Cultural greetings while volunteering in Africa

"There is no friend like an old friend who has shared our morning days, no greeting like his welcome, no homage like his praise." Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. Anyone who has been in a foreign place will attest to this, the biggest hurdle you may run into is the cultural barrier. First impressions matter and the first thing you do when you run into a stranger is get the greetings and salutations out of the way.

Greetings help in establishing a good report with the local people. Once this is achieved it will only make your volunteer experience better. When volunteering abroad it is important to know how to say hello not only for the sake of those you are working or volunteering with, but also to help you and the locals feel at ease with each other, here is an outlook of some cultural greetings in different societies and places around the Africa.

The most common sign of greeting in Africa is the handshake. The handshake should be firm and you should look straight into the eyes of the person greeting you. There are some cultures however where the women are not allowed to interact freely with the men, so don't take this as a bad sign if you run into such a situation. If you are a female volunteer, it is also in your best interests to try and respect these cultural practices. As far as greetings are concerned feel free to do some research to find out the best way to say hello. But for a general idea you may start here.

In central Africa Angola the main language in use is Portuguese, here the most common greetings are Bom Dia (Good Morning), Boa tarde (Good afternoon), Boa noite (Good evening)

In Burkina Faso you will have to learn to say hello in French: Bonjour but there is also a more indigenous language Afrikaans where you can simply say: Hallo Nigerians on the other hand use more than one local language, as follows we have; Damara/Nama: !gai//oas (spoken in the south and southeast of the country) another way would be in Herero/Himba: Tjike (spoken in the north central and northwest). while volunteering in Ghana you will run into a situation where you will have to learn several forms of salutation, depending on where you are and the time, you will find it convenient to learn Twi: ete-sen or Ga: meeng-gah-bou (spoken in the capital Accra) we also have Dagbani: Kawula (good morning - desibah, good afternoon - anteray, good evening - ana(w)ula and to sum it all up Hausa: sannu (spoken in northern Ghana), to sum it all up for west African countries, if ever you are to volunteer in the DRC Congo (Cote d' ivore) then you will have a run in with Dioula: in-i-che. but if in Cameroon you will find it best to stick to French.

If you are in Egypt or any other Arab speaking countries, basically in areas of northern Africa the best form of greeting would be : salaam aleikum you will run into the same situation in the sudan and Somalia but in areas around eastern Africa where we have Kenya, it is best to stick to Kiswahili, the most prominently used language in this region of Africa, here you may say jambo or habari

In the southern region of Africa where you find countries like Namibia you can make use of Afrikaans:Hallo, or Damara/Nama: !gai//oas (spoken in the south and southeast) and
Herero/Himba: Tjike (spoken in the north central and northwest) you will have an encounter with Setswana in Botswana, here you will use: Dumela mma/rra (to woman/man). Enter Lesotho and you will have a run in with South Sotho, the most popular greeting being: Lumela or you can resort to English: Hello. in South Africa there are three main local languages and therefore forms of greeting that you will need to consider, they are as follows, you have Zulu: Sawubona Xhosa: Molo and Afrikaans: Hallo

Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World in India

The Taj Mahal, one of the best India tourist destinations is mausoleum situated in Agra. It is one of the most wondering historical monuments in India. It was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is known as the most beautiful buildings in the world and is recognized as symbol of true love. The reason It is among prominent India tourist attractions is the unique and exotic Mughal architecture, there used in constructing the Taj Mahal. Mughal architecture combines the elements of Persian, Islamic and Indian architectural styles. Thus in making of It all these architectural styles are methods as used and employed. In 1983, the Taj Mahal was declared as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The construction of this one of the famous tourist attractions of India, started in 1632, and completed in 1653. In the process of constructing the Taj Mahal, there thousands of artisans and craftsmen were involved. It was formed by the board of architect under the royal supervision. The architects who made It include Abd ul-Karim, Ma'mur Khan, Makramat Khan, and Ustad Ahmad Lahauri.
Architecturally, as well as from the center of attraction point, the Tomb is the center and focus to the entire complex of the Taj Mahal. This large, white marble structure stands on a square plinth and is made of symmetrical building with an iwan (an arch-shaped doorway) there upon a large dome. The base of the dome is a large, multi-chambered cube with multiple corners forming as unequal octagon that is about 55 metres (180 ft) at each of its four elongated sides. The marble base upon the dome is the most noticeable feature. It has an average height of about 35 meters and has the equal length like the base. Because of the shape of the Dome many a times, it is called as the onion dome or amrud (guava dome). The top of the dome is decorated with a lotus design that also works as to increase its height. The shape of the dome is further focused with the four smaller domed chattris (kiosks) at all its corners, they repeats the onion shape of the central dome.
With respect to exterior decoration of Taj Mahal, the monument is decorated with paint, stucco, stone inlays and carvings. Decorative features as according to Islamic instructions are grouped into calligraphy, abstract and vegetative motifs. The calligraphy is developed by a calligrapher named as Abd ul-Haq, in 1609. Shah Jahan provided the title as "Amanat Khan" upon him for his craftsmanship and artistic dexterity. In tourism, Taj Mahal evenly is calculated as major tourist destinations of India. It attracts about between 2 million to 4 million visitors annually and there are included about 200,000 from overseas. Most tourists visit it in months of October, November and February. It is even included in the several listings of seven wonders of the modern world and to the most recent listings of New Seven Wonders of the World. It opens for public viewing from 6 a,m to 7 p.m on weekdays, except for Friday.

Goa Tour – Splendor Attractions and Destinations to Visit

Welcome to the beaches capital in India yes the wonder land in India the Goa. This is the smallest state in India but one of the most beautiful states. This is a perfect place where you can find a blend of traditional and modern aspects of life. This beautiful states is a land of diverse as on one hand you can find stunning beaches and on the other hand have most natural landscapes that make the visitor wonder on there visit to beautiful Goa. The tourism attractions and the sightseeing spots are truly out of this world and thus visitors here are always teeming in intense number from every nook and corner of the world. The cascading waterfalls, stunning beaches, striking historical monuments, splendid churches and temples and the wild life all are teamed up and make this place a wonderful and bliss for the visitors.

Some of the attractions and the mind blowing destinations which truly make Holiday in Goa a wonderful and the most memorable tour till the time are as listed below:

Historical Monument
Goa is the state in India which is very beautiful and charming. Goa India is very famous for its ancient temples, churches and historical monuments. Most of the visitors visit this city to explore the marvel architecture which is truly wonder. The splendid fort and other monuments truly entice the visitors especially from the abroad. Many temples, churches and the forts are made up in Portuguese style and they are very unique thus its type cannot be founded in any other part of India. Some of the historical monuments which are very famous and worth to visit on your trip to Goa are Aguada Fort, Cabo Fort, Shantadurga Temple, Shri Mangueshi Temple and Se Cathedral.

Beaches
The state of Goa has some striking beaches and there over 40 beaches in this state. Goa is lovingly called as the land of Beaches. The beaches in Goa are one of the major attractions here and are the most important part on your visit with any Goa packages. The white long stretched beaches truly entice the visitors and the honeymooners with its blue sea water and the glistering sands. Goa beach are truly bliss for the couples on there honeymoon tour and for the leisure vacations. Bambolim, Colva, Anjuna, Baga and Dona Paula beaches some of the most sought after the visitors.

Cuisines
Goa is the state where one can taste the best cuisine in India. Mostly the visitors from the entire world goes feel out of the world as they taste seafood which comprises of prawns, tiger prawns, crab, lobster and many varieties of fishes. It is considered that the cuisines in Goa are never completed without fish. Fish curry and rice are the traditional food of this state which is lovingly called as the 'Pearl of the Orient'. Foods in Goa are influence of Hindu and Portuguese. Honestly speaking Goa tour will be like exploring a new entire world.

Apart from these attractions and there are many other which are truly enticing and thus the visitors teems up here throughout the year. So plan a tour with any leading operator who offers you a tailor made Goa packages to offer you the best memorable tour till the time.

Choose Goa For A Couple's Holiday: Let Your Love Bloom On The Sandy Beaches!

Goa is one of the romantic places in India which is renowned for its beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture. It is visited by hundreds of thousands of international and domestic tourists each year. This gorgeous holiday destination offers sandy beaches, palm-lined shores and sunny weather. Goa is a perfect honeymoon destination with a tropical setting.

Pololem Beach is 2-km west of Chaudi, the village is a major package tour destination. Its crescent shaped bay lined with a swaying curtain of coconut palms, is irresistibly photogenic. Tailored in by a pair of wooded headlands, Agonda beach is a small and secluded cove of white sand in Goa. It has palm trees and casuarinas and a large hill lying to the south of the beach. A great excursion spot near the beach is the fort of Cabo de Rama. For lovers, the beach is a beast location to embrace each other in the peaceful and idyllic place and complete isolation. Colva beach in South Goa is a beautiful place in South Goa and is best known romantic attractions in Goa. Along the coastal lines of beaches two people can have a walk on sand and follow each other's footprints. Eating under the shade of palm trees till the sunset in the sea while holding hands and sipping drinks is a gifted time one wishes to live here.

While enjoying the beauty of Goa beaches and taking your love to heights visit some foodie places and taste the true colours of Goa cuisines. Xavier's is one of the places in Goa where you can have the best seafood and it is a great dining spot to enjoy an intimate meal with your partner. Another place is Fernando's, in an old Goan house, well known for serving a la carte menu comprising of exclusive Goan seafood specialties. Here you can have freshly prepared sannas with sorpotel and bakes that is hardly found anywhere else in Goa. Take your partner for a delightful Goan at the local Goan restaurant, Souza Lobo. It serves a selection of India, Chinese and continental dishes.

Couples can venture out for sports activities like popular water sports such as water skiing, jet skiing, parasailing, sailing and scuba diving. Book a complete spa package where you can pamper themselves with all kinds of exotic treatments. In special yoga classes that most hotels and resorts do offer, you and your partner will enjoy the time together. Spent your days on sunny shores and in night go to various famous nightclubs and discs. Tito's at Bogmalo Beach is one of the most famous discotheques that promise a rollicking good time and have a great party time around.explore the Portuguese time churches and buildings. Stay your happy time in gardens and parks which are fragrant with flowers. Take a trip to markets and get some good shopping of traditional items and also different varieties of flowers. In evening get some wine and have it near the whoosh of sea.

Goa, for romance is a much better place in India where you get all the benefits of beach and being on trip with your partner. She/he will love you more when the memories of good time will have beautiful Goa at the backdrop.

Nature and Landscapes

Countless experiences await you, from scenic coastlines and mountain ranges to vast prairies, deserts and canyons. America's exciting big cities are matched by the charms of our smaller communities. All showcase the heritage and culture of a great nation. But perhaps America's greatest attraction is the friendly spirit of the American people and the diversity within the nation.

The USA is home to dynamic cities and small towns that vary from region to region. San Francisco, Las Vegas and New Orleans all are brilliant places to visit, while Jackson, Wyoming, Bar Harbor, Maine and Moab, Utah each have their own distinct personalities and cultures. Individual states contrast by region and you can enjoy everything from the warm beaches of California to the rugged Green Mountains of Vermont.
The national parks and monuments of the USA are unparalleled for their diversity and majesty. While Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite National Parks are the crown jewels of the park system, Arches, Bryce, Zion, Lake Powell and Monument Valley are also renowned for their trails and unique wilderness areas.
America's national parks and historical sites embody the American spirit. They are windows to the past, homes to rare plants and animal species, and places where every American can go to find inspiration, peace, and open space.

Hiring a Campervan for an Outdoor Festival

There are a lot of great events in Australia, and sometimes hiring a campervan for an outdoor festival can make things a lot easier! Campervan rentals are very common and can be done online or at the airport. There is nothing quite like hiring a campervan for an outdoor festival.

Even though your backpacking days may be over, campervan experiences could be just beginning. It is an economic way to see the country and a comfortable way to enjoy outdoor Australian festivals.

Campervans are a reliable way to arrive at an outdoor festival and to remain there throughout the duration of the festival. Sometimes travel arrangements can be overbooked or cancelled. Festivals may only be for one weekend so there is a limited range of opportunity when the original plans do not work out.

With a campervan, travellers do not need to worry about catching a bus on time or the travel arrangements being cancelled. Simply hop into the campervan at any time and make it down to the outdoor festival. This is just one reason why campervans are so popular. Campervan hire should be done as soon as you know you are going to a festival as they are often hired quickly.

Campervans are also very convenient. A campervan is a one stop holiday shop for travellers. There is a place to stay and a vehicle to travel in when you use a campervan for travels. For outdoor festivals, it might be difficult to hire a taxi to arrive at the festival.

It is also inconvenient since the only bathrooms at the venue are usually occupied. Some travellers might want to take a quick nap before going back out to enjoy the festival. With a campervan, one can park right by the festival and jump in at any time to take care of personal business and rest up before going back out to the festival. Campervans are not 5 star establishments but they certainly are comfortable and modern

Most campervans also have cooking utensils and a mini kitchen inside. This enables travellers the ease of cooking in the campervan. Less money is spent on going out for food and you can eat whenever you want. Travellers will be able to take advantage of the scenic routes on the way to the festival as well as the privacy of spending this time with the family. Campervans can be a great family bonding experience or a way to reconnect with a loved one.

Overall, using a campervan is the most cost effective option for seeing an outdoor festival in Australia. There is a place to sleep, eat and a way to get around the town or the country.

USA Tours in the Capital Region

The nation’s seat of government. A wealth of museums. Verdant mountains and roaring rivers. Fishing and rafting. This is the Capital Region: Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington DC.

There’s no denying that Washington DC, the world’s first planned capital, is also one of its most beautiful - a marriage of geometry and art. Travel to Washington DC and find world-class museums and art galleries, tree-shaded and flower-filled parks and gardens, sophisticated hotels ideal for trips and holidays, bars and restaurants and nightlife.
Surrounding this power-driven city is an abundance of natural glories. There are quaint fishing villages on the coast, bucolic mountain towns born when the railroads where first built and, here and there, large cities with rich histories. There are surprises around every curve in the road - and the roads are very, very curvy.

Maryland is often referred to as “America in Miniature”: visitors can climb mountains in the morning and reach the Atlantic coast by twilight. Maryland features also four drivable Civil War Trails that allow visitors to follow in the footsteps of soldiers from this historical era.

Virginia’s renowned wine trails are a way of life for travellers. And if you are searching for fresh crab and oysters, Southern ham or the latest in salsa and soul food, Virginia will please the ‘foodie’ in you. In the summer, surf waves at Virginia Beach or hike along Virginia’s Appalachian Trail. Year-round, Virginia’s Mountain resorts offer four seasons of outdoor, epicurean and spa experiences.

West Virginia is a state where the Appalachian culture shows clear links to the European heritage of the people who settled here. Throughout the state, artisans and artists have found a home where they can pursue their crafts and fine arts in a restful atmosphere and breathtaking environment. From mountains to shore, there’s so much to see and do and more.

Start planning your next holiday vacation in the Capital Region today!