Private tours Istanbul

Private tours Istanbul have a bag full of stories; Once upon a time, there were many characteristic sultans of the Ottoman Empire. Each one of them with their own story. There was a former concubine who managed to become the powerful consort of Suleyman the Magnificent – the beautiful Roxelana. Also, many other girls slaves taught the arts of make-up, dress, music, dancing, reading and writing, etc. to become part of the Harem later; janissaries; a palette of sad, mad, bad, happy stories…

All of these have the name with two words only – Topkapi Palace!

Mehmet II conquered the city
Topkapi Palace Audience Chamber ” Arzodasi”, private tours istanbul, Audience Chamber
2140 years after the foundation of today’s Istanbul, a young sultan at the age of twenty-three – Mehmet II conquered the city. Named ‘the Conqueror’, due to his victory, 9 years after it, Sultan Mehmet started building his palace over the ruins of Constantinople’s Acropolis. The result was Topkapi Palace. Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror especially chose the place. He started to call himself, ‘I am the Sultan of the lands and the seas.’ This is the point in private tours Istanbul that you are closest to two continents and to seas.

Private Tour Guide Ensar, private tours istanbul
It occupies one of the seven hills of Istanbul overlooking the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara. There is a good view of the Bosphorus from many points of the palace. Topkapi Palace was certainly quite different from the European palaces. This is because of its ”irregular, asymmetric, non-axial, and unmonumental proportions”. It also differed a lot from the oriental or Islamic traditions in the art of palace building. In fact, Topkapi was a sui generis microcosm, a paradise on earth or ‘The Palace of Felicity’.

Milosch, who in the name of Milan held two districts those of Rudnik and Poschega

It would be wrong to regard the Gospodars as oppressors of the people, and Kara George as their defender: even according to notions entertained in the West, whence they are derived; and which are altogether inapplicable to the East.

It would be much easier to obtain a correct idea of the character of the contest, by considering what an entirely different course the affairs of Greece at a later period must necessarily have taken, had any of the native chiefs succeeded in acquiring a superiority like that of Kara George. The unity of the nation, and the necessity for carrying on war, demanded also an union of authority.

It is not contended that the welfare of the country depended on the submission of the Gospodars. On the contrary, they had an unquestionable right to a certain degree of independence ; since they had exerted themselves to the utmost in their respective districts, and possessed there a personal and local body of adherents. It would have been far better had parties come to some amicable understanding. However, as that could not be effected, and as fresh disputes originated every day, the only alternative Avas to let a trial of strength between the opposing parties decide which should be dominant.

Kara George had the advantage of possessing timely information respecting the schemes of his adversaries. One day he happened to visit Luka Lasarewitsch, who was still lying in his hut suffer ing from a wound he had received in that sharp skirmish which had taken place in front of the Turkish intrenchments. Half in jest, Kara George said :   “ May such be the reward of those who do not act rightly! ” Luka   who was also engaged in the conspiracy   noted these words; and, being now fully convinced that it had been discovered, he confessed all he knew: induced, either by his old attachment to his Commander, or by fear of dis grace should the project miscarry for he was very ambitious. Shortly afterwards, Milan’s secretary, Lasar AYoinowitsch, came into the camp. Kara George omitted nothing that might win him over to his side ; and from him he obtained still more circumstantial and certain information.

Kara George now resolved, not only to defend his own power, but at the same time to crush that of his adversaries: and for this they themselves furnished him with the best opportunity. The Gospodars did not attend the Skupschtina at the time appointed (New Year’s Day, 1811) :

Milenko and Peter Dobrinjaz wished to await the arrival of the Russian regiment, and Jacob Nenadowitsch was unwilling to appear without his two allies; thus the Commander in chief had time to obtain a preponderating influence over the ‘W’oiwodes of minor importance: who were almost the only members present. His object was the more easily effected, as he well understood how to connect his own interest with theirs.

He thus succeeded in passing in this Diet, two resolutions which changed the whole condition of the country. The first was, that, in future, the W’oiwodes should no longer be dependent on the superior Gospodars, but directly on the Commander  in chief and the Senate. Almost a new distribution was made of the country: the districts which Milenko had hitherto governed by means of Bul  jukbasches were divided amongst eight Woiwodes.

Milosch, who in the name of Milan held two districts those of Rudnik and Poschega   lost the whole of one and two thirds of the other; and Woiwodcs like Antonie Bogitschewitsch, Milosch Potzeraz, and Stojan Tschupitsch, who had hitherto been dependent on Jacob or on Luka, now found themselves independent. It may easily be believed that this arrangement would be gratifying to all the chiefs of subordinate rank ; and that they, in return, would promote the aulhority of the Commander in chief by whom they had been so much favoured.

Mladen was intimately connected

Among the senators, two especially sided with Kara George: these were I wan Jugowitseh   who, after the too early death of Philippowitseh, had succeeded that statesman in the ofHce of secretary; with perhaps equal knowledge and ability, but not with an equally blameless demeanour and Mladen Milowanowitsch, deputy for Kragujewaz.

Mladen was intimately connected with Kara George; coming from the same province, pursuing the same calling, and with similar fortune: for he also had served in the Austrian war, and had subsequently been chosen Heyduc; moreover his nephew was married to the daughter of Kara George. Occasionally, Mladen was intrusted with the control of several Woiwodes of minor consequence. War, however, was not his peculiar element. He was very tall and powerful, but somewhat awkward in his gait; and his presence in the field was not deemed auspicious.

But in council lie was altogether in his proper place. lie had the ability to deliver his opinion with such convincing eloquence that no one ventured to controvert what he advanced. In the year 1807, he had the conduct of affairs entirely in his hands: people said, “ Mladen alone is the Senate.” But he did not always exercise his power blamelessly.

Mladen was also most intimately allied with Mi- loje, another old companion in his profession; and these two, who lived in the same house, ruled Belgrade by the assistance of the Bekjares and Momkes. At the capture of the fortress, the best part of the booty had fallen to their share; and they continued from time to time to gain possession of the most serviceable houses and vaults in the town: the most lucrative magazines, and the finest landed property in the country.

By constantly retaining in their possession the custom-houses of Belgrade and Ostruschnitza, they brought the greatest part of the trade with foreign countries into tlieir own hands. It is true they fanned the tolls and bought the houses and estates: but on terms imposed by themselves; which, in fact, made the transaction scarcely less unjust and tyrannical. Frequently they forced the peasants to perform feudal service, or socage, in short, without their participation, no one could venture to enter upon any business of importance.

Proceedings of this nature recall to mind the fact, that, only a short time previously, the country had groaned under a despotic government; the conduct of which these men seemed desirous to imitate. Very fortunately, there existed a party who had an almost personal interest in opposing their views.

Abram Lukitsch, from the districts of Rudnik and Poschega, a friend of Milan; and Iwan Pro- t-itsch, from the Nahia of Milenko-Poscharewaz, showed themselves especially zealous on the sub-ject ; and at length they procured a decree for the removal of Mladen from Belgrade. All the Sowiet- niks confirmed this decree by their signatures or their seals; and Kara George assented. Mladen was commissioned to lead the Bekjarcs to Deli- grade ; and he accordingly set out on the expedition. Jugowitsch, equally obnoxious to the senators, also had to give way to them.

Sustainability Challenges Mexico

Who exactly is Hector Ceballos-Lascurain I hear you ask. Well he could be described as the founder of ecotourism. Hector is a Mexican, an architect, a conservationist, an author, an environmentalist and now an environmental architect and international ecotourism consultant. Way back in 1983 he coined the term “ecotourism” and its initial definition that reads as follows:

“Ecotourism is that tourism that involves travelling to relatively undisturbed natural areas with the specific object of studying, admiring and enjoying the scenery and its wild plants and animals, as well as any existing cultural aspects (both past and present) found in these areas. Ecotourism implies a scientific, aesthetic or philosophical approach, although the ‘ecotourist’ is not required to be a professional scientist, artist or philosopher.

The main point is that the person who practices ecotourism has the opportunity of immersing him or herself in nature in a way that most people cannot enjoy in their routine, urban existences. This person will eventually acquire a consciousness and knowledge of the natural environment, together with its cultural aspects, that will convert him into somebody keenly involved in conservation issues.”

Hector Ceballos-Lascurain

It was Hector’s involvement in lobbying for the conservation of northern Yucatan’s Celestún Estuary as a breeding and feeding habitat for the American flamingo, that inspired him to start using the word “ecotourism”. He was convinced that the increasing number of tourists to the area could help boost the local rural economy, preserve the ecology of the area and also create new jobs for the local people. This was the phenomenon known as ‘ecotourism’. Celestún was declared a wildlife refuge in 1979 and a biosphere reserve in the 1980’s and is really the cradle of ecotourism in Mexico.

Another of Mexico’s important protected areas is the Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka’an, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 for its incomparable natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Located on the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, the reserve contains tropical lowland forests that are home to ancient Mayan sites, mangroves, marshes and the world’s second largest coastal barrier reef.

This range of ecosystems provides habitat for abundant wildlife including marine turtles, manatees, howler and spider monkeys, jaguars, pumas, ocelots and tapirs. The rare Jabiru stork features amongst its vast range of bird species. The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is an important destination for ecotourism in Mexico and for local communities who are benefiting from sustainable livelihood development projects.

Sustainability Challenges

Unfortunately although tourism plays a crucial role in the economy of Mexico, there can be resulting adverse effects on the environment and ecosystems caused by the influx of tourists. There are now grave concerns for the impact of tourism on the preservation of El Castillo (Pyramid of Kukulcan) at Chichen Itza after the site was named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. This resulted in an increase in levels of tourism by over 75%. This is just one of Mexico’s 300,000 archaeological sites, of which over 170 are open to the public.

But let’s not end on a negative note. Mexico is culturally diverse – in fact it is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, boasting over 60 indigenous groups, most with their own language.

These indigenous groups include the Maya, Zapotec, Tzotzil, Mixtec and Nahuatl. The Huichol Indians live in the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains and are renowned for their beautifully intricate yarn paintings and bead work. Various projects have assisted the Huichol in their attempts not only to save their sacred land but also to maintain their cultural and artistic heritage and their native traditions and language, whilst co-existing with the outside world.

By incorporating a visit to an indigenous community in your Mexico travels, you will gain a better understanding of their way of life and how their continued traditional existence may be threatened. It will give you the opportunity to interact and support the local people in their natural environment, through responsible sustainable tourism. You may even come away with a beautiful handcrafted souvenir!

Then calling Rosalie and the workman aside

The Count had lately had all the ceilings of his reception rooms on the ground floor repaired. Plaster of Paris is difficult to obtain in Ven- dome; the carriage raises its price. The Count had therefore bought a good deal, being well aware that he could find plenty of purchasers for whatever might remain over. This circumstance inspired him with the design he was about to execute.

“Sir, Gorenflot has arrived,” said Rosalie in low tones.

“Show him in,” replied the Count in loud tones.

Madame de Merret turned rather pale when she saw the mason.

“Gorenflot,” said her husband, “go and fetch bricks from the coach¬house, and bring sufficient to wall up the door of this closet; you will use the plaster I have over to coat the wall with.” Then calling Rosalie and the workman aside:

“Listen, Gorenflot,” he said in an undertone, “you will sleep here to-night. But to-morrow you will have a passport to a foreign country, to a town to which I will direct you. I shall give you six thousand francs for your journey. You will stay ten years in that town; if you do not like it, you may establish yourself in another, provided it be in the same country. You will pass through Paris, where you will await me.

Conditions of our bargain

There I will insure you an additional six thousand francs by contract, which will be paid to you on your return, provided you have fulfilled the conditions of our bargain. This is the price for your absolute silence as to what you are about to do to-night. As to you, Rosalie, I will give you ten thousand francs on the day of your wedding, on condition of your marrying Gorenflot; but if you wish to marry, you must hold your tongues; or—no dowry.”

“Rosalie,” said Madame de Merret, “do my hair.”

The husband walked calmly up and down, watching the door, the mason, and his wife, but without betraying any insulting doubts. Madame de Merret chose a moment when the workman was unload¬ing bricks and her husband was at the other end of the room to say to Rosalie: “A thousand francs a year for you, my child, if you can tell Gorenflot to leave a chink at the bottom.” Then out loud, she added coolly:

“Go and help him!”

Monsieur and Madame de Merret were silent all the time that Go¬renflot took to brick up the door. This silence, on the part of the hus¬band, who did not choose to furnish his wife with a pretext for saying things of a double meaning, had its purpose; on the part of Madame de Merret it was either pride or prudence.

The Mysterious Mansion part 9

Who first saw Antarctic ice

Europeans are used to putting a person’s name to such things, such as “Christopher Columbus discovered America” (he didn’t, actually), but the discoverers of Antarctica could well be nameless individuals from the Pacific. So here is the story about the History of Antarctica:

The History of Antarctica

We know the Polynesian people were superb navigators and explored far southern waters. Pacific oral history tells of a canoe voyage around AD 650 reaching Antarctic sea ice. It’s even possible, though unlikely, that an open ice pack during a balmy late summer permitted Polynesians to see and even land on the Antarctic mainland.

European Discoverers

The History of Antarctica starts off with the European discoverers. Nearly 1000 years later, Europeans reached Antarctic waters. In 1599, Dutchman Dirck Gerritsz described land in the vicinity of the South Shetland Islands, and through the 1600s Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English and French navigators penetrated south of Cape Horn.

The Englishman Antonio de la Roché reached South Georgia in the far South Atlantic in 1675, and around the same time other voyagers described “ice islands” south of South America.

The Frenchman Jean-Baptiste Charles Bouvet de Lozier (Bouvet) discovered the remote island that bears his name in 1739, and in 1762 the Spaniard Joseph de la Llana charted rocks west of South Georgia now called Shag Rocks.

More French voyages quickly followed. Kerguelen Island was discovered in the southern Indian Ocean by an expedition under Yves Joseph de Kerguelen, and Marion de Fresne’s expedition discovered two island groups, now known as Prince Edward and Crozet, south-east of Africa.

James Cook

James Cook has a central place in the History of Antarctica. His circumnavigation of Antarctica from 1772 to 1775 was the first of many government-instigated expeditions to the Antarctic. Cook did not sight land, but his two ships penetrated well into the sea ice and well south of the Antarctic Circle, far enough that he was able to say with reasonable confidence that there was land over the South Pole.

Cook’s published account of his discoveries, including descriptions of large numbers of whales and seals in the Southern Ocean, sparked a gold rush of sorts. With a constant high demand for oil from marine animals, from the late 1770s large numbers of European and North American private voyages brought back lucrative cargoes of oil from whales and seals, as well as the pelts of fur seals, from Antarctic and subantarctic seas and islands.