- Information
- Traveler Advice
- Forums
48HourVisit.com
Planning a short visit? Check out 48HourVisit.com, your online guide for short stays and weekend getaways.Ad
With Izu Islands' idyllic atmosphere and spread of immaculate beaches and covert natural onsens (hot springs), visitors might find themselves in disbelief upon knowing that they are just a few hours away from the riotous Tokyo metropolis. The islands (nine of which are inhabited) are the only remains of what used to be a cluster of volcanoes found south of Izu's namesake peninsula. Individually, the isles span no less than 100 square kilometers, but each one has a distinct characteristic and can cater to a wide array of visitors, from hiking enthusiasts to nature-lovers.
The largest of the islands, Oshima, is the archipelago's prime tourist and transport hub, with a network of jetfoils that branch to the other isles. The island's highlight is the broad Mt. Mihara, an active volcano that gained popularity as a location in famed Japanese horror films such as Godzilla and the Ring. Down south is Toshima, a botanist's Mecca because of the endemic saku lily, the largest of its kind.
Further south are the pinprick isles of Niijima and Shikirejima, both of which boast of pristine beaches and hangout spots for sunbathers and beachcombers. For rock climbing and diving aficionados, Sofu Iwa, also known as Lot's Wife (a Biblical reference to the defiant woman who turned into a pillar of salt), is a must-visit for its vertical, spire-like appearance and thriving marine life underneath. A boat ride away are isles that have played significant roles in Japan's past, notably Hachijojima and Miyakejima, former penal colonies back in the Edo period.
User blogs:
Cheaper galactic spaceliner unveiled
News from http://news.ph.msn.com/top-stories/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3737940 Richard Branson unveiled Monday a commercial spaceliner offering tourists a cheaper chance to experience the thrill of weightlessness and view the splendor of the Earth from space. The British billionaire hopes to offer tickets aboard his spacecraft at a cost of 200,000 dollars each, giving adventurous ... Read full Blog post
Indonesia Eco Tourism
Tour Itenaray Day 01 BALI - LABUAN BAJO – RINCA ISLAND – KOMODO ISLAND (L.D) Pick up from your hotel in Bali and transfer to the airport, for flight to Labuan Bajo (West Flores) for approximately one and half hours. On arrival in Labuan Bajo airport, will be welcomed and met with our local representative or tour guide. Than transfer to the harbour to catch a boat cross to Rinca ... Read full Blog post
San Gimignano and San Pellegrino
Night falls on the flourishing and industrious San Gimignano, its 72 towers stand on the low roofs of the houses lit by the moon. This is not a luxury travel spot but is something you don't see every day. In the distance the clatter of hooves echoed tired in the Via Francigena. The hand of the blacksmith stops beating, the frame of the weaver becomes silent, the streets of the tank only a concert ... Read full Blog post
An Aerial fiesta in Clark Pampanga
Its a party in the sky as multi colored hot air balloons piloted ny different pilots from various partso of the world participated in this annual gathering. As early as 5am, the 2,500 hectare aviation complex at Clar Economic Zone in Pampanga was already crammedi with excitement. Clusters of hot air balloon participants busily prepare their own balloons for liftoff as they need to take advantage of ... Read full Blog post