Wikitravel - Changes related to "Wikitravel talk:Discover" [en]

Nong Khai

2013-05-22T10:08:37Z

external links to a quest house

Nong Khai

2013-05-22T03:00:53Z

‎Understand:

Japan

2013-05-22T01:27:25Z

‎Buy:

Main Page

2013-05-21T20:09:44Z

Update

User:Maj

2013-05-21T18:49:13Z

Tyen blocked Maj (Talk | contribs) with an expiry time of indefinite (account creation disabled, autoblock disabled) Spambot

Japan

2013-05-21T17:20:38Z

‎Buy

United States of America

2013-05-21T15:17:41Z

‎Major U.S. retail chains: I dispute this. "mall" is too broad. Macy's is still not a wholly national chain, and many large malls in parts of the country don't have them. Certainly lots of smaller malls don't. Overly broad original research

Nong Khai

2013-05-21T07:24:02Z

‎Understand:

Palau

2013-05-21T01:10:45Z

‎Stay healthy:

United States of America

2013-05-20T13:16:48Z

Why was this deleted? Valuable information

Côte d'Ivoire

2013-05-20T08:33:10Z

quickbar, sp. and MoS fixes. Remove some out dated material and vague warningboxes without links to actual government advisories to easily check

Show changes

Côte d'Ivoire

2013-05-20T07:58:50Z

Nong Khai

2013-05-20T07:16:42Z

‎Understand:

Travel topics

2013-05-20T05:37:56Z

‎Cope:

United States of America

2013-05-20T02:58:55Z

‎Climate:

Chernobyl

2013-05-20T01:36:18Z

‎Buy:

Japan

2013-05-19T22:58:16Z

‎Other things:

Previous Destinations of the month

2013-05-19T22:21:32Z

Why was this deleted?

Previous Destinations of the month

2013-05-19T05:04:15Z

‎2012:

Japan

2013-05-18T07:11:23Z

‎Further reading:

Main Page

2013-05-18T00:46:39Z

admin edit

Main Page

2013-05-17T23:33:04Z

Show changes

Japan

2013-05-17T08:37:22Z

‎Eating vegetarian:

Japan

2013-05-17T08:10:49Z

‎Eating vegetarian:

Washington (state)

2013-05-17T01:51:15Z

‎Crime:

Hokkaido

2013-05-16T18:32:22Z

Removed for use of first person pronouns

Hokkaido

2013-05-16T17:21:44Z

‎See & Do:

Kiev

2013-05-16T11:28:03Z

‎Budget:

North Carolina

2013-05-16T00:02:07Z

‎Cities:

@@ Line 7: / Line 7: @@
 [[Image:DSC08272.JPG|thumb|350px|On the banks of the Mekong, with [[Laos]] on the far side]]
-Famed for its lovely position along the '''Mekong River''', '''Nong Khai''' is a bustling Thai town and the main gateway to Laos and Vientiane. It has many beautiful features which attract a considerable number of Thai and Foreign visitors every year, including '''Salakeawku'''[http://www.mutmee.com/030010_sculpture_park.htm] the almost sureal sculpture park; the enormously revered '''Luang Por Phra Sai Buddha Image'''[http://www.mutmee.com/030020_temples.htm] which has a remarkable history; the truly extraordinary '''Phu Phra Bat Historical Park'''[http://www.mutmee.com/040010_historical_park.htm] (though in Udorn Province is easily reached from Nong Khai); and the Thai-Lao Indochina Market called '''Tha Sadej Market'''[http://www.mutmee.com/030030_crafts_beach_fishing.htm] which occupies many, many streets in the centre of the town. A large part of the centre of the town, including along the river bank has been pedestrianized. The Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, opened on April 8, 1994, was the first bridge across the lower Mekong, and the second on the full course of the Mekong.
+Famed for its lovely position along the '''Mekong River''', '''Nong Khai''' is a bustling Thai town and the main gateway to Laos and Vientiane. It has many beautiful features which attract a considerable number of Thai and Foreign visitors every year, including '''Salakeawku''' the almost sureal sculpture park; the enormously revered '''Luang Por Phra Sai Buddha Image''' which has a remarkable history; the truly extraordinary '''Phu Phra Bat Historical Park''' (though in Udorn Province is easily reached from Nong Khai); and the Thai-Lao Indochina Market called '''Tha Sadej Market''' which occupies many, many streets in the centre of the town. A large part of the centre of the town, including along the river bank has been pedestrianized. The Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, opened on April 8, 1994, was the first bridge across the lower Mekong, and the second on the full course of the Mekong.
 Nong Khai is an excellent example of the '''Isaan Culture''' which dominates the north east of Thailand and which has a very strong identity that is very different from the culture of the centre, north and south of Thailand. Famed for its warmth, kindness and friendliness, the Isaan language and culture has been drawn from twin Thai and Lao roots. Today, the very distinctive Isaan culture is a source of tremendous pride to those who are born into it. Most locals speak both Thai and the local dialect called [[Isaan phrasebook|Isaan]], which is closely related to both the Thai and Lao languages. Many locals also speak a little bit of English, some Vietnamese and some Chinese.

@@ Line 7: / Line 7: @@
 [[Image:DSC08272.JPG|thumb|350px|On the banks of the Mekong, with [[Laos]] on the far side]]
-Famed for its lovely position along the '''Mekong River''', '''Nong Khai''' is a bustling Thai town and the main gateway to Laos and Vientiane. It has many beautiful features which attract a considerable number of Thai and Foreign visitors every year, including '''Salakeawku''' the almost sureal sculpture park; the enormously revered '''Luang Por Phra Sai Buddha Image''' which has a remarkable history; the truly extraordinary '''Phu Phra Bat Historical Park''' (though in Udorn Province is easily reached from Nong Khai); and the Thai-Lao Indochina Market called '''Tha Sadej Market''' which occupies many, many streets in the centre of the town. A large part of the centre of the town, including along the river bank has been pedestrianized. The Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, opened on April 8, 1994, was the first bridge across the lower Mekong, and the second on the full course of the Mekong.
+Famed for its lovely position along the '''Mekong River''', '''Nong Khai''' is a bustling Thai town and the main gateway to Laos and Vientiane. It has many beautiful features which attract a considerable number of Thai and Foreign visitors every year, including '''Salakeawku'''[http://www.mutmee.com/030010_sculpture_park.htm] the almost sureal sculpture park; the enormously revered '''Luang Por Phra Sai Buddha Image'''[http://www.mutmee.com/030020_temples.htm] which has a remarkable history; the truly extraordinary '''Phu Phra Bat Historical Park'''[http://www.mutmee.com/040010_historical_park.htm] (though in Udorn Province is easily reached from Nong Khai); and the Thai-Lao Indochina Market called '''Tha Sadej Market'''[http://www.mutmee.com/030030_crafts_beach_fishing.htm] which occupies many, many streets in the centre of the town. A large part of the centre of the town, including along the river bank has been pedestrianized. The Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, opened on April 8, 1994, was the first bridge across the lower Mekong, and the second on the full course of the Mekong.
 Nong Khai is an excellent example of the '''Isaan Culture''' which dominates the north east of Thailand and which has a very strong identity that is very different from the culture of the centre, north and south of Thailand. Famed for its warmth, kindness and friendliness, the Isaan language and culture has been drawn from twin Thai and Lao roots. Today, the very distinctive Isaan culture is a source of tremendous pride to those who are born into it. Most locals speak both Thai and the local dialect called [[Isaan phrasebook|Isaan]], which is closely related to both the Thai and Lao languages. Many locals also speak a little bit of English, some Vietnamese and some Chinese.

@@ Line 682: / Line 682: @@
 Japan is fundamentally a '''cash''' society. Although most stores and hotels serving foreign customers take '''credit cards''', many businesses such as cafés, bars, grocery stores, and even smaller hotels and inns ''do not''. Even businesses that do take cards often have a minimum charge as well as a surcharge, although this practice is disappearing. The most popular credit card in Japan is JCB, and due to an alliance between Discover and JCB, Discover cards can be used anywhere that accepts JCB. This means that Discover cards are more widely accepted than Visa/Mastercard/American Express. Most merchants are not familiar with this, but it will work if you can convince them to try!
-The Japanese usually carry around large quantities of cash — it is quite safe to do so and is almost a necessity, especially in smaller towns and more isolated areas. In major convenience store chains and at many vending machines and public transportation ticket barriers, people can also used a number of RFID-based payment systems like Suica, Pasmo, QuickPay, Eddy and others in Tokyo. These are generally credit-card sized charge cards that can be recharged in exchange for cash (in 1000 yen increments), either at metro ticket vending machines or at covenience store cash registers for no additional fee. A Pasmo card is a very convenient way to pay for everyday purchases and can be obtained for a 500 yen deposit and the initial charge amount from ticket vending machines at Tokyo subway stations. The remaining charge and half of the deposit is refunded upon returning the card to station staff. Note that some of these systems like Suica and Pasmo were intended primarily for public transport use and cannot be used in other regions of Japan, which might have their own incompatible equivalents.
+The Japanese usually carry around large quantities of cash — it is quite safe to do so and is almost a necessity, especially in smaller towns and more isolated areas. In major convenience store chains and at many vending machines and public transportation ticket barriers, people can also used a number of '''NFC-based payment systems''' like Suica, Pasmo, QuickPay, Eddy and others in Tokyo. These are generally credit-card sized charge cards that can be recharged in exchange for cash (in 1000 yen increments), either at metro ticket vending machines or at covenience store cash registers for no additional fee. A '''Pasmo''' card is a very convenient way to pay for everyday purchases and can be obtained for a 500 yen deposit and the initial charge amount from ticket vending machines at Tokyo subway stations. The remaining charge and half of the deposit is refunded upon returning the card to station staff. Note that some of these systems like Suica and Pasmo were intended primarily for public transport use and cannot be used in other regions of Japan, which might have their own incompatible equivalents.
 Some people also use '''mobile phones''' to pay for their purchases where the mobile phone either has a built-in chip that allows it to function like a stored value card (e.g. Suica) or like credit cards whereby the cost is billed to them with their mobile phone bill. However, a Japanese phone and SIM card is required to make use of this service so it's typically not available to foreigners on short visits. If you already have a Japanese phone, be aware that initializing the prepaid card on a rental SIM will incur data charges, though this will most likely be less than the cost of a physical card. This can be avoided by using WiFi. Mobile phone-based stored value systems can be charged either by credit card or at convenience store cash registers.

@@ Line 35: / Line 35: @@
 {{DotMOTBP
-| DotMImage=[[File:Park Güell 02.jpg|none|300px]]
+| DotMImage=[[File:La Ramba night.png|none|300px]]
 | DotMBlurb= '''[[Barcelona]]''' is [[Spain]]'s second largest city and the capital and largest city of [[Catalonia]]. This beautiful city, located directly on the northeastern Mediterranean coast of Spain, has a rich history dating back at least 2,000 years. Barcelona is full of what European cities are known for- '''outdoor markets, restaurants, shops, museums and churches'''-and is fantastic for walking with an extensive and reliable Metro system for more far-flung destinations. The core center of town, focused around the ''Ciutat Vella'' ("Old City") provides days of enjoyment for those looking to experience the life of Barcelona while the beaches the city was built upon provide sun and relaxation during the long periods of agreeably warm weather. <small>([[Barcelona|more...]])</small>

@@ Line 676: / Line 676: @@
 The Japanese currency is the '''Japanese yen''', abbreviated ¥ (or '''JPY''' in foreign exchange contexts).  As of July 2012, the yen hovers at around 79 to the US dollar, although the yen has drastically weakened to the rate of roughly 93 yen to the US dollar as of February 2013.  The symbol 円 (pronounced ''en'') is used in the Japanese language itself.
-* '''Coins''': 1 (silver), 5 (gold with a center hole), 10 (copper), 50 (silver with a center hole), 100 (silver), and 500 yen. There are two ¥500 coins, distinguishable by their color. (The new ones are gold, the old ones are silver).
+* '''Coins''': 1 (silver), 5 (gold with a center hole), 10 (copper), 50 (silver with a center hole), 100 (silver), and 500 yen. There are two ¥500 coins, distinguishable by their color. (The new ones are gold, the old ones are silver). Except for the 5 yen coin, all coins have their value in Arabic numerals on them. If you can't find the value, it's the 5 yen coin.
-* '''Bills''': 1,000 (blue), 2,000 (green), 5,000 (purple), and 10,000 yen (brown). ¥2,000 bills are rare. New designs for all the bills except ¥2,000 were introduced in November 2004, so there are now two versions in circulation. Most merchants will not object to receiving a ¥10,000 bill even for a small purchase.
+* '''Bills''': 1,000 (blue), 2,000 (green), 5,000 (purple), and 10,000 yen (brown). New designs for all the bills except ¥2,000 were introduced in November 2004, so there are now two versions in circulation, although you are unlikely to see anything but the new 1,000, 5,000 and 10,000 yen bills and will probably not see the 2,000 yen bill at all. Due to its extreme rarity a 2,000 yen bill might be thought of as a collector's item. Most merchants will not object to receiving a ¥10,000 bill even for a small purchase.
-Japan is still fundamentally a '''cash''' society. Although most stores and hotels serving foreign customers take '''credit cards''', many businesses such as cafés, bars, grocery stores, and even smaller hotels and inns ''do not''. Even businesses that do take cards often have a minimum charge as well as a surcharge, although this practice is disappearing. The most popular credit card in Japan is JCB, and due to an alliance between Discover and JCB, Discover cards can be used anywhere that accepts JCB. This means that Discover cards are more widely accepted than Visa/Mastercard/American Express. Most merchants are not familiar with this, but it will work if you can convince them to try!
+Japan is fundamentally a '''cash''' society. Although most stores and hotels serving foreign customers take '''credit cards''', many businesses such as cafés, bars, grocery stores, and even smaller hotels and inns ''do not''. Even businesses that do take cards often have a minimum charge as well as a surcharge, although this practice is disappearing. The most popular credit card in Japan is JCB, and due to an alliance between Discover and JCB, Discover cards can be used anywhere that accepts JCB. This means that Discover cards are more widely accepted than Visa/Mastercard/American Express. Most merchants are not familiar with this, but it will work if you can convince them to try!
-The Japanese usually carry around large quantities of cash — it is quite safe to do so and is almost a necessity, especially in smaller towns and more isolated areas. In many cities, the Japanese can also use '''mobile phones''' to pay for their purchases where mobile phones function like credit cards and the cost is billed to them with their mobile phone bill. However, a Japanese phone and SIM card is required to make use of this service so it's typically not available to foreigners on short visits. If you already have a Japanese phone, be aware that initializing the prepaid card on a rental SIM will incur data charges, though this will most likely be less than the cost of a physical card. This can be avoided by using WiFi.
+The Japanese usually carry around large quantities of cash — it is quite safe to do so and is almost a necessity, especially in smaller towns and more isolated areas. In major convenience store chains and at many vending machines and public transportation ticket barriers, people can also used a number of RFID-based payment systems like Suica, Pasmo, QuickPay, Eddy and others in Tokyo. These are generally credit-card sized charge cards that can be recharged in exchange for cash (in 1000 yen increments), either at metro ticket vending machines or at covenience store cash registers for no additional fee. A Pasmo card is a very convenient way to pay for everyday purchases and can be obtained for a 500 yen deposit and the initial charge amount from ticket vending machines at Tokyo subway stations. The remaining charge and half of the deposit is refunded upon returning the card to station staff. Note that some of these systems like Suica and Pasmo were intended primarily for public transport use and cannot be used in other regions of Japan, which might have their own incompatible equivalents.
 Almost any major bank in Japan will provide foreign '''currency exchange''' from US dollars (cash and traveller's checks). Rates are basically the same whichever bank you choose. Having to wait 15-30 min, depending on how busy the branch gets, is not unusual. Other currencies accepted are euros; Swiss francs; Canadian, Australian, and New Zealand dollars; and British pounds. Among other Asian currencies, Singapore dollars seem to be the most widely accepted, followed by the Korean won and Chinese yuan.
@@ Line 690: / Line 692: @@
 Japanese ATMs, known locally as '''cash corners''' (キャッシュコーナー ''kyasshu kōnā''), generally ''do not'' accept foreign cards and the availability of credit card advances, known as '''cashing''' (キャッシング ''kyasshingu''), is spotty. The major exceptions are:
-* Over 12,000 Japanese '''7-Eleven stores''' [http://www.sevenbank.co.jp/intlcard/index2.html] with ATMs accept foreign cards for cash withdrawals. Accepted cards include Mastercard, Maestro, Visa, American Express, JCB and UnionPay, and ATM cards with the Cirrus and Plus logos. These are the most useful as they are everywhere and are accessible 24/7.
+* Over 12,000 Japanese '''7-Eleven stores''' [http://www.sevenbank.co.jp/intlcard/index2.html] with ATMs accept foreign cards for cash withdrawals. Accepted cards include Visa, American Express, Discover, Diner's Club, JCB and UnionPay, and ATM cards with the Cirrus and Plus logos. These are the most useful as they are everywhere and are accessible 24/7. However, as Seven Bank's website mentions, the presence of one or more of the above-mentioned logos does not guarantee your card will be accepted. It is best to use this as a "might work" option and to bring a credit card to use at a JP Bank ATM.
-* '''JP Bank''' (ゆうちょ ''Yū-cho''), formerly the Postal Savings Bank and hence found in almost every post office, which in turn has a branch in almost every village. Most postal ATMs provide instructions in English as well as Japanese. Plus, Cirrus, Visa Electron, Maestro, and UnionPay are accepted, and you can do credit card advances on Visa, Mastercard, Amex and Diners Club. Your PIN must be 6 digits or less.
+* '''JP Bank''' (ゆうちょ ''Yū-cho''), formerly the Postal Savings Bank and hence found in almost every post office, which in turn has a branch in almost every village. Most postal ATMs provide instructions in English as well as Japanese. Plus, Cirrus, Visa Electron, Maestro, and UnionPay are accepted, and you can do credit card advances on Visa, Mastercard, Amex and Diners Club. Your PIN must be 6 digits or less. You might have to select the English menu in order to use foreign cards.
 * '''Citibank''', which has a limited network (see [http://www.citibank.co.jp/en/banking/branch_atm here] for a list) but does have ATMs at the major airports.
@@ Line 734: / Line 736: @@
 '''Prepaid electronic cards''' are quite popular in Japan for small purchases. There are cards for train fares, convenience store purchases, and public telephones, though they aren't interchangeable.
-There is a '''5% consumption tax''' on all sales in Japan. As of April 2004, the tax must now be included in all displayed prices (which is why so many prices are awkward amounts like ¥105 or ¥525), but some stores still ''also'' display tax-excluded prices, so pay attention.  The word ''zeinuki'' (税抜) means tax-excluded, ''zeikomi'' (税込) means tax-included. If you cannot find out any words in the price card, most of them are tax-included.
+There is a '''5% consumption tax''' on all sales in Japan. As of April 2004, the tax must now be included in all displayed prices, which is why so many prices are awkward amounts like ¥105 (including so-called 100 yen stores) or ¥525, but some stores still ''also'' display tax-excluded prices, so pay attention.  The word ''zeinuki'' (税抜) means tax-excluded, ''zeikomi'' (税込) means tax-included. If you cannot find out any words in the price card, most of them are tax-included.
 Always keep a sizeable stack of reserve money in Japan, as if you run out for any reason (wallet stolen, credit card blocked, etc), it can be difficult to have any wired to you.  Western Union has a very limited presence even in the larger metropolitan areas (their agreement with Suruga Bank ended in 2009, and they have just started a new agreement with Daikokuya as of April 2011), banks will not allow you to open accounts without local ID, and even international postal money orders require proof of a residential address in Japan.
@@ Line 747: / Line 749: @@
 Japan has a reputation for being extremely expensive &mdash; and it can be. However, many things have become significantly cheaper in the last decade. Japan need not be outrageously expensive if you plan carefully and in fact, is probably cheaper than [[Australia]] and most European Union countries for basic expenses. For long-distance travel, in particular, the Japan Rail Pass, Japan Bus Pass, and Visit Japan flights (see [[#Get around|Get around]]) can save you a bundle.
-As rough guidelines, you will find it very difficult to travel on less than ¥5,000 per day (but if you plan carefully, it is certainly possible) and you can expect a degree of comfort only if you pay 10,000. Staying in posh hotels, eating fancy meals or just traveling long-distance will easily double this yet again. Typical prices for moderate budget travel would be ¥5,000 for hotel, ¥2,000 for meals, and ¥2,000 again for entry fees and local transport.
+As rough guidelines, you will find it possible to travel on less than ¥5,000 per day, especially if you do not have expensive tastes, are willing to stay in hostels rather than hotels, and make no use of taxis, high-speed airport connections or the Shinkansen. Staying in posh hotels, eating fancy meals or just traveling long-distance will easily double this. Typical prices for moderate budget travel would be ¥5,000 for a hotel or ¥2,500 for a hostel, ¥2,000 for meals, and ¥2,000 again for entry fees and local transport.
-However, if you find yourself a little short on cash, you can get your essential items in one of the many ¥100 shops (百円ショップ ''hyaku-en shoppu'') located in most cities. '''Daiso''' [http://www.daiso-sangyo.co.jp/english/index.html] is the Japan's largest ¥100 shop chain, with 2,500 shops across Japan. Other large chains are '''Can Do''' (キャンドゥ), '''Seria''' (セリア), and '''Silk''' (シルク). There are also convenience-store-like ¥100 shops such as ''SHOP99'' and ''Lawson Store 100'' where you can buy sandwiches, drinks, and vegetables in addition to selected ¥100 items.
+However, if you find yourself a little short on cash, you can get your essential items in one of the many ¥100 shops (百円店 ''hyaku-en ten'') located in most cities. '''Daiso''' [http://www.daiso-sangyo.co.jp/english/index.html] is the Japan's largest ¥100 shop chain, with 2,500 shops across Japan. Other large chains are '''Can Do''' (キャンドゥ), '''Seria''' (セリア), and '''Silk''' (シルク). There are also convenience-store-like ¥100 shops such as ''SHOP99'' and ''Lawson Store 100'' where you can buy sandwiches, drinks, and vegetables in addition to selected ¥100 items.
 ====Tips for budget shopping====
@@ Line 763: / Line 765: @@
 When making tax free purchases or tax refund claims, counter staff would staple a piece of paper in your passport, which you should keep with you until you leave Japan. This piece of paper is to be surrendered to the customs counter at your point of departure just before you pass through immigration and checks may be done to ensure that you are bringing the items out of Japan.
-Despite the saying that Japanese cities never sleep, retail hours are surprisingly limited. Opening hours of most shops are typically 10AM-8PM, though most shops are open on weekends and public holidays except New Year, and close on one day a week. Restaurants typically stay open until late at night, though smoking would usually be allowed after 8PM so those who can't stand cigarette smoke should have your meals before then.
+Despite the saying that Japanese cities never sleep, retail hours are surprisingly limited by North American standards. Opening hours of most shops are typically 10AM-8PM, though most shops are open on weekends and public holidays except New Year, and close on one day a week. Restaurants typically stay open until late at night, though smoking would usually be allowed after 8PM so those who can't stand cigarette smoke should have your meals before then.
-However, you will always find something you could need to buy at any time of day. Japan is crawling with 24/7 convenience stores (コンビニ ''konbini''), such as 7-Eleven, Family Mart, Lawson, Circle K, and Sunkus. They often offer a much wider range of products than convenience stores in the US or Europe, sometimes have a small ATM and are often open all day all week! Many convenience stores also offer services such as fax, ''takkyubin'' luggage delivery, a limited range of postal services, payment services for bills (including topping up international phone cards such as Brastel) and some online retailers (e.g. Amazon.jp), and ticket sales for events, concerts and cinemas.
+However, you will always find something you could need to buy at any time of day. Japan is crawling with 24/7 convenience stores (コンビニ ''konbini''), such as 7-Eleven, Family Mart, Lawson, Circle K, and Sunkus. In central Tokyo you will never be more than 400 meters away from a convenience store. They often offer a much wider range of products than convenience stores in the US or Europe, often have a small ATM and are often open all day all week (unless they are part of a larger mall that has a closing hour)! Many convenience stores also offer services such as fax, ''takkyubin'' luggage delivery, a range of non-international postal services, payment services for bills (including topping up international phone cards such as Brastel) and some online retailers (e.g. Amazon.jp), and ticket sales for events, concerts and cinemas.
 Of course, establishments related to night life such as karaoke lounges and bars stay open well into the night: even in small towns it is easy to find an izakaya open until 5 am. Pachinko parlours are obliged to close at 11 pm.

@@ Line 903: / Line 903: @@
 ===Major U.S. retail chains===
-According to Deloitte, the largest fashion goods retailer in both the U.S. and the entire world is Macy's, Inc., which operates over 800 Macy's midrange department stores in 45 states, Puerto Rico, and Guam, plus a smaller number of upscale Bloomingdale's stores. In other words, nearly every mall you visit will have a Macy's.
+According to Deloitte, the largest fashion goods retailer in both the U.S. and the entire world is Macy's, Inc., which operates over 800 Macy's midrange department stores in 45 states, Puerto Rico, and Guam, plus a smaller number of upscale Bloomingdale's stores.
 Nordstrom is another upscale department store that is also found in most states. Other midrange stores include Kohl's, Sears, and JCPenney, while the lower end is dominated by Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and Old Navy. General discount stores like Walmart, Target, and Kmart are ubiquitous. Many discount stores have either a small grocery section or a full supermarket; in fact, Walmart is the country's largest seller of groceries, as well as being its largest retail chain. The two largest supermarket chains are Kroger and Safeway, but both operate under legacy regional nameplates in many states. The dominant warehouse club chain is Costco, whose biggest competitor is Sam's Club (operated by Walmart).

@@ Line 7: / Line 7: @@
 [[Image:DSC08272.JPG|thumb|350px|On the banks of the Mekong, with [[Laos]] on the far side]]
-Famed for its beautiful position along the Mekong River, Nong Khai is a bustling Thai town and the main gateway to Laos and Vientiane. It has many beautiful features which attract a considerable number of Thai and Foreign visitors every year, including the enormously revered Luang Por Phra Sai Buddha Image which has an extraordinary history, Salakeawkoo the remarkable sculpture park, and the fascinating Thai-Lao Indochina Market called Tha Sadej Market which occupies many, many streets in the centre of the town. A large part of the centre of the town, including along the river bank has been pedestrianized.
+Famed for its lovely position along the '''Mekong River''', '''Nong Khai''' is a bustling Thai town and the main gateway to Laos and Vientiane. It has many beautiful features which attract a considerable number of Thai and Foreign visitors every year, including '''Salakeawku''' the almost sureal sculpture park; the enormously revered '''Luang Por Phra Sai Buddha Image''' which has a remarkable history; the truly extraordinary '''Phu Phra Bat Historical Park''' (though in Udorn Province is easily reached from Nong Khai); and the Thai-Lao Indochina Market called '''Tha Sadej Market''' which occupies many, many streets in the centre of the town. A large part of the centre of the town, including along the river bank has been pedestrianized. The Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, opened on April 8, 1994, was the first bridge across the lower Mekong, and the second on the full course of the Mekong.
-Nong Khai is an excellent example of the Isaan Culture which dominates the north east of Thailand and which has a very strong identity that is very distinct from the culture of the centre, north and south of Thailand. Famed for its warmth, kindness and friendliness, the Isaan language and culture has been drawn from twin Thai and Lao roots. Today, the very distinctive Isaan culture is a source of tremendous pride to those who are born into it. Most locals speak both Thai and the local dialect called [[Isaan phrasebook|Isaan]], which is closely related to both the Thai and Lao languages. Many locals also speak a little bit of English, some Vietnamese and some Chinese.
+Nong Khai is an excellent example of the '''Isaan Culture''' which dominates the north east of Thailand and which has a very strong identity that is very different from the culture of the centre, north and south of Thailand. Famed for its warmth, kindness and friendliness, the Isaan language and culture has been drawn from twin Thai and Lao roots. Today, the very distinctive Isaan culture is a source of tremendous pride to those who are born into it. Most locals speak both Thai and the local dialect called [[Isaan phrasebook|Isaan]], which is closely related to both the Thai and Lao languages. Many locals also speak a little bit of English, some Vietnamese and some Chinese.
 Nong Khai played a central role in the Yunnanese (Chinese) Hor Rebellions of the 1880's. Later it was under French local rule until 1932, and some examples of French architecture remain. During the Vietnam war, it became home to many Lao, Vietnamese and Chinese immigrants who have added their own culture and entrepreneurial skills to the great benefit of the town.
@@ Line 51: / Line 51: @@
 == See ==
 ===Sala Keoku===
 [[Image:Buddha_Naga2_Square.JPG|thumb|Buddha meditating under the Nagas, Sala Kaew Ku]]
-Nong Khai has one sight that cannot be missed - '''Sala Kaew Ku''' (or '''Sala Keoku''', also known as ''Wat Khaek''), located 6km east of Nong Khai on Highway 212 (there is signage on the road indicating the direcion to Sala Kaew Ku, which will be spelt in many different ways on different signs). It's on the side of the road going towards Nong Khai (you'll need to make a U-Turn if coming from Nong Khai). Once you turn off the highway (into Salakaewkoo Rd.), the site itself is about 1-1.5 km away on the left.
+Nong Khai has one sight that cannot be missed - '''Sala Kaew Ku'''[http://www.mutmee.com/030010_sculpture_park.htm] (or '''Sala Keoku''', also known as ''Wat Khaek''), located 6km east of Nong Khai on Highway 212 (there is signage on the road indicating the direcion to Sala Kaew Ku, which will be spelt in many different ways on different signs). It's on the side of the road going towards Nong Khai (you'll need to make a U-Turn if coming from Nong Khai). Once you turn off the highway (into Salakaewkoo Rd.), the site itself is about 1-1.5 km away on the left.
 This utterly bizarre park of massive sculptures (some over 20m tall) is the handiwork of the mystic Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat, who bought the land in 1978 when he was kicked out of his native [[Laos]] - a similar park of his earlier work remains near [[Vientiane#Get out|Vientiane]]. Synthesizing Buddhism and Hindu ideologies, Buddhas, many-armed goddesses, [[naga]] snakes and all sorts of human-animal hybrids dominate the scenery. Entry is 20 baht for Thais and Foreigners (July/August 2011).
@@ Line 177: / Line 177: @@
 * <sleep name="Mekong Guesthouse" address="" directions="" phone="" url="" checkin="" checkout="12:00" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax=""> by the Mekong River on the bridge side of the market has rather expensive rooms with air-con but they also have a dorm for 150 baht with hot shower and TV. There's a good chance of being the only person in there.</sleep>
-* <sleep name="Mut Mee Guesthouse" address="" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.mutmee.com" checkin="" checkout="12:00" price="220B-800B" lat="17.88349519" long="102.74190903" email="" fax="">by the Mekong River west of Thasadej market. Long-established and understandably popular. In a large tree filled garden overlooking the river, it has both simple and higher quality rooms surrounded by hammocks and a variety of seating. It has a boat called the Nagarina which cruises on the river at sunset. Mut Mee owns the Gaia bar mentioned above. Yoga & meditation classes are also available. Large range of good food and drinks. GPS coordinates: N 17° 53.010 E 102° 44.515</sleep>
+* <sleep name="Mut Mee Guesthouse" address="" directions="" phone="042 460 717" url="http://www.mutmee.com" checkin="" checkout="11:00" price="220B-800B" lat="17.88349519" long="102.74190903" email="" fax="">by the Mekong River west of Thasadej market. Long-established and understandably popular. In a large tree filled garden overlooking the river, it has both simple and higher quality rooms surrounded by hammocks and a variety of seating. It has a boat called the Nagarina which cruises on the river at sunset. Mut Mee owns the Gaia bar mentioned above. Yoga & meditation classes are also available. Large range of good food and drinks. GPS coordinates: N 17° 53.010 E 102° 44.515</sleep>
 * <sleep name="Pantawee Hotel" alt="โรงแรมพรรณทวี" address="1049 Haisoke Rd" directions="It is about 1.5 km from the bus station. Turn left as you exit onto the main road." phone="+66 42 411 568" email="" fax="" url="" checkin="" checkout="" price="500-700 baht"> Rooms are clean and well-looked after, with air-con and a free computer terminal in the 700 baht rooms at the rear. Restaurant on-site, and it is not too expensive. English is spoken at the desk, and guests have free English language daily newspapers at the restaurant. Staff are very competent and friendly.</sleep>

@@ Line 194: / Line 194: @@
 ==Stay healthy==
 [[Image:HelensReef.jpg|thumb|240px|The remote atoll of Helen Reef]]
-'''Saltwater Crocodiles''' (Crocodylus porosus) still exist in Palau's mangroves and in the beautiful '''Rock Islands''' and can potentially be found anywhere on the island. Despite their fearsome and, in some areas, very justified reputation, here they rarely grow to the immense size that they do in Australia and New Guinea. There was only one fatal attack by a crocodile in Palau within recorded history and that occurred in 1965. The biggest crocodile in Palau's history was 14', 2" in length - large, but this is an average size for saltwater crocodiles in most other countries. The rarity of attacks probably stems from the fact that there are no more than 450 adult individuals currently on the island. Snorkeling and scuba diving are very popular in Palau and there has never in recent history been a report of an attack on a tourist. Judging from a recent survey, it appears crocodiles are quite unjustly hated by the locals, in harsh contrast to the worship they are given by the indigenous peoples of Australia, New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. The reasons for this are unclear.
+'''Saltwater Crocodiles''' (Crocodylus porosus) still exist in Palau's mangroves and in the beautiful '''Rock Islands''' and can potentially be found anywhere on the island. Despite their fearsome and, in some areas, very justified reputation, here they rarely grow to the immense size that they do in Australia and New Guinea. There was only one fatal attack by a crocodile in Palau within recorded history and that occurred in 1965. The biggest crocodile in Palau's history was 14', 2" in length - large, but this is an average size for saltwater crocodiles in most other countries. The rarity of attacks probably stems from the fact that there are no more than 450 adult individuals currently on the island. Snorkeling and scuba diving are very popular in Palau and there has never in recent history been a report of an attack on a tourist. Judging from a recent survey, it appears crocodiles are quite unjustly hated by the locals, in harsh contrast to the worship they are given by the indigenous peoples of Australia, New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. The reasons for this is that crocodiles are a delicacy to some native islanders.
 '''Bull Sharks''' are common in the coastal waters and estuaries, so caution must always be taken while scuba diving or snorkeling

@@ Line 31: / Line 31: @@
 [[Image:Grand Tetons Wyoming USA.jpg|thumb|[[Grand Teton National Park|Grand Tetons]], [[Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|Rocky Mountains]], [[Wyoming]] ]]
 ===History===
@@ Line 73: / Line 90: @@
 During the latter half of the 20th century, U.S. retailers pioneered many innovative concepts that later spread around the world, including inventory bar codes to ease the tedium of accurately tallying purchases, "big box" chain stores, factory outlet stores, warehouse club stores, and modern shopping centers.  American consumer culture, as well as Hollywood movies and many forms of popular music, books, and art, all established the United States as the cultural center of the world.  American universities benefited dramatically from the "military-industrial complex" that developed during the Cold War and became the most prestigious academic institutions in the world, rivaled only by a handful of universities in Europe and Asia.
 ===Culture===

@@ Line 15: / Line 15: @@
 | callingcode=+225
 }}
+{{warningbox|Côte d'Ivoire experiences periodic political unrest and violence in northern regions, and it is recommended to contact your embassy or consult other travelers about the present situation prior to travel inland. The UK's Foreign and Commonwealth office as well as the U.S. State Department advises against '''all travel''' to Côte d'Ivoire at this time. (Updated July 2012)}}
 '''Côte d'Ivoire''' [http://tourismeci.org] (''Ivory Coast'') is a country in [[West Africa]]. It has a southerly facing North Atlantic Ocean coast, and is surrounded by [[Ghana]] to the east, [[Liberia]] to the west, [[Guinea]] to the northwest, [[Mali]] to the north, and [[Burkina Faso]] to the northeast.

@@ Line 187: / Line 187: @@
 * [[Laundry]]
 * [[Naturism|Naturism/Nudism]]
 * [[Respect]]
 * [[Smoking]]

@@ Line 103: / Line 103: @@
 ==Buy==
-Your tour will probably include food, but you're advised to bring your own snacks and drinks. However, some tours let you visit the only shop in Chernobyl where you can buy a beer for your meal. By the end of the tour, you just might need it.
+Your tour will probably include food, but you're advised to bring your own snacks and drinks. However, some tours let you visit the only shop in Chernobyl where you can buy a beer for your meal. By the end of the tour, you just might need it. There is other alcohol sold there, too. In fact a liter of vodka can be had for only a few dollars. However, it is worth stocking up on a few bottle of water before you leave Kiev, because you might not go to the shop until the end of your tour.
 If you get access to the Chernobyl administration centre, you will be able to buy souvenirs, such as books detailing the disaster.

@@ Line 1,534: / Line 1,534: @@
 * As in [[Germany]], '''World War II''' is a touchy and complicated topic.
-* Like in [[India]] and [[China]], swastikas are Buddhist symbols representing good luck and do not represent Nazism or anti-Semitism. As such, Western visitors should not feel offended seeing a swastika in Buddhist temples or in their host's home.
+* Like in [[India]], [[China]] and [[Taiwan], swastikas are Buddhist symbols representing good luck and do not represent Nazism or anti-Semitism. As such, Western visitors should not feel offended seeing a swastika in Buddhist temples or in their host's home.
 ===Gay and lesbian travelers===

@@ Line 36: / Line 36: @@
 | valign="top" | [[File:Rovaniemi pajakyla 2.jpg|thumb| [[Rovaniemi]], [[Finland]]]]
 |-
+! July
 ! August
 ! September

@@ Line 143: / Line 143: @@
 * Culture Shock: Japan (ISBN 1558688528). A part of the 'Culture Shock' series, this is an excellent overview of the culture and lifestyle of the Japanese. A good resource for a long or work-related stay in [[Japan]] or even for interaction with Japanese people.
-* All-You-Can Japan (ISBN 1453666354), by Josh Shulman is a unique travel guide to Japan that offers a wise and economical travel strategy rather than references to various points of interest. The author was born and raised in Japan, and writes this short guide in a casual, easy-to-read language.Yarrak var
+* All-You-Can Japan (ISBN 1453666354), by Josh Shulman is a unique travel guide to Japan that offers a wise and economical travel strategy rather than references to various points of interest. The author was born and raised in Japan, and writes this short guide in a casual, easy-to-read language.
 ==Regions==

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:10, 17 May 2013
Line 1,035:		Line 1,035:

	The number of vegetarian restaurants and even vegetarian food festivals (such as the Tokyo VegeFood Festa that takes place in the autumn) are increasing. Some vegetarians have been networking to help each other find suitable places to eat. For example, since 2006, a vegan meet-up group in Tokyo has been holding monthly buffets at local restaurants. Vegetarians in Tokyo or travelers passing through, can find out about the feast at the vegan meet-up page [http://www.meetup.com/vegan-389/]. The Happy Cow is a website [http://www.happycow.net/] that provides information about vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Japan and all over the world. They now have an excellent free app for the iOS and Android systems [http://www.happycow.net/mobile.html].		The number of vegetarian restaurants and even vegetarian food festivals (such as the Tokyo VegeFood Festa that takes place in the autumn) are increasing. Some vegetarians have been networking to help each other find suitable places to eat. For example, since 2006, a vegan meet-up group in Tokyo has been holding monthly buffets at local restaurants. Vegetarians in Tokyo or travelers passing through, can find out about the feast at the vegan meet-up page [http://www.meetup.com/vegan-389/]. The Happy Cow is a website [http://www.happycow.net/] that provides information about vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Japan and all over the world. They now have an excellent free app for the iOS and Android systems [http://www.happycow.net/mobile.html].
		+
		+	[[File:earthdayFOODstalls.jpg]]

	==Drink==		==Drink==

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:32, 16 May 2013
Line 139:		Line 139:

	Hokkaido's other major attractions are flower gardens, high-quality agriculture and seafood, hot springs, and powder skiing.		Hokkaido's other major attractions are flower gardens, high-quality agriculture and seafood, hot springs, and powder skiing.
−	~~There are famous music box shop, we can make music box by oneself.~~

	==Eat==		==Eat==

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:21, 16 May 2013
Line 139:		Line 139:

	Hokkaido's other major attractions are flower gardens, high-quality agriculture and seafood, hot springs, and powder skiing.		Hokkaido's other major attractions are flower gardens, high-quality agriculture and seafood, hot springs, and powder skiing.
		+	There are famous music box shop, we can make music box by oneself.

	==Eat==		==Eat==

@@ Line 86: / Line 86: @@
 |-
 | align="left" valign="top" style="padding:7px 7px 0px 7px;background-color:#f8f4fd;" |
-<div style="margin:0;background:#dfcef2;font-family:sans-serif;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a48bbf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding-left:0.4em;padding-top:0.2em;padding-bottom:0.2em;">[[Wikitravel:Top Destinations|Top Beaches]]</div>
+<div style="margin:0;background:#dfcef2;font-family:sans-serif;font-size:120%;font-weight:bold;border:1px solid #a48bbf;text-align:left;color:#000;padding-left:0.4em;padding-top:0.2em;padding-bottom:0.2em;">[[Wikitravel:Top Destinations|Top Spiritual Sites]]</div>
 <div style="float:center;margin-left:0.5em;margin-top:0.5em">
 {{Top2}}

@@ Line 1,036: / Line 1,036: @@
 The number of vegetarian restaurants and even vegetarian food festivals (such as the Tokyo VegeFood Festa that takes place in the autumn) are increasing. Some vegetarians have been networking to help each other find suitable places to eat. For example, since 2006, a vegan meet-up group in Tokyo has been holding monthly buffets at local restaurants. Vegetarians in Tokyo or travelers passing through, can find out about the feast at the vegan meet-up page [http://www.meetup.com/vegan-389/]. The Happy Cow is a website [http://www.happycow.net/] that provides information about vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Japan and all over the world. They now have an excellent free app for the iOS and Android systems [http://www.happycow.net/mobile.html].
-[[File:earthdayFOODstalls.jpg]]
+[[Image:earthdayFOODstalls.jpg|center|Food stalls at Earth Day 2013]]
 ==Drink==

@@ Line 235: / Line 235: @@
 ===Crime===
-Much like any state in the United States, Washington is generally very safe and the chance of you running into any trouble is very, very unlikely. Certain areas of '''Seattle''', '''Spokane''', '''Tacoma''', and '''Yakima''' can become seedy after dark and it is therefore advised that one avoid being out alone very late at night; this is especially true in unlit places where you are an easy target for any crime or other illegal activity.
+Much like any state in the United States, Washington is generally safe and the chance of you running into any trouble is unlikely. Certain areas of '''Seattle''', '''Spokane''', '''Tacoma''', and '''Yakima''' can become seedy after dark and it is therefore advised that one avoid being out alone very late at night; this is especially true in unlit places where you are an easy target for any crime or other illegal activity.
-Be aware that public protests occur often in Washington cities, and frequently become violent. It is not advised to attend any public marches or gatherings if staying in Seattle or Tacoma.
+Be aware that public protests occur often in Washington cities, and frequently become violent. It is not advised to attend any public marches or gatherings if staying in Seattle,Tacoma, or other urban areas. Summer is high season for public protests in the state.
 Property crime is a common occurrence in Washington cities. Many locals use the strategy of leaving their doors unlocked to lessen damage caused by forced entry. Use your best judgement.
-If you are a military service member, use caution and discretion when out and about in uniform. In areas such as the University district and capitol hill of Seattle, assaults on military service members occur with enough frequency to warrant weekly warnings from unit commanders.
+If you are a military service member, use caution and discretion when out and about in uniform. In areas such as the university district and capitol hill of Seattle, assaults on military service members occur with enough frequency to warrant weekly warnings from unit commanders. The areas near military bases can get very dodgy, especially at night. Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
-Stay to the main tourist areas of the state during the day and you will have a great visit. Enjoy.
+Stay to the main tourist areas of the state during the day and you will have a great visit.
 If you find yourself in an emergency situation (of any kind), dial '''911''' on your phone.

@@ Line 406: / Line 406: @@
 * <sleep name="Why Not? Kiev Hostel" alt="" address="30A, Saksahanskoho St., Apt. 3" directions="check out our web-site for directions" phone="+380636883880" url="http://www.whynothostels.com" checkin="12:00" checkout="11.00" price="Dorm beds from €8" lat="" long="" email="booking.whynothostel@gmail.com"> Well appointed hostel run by polish – ukrainian team, features funky decor, thick, comfy mattresses, hot showers. We offer for FREE: breakfast, bedding, towels, laundry, wi-fi. The only hostel in Kiev with movie theater! English speaking staff organize hostel activities: pub crawls, movie nights, poker evenings and more...:))</sleep>
-* <sleep name="Hostel Kiev Backpackers" alt="former TIU Kiev Backpackers" address="18, Chervonoarmiis'ka St., Apt. 15" directions="In the passage opposite of the KinoTheater Kiev" phone="+380 96 997 8398" url="http://www.kievbackpackers.com" checkin="14:00" checkout="11.00" price="Dorm beds from €5" lat="" long="" email="bookings@kievbackpackers.com"> Located in the centre with English, German, Russian, and Ukrainian staff.</sleep>
+* <sleep name="Hostel Kiev Backpackers" alt="former TIU Kiev Backpackers" address="18, Chervonoarmiis'ka St., Apt. 15" directions="In the passage opposite of the KinoTheater Kiev" phone="+380 98 4891934" url="http://www.kievbackpackers.com" checkin="14:00" checkout="11.00" price="Dorm beds from €5" lat="" long="" email="bookings@kievbackpackers.com"> Located in the centre with English, German, Russian, and Ukrainian staff.</sleep>
 * <sleep name="EsterHostel" alt="" address="Chervonoarmiis'ka St, 111/113" directions="Located near to the Palace of Ukraine" phone="+380 44 332 05 36" url="http://esterhostel.com.ua" checkin="12:00" checkout="11:30" price="Dorm beds from €10." lat="50.419630" long="30.521771" email="order@esterhostel.com.ua">Clean, comfortable and affordable hostel is located in the heart of Kiev. It is a small hostel with the atmosphere that appeals to travelers from all walks of life.</sleep>
@@ Line 418: / Line 418: @@
 *<sleep name="Magic Bus Hostel Kiev" alt="" address="31 Saksaganskogo str., 2nd floor, apt. 3" directions="" phone="+38097-336-03-03" url="http://www.magicbushostel.com" checkin="" checkout="" price="From €9" lat="" long="">Cozy and welcoming hostel within walking distance to the main street Kreschatik and railway station. Uniquely designed room. Professional & friendly staff.</sleep>
-* <sleep name="Mini Hostel Kiev" alt="" address="43, Chervonoarmiis'ka St., Apt. 32" directions="200 meters away from the stadium of the EURO 2012, and just 100 meters from Metro station Lva Tolstogo" phone="+380 98 4891934" url="http://www.minihostelkiev.com/" checkin="14:00" checkout="11:00" price="Dorm beds from €5" lat="50.43641" long="30.51645" email="bookings@minihostelkiev.com"> Located in the city centre with English, German, Russian, and Ukrainian staff.</sleep>
+* <sleep name="Mini Hostel Kiev" alt="" address="43, Chervonoarmiis'ka St., Apt. 32" directions="Located in downtown Kiev, just 100 meters from Metro station Lva Tolstogo" phone="+380 98 4891934" url="http://www.minihostelkiev.com/" checkin="14:00" checkout="11:00" price="Dorm beds from €5" lat="50.43641" long="30.51645" email="bookings@minihostelkiev.com" Located in the city centre with English, German, Russian, and Ukrainian staff.</sleep>
 * <sleep name="Really Central Hostel" alt="" address="10, Bogdana Khmelnitskogo, Floor 2. Apt. 50 (access via second courtyard)" directions="at the city centre" phone="+380 982 636506" url="http://www.reallycentralkiev.hostel.com/" checkin="" checkout="" price="From €8" lat="" long="" email="">Very friendly, one communal dorm, two private twin rooms. English speaking staff, wi-fi and communal kitchen.</sleep>

@@ Line 39: / Line 39: @@
 *[[Charlotte]] - North Carolina's largest city, known for financial sector, the Carolina Panthers, the Charlotte Bobcats, NASCAR, and other professional sports.
 *[[Durham (North Carolina)|Durham]] - Home of Duke University, the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, and a revitalized downtown tobacco district.
-*[[Fayetteville]] - Home of Fort Bragg, one of the nation's largest and most important military  bases.
+*[[Fayetteville]] - Home of Fort Bragg, the world's largest military base and one of America's most important military bases.
 *[[Greensboro]] - Home to six colleges and universities, historic neighborhoods, civil rights history, and seasonal sports venues.
 *[[New Bern]] - Their motto is "North Carolina begins here", original capital and  second oldest town in North Carolina. North Carolina Historical Museum, Tryon Place, Fireman's Museum, birthplace of Pepsi Cola. One of the most beautiful cities on the East Coast.