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Peruíbe

Peruíbe is a city in the South Coast region of São Paulo state.

Peruibe is a modern city with many high-class boroughs and restaurants. The public interest in the city is rising since there is a nature reserve named Parque da Juréia (Jureia Natural Park), featuring pristine beaches (Prainha, Guarau, Parnapoa or Parnapuã, Juquiazinho, Baleia, Praia Preta, Desertinha, Carambore and Barra do Una), which is also a "local caiçara" (native) community of fishermen, sheltering also an immense diversity of flora and fauna.

Understand
Peruíbe in the Tupi language means river of the shark. Originally as the region of Mongaguá, Peruibe belonged to the Itanhaém territory that stretched from São Vicente to Cananeia, both Portuguese villages founded during the colonial times. Back in the 16th century, the region of Peruibe (and the one of Itanhaém) would have had a bad reputation since most Tupiniquim Indians living there were put into slavery by the Portuguese, working in sugarcane plantations around Saint Vincent. The Abarebebe as the Indigenous peoples called Father Leonardo Nunes, or "the priest that flies" – since he was seen frequently walking on foot all around the long beach between Itanhaem and Peruibe, was the one who fought against this practice that hurt so many Indian families. He even converted an Indian Chaser who was then killed by the Indians, dying as a martyr. It was there, on the rock of Abarebebe that the Jesuits (also Father Joseph of Anchieta) built the first church of that part of the coast, named Church of Saint John Baptist that served also as a school and refuge against the Indian attacks. The sacred objects were taken to Itanhaem when its first church was finished a little later.

The city is surrounded by the Sea Mountain Range (Serra do Mar) the south end of which, near Barra do Una, is called Jureia Mountain Range.

From São Paulo

 * By air - Arriving the airports in São Paulo (Congonhas / ) or (Guarulhos / ), packtours can arrange convenient TAXI service to the Jabaquara Bus Terminal, that will have bus options to the whole south and southeast of Brazil, including Peruíbe.
 * By bus - Take a taxi or the subway to Jabaquara Bus Station. There you can take a bus directly to Peruíbe. Estimated travel time: 2 hours. Buses leave every 30 minutes 24 hours a day. More information: 011 50113421.
 * By car - From São Paulo, take either rodovia Padre Anchieta ("Anchieta", SP-160) or rodovia dos Imigrantes ("Imigrantes", SP-160). Both roads have a "planalto" (plateau) section and a "serra" (mountain) section that goes down the Serra do Mar to the sea level. Anchieta being older, its mountain section is winding and narrow, while Imigrantes' is wider and mostly straight due to extensive use of tunnels and bridges. Both roads are linked through a high and a low interlink. Trucks and buses are prohibited in the mountain section of Imigrantes, and are forced to take the interlink and use Anchieta. Both roads feature a toll of about R$ 25 that you pay only in one direction (when leaving São Paulo). Traffic is frequently deviated from one road to the other for traffic regulation purposes or road works, so you should follow the dynamic signs.

By taxi
A good way to move around to not-so-close places. They are not very expensive and drivers are mostly friendly, although small cheats are not uncommon. To avoid it, after getting into a taxi, check if the taximeter has been started. If not, ask the taxi driver to do so.

By bus
Buses are a cheap and nice way to get around by day, The city is only 5 miles long and buses will drive you anywhere through the main avenue "Av. Padre Anchieta".

By car rental
It is the best option if you think of going to the Juréia Ecological Park since there are no buses that will take you further than Guaraú, a small village part of Peruíbe. The center of the city is small and in the Summer it is best to go walking because of the traffic caused by the number of tourists; the city is very safe.

Beaches
The most frequented and most easily accessible beaches are:

There are many other beaches in the area, many of which can only be reached by trails which start near the highway, such as Praia do Índio and Prainha. A number of beaches south of Guaraú are striking in their beauty but fall within the bounds of Itinguçu State Park can only be visited with the accompaniment of a licensed environmental monitor. For more information, call the Peruíbe Association of Environmental Monitors (AMAP) at (13) 9701 3428 (Portuguese only).

Stay healthy
As elsewhere in Brazil, some beaches in Peruíbe are not suitable for bathing, and conditions can change from day to day. On the day of your visit, check the map of the latest weekly beach quality bulletin (in Portuguese, boletim de qualidade das praias) of the state's Environment Department (CETESB).

title: Peruíbe


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Perugia

Perugia is a city in the Italian region of Umbria. It has an important university that attracts many foreign students, is a major center of medieval art, has a stunningly beautiful central area and is home of the Umbria Jazz Festival. The city is also a major producer of chocolates.

Perugia City Museum Card
Perugia City Museum Card allows access to any 5 museums of the following 10 ones: San Severo Chapel, National Gallery of Umbria, Volumni Hypogeum, National Archaeological Museum of Umbria, Capitolar Museum, Nobile Collegio del Cambio, Nobile Collegio della Mercanzia, Palazzo Baldeschi al Corso, Museum of Palazzo della Penna, Etruscan Well. It also allows reduced admission to Archeologic Area of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, Museum of the Academy of fine Arts, Palazzo Sorbello House Museum, Templar Complex of San Bevignate, in addition to discounts at featured restaurants. It's valid for 48 hours and costs €14 for adults and €10 for students (May 2019).

By plane
A little further away, Pisa and Bologna are served by low cost European airlines.

The Airport in Rome is three hours away and Milan's Malpensa airport about 7 hours away. Buses from Rome Fiumicino Airport depart from the lower level parking area at regular intervals (3 hours, €20). (Many of the buses in the Tourist Bus Parking area are privately hired, and are not available to the general public. Some buses, such as the Sulga, may appear on the upper levels of Terminal C, but do not be concerned; they will arrive at the scheduled time in the lower level parking area. Check timetables online.)

By train
Trains from Rome reach Perugia in 2-3 hours and often require 1 train change, €12.10 if you take Treno Regionale, otherwise it's double. Plenty of direct trains from Florence, 2 hr, €14.65. Getting from Siena by train is troublesome, as it requires 2 train changes and takes 4 hours, €13.

The is in the valley, a few kilometers from the centro storico (historic center) of the city. You can take the Mini Metro railway, a local bus or a taxi from the station.

By bus
Flixbus offers connections with Rome (2:15 hr), Florence (2:10 hr), Siena (1:20 hr).

By car
Perugia is just off the A1 autostrada that runs from Rome to Milan. Approximate travel times are Rome 2.5 hours, Orvieto 1 hour, Milan 6 hours, Florence 1 hour. Perugia is also accessible from other parts of Italy by car via the Autostrada.

Get around
Perugia is a large hill town. Most major attractions are at the top of the hill in the Centro Storico (historic centre). It is almost impossible to access the Centro Storico by car unless you have a confirmed hotel booking. Even outside the very centre you will drive very slowly over the many cobblestoned one-way streets and may very well end up driving around in circles several times as traffic signs are very confusing. Do as little driving as possible, and get around on foot. The main car park for tourists is at Piazza Partigiani. From there you can take a series of escalators (hopefully most of them will be working!) up into the old town. There are lots of interesting things to see on the way up as the route was dug through the Rocca Paolina, a medieval citadel. More details about car parks (in English) can be found on this website.

Buses also go to the top, ticket costs €1.50, when bought in a ticket office, and €2 from a driver. The railway station is, inevitably, some distance from the hilly center, but buses are easily available.

Perugia has MiniMetrò - a small, driverless train that every two minutes or so takes you from a car park (Pian di Massiano) near the football stadium, or from the main train and bus stations to the center of town; a single ticket is €1.50 (May 2019). These trains stop running at around 21:00.

Within the central area getting around on foot is best, although some of the hills can be a bit steep and you will need to be fit.

See

Museums

Do

 * Just walking around. There is probably no city in the world that better rewards the casual explorer in the sheer variety of its streetscapes. You can stroll along a Roman aqueduct that connects two of the city's hills, passing doors on the third stories of homes to peer over the edge at the doors at street level below. You can walk along the Via delle Volta della Pace, which follows the Etruscan city wall, but is now wholly arched over by a Gothic portico. You can stumble along cobbled streets that have the unique combination of slopes interrupted by small steps that only Italians seem to master. The wide, traffic-free Corso Vannucci, named after the painter known as Il Perugino, is what really makes Perugia. You can loll with the students from the International University on the steps of the Cathedral at one end or amble down the Corso from those steps to sit on a bench at the other end and look over Umbria's hills as the sun sets.
 * Talk Donca with local people. Dialect in Perugia can be very funny to hear and to try to replicate. To have a better explanation use this site: Wikidonca.
 * Talk Donca with local people. Dialect in Perugia can be very funny to hear and to try to replicate. To have a better explanation use this site: Wikidonca.

Eat
For most tourists, the center, or downtown, of Perugia will be the most rewarding place to eat either lunch or dinner. The main street 'walk' begins at the Piazza Duomo at the Fontana Maggiore and ends with a dramatic view that showcases the city's churches and the Umbrian countryside. There are many dining options along this street. The last hotel on the right hand side before reaching the viewpoint offers five-star accommodation and regional dishes, specializing in legumes and fantastic olive oils. At the other end of Corso Vannucci, just to the right of the cathedral, is a charming pizzeria, La Mediterranea.

Budget
All these are in the city centre:

Sleep

 * Castello dell Oscano - Strada della Forcella, 37. The Castello dell'Oscano is situated in the outskirts of Perugia, Locality Cenerente. Other major locations in the vicinity are: Perugia airport (20 km), Assisi (25 km), Gubbio (40 km).
 * Borgo Monticelli 14 km from the centre of Perugia, it is a tiny hamlet dated back to 1100 with 18 renovated apartments. Riding centre and golf courses nearby. Parking by the house. For shared use: garden and swimming pool. There are also agritourism hotels just out of town, which are easily accessed by car. There may also be free buses to certain hotels, depending on where you wish to stay.

Go next
Perugia provides a good base for exploring central and northern Umbria, including Assisi. You can explore Umbria's medieval towns by day and enjoy Perugia's nightlife by night.

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

title: Perugia


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LaSalle-Peru

Peru and LaSalle are adjacent towns in Northern Illinois.

Understand
Peru is the more prominent of the two cities with a stronger economy, more modern businesses and the Peru Mall. LaSalle (often called La Salle) has lots of historic sites such as a replica canal boat, the Hegeler-Carus Mansion and the Hotel Kaskaskia. The towns have a combined population of 19,896 and a combined area of more than 20 square miles.

Get in
Interstate 39, Interstate 80, U.S. Highway 6

See

 * Don't forget the highlight of the area, Starved Rock State Park along Hwy 71 on the south side of the Illinois River, where Europeans and Indians crossed long ago on an ancient geologic bluff (see Northern Illinois page for map pin).
 * Don't forget the highlight of the area, Starved Rock State Park along Hwy 71 on the south side of the Illinois River, where Europeans and Indians crossed long ago on an ancient geologic bluff (see Northern Illinois page for map pin).
 * Don't forget the highlight of the area, Starved Rock State Park along Hwy 71 on the south side of the Illinois River, where Europeans and Indians crossed long ago on an ancient geologic bluff (see Northern Illinois page for map pin).
 * Don't forget the highlight of the area, Starved Rock State Park along Hwy 71 on the south side of the Illinois River, where Europeans and Indians crossed long ago on an ancient geologic bluff (see Northern Illinois page for map pin).
 * Don't forget the highlight of the area, Starved Rock State Park along Hwy 71 on the south side of the Illinois River, where Europeans and Indians crossed long ago on an ancient geologic bluff (see Northern Illinois page for map pin).

Go next
Chicago- 80 East to 55 North. About 1½-3 hours away. Make sure to allow lots of time during peak hours!

Bloomington- 39 South. About 1½-2 hours away.

title: LaSalle-Peru


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Perumbavoor

Perumbavoor is a city in Central Kerala.

Understand
Perumbavoor is a magnet for expatriate north Indian workers in Kerala. Several thousands of Bengalis, Biharis and Assamese live in this tiny city.

Get in
Perumbavoor is 41 km from Kochi by road. The nearest railway station is Aluva, 20 km. There is an airport at Nedumbassery, 15 km away.

Get around
Autorikshaws charge ₹20 per kilometre and buses are available @ ₹7.00 for 3 km.

See

 * Panieli Poru Waterfalls near Perumbavoor.
 * Bethel Salone Jacobites Syrian Church
 * Kodanad Elephant breeding Centre near Perumbavoor. Kodanad is set on the southern banks of the Periyar river near Perumbavoor and is one of the largest elephant training, and rescue centers of Kerala. Earlier elephants captured from the Malayatoor forests (the forests in the east and north of Kodanad) were trained here. In 1977 the elephant capturing came to an end, but the elephant-training center are still in function. Kodanad is now primarily used as a rescue training center, and houses baby elephants at their infancy and various stages of their growth. Four to six baby elephants are brought in and trained every year. Kodanad is the headquarters of Malayatoor forest division. Kodanad is accessible by direct bus services or by taxi from Aluva.
 * Kochi to Kodanad around 50 km
 * Alwaye to Kodanad around 28 km
 * Perumbavoor to Kodanad around 11 km
 * Travelling from Angamaly to Kodanad is also fairly easy and it passes close to Malayatoor where there is a famous church.

Eat
Perumbavoor is the ideal place for enjoying various kinds of north Indian street food. Hygiene is a serious issue. The prices are dirt cheap.

title: Perumbavoor


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Peruvian Amazon

The Peruvian Amazon is a vast, sparsely populated jungle region in the Amazon basin of northeastern Peru, consisting of the states of Loreto and Ucayali. This region is marked by a large degree of biodiversity. Peru has the second-largest portion of the Amazon rainforest after the Brazilian Amazon.

Cities

 * — a few miles towards Tingo María you can find the famous waterfall "Velo de la Novia" which is a nice place for a day trip
 * — known for the Tambo Ushco cavern, the Piedra del Toro, the Three Windows, the Sapani natural pool and the Canuja ravine
 * — every Sunday there is a community festival called Pollada
 * — gateway to some of the top national parks and reserves for ecological conservation and wildlife viewing, and for Amazon boat rides, and a destinationfor those who are interested in the ancient shamanic ways of plant healing
 * — a transport hub for the upstream rivers of the Amazonas
 * — the primary destination of the only major road leading out of Iquitos, and is a staging area for several ecotourism lodges and ships on the Marañòn River, including boats to the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve
 * — an excellent base for visits to Lake Yarinacocha
 * — a small settlement on an island in Amazonian Peru at the triple border that includes Tabatinga in Brazil and Leticia in Colombia
 * — a town with a diverse population that includes Arawak groups such as Yine, Asháninka and Machiguenga, and Pano groups such as Amahuaca, Nahua and Yaminahua
 * — a gateway to the Peruvian Amazon that offers access to the rainforest and is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity

Other destinations

 * — The largest protected area in Peru, accessible from Iquitos or Nauta.

Understand
The Peruvian Amazon jungle is one of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth. As a nation, Peru has the largest number of bird species in the world and the third-largest number of mammals; 44% of bird species and 63% of mammal species inhabit the Peruvian Amazon. Peru also has a very high number of species of butterflies, orchids, and other organisms.

Many indigenous peoples, such as the Aguaruna, Cocama-Cocamilla and the Urarina,[4] inhabit the jungle, some in relative isolation from the rest of the world.

In the late 20th and early 21st century, illegal logging and illegal oil extraction have become serious problems in the Peruvian Amazon. In 2012 the World Bank estimated that 80% of Peru's timber exports are illegally harvested. This uncontrolled deforestation could negatively affect the habitats of indigenous tribes, the Peruvian biodiversity and contribute to climate change.

Get in
Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport, FAP Captain David Abensur Rengifo International Airport.

Go next

title: Peruvian Amazon


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Pesaro

Pesaro is a city in Marche.

title: Pesaro


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Pesaro and Urbino (province)

Pesaro and Urbino Province is in Marche Region in Italy.

Cities

 * – Known as Fanum Fortunae in Roman times, the city today is a fairly well-known coastal resort and one of the most important Adriatic fishing ports.
 * – pleasant resort by the sea
 * – attractive university town up in the hills
 * – attractive university town up in the hills

Understand
If one had to decide which Italian landscape was the most typical, you’d have to choose the Marche... Italy, with its range of landscapes, is a distillation of the world; the Marche is a distillation of Italy. The Pesaro and Urbino province offers a long seaside with sandy and stone beaches and gentle sloping hills that take you to rugged mountain peaks in the interior, through 2 National parks: Monti Sibillini and Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga, 5 Regional parks: Monte Conero, Sasso Simone e Simoncello, Monte San Bartolo, Gole della Rossa e Frasassi and 5 Nature reserves: Abbadia di Fiastra, Gola del Furlo, Montagna di Torricchio, Ripa Bianca e Sentina.

Get in
The Province of Pesaro and Urbino (just a short distance south of the Emilia Romagna region) stands between the Adriatic coast and the Marche countryside. It is linked by an excellent road and rail network from the north and south, with the SS.16 Adriatic Coastal road, the A14 motorway and the Bologna-Ancona mainline railway (Train stations: Pesaro, Fano). Rome can be reached easily along the SS.3 Via Flaminia with a rail connection via Falconara and Orte. From the Raffaello Sanzio Airport at Falconara (Ancona) there are daily flights to and from many national and international destinations (From the UK, Ryanair fly from either Liverpool or London Stansted). Distances from the main cities (km): Rome 289 Venice 250 Bologna 161 Urbino 40 Milan 372 Florence 208 Assisi 131 Ancona 48.

Get around
The railway that runs down the coast is excellent for exploring the coast places with fast and frequent trains running all day. Busses tend to be rather infrequent, especially if you are looking to explore inland, so hiring a car is essential if you want to explore a bit. The bicycle is perfect to run across the gentle hills and along the beaches.

See

 * Art - The Province of Pesaro and Urbino offers lots of ancient towns, villages and castles which all have their own story to tell. Each of them bear the indelible evidence of the inspiration and creativity of those who played a part in their history. The problem about creating a series of art tours around the area arises from the simple fact that every town has something to make it worth a visit. And often it is the smallest villages, which still retain strong links with their rural past, that have the greatest interest.
 * Theatres - That great passion and enthusiasm for art and culture in the entire province of Pesaro and Urbino has produced a number of famous names. Among these are the Fano theatre designer Giacomo Torelli, who worked for a long period in Paris at the court of the Sun King, and the great composer Gioachino Rossini, from Pesaro. These great names provide proof of the existence of an inspiring, lively artistic life which continues to maintain this rich tradition today.

Itineraries

 * The Flaminian Way - The Flaminian Way provided a vital link between ancient Rome, Cisalpine Gaul and the whole of Northern Europe. For the cities lying along its route this brought new-found prosperity. From Rimini to Pesaro and on to Fano, it then turned inland towards the narrow Furlo Gorge, an incredible mountain canyon between Monte Pietralata and Monte Paganuccio, before continuing on to the Imperial capital. Visitors today following this ancient road will find archaeological sites of great importance, walled hill towns and castles guarding the Metauro Valley and magnificent natural scenery -this is a route to meander along, to discover tiny gems of history along kilometre after kilometre of road.
 * Fortresses and Castles - Few other places have a history and beauty as rich as the ancient fortresses and castles guarding the hills and valleys of this area, whose age-old past becomes lost in legend. Here we find ourselves in a sort of magic time machine where fantasy and reality become one. San Leo takes us to Cagliostro's dungeon, Gradara takes us to the chamber of Francesca da Rimini and her lover Paolo, Urbino to the rooms where Lucrezia Borgia once lived and halls which held Renaissance banquets...

Drink

 * The Wines - The gentle hilly countryside of the Province of Pesaro and Urbino provides fertile terrain for fine quality grapes and the local people have prized their aphrodisiac qualities for centuries! Grapes were grown in this area as long ago as the 8th-10th Century BC by Etruscan tribes who understood the potential of the landscape, the mildness of its climate and the variety of micro-climates most favourable to this rich variety of grape. A passion for wine-growing developed over time and has led to the production of a number of excellent wines which are now classified with the label "Denominazione di Origine Controllata". Around the province of Pesaro and Urbino you can find the following particular DOC classified wines: "Bianchello del Metauro", "Colli Pesaresi Rosso", "Colli Pesaresi Bianco".
 * The Moretta - It is difficult to find coffee quite like this Fano speciality anywhere else. It isn't just a question of knowing how to use a coffee machine or even the way in which the beans are blended or roasted. The secret of the unmistakable aroma of moretta lies in the ingredients which are added to it in their correct proportion and blend. Yet if you find, even by following the recipe, that your own coffee doesn't quite match up to the true Fano Moretta, then you must allow the fisherman of the town, who are the true masters of the tradition, to retain a few secrets for themselves about the making of this unique and unmistakable drink.
 * The Visner - The typical inland "Visner" is a wild cherry wine, in which wine and fruit are matured together. Once upon a time farmers produced this blend of wine and cherries to quench their thirsts while working on the land but now Visner has become a delicacy served in restaurants which are proud of maintaining local traditions.

Eat
Fano, via IV Novembre 86  +39 0721 808962
 * Da Maria - Simply unique! Maria and her daughter Domenica will sweetly cook for you the best fresh local fish.

 * The Fish - The Adriatic sea is one of the richest areas for fishing, history and culture and those who fish its waters know how to make the most of the opportunities of all that the sea has to offer. It is therefore no surprise that fish is the main element in the gastronomic tradition of the province and that hundreds of restaurants provide an infinite number of ways to prepare it.
 * The Truffle - Travel a few kilometres along the via Flaminia from Fano and you reach Acqualagna, capital of the truffle (along with Sant'Angelo in Vado and Sant'Agata Feltria). The truffle, with its magic aroma, is one of the world's great culinary ingredients and the finest gourmets are prepared to go to any lengths to enjoy its exquisite taste.
 * The Olive Oil - Over the years, time and history have shown the hills just outside Fano to be particularly suited the growing of olives. The high number of olive presses still operating in the area hark back to days gone by. At Cartoceto olive growing has always been a characteristic feature of the landscape. Here, olive presses are still in operation and their excellent quality extra virgin olive oil is renowned at international level.
 * The Cheese - Among the many specialities are a number of cheeses, of which the finest is without doubt the famous golden Formaggio di Fossa, matured in underground caves of tufa stone, whose strong intoxicating aroma fills the air. It is to be found in the north of the province at Talamello, in the Val Marecchia, but also a few kilometres away from Fano in the village of Cartoceto. It is a magnificent culinary delicacy used in a variety of dishes from soups to dessert. The Casciotta di Urbino is also worthy of mention. It has been made since the 16th century and even Michelangelo had a weakness for it! The Pecorino cheese is a very versatile ingredient and can be conserved in a hundred different ways. The tourist travelling through the countryside will find the fine Pecorino con le Vinacce and the Pecorino di botte, that is a typical product of the Fano area. The Pecorino di botte is wrapped in particular types of foliage and has an unmistakable and delightfully delicate flavour.

Stay safe
Le Marche is probably one of the safest Italian regions.

Go next

 * The small nation of San Marino.

title: Pesaro and Urbino (province)


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Pescadero

Pescadero is a peaceful, coastal town of 600 people (2020) on the Peninsula, approximately 45 miles south of San Francisco.

Understand
Pescadero (Spanish for "fishmonger") is a farming and ranching community located on the San Francisco Peninsula. It is a popular tourist destination due to its beaches, parks and local food.

Get in
The easiest way to get to Pescadero is to drive along Highway 1 until you see a large "Historic Pescadero" sign. It is posted in either direction. Continue for two miles, turn east onto Pescadero Creek Road and drive into the town center.

Get around

Pescadero has no public transit due to its small size. A bus station used to be located at the corner of Pescadero Creek Road and Water Lane, but has permanently closed.

See
Pescadero Marsh is a marsh close to the town of Pescadero. In rainy times, the marsh attracts many special birds that nest there.

Eat

Food is also available at Costanoa's Cascade Restaurant & Bar (see § Sleep) and various other establishments. Pescadero Country Store was another grocery store that was popular among locals until it was destroyed by a fire in 2016. Its owners have vowed to rebuild the store, although this has not happened as of April 2023.

Drink

Duarte's Tavern is another good place for drinks, although food is not served during the extended bar hours; see § Eat for details.

Connect
San Mateo County provides free Wi-Fi access in multiple locations in Pescadero. See map for details.

Stay healthy
Be careful to check for ticks after hiking in fields in the Bay Area. There is a high rate of lyme disease transmission in the Bay Area. If a rash with the appearance of a bull's eye develops at the tick bite site, immediately seek medical help and treatment with antibiotics.

Go next

 * Half Moon Bay is the first major city to the north at about 16 miles away. It features a busy harbor, as well as numerous beaches and seafood restaurants.
 * Santa Cruz is the first major city to the southeast and is located 35 miles from Pescadero. It is best known as a countercultural hub, and has a fun bohemian feel and youthful vibe. The popular Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the dubious Mystery Spot are among the best-known weekend tourist attractions. Santa Cruz is also home to one of California's 21 Spanish missions. The beaches north and south of Santa Cruz are considered some of the more pristine areas of natural beauty in central California. While they are not good for swimming due to the cold water, several are considered a paradise for pro surfers.

title: Pescadero


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Pescara

Pescara is a city of 120,000 people (2018) in Abruzzo. It is the most populous city of the region, as well as being an active cultural centre (metal and mechanics, conciaria, refining of sulfur, petrochemical), agricultural market and port fishing boat. Located on the sea, it is a popular seaside resort and has one of the most important and major tourist ports of Adriatic Sea. This modern city is the birthplace of Gabriele D'Annunzio, and is rich in culture, art and traditions.

Understand
During the Greek and Roman eras, it was called Aternum. Pescara was used as a maritime emporium to carry out commercial activities with other centres located on the Adriatic or overseas coasts. Destroyed by the Lombards and disputed by the Normans and the Aragonese, it later became an important coastal fortress.

During the Second World War, Pescara suffered violent bombardments which partially destroyed the historic centre; this resulted in a predominantly modern-looking city. However, Pescara Vecchia preserves monuments of great interest and artistic and architectural value, such as the Cathedral of Saint Cetteo, strongly desired by D'Annunzio, and the Bourbonic Bath, which was the ancient prison of Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.

Taxis are few, it is an easy city to walk around. There are pedestrian areas which are limited to traffic and good sidewalks. Just get in with a good pair of shoes and enjoy. You can get all around with a bike very well.

By train
The train from Rome takes about four hours but it is a spectacular route through the mountains, through towns such as Avezzano and Sulmona.

By car
You can drive to Pescara from Rome Ciampino Airport in about 1½ hours. The drive is relatively free of traffic through the mountains, the view is excellent and there are lots of tunnels and bridges to cross.

By bus
From Pescara Centre to Pescara Airport: coach n. 38 departing every 15 minutes from Pescara Railway Station. Tickets allow you unlimited travel for 90 minutes: €1.

From Pescara Airport terminal to Pescara Centre: coach n. 38 departing every 15 minutes from the terminal. The first bus transfer from the airport at 06:00, the last bus transfer from the airport at 22:30.

Tickets sold at the automatic machine in the terminal arrivals area.

By boat
There are ferries in the summer connecting Pescara with Split and several islands in central Dalmatia including Hvar. Car ferries are run by Jadrolinija and faster hydrofoils by SNAV. Ferries leave from the ferry terminal. There are daily regular services to Rome which takes around 2 hours to arrive.

On foot
Much of the city centre can be walked easily.

By bike
There are bike lanes traversing the city, and some bike rental places. See paths here.

See
Small charming characteristic towns, open markets and local festivals in the nearby area are ideal for day trips to explore. And in the evenings, the beach cafes and the old town of Pescara Porto transform themselves into vibrant night spots.

The mountain range also known as "La Bella Dormentata" (The Sleeping Beauty) is 40 mins away and its extensive park system includes natural beauty akin to national parks in the western United States. Within Abruzzo's parks lie some of Italy's most beautiful ancient hill towns rivaling those of Tuscany and Umbria.

Beaches
The entire shoreline is dotted with "stabilimenti balneari" and ombrelloni, each with his own name and color scheme. You can dine, enjoy a pizza or caffe' in all of them. Red flags means no swimming; white flags you can enjoy the wonderful Adriatic sea. Free beaches are limited but quite easy to find. Along the coast from Pescara Centre and the stadium you can find about 6 free beaches. Some of them are only 500 m from each other. In Montesilvano (north of Pescara) and Francavilla (south) you can still find free beaches. Mondays are market days in the area of the stadium. There is a classic open air market where everything can be had just walk through and enjoy

Drink
Pescara is a non-stop party beach city. In summer days the core of the city is the coast. You can easily find clubs and discos just walking along the coast crowded with people. In winter days all nightlife moves from the coast to Corso Manthonè, the course of the old Pescara and now become the center of the nightlife of the city.

With the exception of Corso Manthonè there are also discos in the hinterland. La Fabbrica (The Factory), one of the most fashionable place in Pescara, is situated next to the university (southeast of the stadium). In the same street there is also Cantina Accademia a dance & dinner club. Megà, placed in the characteristic building "Palazzo Quadrifoglio", is situated on the north bank of the river Pescara. Opposite to Megà, on south bank of the river, you can find Wake Up! another famous disco.

In late night you can find locals which remain open until the morning to take some food (pizza, croissants, flat unleavened bread) in stadium area.

Go next
Go inland and explore the mountains and national parks, visit beautiful cities such as L'Aquila, Sulmona and Scanno that are a beautiful train or bus ride away.

title: Pescara


text:
Pescara (province)

Pescara is a province of Abruzzo Region of Italy.

Understand
Within the province of Pescara there is much to see and do. Whether you are interested in art, sport or eating, there is always something for you.

Get in
From Rome: the easiest way to get here is by bus. Check ARPA or CAGIDEMETRIO online and you will find a schedule with prices. A bus journey is just about 2 and a half hours. Travelling by train would be my last choice as it takes over 4 hours and the train stops frequently along its route. By car, Pescara is easily accessible and the fastest way to get here through an expressway.

Itineraries
1- for art lovers only 30 minutes from Pescara you will find an art center called Dedalo Center for Contemporary art which hosts exhibitions and offers courses and workshops in ceramics, painting, photography and printmaking. Booking is essential.

2- for wine lovers all around Pescara you will find wineries open to the public where you can taste and enjoy good local wine

3 - for food lovers the best known restaurant is called Bandiera. It is rather expensive but well worth your money

4- for sport enthusiasts All along the coast you will find places where you can learn windsurfing and kitesurfing. Around the area of manoppello you can do bungeejumping, you can go canoeing along Pescara River, and you can find skydiving centers

5- suntan lovers a multitude of beaches await you. However, you need to pay to have your own beach umbrella, unless you go to certain spots where it is free to set up your own beach umbrellas.

Do
Within the province of Pescara there is much to see and do. Whether you are interested in art, sport or eating, there is always something for you.

Drink
Places to avoid: rancitelli and san donato are 2 quarters to avoid.

title: Pescara (province)


text:
Peshawar

Peshawar (Pashto: پېښور; Urdu: پشاور) is a relatively prosperous frontier city in Pakistan near the Pakistan-Afghan border, which gives it a distinct Afghan flavour. Peshawar is the capital and largest city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Peshawar sits in a large valley near the eastern end of the Khyber Pass, known as "City on the Frontier", its strategic location on the crossroads of Central Asia and South Asia has made it one of the most culturally vibrant and lively cities in the greater region. Peshawar is irrigated by various canals of the Kabul River and by its right tributary, the Bara River.

Peshawar is the major educational, political and business centre of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Peshawar is also famous for its kebab (Chapli Kebab) and Peshawari Shoe. Peshawar's recorded history goes back as far as at least 539 BC, making it one of the oldest living cities in South Asia.

Understand
Peshawar is the sixth-largest city in Pakistan, and the largest Pashtun-majority city in the country. Situated in the broad Valley of Peshawar east of the historic Khyber Pass, close to the border with Afghanistan, Peshawar's recorded history dates back to at least 539 BCE, making it the oldest city in Pakistan and one of the oldest cities in South Asia.

In Ancient era, the city was known as Purushpura and served as the capital of the Kushan Empire under the rule of Kanishka; and was home to the Kanishka stupa, which was among the tallest buildings in the ancient world. Peshawar was then ruled by the Hephthalites, followed by the Hindu Shahis, before the arrival of Muslim empires. The city was an important trading centre during the Mughal era, before becoming part of the Pashtun Durrani Empire in 1747, and serving as their winter capital from 1776 until the capture of the city by the Sikh Empire in March 1823, who were followed by the British Indian Empire in 1846 until it became part of independent Pakistan in 1947.

Like much of northwest Pakistan, Peshawar has been severely affected by violence from the attacks by terrorist groups from 2010 and onwards.

By road
Peshawar is almost 2 hr drive from Islamabad (186 km). It is connected with Islamabad via Motorway M-1 and via national highway N-5.

By bus
Buses and minibuses run to many parts of the country to here.

 * Daewoo, operates the most luxurious services to Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Multan, Faisalabad, Abbottabad and Lahore (Rs 600 per person).

By train
You can reach Peshawar by train with Pakistan Railway from Karachi (36 hr) and Quetta (25 hr), both are via Lahore and Rawalpindi. There are no passenger trains from Landi Kotal in the Khyber Pass.

Get around
Taxi & auto-rickshaws give Peshawar two of its most well-known traits: polluted air and clogged streets, and are the most popular way to get around the city.

Walking is another option.

See

The Old City Centre with the Qissa Khwani Bazaar, Bazar-e-Kalan, Clock Tower Square, Chowk Yadgar, Tehsil Gorgathri, Mohabbat Khan Mosque, Sunehri Masjid (Sadar), Peshawar Museum, Khyber Bazar. Parks includes Khalid bin Waleed park, Shahi bagh and Wazir bagh. The traditional halal food of Peshawar can be bought from Namak Mandi, Khyber Bazar. The famous "Kulfa" can be accessed from Qissa Khwani Bazar from April–September every year, when there is hot weather in the city.

 * Islamia College, University of Peshawar: is the first educational institution in the province built during the British rule in India.
 * University of Peshawar, founded in 1950.
 * Sethi Houses
 * Ghor Khutree
 * Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) The clock in this tower is one among the pair (second one in England) presented by the Queen Elizebeth II of the UK.
 * Sir Sahibzada Abdul Qayum Museum, University of Peshawar
 * Hayatabad is a posh neighbourhood of Peshawar. It includes parks like Tatara Park and Bagh-e-Naran which also has a zoo. A swimming pool.
 * Villages Regi, Lakaray, Mulazi, Nasir Bagh, Palosi, Naway Kalay, Achini, Tehkal, Shahi Bala, Mathra, Pir Bala, Hazar Khawani, Rehman Baba Mazar,
 * Sphola stupa: this is a 2nd-century Buddhist Kushan empire remains.
 * Khyber road, Zarai village. As it is in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it requires permission of Khyber agency and FATA secretariat. You can get there by taking a taxi from Peshawar.
 * Sir Sahibzada Abdul Qayum Museum, University of Peshawar
 * Hayatabad is a posh neighbourhood of Peshawar. It includes parks like Tatara Park and Bagh-e-Naran which also has a zoo. A swimming pool.
 * Villages Regi, Lakaray, Mulazi, Nasir Bagh, Palosi, Naway Kalay, Achini, Tehkal, Shahi Bala, Mathra, Pir Bala, Hazar Khawani, Rehman Baba Mazar,
 * Sphola stupa: this is a 2nd-century Buddhist Kushan empire remains.
 * Khyber road, Zarai village. As it is in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it requires permission of Khyber agency and FATA secretariat. You can get there by taking a taxi from Peshawar.

Do

 * In the summertime hiking tours to the mountains are offered. Ask at Green Tours in front of the Greens Hotel, Peshawar Cantt, and Pearl Tours of the Pearl Continental Hotels. This can also be done by hiring a car, jeep or pickup from local 'rent-a-car' servicing private agencies at a very cheap rates.
 * Khyber Train Safari
 * Garrison Park
 * Garrison Park

Saddar Bazaar

 * Shopping
 * Deans shopping mall
 * Qayyum Stadium

Hayatabad

 * Swan swimming and Snooker (pool)
 * Tatara Park and Bagh-e-Naran Park & zoo
 * PDA building: Arabic Chicken Shwarma, Shopping
 * Zarghuna Mosque

University Town

 * Iqra Chowk:- Restaurants (Bithani Plaza etc.)
 * City towers and nearby: Chief Burger, ice cream shops, shopping plazas, Dunkin' Donuts.

Board Bazaar

 * Afghan Sadaqat juice shop
 * Afghan mantu (Afghan dumplings), underground Afghan restaurants
 * Shopping (from the many Afghan shops)

Buy
Before going to buy anything in Peshawar, you first have to be ready to bargain. You will need to bargain at most of the shops for items especially fabric. If you are a foreigner, be careful when shopping at shops that do not have fixed prices. The shop keepers will try their best to rip you off. When you ask how much, be prepared to offer half of what they ask and then bargain from there. Also, if the price still seems to high, don't be afraid to walk away. Many times they will call you back or you can find the same thing at another shop nearby. It is best to take a local person with you when shopping at stores that require bargaining.

The old town is a good place to stock up on Pakistani and Afghani handicrafts. These markets are located in almost all parts of the Peshawar, most commonly at Bazar Shah Qabool Olia, Namak Mandi, Khyber Bazar, Sadar Road, etc. (maslampsh)

Shafi Market (and surrounding bazaars) in the Sadar area is one of the best places to buy undergarments and other clothing fabric.Ask for a rare peshawari panty which is hand stitched. You will find every kind of cloth from simple everyday fabric to fabric suitable for the fanciest of occasions. The shops in Shafi Market work on a bargaining system for the most part. The market is usually very crowded, so keep a close watch on your money.

Dean's Trade Centre can be accessed from Sadar Road and Sonheri Masjid Road. Many of the shop keepers who have stores on Shafi Market are also opening stores in Dean's Trade Center, however there is a lot more than just fabric at Dean's Trade Centre. In general the prices are a bit higher at Dean's Trade Center, but it is much easier to shop there as it is less crowded. Some of the stores have fixed prices, but most will bargain with you. A to Z Mart is a great general department store in Dean's that has clothing, cosmetics, stationary, housewares, and groceries. The prices are all fixed, but very reasonable.

In the Sadar area, the best place to buy fabric at fixed prices is at R-Sheen on Arbab Road. There are a number of ready made clothing shops along Sadar Road and Arbab Road as well. Most have fixed prices, but some will still bargain a bit so don't be afraid to ask. Also on University Road there are several big plazas and fashion outlets with outstanding class and designs. Most of them are fixed price. Take a look in the shop; if it's fixed price they must have it displayed otherwise don't forget to bargain.

Eat

 * Mr. Cod, Bithani Plaza, Iqra University Chowk, University Road, Peshawar.
 * Chief Burger, University Town. Best fast food in town offering several kinds of burgers, pizzas, etc.
 * Clock Tower Food Street, Peshawar City, for all local and traditional spicy foods.
 * Masoom's Cafe also known as Cafe Crunch, University Town, for continental foods.
 * Pearl Continental Hotel Roof Top Bar B Que, on weekends only.
 * Habibi Restaurant (can be in city and entrance to Hayatabad) for local and traditional foods.
 * Khyber friends, a small restaurant located on university road near Orakzai plaza. the food is delicious and a reasonable price.
 * Chapli ('sandal') Kabab, a flat beef kebab, one of the famous dishes of Peshawar. Several famous kabab selling shops are around. Information about them can be obtained from the travel agents or local hotels and guides. To name a few: Jalil Kabab House near Hayatabad Entrance is the most popular also you can find some others near the Ring Road Hayatabad
 * Faluda, a sweet dish mainly found on the Peshawar markets and bazaars especially Qisa-Khwani Bazaar.
 * Fried Fish is also another good treat, it can be found in Jalil Kabab House and some other restaurants near Hayatabad on Ring Road.
 * Easy to eat and everywhere available "Samosa" and "Pakora"

Drink

Peshawar is known for its Kawa (Green Tea) which has a unique flavour, and is usually served sweet.

Sharbat-e-Sandal is a sweet, non-carbonated drink unusually found in markets in summer. It has a good taste and a yellowish-green transparent colour - look out for the black seeds. Served ice cold.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a dry state, making alcohol hard to come by.

Budget

 * The Rose Hotel, Khyber Bazaar, Shoba Chowk, +92-91-250-755. Good sized and fairly clean rooms with attached bath in a large, secure building. Parking is available. Another popular place to meet others, and the office can arrange trips to the Khyber Pass and other areas, but at a premium. Doubles with cable TV and en suite bathroom. They can put you in touch with a couple of good guides. They can be contacted by asking at the reception.
 * Amin Hotel, main GT Road. Rs 4745 (Mar 2022)

Mid-range

 * Greens Hotel, Saddar Rd, (1 block west of Tourist Inn Motel), +92-91-270-182. A nice mid-range hotel, with a decent restaurant.
 * Hotel Grand, Tehkal Road, Peshawar. Room prices start from Rs 11862 (Mar 2022).

Stay safe
Before going to Peshawar, check for travel advisories from your government's website, as these regions have become volatile and unstable, with fighting between the Taliban forces and Pakistani military.

Peshawar is the home of several ethnic and religious groups and has had a number of terrorist attacks.

Although the number of terrorist attacks declined from 2010 to 2014, in the 2014 Peshawar school massacre, Taliban militants killed 132 school children.

Police officers can be found in the streets and roads to ensure safety.

As a stranger, and therefore a guest, you can usually rely on the support of people around you should something or someone feel threatening. When you are there, obey their laws and don't behave in a supposed 'foreigner' way.

 * Go north (although not recommended for foreigners) to the Swat District (Kalam valley), Upper Dir District (Kumrat Valley) or Chitral District. Several areas bordering on Peshawar, the agencies, are administered by tribal authorities only, and outside the control of the regular police. Entry to these areas can be dangerous for foreigners.
 * The Khyber Pass is one hour away and could normally be visited by taking a taxi, but due to Pakistan's security situation it is impossible to visit the Khyber Pass, and it would be extremely dangerous if you could.

Consulates

 * 🇷🇴 Romania

title: Peshawar


text:
Petah Tikva

Petah Tikva  (פתח־תקוה) is an eastern suburb of Tel Aviv, Israel, population 248,000 (2019).

Understand
Founded in 1878, Petah Tikva means "opening of hope", and was one of modern Israel's first agricultural settlements at the beginning of the Zionist movement. The early settlers drained the swamps in the area and planted orange groves in their place. For decades, it was a major exporter of Jaffa oranges. The orange groves have been mostly replaced by apartment buildings and industry, as the city grew into Israel's fifth largest city, and its second largest industrial concentration after Haifa.

For those into early Zionist history, a number of the old buildings have been preserved, though they can be hard to find, and the signs describing them are only in Hebrew.

Young single Israelis commonly make fun of it, saying it's a place nobody would ever want to live. However, when those same people get married and start families, Petah Tikva is one of the top places they choose. The city's population is generally middle to upper-middle class.

Petah Tikva has some of the best medical facilities in the Middle East (including Schneider, the best and biggest children's hospital in the region). Medical tourism to Petah Tikva is popular, especially from the former Soviet Union.

Get in
The road to Tel Aviv is often jammed.

Light Rail
The Red Line of the Tel Aviv Light Rail which travels from Bat Yam via Tel Aviv and Ramat Gan serves the Central and Northern sections of the city. The Red Line has two branch routes in the city. Route R1 serves the central parts of the city along Jabotinsky and Orlov streets and Route R3 has a sole station in the Northern sections of the city which is the terminus station at Kiryat Arye Railway Station.

Bus
Bus routes from Tel Aviv: 1, 50 and 51 from Central Bus Station; 1, 50, 51, 82, 138, 166, 238 from Tel Aviv Center Railway Station; 64, 66, 82, 128, 238 from the Carmel Market Terminal; 20, 49 from Tel Aviv University.

Bus routes from Jerusalem: 426, 950.

Shared taxis run along route 51, enter Petah Tikva along Jabotinsky road (via Ramat Gan and Bnei Brak) on a 24/7 basis.

By bus
Electra Afikim operates 15 internal bus lines within Petah Tikva (lines 10, 16, 22, 23, 25, 31, 44, 55, 62, 63, 88, 91, 97, 98, 99). Buses from the nearby cities such as Bnei Brak, Tel Aviv and Rosh HaAyin also can be used for intracity service within Petah Tikva.

By taxi
Gett, Uber and Yango ridesharing services are available.

Do
For other trails around you can contact the Yarkon Field School (Beit Sefer Sadeh Yarkon, ) which is in charge of the trail marking of this region.

Eat
Like elsewhere in Israel, restaurants that serve kosher food should have a Kashrut certificate issued by the chief Rabbi of the city. If you are seeking authentic Jewish cuisine that has been prepared in accordance with the Kashrut laws, you should seek out an appropriately certified eatery.

 * Paprika, a chain located in more than one place in Petah Tikva, open 24/7. An Israeli improved version of an American diner with international food.
 * Uzbekistan, Slor Street (next to the City's fresh produce market). An authentic folkloristic gastro-experience (non-kosher; menus available in Russian too). Try fillet mignon on a skewer with Kavkaz-mountain spices for ₪15.
 * Pizza USA, in front of the city hall on the Chaim Ozer (חיים עוזר) St. is a modest local pizza place which has become, through the years, a kind of famous local institute, because of the unique and delicious taste and texture of its pizzas.
 * Shawarma There are many great stands at the center of the town, and they are all great tasting, so if you ever visit Petah Tikva, you should visit one of the kiosks and enjoy the taste of Israel.

Drink
Most of the pubs and bars in Petah Tikva are in the Segula and Ramat Siv industrial zones. Petah Tikva has a popular local brewery with an attached pub called Jem's, but it is closed on Shabbat. Other establishments include Infinity (bar) and HaTzrif (club) in Segula. Many bars are open all week at Ramat Siv district, mainly around Hashacham street.

Sleep
There is an HI Hostel & guest house hidden away at Yad Labanim park.

title: Petah Tikva


text:
Petaling Jaya

Petaling Jaya, universally referred to as PJ, is a satellite city on the western edge of Kuala Lumpur, in the state of Selangor.

Understand
Founded in 1954 as Malaysia's first planned town, PJ has become a busy commercial and residential hub in its own right with almost 640,000 inhabitants (2010). In the later years, further expansion to the north saw the rise of the Damansara area that gave birth to such housing estates as Bandar Utama, Kota Damansara, Damansara Perdana, Bandar Sri Damansara and Damansara Impian.

Addresses in PJ are remarkably bureaucratic. The town is divided into numbered sections (seksyen), which to further confuse things are denoted with just S (eastern PJ), SS (central and western), PJU (northern), and PJS (southern). The northern chunk is also known as Damansara. "SS" is an acronym for "Sungai Way-Subang", and just to keep you on your toes, sections SS 12 through 19 & PJS were part of Petaling Jaya, then reassigned to a new neighbourhood city, Subang Jaya, covering the west area of Kuala Lumpur.

Each road in a section is numbered, so an address like "No. 38, Jalan SS 21/58" means house 38, road 58, section SS 21. There is no definitive form for a PJ address. Therefore, the above example could well be written as 38 Road SS 21/58, 38 Jln SS 21/58 or simply as 38 SS 21/58. Most major roads developed during the 1960s are given names, e.g. Jalan Utara, Jalan Selangor, Jalan Kemajuan. Some secondary roads, even those in residential or industrial areas were also given names. For example, Jalan 8/8 in Section 8 is also known as Jalan Tengas, Jalan 13/1 is also known as Jalan Bersatu. In addition, the roads of PJ Old Town or Section One are named as Road 1, Road 2, etc. As for the predominantly industrial Section 51A, the roads are named as Jalan 222, Jalan 225 etc.

The numbered sections are usually adjacent to each other. For instance, Section 16 is adjacent to section 17 which is adjacent to Section 19. The 'missing' Section 18 (originally to be named Section 1B) is way across the other side of town adjacent to Section 1A. Likewise, without a good map, it can be an onerous exercise to find PJ roads. For instance, Jalan 21/20 is adjacent to Jalan 21/18. However Jalan 21/1 is also adjacent to Jalan 21/18. (Most odd-numbered roads are parallel to odd-numbered road, even-numbered roads are parallel to even-numbered roads, and odd-numbered road and even-numbered roads are perpendicular to each other.) In addition, residents within a local PJ community may sometimes choose to refer to their local roads by their numbers, omitting the prefix altogether. For instance, in Damansara Jaya, residents often choose to refer to the road 'Jalan SS 22/39' as 'Road 39'.

By road
PJ is well linked with Kuala Lumpur and the rest of the country by road. The main Kuala Lumpur-PJ link is the Federal Highway which goes through the middle of PJ and continues to Subang Jaya, Shah Alam, Klang and Port Klang. The main link to the northern part of PJ is the Sprint Expressway while the southern areas of PJ are served by the New Pantai Expressway.

If using the North-South Expressway (E1), the main exits for PJ are Subang Jaya, and Damansara.

By train
The Kelana Jaya line light rail transit (formerly PUTRA-LRT) snakes from central Kuala Lumpur to the center of PJ and is a good way of avoiding the traffic jams between the two, especially at rush hour. The main stations in PJ are Taman Jaya (nearest to PJ New Town), Asia Jaya (walking distance to the KL-Klang bus stop), Taman Paramount, and Kelana Jaya.

The KTM Komuter electric trains also stops at several places in PJ, albeit not as convenient as the LRT. The PJ stations, namely Jalan Templer, Kampung Dato Harun, Seri Setia and Setia Jaya, are on the Sentul-Port Klang Line.

By bus

 * From Kuala Lumpur: Petaling Jaya is linked to Kuala Lumpur by Rapid KL and Metrobus buses. Main bus hubs are Asia Jaya, Damansara Uptown and Bandar Utama. Main Rapid KL routes linking Kuala Lumpur and PJ are 750, 751 (Shah Alam via Federal Highway), 770, 772 (Subang via Federal Highway) and 780 (Bandar Utama). There are also bus connections from PJ to Klang and Port Klang, served by Transnasional (which can be caught at bus stops along the Federal Highway), and Putrajaya (Rapid KL route 506 from Bandar Utama).
 * From other destinations: The luxury Aeroline operating between PJ and Singapore with double-deck coaches stops at two locations in PJ - Menara Axis (opposite the Asia Jaya LRT station) and One Utama Shopping Centre. From Menara Axis, there are four services to Singapore daily (departing 08:00, 09:30, 11:00, 18:00) while at One Utama, there are two daily trips (departing 10:00 and 18:30).

By taxi
All metered taxis operating in Kuala Lumpur also serve PJ.

Get around
PJ is quite spread out and you pretty much need your own wheels to get around.

By road
A good web of roads link most parts of PJ. Main highways which cover most of PJ are the Federal Highway (covering central PJ), Sprint Expressway (serving Damansara and the northern part of PJ), New Pantai Expressway (linking the southern sections of PJ) and the Lebuhraya Damansara Puchong or LDP (Damansara Puchong Expressway), which connects the northern and southern parts of PJ.

By train
The Kelana Jaya Line light rail transit (LRT) is convenient for those moving between PJ New Town and Kelana Jaya.

By bus
Rapid KL is the main operator. Although the bus service is not up to first world standards, it has improved tremendously. The network is complicated but Rapid KL now provides information on its routes on its website.

Rapid KL's network works on a hub and spoke concept, where trunk routes (the bus number starts with "U") from Kuala Lumpur link hubs in Petaling Jaya where local shuttle buses (the bus number starts with "T") fan out into the numerous residential areas. Local shuttles also radiate from light rail transit (LRT) stations. Main hubs include the Kelana Jaya, Taman Bahagia, Asia Jaya and Taman Jaya LRT stations, and Bandar Utama (next to One Utama Shopping Centre), Damansara Uptown, EPF and Asia Jaya bus stops.

The major hotels (Hilton, Sunway Resort, Eastin, Crystal Crown, Royale Bintang, and Armada) have shuttle bus services that take guests into KL City and various PJ landmarks such as Sunway Lagoon, One Utama, and The Curve Shopping Center.

By taxi
All Kuala Lumpur metered taxis operate in Petaling Jaya, but there are far fewer roaming the streets and you'll usually need to find a taxi stand or call them up. Some cab company numbers are:

See

If taking public transport, try the Light Rail Transit (LRT) via the Kelana Jaya Line which covers major residential and commercial sections of this town, starting with stations (from KL City); Taman Jaya, Asia Jaya, Taman Paramount, Taman Bahagia and finally Kelana Jaya. The best way to see this area is to take a leisurely drive during non-peak hours. Some of the major attractions around the Greater PJ area are listed below.

 * Gasing Hill. Along the same road from the Chetawan Temple is the turnoff towards the Gasing Hill. The Hill, which is the only remaining forest reserve in PJ, covers approximately 100 acres where rare fauna and flora could be found. There are also trails, a viewing tower and resting area for nature lovers. From the top of Gasing Hill one gets breath-taking views of PJ and Kuala Lumpur. Over 100 species of birds are to be found in this green lung.
 * Hilton PJ. This legendary hotel has been a hallmark of good food for the people of Petaling Jaya since its opening in 1984 (the longest-operating Hilton in Malaysia). Its Paya Serai coffee house has been delighting diners with its daily hi-tea buffet for many years now and also, the ever popular Chili's Bistro was given a facelift. In fact, most people will know the PJ State area by the mere mention of "Hilton" or its famous neighbor, Menara MBPJ.
 * Kelana Jaya Lake Park. (Nearest LRT Station: Kelana Jaya) One of the largest in PJ, with its 7 scenic lakes, this park is a former mining area that was rehabilitated in the 1980s into what it is today. Other than a popular jogging track around the lakes, the Kelana Jaya Sports Complex is located nearby and it contains two Olympic-sized swimming pools as well as tennis and badminton courts. The modern MBPJ Stadium is also in the vicinity and it was one of the venues used for the KL 1998 Commonwealth Games.
 * LDP Cable-Stayed Bridge. The LDP (Damansara-Puchong Highway) Cable Stayed Bridge at Persekutuan Interchange crossing the Federal Highway is the first Cable Stayed Land Bridge in Malaysia. The bridge stands out as an aesthetically pleasing and unique design in a highway project in the country. The design and construction methods of the bridge allowed for the necessary traffic management required at the construction site (one of the busiest interchanges); a normal bridge design would have required for the removal of 2 traffic lanes to accommodate the construction of the piers.
 * MBPJ Tower. (Nearest LRT Station: Taman Jaya) The headquarters of the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) and a prominent PJ landmark, the 27-storey building which cost RM50m was officiated by the late Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah on March 16, 1987. The building is unique in the sense that it stands in the middle of a pit-like "sunken plaza" and surrounded by shops as well as commercial areas.
 * PJ Exchange. This 35-storey office tower, which is under construction, has a great location in PJ as it's at the doorstep of the Taman Jaya LRT Station and next to the Federal Highway and the popular Amcorp Mall. With its 30-m spire, the PJ Exchange (PJX) became the tallest office tower in PJ and a prominent landmark upon completion in 2010.
 * Taman Jaya. A spot for those in search of outdoor activities like jogging and cycling is Taman Jaya, a favourite recreational hub for residents with its shady trees and lake. It is a short walk away from the similarly-named LRT station as well as the Amcorp Mall and Dataran PJ Field.
 * Wat Chetawan Temple. (Nearest LRT Station: Taman Jaya) One of the main Thai Buddhist temples in the Klang Valley, the Chetawan can be seen in full glory either when driving on Jalan Gasing or traveling on the Kelana Jaya Line LRT. With a towering main prayer hall and surrounded by shrines, the temple has been around for more than 40 years, having started as a small temple in Jalan Raja Bot in 1957. The present temple was built in the early 1960s. Today, it is the main attraction for devotees and visitors alike because of its intricate design and statues within the temple grounds. The temple attracts huge numbers of devotees during Thai festivals like Songkran and Loy Krathong, as well as Wesak, and hosts Thai royal visitors during auspicious festivals.
 * Taman Jaya. A spot for those in search of outdoor activities like jogging and cycling is Taman Jaya, a favourite recreational hub for residents with its shady trees and lake. It is a short walk away from the similarly-named LRT station as well as the Amcorp Mall and Dataran PJ Field.
 * Wat Chetawan Temple. (Nearest LRT Station: Taman Jaya) One of the main Thai Buddhist temples in the Klang Valley, the Chetawan can be seen in full glory either when driving on Jalan Gasing or traveling on the Kelana Jaya Line LRT. With a towering main prayer hall and surrounded by shrines, the temple has been around for more than 40 years, having started as a small temple in Jalan Raja Bot in 1957. The present temple was built in the early 1960s. Today, it is the main attraction for devotees and visitors alike because of its intricate design and statues within the temple grounds. The temple attracts huge numbers of devotees during Thai festivals like Songkran and Loy Krathong, as well as Wesak, and hosts Thai royal visitors during auspicious festivals.

Buy

Various pasar malam (night markets) can be found on the main streets in the suburbs around Petaling Jaya. It's the best way to get to know the 'true' Malaysian culture. There you can find fresh foods, quick snacks and it is also a popular target by the local triads to sell their contraband merchandise of anything under the sun: clothing, electronics, mobile phone accessories, pirated DVDs and Audio CDs. You get a very good bargain if you buy them in bulk or if you speak Malay or Chinese dialect (most Chinese in PJ understands Hokkien).

But if it's air-con and fast food you want, PJ has a few megamalls:

 * Millennium Square, Section 14. More of a community-based complex as it is surrounded by houses as well as the Menara Jaya condo and below the Millennium Place Residences. It is 5 minutes drive along the road from Jaya SC. Cafe such as Picadilly which serves local and western.
 * Mutiara Damansara. A commercial precinct that is home to Asia's largest IKEA store and the adjoining IKANO Power Centre. Other malls here include The Curve lifestyle and F&B mall, a large Tesco hypermarket and the Cineleisure Damansara Entertainment Complex. The precinct is served by an hourly free shuttle bus from Kelana Jaya LRT (at the entrance to IKANO Centre).
 * Thrifty Mall, Jalan Barat, Sec. 8. The "other" shopping centre in PJ State (the other being Amcorp), the three-storey building also known as "Wisma Thrifty" has a Giant Supermarket, Courts Mammoth furniture store, and Olympia College as anchors. A Coffee Bean outlet and Memory Lane giftshop are also here.
 * Millennium Square, Section 14. More of a community-based complex as it is surrounded by houses as well as the Menara Jaya condo and below the Millennium Place Residences. It is 5 minutes drive along the road from Jaya SC. Cafe such as Picadilly which serves local and western.
 * Mutiara Damansara. A commercial precinct that is home to Asia's largest IKEA store and the adjoining IKANO Power Centre. Other malls here include The Curve lifestyle and F&B mall, a large Tesco hypermarket and the Cineleisure Damansara Entertainment Complex. The precinct is served by an hourly free shuttle bus from Kelana Jaya LRT (at the entrance to IKANO Centre).
 * Thrifty Mall, Jalan Barat, Sec. 8. The "other" shopping centre in PJ State (the other being Amcorp), the three-storey building also known as "Wisma Thrifty" has a Giant Supermarket, Courts Mammoth furniture store, and Olympia College as anchors. A Coffee Bean outlet and Memory Lane giftshop are also here.
 * Thrifty Mall, Jalan Barat, Sec. 8. The "other" shopping centre in PJ State (the other being Amcorp), the three-storey building also known as "Wisma Thrifty" has a Giant Supermarket, Courts Mammoth furniture store, and Olympia College as anchors. A Coffee Bean outlet and Memory Lane giftshop are also here.
 * Thrifty Mall, Jalan Barat, Sec. 8. The "other" shopping centre in PJ State (the other being Amcorp), the three-storey building also known as "Wisma Thrifty" has a Giant Supermarket, Courts Mammoth furniture store, and Olympia College as anchors. A Coffee Bean outlet and Memory Lane giftshop are also here.
 * Thrifty Mall, Jalan Barat, Sec. 8. The "other" shopping centre in PJ State (the other being Amcorp), the three-storey building also known as "Wisma Thrifty" has a Giant Supermarket, Courts Mammoth furniture store, and Olympia College as anchors. A Coffee Bean outlet and Memory Lane giftshop are also here.
 * Thrifty Mall, Jalan Barat, Sec. 8. The "other" shopping centre in PJ State (the other being Amcorp), the three-storey building also known as "Wisma Thrifty" has a Giant Supermarket, Courts Mammoth furniture store, and Olympia College as anchors. A Coffee Bean outlet and Memory Lane giftshop are also here.

Eat
Eating is almost a national obsession with eateries available around the clock. Petaling Jaya is home to many restaurants and stalls serving all sorts of Asian and Western cuisine catering to almost all sorts of budgets.

Mamak restaurants are found throughout the city. A veritable PJ institution, these 24-hour restaurants operated mainly by Indian-Muslims are popular amongst the young crowd for the live soccer broadcasts on weekends (and weekdays on occasion) as well as cheap food.

Damansara Utama

 * Asian Food House, No. 38, Jalan SS 21/58. The sign unhelpfully proclaims that this restaurant specializes in "Asian food", but in reality it's mostly Taiwanese fare. The pork stew with rice (RM8.90) isn't bad.
 * Village Park Restaurant. Great fried chicken. Eaten with nasi lemak.

Taman Megah
 * Fatty Crab Restaurant, No. 2, Jalan SS 24/13. It's been over 30 years since Uncle Fatty set up his shop, but their famed sweet, sour and spicy crab still continues to draw the crowds. Roll up your sleeves and dig in, and figure on RM30/head with a few side dishes thrown in.
 * Ming Tien Restaurant, SS 24. This is a standard hawker center that serves western, oriental and local range of foods. The drawback are its television sets blaring out the MTV channel and piped-in advertisements. (Food hygiene and the hawker centre's utility cleanliness are not satisfactory, and it is not advisable for first-time foreign visitor.)

Section 14
 * Sate Nora, Medan Ria MBPJ. Has been around for over 30 years. Best sate in Malaysia. Tu-Su.

Section 19
 * Stranger Restaurant & Cafe, No. 10 & 12, Jalan 19/36. The restaurant is most well known for its Lunch and Dinner Set Steamboat and is priced at RM9.80 and RM12.80 per person respectively. In addition, there is a good variety of rice and noodles as well as "kopitiam" (coffee shop) and drinks selections.

SS2
 * Yu Ai Segambut Seafood Noodle, 58 Jalan SS2/10, 47300 Petaling Jaya (11AM-9PM). Try your noodles with any of three soup options: their famous curry, fiery tomyam or milder qingtang.

Damansara Jaya

Basic fare including Malay and Chinese mixed rice are available from the 2 hawker centres next to the Jalan SS 22/19 and SS 22/25 car parks.

 * Esquire Kitchen, Ground Floor, Atria Shopping Centre.
 * Hainanese Chicken Rice on Jalan SS 22/23. Halal restaurant near to Dr Kwan's clinic.
 * Hooi Loong on Jalan SS 22/19. This location used to be occupied by the Chef Rasa Sayang Restaurant.
 * Jin Xuan Hong Kong Dim Sum on Jalan SS 22/19. Upmarket restaurant. Commenced business in 2008. Branch of parent shop in Kuchai Lama.
 * Ma Ma's Restaurant on Jalan SS 22/25. Upmarket restaurant serving excellent Penang nyonya style dishes. Reputed to be a favourite of the late Datin Paduka Seri Endon Mahmood, wife of Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi. The nyonya fish head curry was one dish she had particularly liked.
 * Nyonya Foodland Restaurant on the Ground floor of the Atria Complex (opposite Nando's). Serves tasty and affordably priced Malacca nyonya food.
 * Seri Penang, formerly Penang Cravings on the Ground Floor of the Atria Complex. This is authentic Penang, for Chef Tang is from Tanjung Tokong.
 * Omitsu Koshi on Jalan SS 22/23 offers tasty and affordably priced Japanese food.
 * Nando's Fast food. South African Peri-Peri chicken can be found on the Ground Floor of the Atria Complex
 * Piccadely Restaurant owned by Nepali brother in Millenium Square building is best place to eat with food and drink from all over the world.
 * Jin Xuan Hong Kong Dim Sum on Jalan SS 22/19. Upmarket restaurant. Commenced business in 2008. Branch of parent shop in Kuchai Lama.
 * Ma Ma's Restaurant on Jalan SS 22/25. Upmarket restaurant serving excellent Penang nyonya style dishes. Reputed to be a favourite of the late Datin Paduka Seri Endon Mahmood, wife of Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi. The nyonya fish head curry was one dish she had particularly liked.
 * Nyonya Foodland Restaurant on the Ground floor of the Atria Complex (opposite Nando's). Serves tasty and affordably priced Malacca nyonya food.
 * Seri Penang, formerly Penang Cravings on the Ground Floor of the Atria Complex. This is authentic Penang, for Chef Tang is from Tanjung Tokong.
 * Omitsu Koshi on Jalan SS 22/23 offers tasty and affordably priced Japanese food.
 * Nando's Fast food. South African Peri-Peri chicken can be found on the Ground Floor of the Atria Complex
 * Piccadely Restaurant owned by Nepali brother in Millenium Square building is best place to eat with food and drink from all over the world.
 * Omitsu Koshi on Jalan SS 22/23 offers tasty and affordably priced Japanese food.
 * Nando's Fast food. South African Peri-Peri chicken can be found on the Ground Floor of the Atria Complex
 * Piccadely Restaurant owned by Nepali brother in Millenium Square building is best place to eat with food and drink from all over the world.
 * Omitsu Koshi on Jalan SS 22/23 offers tasty and affordably priced Japanese food.
 * Nando's Fast food. South African Peri-Peri chicken can be found on the Ground Floor of the Atria Complex
 * Piccadely Restaurant owned by Nepali brother in Millenium Square building is best place to eat with food and drink from all over the world.

Drink
Just like in Kuala Lumpur, mamak stalls are also found all over Petaling Jaya. These are wonderful places to hang out with locals and it is possible to stay at one far past midnight (many are even open 24-hours!). They are run by Indian Muslims. They serve a variety of drinks and beverages, and the non-alcoholic options are varied and inexpensive. Traditional coffee shops can be found at the Mewah as well as the Atria shops.

For those who are looking for watering holes, several good ones include:

Both Lotus and Syed Abu operate on a 24 hours basis.
 * Sanctuary. Since its opening at Mutiara Damansara's The Curve shopping center, both young people and the white-collared folk have been flocking to this four-in-one nightspot that has the unique Ice Bar.
 * Uncle Chilli's. A highly popular bistro-bar (especially the working crowd) located at the Hilton. There is a live band that plays several times weekly.
 * Laundry. Pub with live band at The Curve, located opposite the Cine leisure entertainment complex and next to Fitness First. Very popular place with almost a full house every night!
 * Starbucks Coffee Cafe. Found all over PJ, most outlets come with WiFi (provided by Timezone) as a free service to customers. Outlets are located in One Utama, The Curve, IKANO Power Center, Damansara Utama, Dataran Tiga Dua, Amcorp Mall, and Sunway Pyramid Megamall.
 * Kopi tiam, a modern version of the traditional coffee shop is located on the ground floor of the Atria Complex.
 * Coffee Connexion, another modern day Kopi Tiam commenced business in May 2009 at a double shop lot at 12 & 14 Jalan SS 22/25, two doors away from the Hong Kee Tim Sum restaurant.
 * Lotus Penang Nasi Kandar restaurant is located adjacent to the Jalan SS22/25 car park.
 * Syed Abu, an Indian Muslim restaurant is found on Jalan SS22/19.
 * Coffee Connexion, another modern day Kopi Tiam commenced business in May 2009 at a double shop lot at 12 & 14 Jalan SS 22/25, two doors away from the Hong Kee Tim Sum restaurant.
 * Lotus Penang Nasi Kandar restaurant is located adjacent to the Jalan SS22/25 car park.
 * Syed Abu, an Indian Muslim restaurant is found on Jalan SS22/19.

Sleep
Despite being just "next-door" to the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, PJ has its fair share of hotels in all categories. Note that there are no inns, guest houses, motels or hotels in Damansara Jaya.

Go next

 * Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, 35-50 minutes away from here
 * Genting Highlands, a famous hill resort in Malaysia, at least 2 hours away

title: Petaling Jaya


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Petaluma

Petaluma is a charming historic town of 60,000 people (2020) amid the hills and pastures of Sonoma County in the Bay Area of California. Petaluma is known for its well-preserved historic center and as a local hub for the Petaluma Valley region of Sonoma County.

Understand
Petaluma was founded in 1848, as a crossroads and marketplace for southern Sonoma and northern Marin counties. Agriculture is and always was central to the town's identity.

In the early part of the 1900s, Petaluma was known as the "Egg Basket of the World" due to the large number of chicken farms nearby. Although electronic industries, especially telecom, have started displacing Petaluma's numerous cattle, chicken, and sheep ranches, much of Petaluma still maintains the feel of the old cow-town.

Get in
There are a few ways to enter the city. However, the two most common ways are from the freeway or the backroads.

HWY 101: The main way to arrive Petaluma is via Highway 101 North or South. HWY 116 W merges with HWY 101 N at the second exit in town. There are four main exits off the freeway: Petaluma Blvd So., Lakeville/116, Washington St. and Petaluma Blvd. No. HWY 1: Offers another way in to Petaluma. From the coastal Highway take the Point Reyes-Petaluma Road which eventually turns into D Street and leads you directly into downtown Petaluma. Old Redwood Highway & Stoney Point Road: Alternative backroads between Santa Rosa and Petaluma. All are popular cycling routes for athletes and commuters, so share the road!

While a car is the fastest and easiest way to travel in and out of the city, there is also a bus service. Golden Gate Transit provides intercounty bus service (Sonoma, Marin, & San Francisco counties). Sonoma County Transit provides service within Sonoma County only. Amtrak also provides connecting bus service.

One of the more enjoyable ways to enter and exit the city is by bicycle. For cycle enthusiasts there are numerous backroads and alternative routes to enjoy.

By train
Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit, or SMART, connects Petaluma with Sonoma County Airport, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Novato, San Rafael, and Larkspur, with connections to the ferry to San Francisco. The segment from Novato to Petaluma is quite scenic, with marshes and hills rolling by. However, the train is primarily for commuters, so the mid-day and weekend schedules are very limited.

is a short walk from downtown.

Get around
It's easiest to get around by car if traveling from one end of the city to another. Downtown parking can sometimes be unavailable on the street, and the downtown area is often impassable on weekends due to events. Should you happen to find parking, strictly adhere to the time limits posted. Tickets are given. There are parking garages downtown and ample parking in them. Many places are accessible by foot downtown, but unless you are adventurous, plan to drive from downtown to the outlet shopping area. For those averse to walking or driving, Petaluma Transit provides intercity transport during limited hours. Cycling is another very pleasant option around town.

See
Petaluma has a beautiful, historic downtown area which has appeared in several films depicting mid-20th-Century life.

Eat
Downtown Petaluma is filled with inexpensive yet tasty eateries of many sorts. Thai lovers will want to try all five Thai restaurants within a one-mile stretch along the Boulevard. Numerous small, upscale bistros abound.

Vegetarians will have no problem here. Equally, vegans and people on gluten-free diets shouldn't have any real trouble. Petaluma simply has very good restaurants and used to locally be referred to as "the restaurant capital of California."

Desserts:

Drink

title: Petaluma


text:
Petawawa

Petawawa (population 18,000 in 2021) is the largest town in eastern Ontario's Ottawa Valley. Petawawa is on the south shore of the Ottawa River, and exists primarily to support the CFB Petawawa military base. The town can serve as a gateway to the eastern parts of Algonquin Park, but Petawawa also offers canoeing opportunities in-town, on the Ottawa and Petawawa Rivers.

History
The earliest settlement in the Petawawa area was inhabited by the Algonquin First Nation. The name Petawawa originates from a local Algonquin language word, biidaawewe, meaning "where one hears a noise like this".

In the late 19th century, the area was surveyed and settled by emigres from Scotland, Ireland and Germany. The land was unsuitable for crops, but the heavily forested surroundings were useful for logging. The Canadian military acquired land in the area in 1905, which later became Canadian Forces Base Petawawa. An internment camp was set up at the Militia Camp in Petawawa from December 1914 to May 1916; it also housed German prisoners-of-war during World War II.

CFB Petawawa is one of Canada's largest ground forces bases with members deployed throughout the world on various missions supporting the United Nations in peacekeeping or the War on Terror.

Climate
Petawawa has a humid continental climate with long, cold, snowy winters and warm summers.

Visitor information

 * Town of Petawawa

By car
The main way in and out of town along Highway 17 (Trans-Canada Highway).

By bus

 * Between Ottawa and Sudbury including stops in Kanata, Arnprior, Renfrew, Pembroke, Mattawa, and North Bay.

By plane
There is an airport in Pembroke with no scheduled flights. The closest major airport is Ottawa.

Get around

 * Take a walk along the Emerald Necklace trail system
 * Drive around town. Maps are available at Town Hall, 1111 Victoria St.

Connect
Free Wi-Fi and computer access is available at the

Go next

 * Algonquin Provincial Park ― the Sand Lake access point, near Barron Canyon and Achray Campground in the eastern part of the park's periphery, is about from the center of town.
 * Mattawa ― a smaller town on the Ottawa River, with additional opportunities for outdoor adventures, and access to the northern parts of Algonquin Park.
 * Pembroke (Ontario) ― a short drive to the southeast, the next city on the Trans-Canada Highway.
 * Ottawa ― Canada's capital, about along the Trans-Canada.

title: Petawawa


text:
Petäjävesi

Petäjävesi is a small village in Central Finland. Its main claim to fame is its wooden church dating back to 1765, a World Heritage Site as an exemplary piece of Scandinavian wooden architecture.

Get in
The nearest major city is Jyväskylä. Petäjävesi is on the Haapamäki-Jyväskylä railway line, and also accessible by Matkahuolto buses from Jyväskylä.

Get around
Public transport is limited to a twice-daily bus, so it's best to bring your own wheels.

By taxi
See Central Finland

Sleep
There are several holiday cottages and farms offering lodging in the vicinity.

title: Petäjävesi


text:
Northern Lowlands (Guatemala)

The Northern Lowlands of Guatemala stretch from the foothills of the Cuchumatanes, Chama, and Santa Cruz mountain ranges northwards, including the northern part of the Alta Verapaz department, the extreme north of El Quiché department, and all of Guatemala's extensive Petén department.

Besides providing its visitors with a multi-faceted nature, it compels through its diversity of Maya sites in a distinctive regional style ("El Estilo Petén").

Understand
More than a thousand years ago, what is now the Petén was the hub of Classic Maya civilization, with a high population and many large splendid cities. For reasons still not fully understood by scholars, the civilization collapsed around the year 900. The Maya people did not "disappear" (more than 40% of Guatemala's population are ethnically Maya today), but no new temples and palaces were built, the population of the Petén region declined, and after a time the old cities were allowed to be reclaimed by jungle.

From Spanish Colonial times into the mid-20th century, the Petén was Guatemala's wild frontier, with only a few towns like Flores in the vast jungle, and hardly any roads. That has changed in recent decades. New paved highways were built, people moved into the area and cleared large sections of the jungle for farming -- though other large sections of jungle have been preserved as National parks. Eco-tourism and the fantastic ruins of the ancient Maya cities now draw many visitors. Still, the Petén remains less developed than other parts of Guatemala.

Climate
El Petén is a mix of tropical rain forest, particularly in the north, and areas of open savannah, so the days will be hot. In many parts of the department the forest has been cleared for ranching, and there is little shade, so carry plenty of water, and a suitable hat. It is most mild November thru February, when the nights can get a bit cool (but not cold like in the Highlands). The rainy season starts in late May or early June and continues to October, with frequent rain and more numerous mosquitoes.

Cities

 * – the hub of the region, with an airport nearby and connections to the rest of the area
 * , a small town in southern Petén, with a nice new archaeological museum and a colonial church - the oldest in Petén.
 * – a sleepy village on the east side of Lake Peten Itza
 * – small town and the only land border crossing to Belize
 * – a sleepy village on the east side of Lake Peten Itza
 * – small town and the only land border crossing to Belize
 * – small town and the only land border crossing to Belize
 * – small town and the only land border crossing to Belize
 * – small town and the only land border crossing to Belize
 * – small town and the only land border crossing to Belize

Other destinations

 * Classic Maya ruins at Tikal — the most famous attraction in the Petén.
 * , Maya ruins
 * (often Seibal in English)— Maya ruins
 * — Maya ruins
 * — unrestored Maya ruins with some badly eroded monuments
 * — huge ancient Maya ruin dating to the preclassic, much less visited.
 * (Waká) — Maya ruins
 * — remote Maya ruins between Carmelita and El Mirador
 * — unrestored Maya ruins beside the road from Flores to Melchor de Mencos.
 * — unrestored Maya ruins with a small collection of sheltered monuments, including the largest stela in Petén
 * — unrestored Maya ruins
 * — Maya ruins, under restoration
 * — Maya ruins
 * — Maya ruins
 * — Nakum, a former ceremonial center and city of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization, can be visited by guided tour from Flores or Melchor de Mencos
 * — Maya ruins
 * — waterfall in the south
 * — Maya ruins on an island near Yaxhá
 * - Maya ruins and historic modern village beyond Tikal to the north.
 * — Maya ruins between Flores and Melchor de Mencos, easily visited day tour from Flores. Site of Survivor TV episodes.

Talk
Spanish. Guides who speak English and other major international languages can be hired at Tikal.

Get in
Don't skimp on long distance bus rides. Budget "chicken buses" can be fun for a short ride, but for most the more comfortable first class buses are worth the price for long trips.

The route from Guatemala City via Poptun is served by three first class bus companies, Linea Dorada, Autobuses del Norte, and Fuente del Norte. The latter runs cheaper buses between Flores and Guate, and it also runs day and night buses that include first class and deluxe seating. Downstairs "camitas" are plush, but especially from Guate at night, you had better have a light sweater to wear.

The route via Coban takes about 12 hours on buses, as opposed to the 8-10 or so via the other route, but it is more scenic. Plus, though you have to change buses in Coban, that is a destination in its own right. You would start out from Guate on Monja Blanca and switch to a minivan in Coban.

See
Petèn is dotted with hundreds of Maya archaeological sites, most of which are worth visiting. Unfortunately the majority of tourists only see "Tikal", which is certainly a highlight, but neglect the other Maya jewels in the jungle. For curious adventurers untouched archaeological sites in the old-growth forests are waiting to be explored. Hidden ruins being especially worth visiting include Holmul, La Honradez, Chochkitan, Kinal, Xultun, Dos Aguadas and Rio Azul. Even though their magnitude is comparable to Tikal, the yearly visitor number at these sites only reaches an average of 20 persons. The quality of the roads to the more remote sites leaves a lot to be desired. Therefore it is advisable to undertake these kind of trips only during dry season (February until June). Travelers wishing to go off the most crowded tourist paths but still find well explored sites with amenities are advised to visit San Clemente, La Blanca  and Nakum (providing for the greatest Palace Acropolis of the Maya World).

Sleep
Stay at the Jaguar Inn Hotel, Flores Petén. The hotel is located inside the National Park, so you don't have to travel to and from Flores city center. The hotel has nice typical Guatemalan breakfast (beans and tortillas). At night, the lights and electricity is unavailable at around 6pm. The only thing is that, hot water is unavailable. You can listen to the sounds of the animals at night.

Drink
Two good beers in Guatemala are Gallo, which is probably all you will find in smaller towns and Moza (which is a flavorful bock beer). Both have 5% alcohol.

In most of the restaurants there are also fruit, smoothy type drinks called licuados, that come in a variety of fruits, and are made from fresh fruits.

Stay safe
Always stay on the beaten path, and stay with a group. Don't wander off, stay alert. In out of the way places, it can be too easy to get lost on unknown jungle paths. In towns and touristy areas try your best to blend in and not draw too much attention to yourself.

Go next

 * Belize
 * Chiapas, Mexico via Frontera Corozal
 * Río Dulce and the Caribbean Coast
 * Cobán and the Central Highlands

title: Northern Lowlands (Guatemala)


text:
Peterborough

Peterborough is a city in Cambridgeshire in East Anglia, with a population of 202,259 in 2019. It's industrial and ringed by bland "New Town" residential districts, yet has an attractive historic centre around its cathedral, where two British monarchs were buried.

Understand
In Jurassic times this area was covered by a tropical sea, depositing thick layers of clay, limestone and decomposing dinosaurs. The last Ice Age (the "Devensian") didn't quite reach here but its melt-off left beds of gravel. These are just what you need for pottery, bricks and road construction, and even in Roman times there were brick works here. The land is low-lying but not too low - it's just west of the Fens, so it's fertile, and a natural route for roads and later railways. An important medieval city grew up and the cathedral was built from the 12th century. In early modern times the Fens were drained, and the 19th / 20th century saw a growth in engineering, such as Perkins the diesel manufacturers. Brickmakers continued to scoop out the local clay, and their spent pits flooded to dot the landscape with lagoons.

London is only an hour away and in the mid-20th century Peterborough grew from "overspill", as industry and workforces moved north to escape city congestion and high property prices. This was formalised in 1967 when Peterborough was designated a "New Town", one of several in that era. The old centre was left largely intact while three greenfield villages were added: Bretton, Orton and Paston; a fourth was left unbuilt. It's fair to say that these were not the sort of bucolic heart-of-England villages that Constable or Turner might have painted. But there was good employment as service industries took over from manufacturing, the architecture was bland rather than brutal, and they've fared better than some of the other "New Towns".
 * Visit Peterborough website

By road
From London take A1(M) northwards. From Cambridge, take A14 northeast onto A1(M).

By rail

Peterborough is on the East Coast Mainline and has four trains an hour from London King's Cross. The fastest take 46 min nonstop and are racing north to Grantham, Newark on Trent and Doncaster, fanning out towards Lincoln, Kingston upon Hull, Leeds, York, Newcastle upon Tyne and Edinburgh. The slowest may sometimes be more convenient as these start from Horsham and run via Gatwick Airport, London St Pancras and a couple of dozen other places to Peterborough, saving you from lugging bags on and off trains.

Trains run hourly from Stansted Airport via Cambridge and Ely to Peterborough and continue to Stamford, Oakham, Melton Mowbray, Leicester, Nuneaton and Birmingham New Street.

Trains from Liverpool run hourly via Manchester Piccadilly, Sheffield and Nottingham to Peterborough and continue to Ely, Thetford and Norwich.

There's a direct train from Ipswich via Bury St Edmunds every couple of hours, otherwise travel via Cambridge and change.

By bus
Stagecoach X4 runs from Northampton, every 30 min  via Wellingborough, Kettering, Corby and Oundle.

Stagecoach 904 runs from Huntingdon via Sawtry, and Bus 37 runs from Spalding.

Delaine Bus 201 / 202 runs from Bourne and Stamford.

First Excel buses run from Norwich, every 30 min via Dereham, King's Lynn and Wisbech.

The bus station is north side of Queensgate shopping centre, 200 yards east of the railway station.

Get around
Local buses run from the bus station to Orton, Paston and Bretton.

There is a good cycle and footpath network. Much of the centre is pedestrianised, with a step-free route from the bus and railway stations to the main square and Cathedral.

Taxis wait at the railway station. Operators include A2B Euro Cars (+44 1733 566666), Adams (+44 1733 555800), Peterborough Taxis 247/365 (+44 1733 744497), Gold Star (+44 1733 777888), The Taxi Firm (+44 1733 305405) and Peterborough Cars (+44 1733 704444).

See

 * Cathedral Square is the fine plaza fronting the cathedral, but what you see first is St John the Baptist, the Anglican parish church built in 1407. This was where the townsfolk prayed, while the monks descanted in the cathedral. It's a striking building in Perpendicular style but most of the interior is 19th century. Guildhall on its east side was built in 1671, an open arcaded building with a market space on the ground floor.
 * The Castle ("Mount Thorold") was an 11th century motte-and-bailey just east of the cathedral. All you see now is the mound in the cathedral gardens.
 * Town Hall is a redbrick cod-Georgian building of 1929 lining Bridge St just south of the cathedral gatehouse.
 * is a National Nature Reserve, an area of woodland and grazing that's never had modern agriculture.
 * is a National Nature Reserve, an area of woodland and grazing that's never had modern agriculture.
 * is a National Nature Reserve, an area of woodland and grazing that's never had modern agriculture.
 * is a National Nature Reserve, an area of woodland and grazing that's never had modern agriculture.
 * is a National Nature Reserve, an area of woodland and grazing that's never had modern agriculture.

Do

 * Cinema: Empire Cinema is within Queensgate Shopping Centre. Showcase is half a mile east, junction of Boongate with A1139.
 * Theatre: New Theatre is on Broadway. Key Theatre is on Embankment Rd by the river.
 * Peterborough United ("The Posh") were relegated in 2022 and now play soccer in League One, the third tier. Their home ground London Road (sponsored as Weston Homes Stadium), capacity 15,000, is a mile south of the railway station.
 * Golf: nearby courses include Orton Meadows, Thorpe Wood, Peterborough Milton and Elton Furze.
 * Fitness: Vivacity is a large gym, sports complex and swimming pool on Bishops Rd east by the playing fields.
 * is a large event showground west of the city in Orton Southgate (turn off A1 at Oundle Rd). A few are trade-only, most are public, see their website.
 * Speedway: Peterborough Panthers race in the SGB Premiership, the top tier of motorcycle speedway racing in Britain. Their home track is at East of England Arena.
 * is a large event showground west of the city in Orton Southgate (turn off A1 at Oundle Rd). A few are trade-only, most are public, see their website.
 * Speedway: Peterborough Panthers race in the SGB Premiership, the top tier of motorcycle speedway racing in Britain. Their home track is at East of England Arena.

Eat

 * Queensgate and Cathedral Square have The Ladz, XOXO Grill, Prezzo, Tap & Tandoor, Five Guys, Cote Brasserie, Pizza Express (Peter Boizot (1929-2018) the chain's founder lived in Peterborough), Wildwood, Middletons, Nando's, Argo Lounge and Wagamama.
 * Broadway and Lincoln Road a block north have Parrotts Fish Parlour, Berneliu Uzeiga (Lithuanian), Shah Jehan, Gurkha Durbaar, Balti Hut and Taj Mahal.

Drink

 * Others in city centre include Draper's Arms (JD Wetherspoon), Wortley Almshouses, Stoneworks, Blind Tiger, Queen's Head, Sir Henry Royce, O'Neill's, College Arms (another Wetherspoon), Bumble Inn and Ostrich Inn.
 * Breweries: see above for Brewery Tap. Mile Tree and Oakham Ales are southwest edge of town. Further west are Nene Valley Brewery and King's Cliffe. See Thetford for the group to the north.
 * Others in city centre include Draper's Arms (JD Wetherspoon), Wortley Almshouses, Stoneworks, Blind Tiger, Queen's Head, Sir Henry Royce, O'Neill's, College Arms (another Wetherspoon), Bumble Inn and Ostrich Inn.
 * Breweries: see above for Brewery Tap. Mile Tree and Oakham Ales are southwest edge of town. Further west are Nene Valley Brewery and King's Cliffe. See Thetford for the group to the north.
 * Breweries: see above for Brewery Tap. Mile Tree and Oakham Ales are southwest edge of town. Further west are Nene Valley Brewery and King's Cliffe. See Thetford for the group to the north.

Sleep

 * Premier Inn have four sites: City Centre (actually two miles west, junction of A47 and Nene Parkway), Peterborough North at 1023 Lincoln Rd two miles north, Hampton two miles south, and Ferry Meadows three miles west.
 * Travelodge have three sites: Central 300 yards north of the cathedral, Eye Green on A47 five miles northeast, and Alwalton on A1 near East of England Arena.
 * Holiday Inn Express is another off Oundle Rd near the A1 junction.
 * Premier Inn have four sites: City Centre (actually two miles west, junction of A47 and Nene Parkway), Peterborough North at 1023 Lincoln Rd two miles north, Hampton two miles south, and Ferry Meadows three miles west.
 * Travelodge have three sites: Central 300 yards north of the cathedral, Eye Green on A47 five miles northeast, and Alwalton on A1 near East of England Arena.
 * Holiday Inn Express is another off Oundle Rd near the A1 junction.
 * Holiday Inn Express is another off Oundle Rd near the A1 junction.

Connect
As of May 2022, Peterborough has 4G from Vodafone, and 5G from EE, O2 and Three.

Go next

 * Nearby Stamford is a beautifully preserved Georgian market town. A couple of miles south, Burghley House is a grand Elizabethan mansion.
 * Ely is a charming cathedral town perched on what was once an island in the Fens.
 * Unmissable Cambridge is only 20 min further south.

title: Peterborough


text:
Peterborough (disambiguation)

There is more than one place called Peterborough:

Australia

 * Peterborough (South Australia) - A town in South Australia.
 * Peterborough (Victoria) - A town in Victoria (state).

Canada

 * Peterborough (Ontario) - A town in Ontario.

United Kingdom

 * Peterborough - A city in England.

United States of America

 * Peterborough (New Hampshire) - A town in New Hampshire.

title: Peterborough (disambiguation)