Madeira
Imagine exploring Madeira Visit Madeira, an island where stunning cliffs meet the ocean and green valleys stretch as far as the eye can see. Walk through the cobblestone streets, surrounded by a rich history, and enjoy a glass of the famous Madeira wine.
From the incredible views at Pico do Arieiro to the peaceful Laurisilva forests, Madeira is a place where nature and culture come together beautifully. It’s the perfect getaway for anyone looking to experience breathtaking scenery and a bit of island charm. Video credit to Julia Smirnov
#madeiraisland #visitmadeira #madeiranature #madeiratravel #madeirawine #discovermadeira #madeirabeauty #madeirascenery #madeiraparadise #madeiraadventures #madeiraphotography #madeiraforests #exploremadeira
Merry Orthodox Christmas!
In #Russia, #Christmas is celebrated on January 7th. Many Russian Christmas traditions originated with the pagan culture that predated Christianity in Russia. Long-standing Russian Christmas customs include caroling, fortune-telling, and following a strict Nativity Fast for forty days leading up to Christmas Eve.
Traditionally, Russian Christmas celebrations begin on Christmas Eve, called Сочельник (saCHYELnik). The name Сочельник comes from the word сочиво (SOHchiva), a special meal made from grains (usually wheat), seeds, nuts, honey, and sometimes dried fruit. This meal, also known as кутья (kooTYA), signifies the end of the strict Nativity Fast which is held for forty days. The Nativity Fast is observed until the first star is seen in the evening sky on the night of Сочельник, to symbolize the appearance of the Star of Bethlehem that inspired and led the three wise men to Jesus' home in Jerusalem.
Russian Christmas is spent with family, and is considered a time of forgiveness and love. Thoughtful gifts are given to loved ones, and homes are decorated with figures of angels, stars, and nativity scenes. Many Russians attend a Christmas mass on Christmas Eve.
After dark, once the fast is broken, families sit down for a celebration meal. Traditionally, various pickled items are served, including gherkins, pickled mushrooms, sauerkraut, and pickled apples. Other traditional dishes include pies meat, mushroom, fish, or vegetable fillings. A drink called сбитень (ZBEEtyn'), made with spices and honey, is also served. (сбитень was once the most popular drink in Russia, before tea took over.)
Happy New Year, Travellers! Wishing you and yours a safe and joyous celebration as we ring in 2022. May 2022 take you to places you've never been!
#happynewyear
Today is #WorldTourismDay, and we want to celebrate it with some words that remind us that Your World Awaits! Discover it! It's your journey! It's your memories! Happy World Tourism Day!
#WTD2021 #TravelAndTourism #Tourism #mondaymotivational