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This days drive was in 2 parts. This itinerary is part 1 though we did vary the route minimally to that which is displayed here.
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Vorder Glärnisch (2,327 m)
Location: Vorder Glärnisch is part of the Schwyzer Alps, in Switzerland, situated near the town of Netstal and visible from various parts of the region.
Key Features:
Vorder Glärnisch is the easternmost peak of the Glärnisch massif.
Its rugged limestone cliffs make it a striking sight when viewed from the Linth Valley.
Despite its dramatic appearance, it is considered more accessible than some of its neighboring peaks, making it a favorite among intermediate hikers.
Hiking and Climbing:
The typical route starts in Glarus or nearby Klöntal.
Trails lead through lush meadows and forests before reaching steeper, rocky terrain.
The summit rewards climbers with panoramic views of Lake Klöntal, the Linth Valley, and the surrounding Glarus Alps.
Significance: Its imposing form often serves as a natural landmark for travelers and a popular subject for photographers in the region.
Rautispitz (2,283 m)
Location: Rautispitz is a prominent peak situated near Netstal and Lake Klöntal, also in the Glarus Alps.
Key Features:
Known for its steep slopes and pointed summit, Rautispitz is a dramatic presence in the landscape.
It is surrounded by pristine alpine meadows and dense forests at lower elevations.
Hiking and Climbing:
The ascent is moderately challenging and often starts near Netstal or through trails from Lake Klöntal.
Popular routes pass through Obersee or Näfels, offering hikers a combination of serene lakeside views and rugged alpine landscapes.
The final approach involves steep paths and some scrambling, requiring proper equipment and good physical condition.
Views from the Summit:
Spectacular vistas of Lake Klöntal, Vorder Glärnisch, and the distant peaks of the Glarus Alps.
On clear days, hikers can also see parts of the Linth Plain and other landmarks in eastern Switzerland.
Significance:
The Rautispitz is a beloved hiking destination and is well-known for its relatively untouched nature, making it a quieter alternative to some of the busier peaks in the region.
Both Vorder Glärnisch and Rautispitz are iconic peaks of the Schwyzer Alps, offering a mix of accessibility and challenge to outdoor enthusiasts, with breathtaking scenery that captures the essence of Switzerland’s alpine beauty.
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The Traditional Food Crop Exhibit at the Black Forest Open Air Museum in Gutach is a fascinating display that highlights the agricultural practices and food culture of the Black Forest region in past centuries. It complements the museum's focus on rural life, showing how Black Forest farm families grew and processed their food.
The exhibit showcases traditional crops that were essential to the Black Forest's self-sufficient farming economy. These include:
Grains: Rye, barley, and oats, which were the primary staples for making bread and feeding livestock.
Potatoes: Introduced to the region in the 18th century, they became a critical food source for both humans and animals.
Flax: Grown for making linen, a vital material for clothing and household textiles.
Vegetables and Herbs: A variety of root vegetables, leafy greens, and medicinal herbs that were cultivated for daily meals and remedies.
The crops are grown in historically accurate plots, arranged as they would have been on a Black Forest farm.
Visitors can see traditional farming techniques, including the use of crop rotations to maintain soil fertility.
Tools and methods used for planting, harvesting, and processing the crops are displayed alongside the fields.
The exhibit explains how these crops were not only used for sustenance but also for trade and bartering within the community.
Seasonal farming cycles and festivals, which were deeply tied to the agricultural calendar, are highlighted.
Interactive and Educational Elements:
There are demonstrations of traditional techniques, such as grinding grain into flour with hand mills or processing flax for linen.
Signage and guides provide details about the nutritional and cultural significance of each crop.
The exhibit links traditional farming practices to iconic Black Forest dishes, such as rye bread, potato-based meals, and soups made from root vegetables.
Visitors can learn about the role of these crops in local recipes and food preservation methods, such as smoking and pickling.
Why It’s Important
The Traditional Food Crop Exhibit not only preserves the agricultural heritage of the Black Forest but also educates visitors about the importance of sustainable and self-sufficient farming practices. It provides a tangible connection to the past, offering insight into how rural communities adapted to the challenges of their environment and developed a rich culinary tradition. - Chat GPT
iPhone 14 Giveaway is here. Participate and win a brand new iPhone 14 for free. The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam. #iphone14 #iphone14giveaway #freeiphone14pro #giveawayiphoe14promax #iphone14pro #iphone14promax #appleiphone14 #giveawaycontest #giveaways #applegiveaway
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The mountain range visible to the west of Werdenberg, Switzerland, is the Churfirsten range. These striking peaks are part of the Alps and are located in the canton of St. Gallen. The Churfirsten are known for their unique, jagged silhouette and are a prominent feature of the landscape visible from Werdenberg and the surrounding areas.
In the broader view, the Säntis massif of the Appenzell Alps might also be visible, depending on the exact vantage point, as it is located nearby and is another significant landmark in eastern Switzerland. Both ranges contribute to the picturesque alpine scenery that makes the Werdenberg region so captivating.
Chat GPT
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Here's a comment from Bryan (SMAD) on Google's Local Guides which outines the significant part this Central Sapa Amphitheatre plays in the lives of the people of Sapa.
"Sapa Center is more than just a geographical point—it's a vibrant hub of activity where people gather for various pursuits. During my visit, I witnessed the lively spirit of Sapa as young locals gathered to kick footballs under the hot sun, showcasing the community's energetic and communal nature.
As night falls, the atmosphere transforms, with a multitude of sales and activities lighting up the area. Exploring the nighttime scene, I encountered a diverse array of offerings, from local crafts to handmade products sold by indigenous artisans. It's a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Sapa and an opportunity to support local artisans while experiencing the unique charm of the region.
Whether you're soaking in the daytime hustle and bustle or immersing yourself in the night time festivities, Sapa Center offers an authentic glimpse into the heart and soul of the community. It's a place where culture thrives, connections are made, and memories are forged—a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting landscapes of Sapa."
The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam.
The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam.
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Raintrees Native and Rainforest Gardens - Diamond Beach, NSW
On April 29th 2025 a friend delivered me a truckload of woodchip mulch. While we'd had regular small amounts of rain I saw no problem getting him to deliver the much to my usual spot. Unfortunately he quickly became bogged.
We tried a few ways to get him out but with a full load of wet mulch in the back we soon realised more substantial assistance was required. I rang a friend who had an excavator business and luckily due to the rain he was unable to work that day. He came around with his excavator and within a few minutes the truck was free of the mud.
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Sa Pa Lake, located in the centre of Sa Pa town in Northern Vietnam, is a tranquil man-made lake that adds to the charm of this mountainous region. It was constructed in the 1960s as part of the French colonial-era town planning efforts. The lake serves both aesthetic and practical purposes, providing a peaceful setting for residents and visitors, as well as helping with water management in the area.
The lake is filled naturally from rainfall and mountain streams, which ensures a steady supply of water from the surrounding highland. The climate of Sa Pa, being cooler and more temperate due to its elevation, contributes to the lake's serene appearance, as it rarely evaporates quickly, unlike lakes in hotter regions.
The lake's surroundings have been further developed to create parks, walking paths, and gardens, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy outdoor activities.
Sa Pa's man-made lake is primarily filled through a combination of rainfall and runoff from the surrounding mountains. Its maintenance involves regular monitoring to ensure water quality and ecological balance, supporting both aesthetic and practical purposes such as irrigation and flood control. When we were there in August 2023 the effectiveness of the lakes management systems was questionable as the water was quite green, an indication that nutrient levels were high leading to a process known as eutrophication leading to increasing risks of harmful algal blooms, dead zones, and fish kills as levels of nutrient load increase.
The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam.
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Here's a comment from Bryan (SMAD) on Google's Local Guides which outines the significant part this Central Sapa Amphitheatre plays in the lives of the people of Sapa.
"Sapa Center is more than just a geographical point—it's a vibrant hub of activity where people gather for various pursuits. During my visit, I witnessed the lively spirit of Sapa as young locals gathered to kick footballs under the hot sun, showcasing the community's energetic and communal nature.
As night falls, the atmosphere transforms, with a multitude of sales and activities lighting up the area. Exploring the nighttime scene, I encountered a diverse array of offerings, from local crafts to handmade products sold by indigenous artisans. It's a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Sapa and an opportunity to support local artisans while experiencing the unique charm of the region.
Whether you're soaking in the daytime hustle and bustle or immersing yourself in the night time festivities, Sapa Center offers an authentic glimpse into the heart and soul of the community. It's a place where culture thrives, connections are made, and memories are forged—a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting landscapes of Sapa."
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Not sure how high the river got here overnight on the 20th May 2025 but by the time I took these shots the rain had almost stopped, and the river's flood height was dropping.
iPhone 14 Giveaway is here. Participate and win a brand new iPhone 14 for free. The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam. #iphone14 #iphone14giveaway #freeiphone14pro #giveawayiphoe14promax #iphone14pro #iphone14promax #appleiphone14 #giveawaycontest #giveaways #applegiveaway
iPhone 14 Giveaway is here. Participate and win a brand new iPhone 14 for free. The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam. #iphone14 #iphone14giveaway #freeiphone14pro #giveawayiphoe14promax #iphone14pro #iphone14promax #appleiphone14 #giveawaycontest #giveaways #applegiveaway
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The Vogtsbauernhof Farmhouse, located within the Black Forest Open Air Museum (Schwarzwälder Freilichtmuseum) in Gutach, is the centerpiece and namesake of the museum. It is one of the best-preserved examples of a traditional Black Forest farmhouse and offers visitors an in-depth look at rural life in the region over 400 years ago.
Historical Overview
Construction Date: Built in 1612, the Vogtsbauernhof served as a home for generations of farming families.
Original Location: The farmhouse was originally located in the Gutach valley before becoming the cornerstone of the open-air museum in 1964.
Function: It was designed as a self-contained living and working space for a farming family, including accommodations for livestock, storage areas, and tools essential for their livelihood.
Architectural Features
Thatched Roof: The steep, wide thatched roof is one of its most iconic features. This design helps shed heavy snow and rain, critical for the harsh Black Forest winters.
Timber Frame Construction: Built using the half-timbered style common in the region, with a solid wood framework filled with wattle and daub or stone.
Integrated Design: The farmhouse combines living quarters, a barn, and storage spaces under one roof, reflecting the practical needs of the time.
Cellar and Upper Floors: The cellar was used for food storage, while the upper floors housed grain, tools, and sometimes sleeping quarters.
Interior Layout
Living Quarters:
The main living area is centered around a large tiled stove, which provided warmth during the cold months.
Furnishings include handmade wooden furniture, decorated cabinets, and household items typical of a 17th-century farming family.
Kitchen:
Equipped with an open hearth, cooking utensils, and examples of traditional Black Forest cookware.
Demonstrates food preparation and preservation techniques, such as smoking meat and storing grains.
Animal Stalls:
Located on the lower level, where livestock such as cows, pigs, and chickens were kept. The heat from the animals helped to warm the living spaces above.
Barn Area:
Large spaces for hay, straw, and farming tools, essential for supporting the self-sufficient lifestyle of its occupants.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Representation of Black Forest Life: The Vogtsbauernhof embodies the ingenuity and resilience of Black Forest farming families, who adapted their homes and lifestyles to the challenging environment.
Educational Value: Through its exhibits, the farmhouse provides insight into:
Seasonal farming practices.
Social structures of rural communities.
Architectural adaptations to the region’s climate and terrain.
Visitor Experience
Authentic Atmosphere: The farmhouse is meticulously restored and furnished to transport visitors back to the 17th century.
Interactive Exhibits:
Seasonal demonstrations of farming tasks, such as plowing, bread baking, and flax processing.
Reenactments of daily life activities by museum staff in period clothing.
Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages, offering deeper insights into the history and architecture of the building.
Connection to the Museum
The Vogtsbauernhof serves as the foundation of the Black Forest Open Air Museum, which has expanded to include several other historic farmhouses, mills, and outbuildings relocated from across the region. Together, they form a comprehensive showcase of Black Forest heritage, but the Vogtsbauernhof remains the iconic heart of the collection.
Reference - Chat GPT
Be sure to right click on this amazing 360 degree View and open in a new window.
iPhone 14 Giveaway is here. Participate and win a brand new iPhone 14 for free. The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam. #iphone14 #iphone14giveaway #freeiphone14pro #giveawayiphoe14promax #iphone14pro #iphone14promax #appleiphone14 #giveawaycontest #giveaways #applegiveaway
The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam.
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Will resume posting images of our 2023 European Trip in a few weeks. Meanwhile catching up on images taken locally in Australia.
The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam.
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Our journey to Sapa in the highlands of North Vietnam and just a few kilometres from the Chinese Border is about to begin as we catch the overnight train to Lào Cai. We'll transfer by private car from Lào Cai to Sapa.
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Our journey to Sapa in North Vietnam about to begin as we catch the overnight train.
iPhone 14 Giveaway is here. Participate and win a brand new iPhone 14 for free. The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam. #iphone14 #iphone14giveaway #freeiphone14pro #giveawayiphoe14promax #iphone14pro #iphone14promax #appleiphone14 #giveawaycontest #giveaways #applegiveaway
The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam.
The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam.
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I asked Grok - Where would you rate Susten Pass on a scale of 1-10 comparing all the most scenic mountain passes in Europe, and why.
Based on the information from various sources and the consensus among driving enthusiasts, travel bloggers, and reviewers:
Rating: 9 out of 10
Reasons for the Rating:
Scenic Beauty: Susten Pass is often highlighted for its breathtaking views. It features 30 miles of road with 26 bridges and tunnels, each offering unique vistas of the Swiss Alps. The road passes through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to high alpine meadows and alongside the Stein Glacier, providing a spectacle of natural beauty that's hard to match.
Driving Experience: It's celebrated for its driving dynamics with hairpin turns, sharp bends, and varying gradients, making it a favorite among motorcycle riders, car enthusiasts, and cyclists. The pass is part of the "Big Three" passes in Switzerland, alongside Grimsel and Furka, with many arguing that Susten offers the most enjoyable drive due to its variety and scenic pull-offs.
Historical Significance: With roots tracing back to a 17th-century mule-train trading route, the pass has both historical depth and modern engineering marvels, enhancing its allure.
Accessibility and Seasonality: While the pass is only open from June to October, this limitation adds to its exclusivity and the unique experience of driving through snow-cleared paths in early summer or witnessing the dramatic autumn changes.
Comparative Analysis: When compared to other famous European passes:
Stelvio Pass in Italy often gets a nod for its numerous hairpin turns, but Susten Pass offers more varied scenery.
Grossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria is another scenic marvel, but Susten's combination of natural beauty, road design, and historical context is frequently noted as superior or at least on par.
Col de la Bonnette in France, while high and scenic, doesn't match Susten's diversity in landscape and driving experience.
Community and Expert Opinion: Numerous reviews from platforms like TripAdvisor and specialized driving blogs praise Susten for its visual and driving pleasures. It's often listed among the top drives in Europe, sometimes even as the best, depending on who you ask.
The slight deduction from a perfect 10 could be attributed to its seasonal accessibility and perhaps the fact that it might not have the sheer fame of some other passes like Stelvio, which can influence perception due to media exposure. Nonetheless, Susten Pass stands out for its combination of scenic beauty, driving experience, and a sense of adventure that appeals to a wide range of travelers
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The Leggistein Bridge over the Meienreuss River Gorge at Wassen, in the canton of Uri, Switzerland, is a train bridge. It is part of the historic Gotthard Railway and is one of the many engineering marvels along this scenic rail route. The bridge carries trains over the dramatic gorge and offers stunning views of the surrounding alpine landscape.
The Gotthard Railway, built in the late 19th century, is famous for its spiral tunnels and bridges, which were designed to help trains manage the steep terrain of the Swiss Alps. The Leggistein Bridge is an integral part of this system, showcasing the ingenuity of Swiss railway engineering. Chat GPT
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This days drive was in 2 parts. This itinerary is part 2 with an overnight stay in Bad Wildbad.
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The Baden Black Forest Railway (German: Badische Schwarzwaldbahn) is a twin-track, electrified railway line in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, running in a NW-SE direction to link Offenburg on the Rhine Valley Railway (Rheintalbahn) with Singen on the High Rhine Railway (Hochrheinbahn).
Passing directly across the Black Forest, through spectacular scenery, the route is 150 km long, ascends 650 metres from lowest to highest elevation, and passes through 39 tunnels and over 2 viaducts. It is still the only true mountain railway in Germany to be built with two tracks and is the most important railway line in the Black Forest. It was built between 1863 and 1873, utilizing plans drawn up by Robert Gerwig.
The longest tunnel, the Sommerautunnel, measures 1,697 meters. The route navigates significant elevation changes, climbing up to 830 meters at its highest point near Triberg. The railway is known for its serpentine design, including reversing loops that help manage the steep gradients, enabling trains to handle the climb safely.
Near Triberg station, visitors can witness the railway tracks appearing stacked three levels above each other—a testament to its ingenious design.
In addition to modern trains, steam locomotives often make appearances during the summer as part of heritage rail experiences, offering a nostalgic journey through the picturesque Black Forest landscape.
For those interested in exploring the railway’s history and surrounding nature, the Schwarzwaldbahn-Erlebnispfad, a 12.5-kilometer hiking trail, runs alongside the railway, providing spectacular views of the terrain and its engineering marvels.
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I asked Chat GPT which countries in Europe require purchase of Toll Stickers (Vignette) to allow driving on major roads and which countries still require cash payment at a toll booth.
In Europe, toll systems vary widely, with some countries requiring toll stickers (vignettes), others relying on electronic tolling systems, and some still using toll booths where you may need cash or card.
Here’s an overview of the current toll requirements across Europe, bearing in mind that the car lease agreement insurance coverage may not cover you if you drive the car across a border into a non-lease approved country.
Countries Requiring Toll Stickers (Vignettes)
These countries require you to purchase a toll sticker or vignette, typically displayed on the windshield:
Austria: Vignette required for highways and some major roads.
Switzerland: Annual vignette needed for highways (only one type available, lasting a year).
Slovenia: Vignette for highways and expressways.
Slovakia: Vignette required for highways and expressways.
Czech Republic: Vignette required for highways.
Hungary: Electronic vignette for highways and expressways.
Bulgaria: Electronic vignette required for highways.
Romania: Electronic vignette required for most national roads.
Moldova: Vignette required for foreign vehicles on most roads.
You can usually buy vignettes at border crossings, gas stations near borders, or online.
Countries with Electronic Toll Systems
Some countries use electronic systems (often linked to license plate recognition or transponder devices) that allow for automatic toll payments:
Portugal: Many highways have electronic-only tolls; transponder or online prepayment options are available.
Norway: Electronic toll system using license plate recognition; manual payment options online.
Italy: Telepass system is popular for faster passage, although cash/card is still accepted at many booths.
Poland: Some toll roads have e-tolling via mobile apps or devices for certain vehicle categories.
Countries with Toll Booths (Cash or Card Payment)
Many European countries still use toll booths, where you can pay by cash or card, especially for highways:
France: Extensive toll network with both cash and card payment options.
Italy: Toll booths on most highways, with cash and card options.
Spain: Toll booths with both cash and card options; some roads also have electronic tolls.
Greece: Toll booths on highways with cash and card payment available.
Croatia: Toll booths on highways where you can pay with cash or card.
In some regions, like Scandinavia (e.g., Sweden, Denmark), there are fewer toll roads overall, but bridge tolls and congestion charges may apply (e.g., the Øresund Bridge between Sweden and Denmark).
It's always best to check the specific toll requirements and payment options for the countries on your route, as requirements and systems can change frequently.
Where Can Toll Stickers be Purchased
You can purchase toll stickers (vignettes) at several convenient locations in Europe, depending on the country. Here’s where you can typically find them:
1. Border Crossings
At most major road border crossings, you'll find kiosks, toll booths, or automatic machines selling toll stickers.
Staff at these points can often help with choosing the correct type for your stay (weekly, monthly, or yearly).
2. Gas Stations
Gas stations near borders and along highways in countries that require vignettes frequently sell them.
It's advisable to check if a specific station sells toll stickers if you’re not near the border.
3. Post Offices
In countries like Austria, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic, toll stickers are available at post offices.
4. Convenience Stores
Some countries sell vignettes at convenience stores near border areas or major highways.
5. Online Purchases
Many countries allow you to buy electronic vignettes (e-vignettes) online. This is common in Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania, and other countries where electronic vignettes are valid.
You can buy these through official government websites, or sometimes through third-party vendors (be cautious with non-official sites, as prices can be marked up).
6. Automobile Associations (e.g., AAA or AA Partner Associations)
Automobile clubs and associations, such as ÖAMTC in Austria or TCS in Switzerland, often sell toll stickers for their respective countries. Some automobile associations in other countries may offer them as well, especially if you plan ahead.
Buying online or at a border crossing is often the easiest and ensures you’re compliant before hitting toll roads.
The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam.
The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam.
The price of the iPhone 14 IS $999, you can win for free with this Giveaway. We have an iPhone 14 Pro Max and a free year of AKKO coverage to give away to one lucky MacRumors reader. To enter to win, use the Gleam.
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"Xóm Ba A" translates to "Ba A Hamlet" in English. It is a small residential area located in Lào Cai Province, Vietnam. "Xóm" means "hamlet" or "small village," indicating that Ba A is a rural settlement. Lào Cai Province, situated in northern Vietnam, is famous for its mountainous terrain, ethnic diversity, and being home to Sapa, a popular destination.
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Heaven's Gate is a popular tourist attraction located 18-20 km from Sapa City Centre.
The journey by road takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes by car or motorbike with the route following the scenic National Highway 4D which winds through the mountains passing the Silver Falls while offering stunning views of terraced rice fields and waterfalls until it reaches the famous O Quy Ho Pass, also known as Hoang Lien Pass, or simply as, Sapa Pass. The elevation above sea level at O Quy Ho Pass reaches 2,035 metres above sea level and with a length of over 50 kilometres, the pass is renowned as the "king of passes” in the Northwestern region of Vietnam.
The point where the elevation reaches 2,000 meters is aptly named "Cong Troi" or Heaven's Gate and from this vantage point, visitors can gaze down at the formidable terrain of Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range or simply marvel at the grandeur of Fansipan, Vietnam's highest peak.
The tall structure with scaffolding around it, and still under construction in August 2023, is the new Heaven's Gate Buddhist Pagoda, otherwise known as O Quy Ho Pass Buddhist Pagoda.
"San Sa Hô" translates as "Coral Plateau" in English. It is a location in Lai Châu Province, Vietnam. The name reflects a scenic or elevated area, possibly drawing a metaphorical comparison to coral due to the landscape's appearance or uniqueness.
San Sa Hô (Coral Plateau) in Lai Châu Province is a scenic area known for its rugged beauty, nestled in the mountainous region of northern Vietnam. Lai Châu, bordering China, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including towering peaks, deep valleys, and terraced rice fields, which are similar to the more famous Sapa region but less crowded by tourists.
The province, home to a variety of ethnic minority groups like the Hmong, Dao, and Thai, offers an authentic cultural experience, with traditional markets, stilt houses, and colorful costumes. The cooler climate of the region, due to its high altitude, also makes it an attractive destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The area is ideal for trekking, with routes that provide opportunities to explore remote villages and lush, untouched natural landscapes.