The Atlas steps into the digital age. This is a new one-of-a-kind World Atlas covering all parts of the globe with animated maps from Rand McNally and in-depth cultural and historical information. Each episode is dedicated to different countries, containing four distinct features – physical geography, political geography, popular locations, and thematic maps. In this episode, you will visit Spain and Portugal.
Seville is a gem of a city and Andalusia’s most fascinating metropolis. In the centre of the old town is the Real Alcazar, that was originally home to numerous Moorish monarchs and later the domicile of Spanish kings. It’s said to be the oldest and most fascinating palace complex in the whole of Europe. Christopher Columbus was welcomed in the palace when he returned from his second voyage to America after having established a trading route with the New World. Its unique mixture of numerous cultures and Epoques augments the atmosphere of exquisite luxury. With its labyrinth of white alleys, Santa Cruz is the city’s old Jewish district and is located close to both the Real Alcazar and the Catedral. Grated windows, flowerpots on the walls and old wooden gates are typical of this area of the city that exemplifies the traditional Andalusian way of life. The Plaza De Toros and the seasonal hustle and bustle of its bullfights, dominates the El Arenal, the city’s former harbor district. Designed in the 18th century by Vicente San Martin, the bullfight arena was fully restored in the middle of the 19th century. La Giralda and the Patio de los Naranjos are the only remains of Sevilla’s Almohad Mosque. The rest of the temple was destroyed by the Christians. Construction began in 1401 and it became the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. After the Petersdom in Rome and St.Paul’s in London, it is the third largest Christian building in the world. With its rich cultural inheritance …
Equitrekking’s Emmy nominated Host Darley Newman explores Southern Spain on horseback, traveling to the Alpujarras in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, historic haciendas in Seville’s countryside and the beaches of Donana National Park in Equitrekking Southern Spain. Darley takes a challenging lesson in dressage on an Andalusian horse, before heading to the fields to learn how olives get from the trees to the table in the charming town of Priego de Cordoba. On a ride to historic haciendas outside of Seville, Darley experiences an on the trail snack of traditional tapas. She rides with locals through the beautiful orange and olive groves in Seville countryside, before enjoying lunch at a traditional hacienda. Then it’s off to the beach to enjoy the wilds of Donana National Park and canter on Donana’s wide deserted beaches.
Take a “test drive” of Rick Steves’ 2010 Best of Spain with Morocco tour as Rick guides you from Barcelona to Sevilla with stops along the way in Segovia, Madrid, Toledo, Granada, and Costa del Sol, a ferry ride to Tangier and then back to Spain for a visit to Arcos de la Frontera. For more information on Rick Steves’ tours — including full itineraries, prices, departure dates and seat availability — visit www.ricksteves.com.
Australia has always attracted huge numbers of migrant applications thanks to its laid back and outdoor lifestyle however to gain entry the country the majority of migrants will have to become part of the economy and start a career in their new home. Finding a great job in Australia can lead a well balanced lifestyle of work in a developing economy and amazing country.
The Australian economy traditionally relied heavily on manufacturing but like all other developed countries the economy is now reliant on the services industry. The services sector of the economy is the driving force behind the country’s growth and when looking at the jobs market it is easy to see the influence this has had over the roles available. Australia was formerly one of the mining centres of the world thanks to their vast natural resources and skilled miners are still sought after.
While the lifestyle in Australia might be laid back the economy certainly isn’t. The Australian economy has recently become one of the strongest in the world and has grown significantly over the past few decades. Businesses are expanding all the time and looking overseas to fill skills shortages and labour gaps that are holding them back. With the Australian working environment heavily developed it is now considered one of the best countries to work in.
Work in Australia is very similar to other developed economies. The working hours will add up to around 35-40 hours per week and holiday entitlement is usually 4-6 weeks depending on the company. Employers are also required by law to pay 9% of an employee’s gross pay into a retirement fund. All of the employer regulations are set by the National Employment Standards (NES) and is a guide for the minimum working conditions including maximum weekly hours, annual leave, public holidays and redundancy pay.
Working conditions in Australia are very similar to the UK but despite the strong growth of the services sector there are still many jobs available for skilled miners or migrants who work in the manufacturing industry. Companies are actively looking for skilled workers overseas to continue their growth.
RSS