full when it arrives at Debarik. You can either take your chances (it isn't always full), or hire someone from Debarik for about 150 birr to go into Gondar the day before and ride the Shire bus to Debarik for you, guaranteeing you a seat. (You must make arrangements the morning prior to the day you want to leave. If you are going trekking, you can make arrangements before you leave for your trek.)  There are many buses travelling between Shire and Axum.

To travel the other way, from Axum to Gondar, you must take an afternoon bus to Shire/Inda Silasie, spend the night there, and catch the dawn bus to Gondar. You can get off at Debarik, but you will probably have to pay the full Gondar fare (about 50 birr).

The bus station is about 25 minutes walk east from Ezana park in the middle of town. The bus station is well organised and opens at 6PM sharp. It is as well to be there for the first bus if you are travelling any distance.

By shared car
It is possible to get to Axum from Addis Ababa in one long day (and vice-versa), though two days is more likely. Drivers can be arranged through hotels or touts and, while not certainly the cheapest option (especially if you are able to take advantage of the Ethiopian Airlines discounts), can be faster and/or more comfortable than other means of public transportation.

Get around
Bajaj (blue, three-wheeler motorised rickshaws with 250cc two-stroke engines imported from India) charge tourists about 20 birr for short trips around town. For the Lioness of Gobodra and the Judith (Gudit) Stelae Field, instead of hiring one of the ultra-expensive tourist minibuses, you can catch a minibus going in the direction of Shire (there are many early in the morning) and ask them to drop you at the Lioness of Gobodra turnoff and catch another one back. The Lioness is not easy to find on your own but a group of children will soon appear who will guide you, and they should be compensated appropriately.

See

An combined archaeological ticket costs 300 birr (May 2019). Tickets are available from the tourist commission off the roundabout 400 m south of the Northern Stelae Field is valid for three days.

Northern Stelae Field contains numerous stelae, including the fallen Giant Stele and the standing Ezana Stele and Obelisk of Axum, tombs and a very worthwhile museum. The monolithic stelae are fashioned out of solid granite. Their mystery lies in that it is not known exactly by whom and for what purpose they were fashioned, although they were likely associated with burials of great emperors. The Ezana Stele, which measures 24 metres (78 feet) high, is standing at a slight lean in the centre of the field and is supported as a precaution against toppling. Another stele, the Obelisk of Axum, 24.8 metres (80 feet) high, fell while the tombs were being pillaged around the 10th century AD. It was stolen by the invading forces of Fascist Italy and taken to Rome, where it stood, from 1937 to 2005. It was returned to Axum and re-erected between the Ezana Stele and the Giant Stele in 2008.

The Great Stele, the biggest monolith in the world, measuring over 33 metres (108 feet) in length and weighing over 500 tonnes, fell somewhere around the 4th century AD and now lies in broken fragments on the ground. The mausoleum and the tomb of the brick walls are now open to the public again. The Tomb of the False Door is very impressive with its accurate workmanship.

Churches and monasteries
A churches ticket costs 200 birr (May 2019). The combined ticket enables entry to the St Mary of Zion complex and to Arabtu Ensessa Church which is close by.

 * Ezana park contains a series of al fresco billiard tables and, in a circular building that looks padlocked but maybe isn't, another tablet from the time of King Ezana inscribed in Ge'ez, Greek and Sabaean.

Do
According to the sign by the fig tree near the churches complex, a replica Ark of the Covenant is paraded on the first seven days of each month according to the Ethiopian calendar, at 21:00. This means 03:00 by the standard clock. Other sources say 05:00 but nothing was happening at 05:00 GMT+3 on 3 May 2019. Even if you don't get to see the Ark of the Covenant just sitting under the fig tree is a must do activity.

Buy
There is an ATM that accepts Visa cards at Wegagen Bank.

Eat

 * Africa Hotel (see the Sleep section below) has a large, clean restaurant where a steak club sandwich with lettuce and tomato together with chips cost 30 birr in June 2013. Traditional and other "international" dishes are also served and their bar has a large screen LCD TV if you want to watch some soccer or the manic, shoulder-shaking style of the local dances.
 * Pizza Restaurant, turn north one block east of the Africa Hotel into the street that leads to the Remhai Hotel and this small place is on the right of the street. A large pizza, "but-not-as-we-know-it-in Italy, Croatia, Canada or Singapore", cost 60 birr in June 2013.
 * Kuda juice is a fun place to eat is local food, Italian food and even some Mexican. Popular with locals and tourists
 * Kuda juice is a fun place to eat is local food, Italian food and even some Mexican. Popular with locals and tourists

Drink

 * Underground near the Ambassador Hotel on the west side of town. Large selection of imported spirits.
 * Zebra also near the Ambassador Hotel, stays open until about 03:00. Reasonable prices for drinks with a Dashen or St George beer costing 20 birr and popular with the ladies. DJ and dancing every night.
 * Yeha Hotel is a great place to have a few drinks. The terrace overlooks the Northern Stelae filed. The views are so good the locals come here for their wedding photos.

Sleep

 * Consolar Hotel (sic) Business style hotel with decent restaurant and free wifi
 * Kaleb Hotel. 400 birr for a twin room. Good location midway between the sights and the restaurants, a bit of a walk from both. Nice garden but they play loud music. Worthless Wi-Fi. The food takes an hour to arrive. The bar has slow service because the barmaid does not have access to the cashbox, which is in a different room.
 * Yeha Hotel, government-owned hotel overlooking the Northern Stele field from US$55. Good restaurant with mediocre service. Excellent view from terrace.
 * Kaleb Hotel. 400 birr for a twin room. Good location midway between the sights and the restaurants, a bit of a walk from both. Nice garden but they play loud music. Worthless Wi-Fi. The food takes an hour to arrive. The bar has slow service because the barmaid does not have access to the cashbox, which is in a different room.
 * Yeha Hotel, government-owned hotel overlooking the Northern Stele field from US$55. Good restaurant with mediocre service. Excellent view from terrace.

Go next
By minibus to Shire (40 birr), Adwa (around 26 birr)

By minibus to Yeha to see a temple from a pre-Christian and pre-Aksumite civilization, a church, and a small museum

title: Axum


text:
Aksu-Zhabagly

Aksu-Zhabagly is a nature reserve in southern Kazakhstan.

Understand
Established in 1926, the Aksu-Zhabagly is the oldest nature reserve in Central Asia.

Flora and fauna
Lying at the foot of the West Tien Shan Mountains, Zhabagly is the gateway to Aksu-Zhabagly State Natural Reserve. It is located in the western extremity of Talasski Alatau ridge and ranges at elevations from 1100m to 4236m. The oldest protected area in Central Asia, Aksu-Zhabagly nature reserve is home for 1279 species of plants, 51 species of mammals, including the rare snow leopard, and tien-shan white-clawed bear, and many species of birds.

See

 * Red Hill and Stalactite Cave (1 day, 38 km). This place gets its name from the large numbers of flowering Greig Tulips that bloom from late April to early May. It is said that there can be up to 62 flowering tulips within 1 square meter.  While spending the day, there are places for picnic.  Also, with more than 2 km of underground roads, the stalactite cave is accessible.  The cave is filled with both large and small halls of stalactites and an underground lake.
 * Kshi-Kaindy Waterfalls and Ulken Kaindy Gorge- Kaskabulak Petroglyphs (12 km, 1 day or 24 km, 3 days). A popular destination near Zhabagly, this site features one of the most impressive waterfalls in the area. It is possible to stay overnight near Kshi-Kaindy in the ranger cabin or camp outside.  The following day, tourists will hike up to Ulken-Kayndy Gorge and beyond that to the petroglyphs which are found within the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, returning to camp again in the evening at Kshi-Kaindy.  The third day is spent returning to the homestays in the village of Zhabagly.
 * Aksu Gorge: (38 km, 7 hours including 3 hours of hiking). This route leads up the mountains to Aksu Gorge (pictured to the right) which is over 500m deep. At the bottom of canyon there is a mixture of mulberry and ash trees with coils of forest grapes making their way up the walls.  Within site from the gorge tourists can admire the snow-covered Ugamskii range with Sairamskii peak.
 * 'Bokeitau Mountain: (70 km, 2 days). The route introduces different landscapes and natural zones from semi-desert up to deciduous fruit forests. Along the journey, tourists will visit several caves, go swimming, try water that locals believe has healing powers, and see the paradise flycatcher. They will go up to highest peak of Boroldai range, Bokeitau Mountain, and will visit “Spirit Valley”.
 * Interregional route Zhabagly-Tonkeris-Kaskasu (60 km, 3 or 6 days). From Zhabagly, tourist will travel along the Aksu River to lunch at Karalma Bridge.  The trip then continues to the village of Tonkeris where tourists will stay for the evening and cultural show.  In the morning, tourists go along the Sairamsu River where they will lunch before beginning their descent into Kaskasu village homestay in Ugam.  There is an option of returning
 * Karatau Mountains (different flora and fauna from that of the Tien Shan, Kornilovka Lake),
 * The bird ringing station at Chokpak (during the bird migrations),
 * The Mausoleum of Kozha Ahmet Yassaui at Turkistan,
 * The 13th century ruins of Otyrar.

title: Aksu-Zhabagly