North Korea is a land of contradictions. Because of its communist state, tourism is not something that is encouraged. Still you can get into North Korea, but it is not a place for a family vacation. A visit to North Korea will require that you are part of an accepted group.

Myohyangsan

Taking the bus from Pyongyang will bring you to this mountain, waterfall and museum. Because of its communist persuasion, this attraction has the distinction of being untouched by mass tourism as so many treasures of the Orient can attest to. In the summer, this site is the place to be with its abundance of fragrant flowers. Most visit the site because of the two shrines that are considered to be vast areas where you can observe all the presents that have been gifted to the president with an eternal distinction, Kim II Sung.

Paekdusan

This site is home to one of the most stunning vistas that can be found in all of North Korea. It boasts a volcanic mountaintop that features at its center a crater lake that comes with key importance to the Korean people because of its mythical properties. The volcano is now extinct, but its presence is still revered by its denizens.

Panmunjeom

American imperialism is on display at this war memorial to the Korean population. It was here that the end of a long and bloody battle was called to an end and the North Korean people are more than happy to show what interference can do to a country. Coming to Panmunjeom gives the visitor a unique perspective of a war that has always been questioned for its end results.

So if you are an adventurous traveler, then visiting North Korea will not daunt you and you can come away from your experience a little wiser and a lot more thankful.

Sri Lanka is a magical place. It is an island that can be found off the coastal southeastern region of India. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, it is a sovereign and independent nation that enjoys its freedom.

There are three major languages spoken in Sri Lanka; English, Tamil and Sinhala. The main religion of this island nation is Buddhism with at least 70% of the population practicing it. Hinduism, Christianity and Islam are also practiced here.

The lowlands boast a tropical climate and the central hills are cooler. The monsoon season lasts from the months of May to July in the southwest, and in the northeastern region, the monsoon season takes place in the months of December and January. The climate of Sri Lanka makes it a vacation destination that can be visited any time of year.

Tip #1- The climate is that of the tropics, so be sure to pack plenty of cotton clothing. If you will be traveling to the lowlands, it is recommended you wear cool, comfortable attire. If you are traveling to the hill country, light clothing made of wool will be appreciated. Bring a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun.

Tip #2- When entering places of worship in Sri Lanka, you are advised to wear the proper clothing. In the Buddhist temples, your body should be fully covered. Bare shoulders and backs as well as shorts or skirts are not the normal mode of dress for worshipers or visitors. When you enter the shrines of the Hindus and Buddhists, you will be asked to remove all head coverings and footwear.

Tip #3- When you arrive at the Sri Lanka airport, be sure you visit the Travel Counter. It is open 24 hrs. a day and the staff is more than happy to assist those that are visiting their island home. You can also find travel information from centers at #80, Colombo 3 that can be found across from the Hotel Lanka Oberoi, Galle Road and at Kandy.