CU-BSC.TTM-SEM-III-Tourism Products Europe & America- Second Draft

 A universal symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty is America's most familiar icon and the largest statue in the world. Standing 152 ft in New York Harbor, visitors can admire the statue from various points around the city, particularly Battery Park, or take a ferry right to the statue.  For people who plan to go out to the statue, options include grounds tickets, pedestal tickets, or crown tickets, which allow different levels of access to the site. Anyone who plans on going inside the Statue of Liberty is encouraged to make advanced ticket reservations. 4 White House Figure:3.7 White house  The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States, and on almost all tourists' list of things to see in Washington. This historic structure has been the home of every president except George Washington.  It was originally built by James Hoban in 1792 and, after being burned down by British forces in 1814, was rebuilt in 1818. Tours of the White House are free, but reservations must be made a minimum of three weeks in advance. Strict security rules are always in effect. 5 Yellowstone National Park 51 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 3.8 Yellow stone national park  Yellowstone National Park is home to a huge ancient volcano which has resulted in a dramatic landscape and awesome natural phenomena. Geysers and hot springs, along with incredible waterfalls along the Yellowstone River are just some of the attractions drawing in huge numbers of tourists each year.  The park, the oldest national park in the USA, is also home to all kinds of wildlife, with free roaming bison, bighorn sheep, antelope, black bears, and grizzly bears. 6 Walt Disney World Resort Figure: 3.9 Walt Disney world resort  This mega amusement park in Orlando is the top family attraction in the country, and has been catering to both young and old for decades. Opened in 1971, Walt Disney World has managed to maintain its relevance and its allure for children and even many adults throughout 52 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

the years. Walt Disney World Resort encompasses not only the various theme parks, it also includes water parks,  Downtown Disney with shopping and theaters, and much more, from fine dining to golf. Although many visitors plan to spend a few days here, it's possible to spend a week or longer if people want to take in all there is to see and do. 7 Times Square Figure: 3.10 Times Square  Bustling Times Square, famous for its flashing billboards, New Year's Eve count down, and constant throngs of people, lies at the heart of Midtown Manhattan. This intersection is really about the energy one feels when standing on the corner as taxi cabs rush by and lights flash overhead, rather than any individual site on the square.  While it is an interesting place during the day, it is probably best seen at night to experience the full impact. 8 Golden Gate Bridge 53 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 3.11 Golden Gate Bridge  Arching across San Francisco Bay, joining San Francisco and Marin County, the Golden Gate Bridge has been a California icon since it was built in the 1930s. Contrasting with the blue water, the bridge's orangish-red color is an aesthetic accent that brings a unique quality to the city.  It also has a unique presence when it is shrouded in fog with just the peaks of the main towers projecting through the low-lying cloud. The bridge is approximately 2 miles long and part of Hwy 101 or SR 1. 9 Waikiki Figure: 3.12 Waikiki 54 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 Home to the most popular beach in the Hawaiian Islands and possibly the most famous beach in the Pacific, Waikiki has been a tourist destination for over a century. Today this area is a cross between tropical paradise and modern city.  Relaxing on this beautiful stretch of beach with palm trees blowing in the wind will certainly let you know you are in the tropics, but the high-rise buildings and busy street in behind are a reminder that you are not far from civilization. Shopping, dining, surfing, and sunbathing are all part of what makes this small section of Oahu so popular with tourists of all ages from all parts of the world. 10 Las Vegas Strip Figure: 3.13 Las Vegas strip  Walking along the Las Vegas Strip, the main street leading through the city past the mega resorts, is like strolling through an amusement park for adults. Recreations of the New York skyline, the Eiffel Tower, the canals of Venice and many more foreign sites line this famous street.  Beginning at one end with the Luxor Hotel, designed in a pyramid shape, a walk down the street will reveal an erupting volcano and dancing fountains, while inside the resorts are all kinds of oddities and entertainment. Many of the attractions in Las Vegas are sights such as these, which can be seen for free.  Vegas is also famous for its shows. World famous singers looking to settle down turn to Las Vegas as a home base, where they perform regularly. Unique performing groups from magic to comedy and acrobatics can also be found here nightly. 55 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

11 St Louis Arch Figure: 3.14 St Louis Arch  This famous \"Gateway to the West\" in St Louis is both symbolic and eye catching. Rising above the city, gleaming in the midday sun and illuminated at night, the arch can be seen from miles away on the otherwise flat surroundings.  It was built in the early 1960s and stands in Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park. Elevators offer transportation to the top of the arch where visitors are treated to great views out over the city and surroundings. 12 Freedom Trail in Boston Figure: 3.15 Freedom trail in Boston 56 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 Boston's Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking route that leads past some of the city's most important historical attractions. A line of red bricks, inlaid in the sidewalk marks the route, making it an easy way for tourists to find their way around.  Information on the trail and the sites can be found at the Visitors Center in the Boston Common, which is a good place to start your tour. Sites along the Freedom Trail include the State House, Old State House, the Old Granary Burying Ground, Old City Hall, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, and many more. 13 San Antonio River Walk Figure: 3.16 San Antonio River Walk  San Antonio's River Walk is a beautiful location and a great place to spend some time, whether you are looking for a place to wander, enjoy a meal, or look for souvenirs. Stretching along the San Antonio River in the heart of the city, this pedestrian area is lined with restaurants and outdoor dining areas, with everything from casual to fine cuisine.  Small boats meander along the river and scenic arching bridges completes the tranquil scene. Large old trees drape over the river and walkway providing shade. The River Walk also features a variety of entertainment, with occasional live music and seasonal events. 14 Glacier National Park and the Going-to-the-Sun Road 57 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 3.17 Glacier National Park  Montana's Glacier National Park offers some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the United States. Mountains, lakes, glaciers, valleys, and waterfalls combine to form a spectacular alpine landscape. One of the best ways to truly appreciate the terrain is from the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road.  This narrow road, hugging the mountain side as it winds its way up and over the 7,747 ft Logan pass, opened in 1932. Due to the elevation and climate, the road is only open during the summer months. Visitors who have the opportunity to visit the park will not want to miss a chance to see the sights along this road. Glacier National Park also has some unique historic lodges and lovely hiking trails. 3.4 SUMMARY  The type of government practiced in USA; constitution based federal government.  The map and geography of USA  20 interesting facts about USA, covering every topic  Some external facts on USA  Famous landmarks of USA  Top rated famous tourist spots on USA 3.5 KEYWORDS  D.C – District of Columbia 58  NATO – North American Treaty Organization CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

3.6 LEARNING ACTIVITY 1. Find out why the national flag of USA is made in the way it is now and what does it symbolize ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 2. Find out about the conspiracy between the ex-president's Abraham Lincoln and J.F. Kennedy. ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 3.7 UNIT END QUESTIONS A. Descriptive Questions Short Questions 1. What are the states and union-territories that comes under USA? 2. What does the flag of USA symbolize? 3. What are the national symbols of USA? 4. Which all countries share its borders with USA? 5. Which is the major attraction of tourist to USA? Long Questions 59 1. Explain any 5 tourist destinations of USA. 2. Elaborate about the history and the flag of USA 3. State any 10 facts about USA. 4. Discuss about the US-Dollar. B. Multiple choice Questions: 1. National animal of America a. dog b. American bison c. bison d. yak CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

2. Most and least populous U.S. state 60 a. New York and Texas b. California and Wyoming c. California and New York d. New York and California 3. There are how many U.S. states? a. 45 b. 25 c. 47 d.50 4. Expand NATO a. North Atlantic Treaty Organization b. North Antarctic Treaty Organization c. New York Assembly Team Orientation d. National Art and Travel Organisation 5. Who fought for the Abolishment of Slavery in America? a. Abraham Lincoln b. Martin Luther king c. Nelson Mandela d. George Washington Answers 1-b, 2-b, 3-d, 4-a, 5-a 3.8 REFERENCES Reference books: CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 Specific Country Guide Books of Lonely Planet Publication.  DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Europe  A.K Bhatia – International Tourism Management.  International Geography for Travel and Tourism by John P.Wrades 61 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

UNIT 4 TOURIST DESTINATIONS – MEXICO 62 Structure 4.0 Learning objective 4.1 General and basic facts of Mexico 4.1.1 Basic facts 4.1.2 Interesting facts of Mexico 4.2 Various destinations of Mexico 4.3 Summary 4.4 Keywords 4.5 Learning activity 4.6 Unit end questions 4.7 References 4.0 LEARNING OBJECTIVE After studying this unit, the students will be able to  Describe Mexico  State the country's capital  List the festivals and bands 0f Mexico  Explore the beautiful and exotic locations of Mexico 4.1 GENERAL AND BASIC FACTS OF MEXICO 4.1.1 Basic facts  Population: 126 million people live in Mexico (2021)  Capital: Mexico City with 17 million inhabitants is the country's biggest city.  Name: United Mexican States (in Spanish: Estates Unidos Mexicanos)  Government: Democracy, Republic  Language: Spanish  Literacy: More than 95.3% over the age of 15 years can read and write  Religion: Christians, mainly Roman Catholics (89%)  Currency: 1 Peso = 100 centavos CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 Flag colors: green, white and red  History: Mexico was conquered and colonized by the Spanish from the 16th century. The president of Mexico is Andrés Manuel López Obrador. 4.1.2 Interesting facts on Mexico Mexican Flag  The flag is shows three bands in green, white and red. The emblem on the white ground shows an eagle standing on a cactus with a snake in the beak.  What do the colors in the flag stand for? The colors of the Mexican flag stand for independence, unity and religion. The legend describes, that the Aztec settled and built their capital city which they named Tenochtitlan, which is today Mexico City, on the place where they saw and eagle sitting on a cactus, eating a snake. Figure: 4.1 Mexico Political Map 63 Mexico Map and Geography CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 Mexico is located on the North American continent and shares borders with the USA in the North and Belize and Guatemala in the South.  The border between Mexico and the USA is the second longest border in the world and is about 3,155 km/ 2,000 miles long.  Mexico has mountains in the eastern and northern parts of the country, rainforests in the southern and eastern parts and deserts in the West.  Most of the bigger cities are located in the southern parts of the country. There are low coastal plains, high-rugged mountains and a high tableau in the Centre of the country.  The climate varies from tropical climate to desert climate.  Mexico has four time zones! Mexico City, the country's capital city  Mexico is situated on the ‘Ring of Fire’, the world’s most prominent volcano and earthquake region. However, the volcanos on Mexico's Baja California, a popular tourist destination, are mostly dormant. Cactus valley in Baja California  The peninsula to the west of mainland Mexico is called Baja California. Over 120 species of cactus are growing there! Mexican People and Languages  Most people in Mexico speak Spanish. Mexico is the country with the most Spanish speakers in the world.  More people speak Spanish here than in Spain, because many more people live in Mexico and the country is also more than three times bigger.  Most Mexicans (80%) are Christians as Roman Catholicism was introduced by the Spanish colonists. La Virgen de Guadalupe (Virgin of Guadalupe) is considered the Patron saint of Mexico. Fiesta de la Virgen - Festivities in Mexico  Mexicans are known as very friendly and welcoming foreigners; they are really fond of kids. Mariachi are the popular musicians who play folk music. They mainly use string instruments, but also trumpets are sometimes played. The groups are often invited to play at birthday parties, weddings and other family celebrations. 64 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Mariachi band  Famous Mexican are among many others: the actress Selma Hayek, the guitarist Carlos Santana and the soccer players Javier Hernandez and Guillermo Ochoa. Mexico Animals  Mexico is one of the most bio-diverse countries on earth. The country has the most reptile species in the world housing over 700 reptile species and also has the second most (over 430) mammal species in the world.  In Mexico, there are jaguars, pumas and huge iguanas. Whales, manta rays and manatees are common in the oceans and can sometimes by spotted of the Yucatan coast. In the jungles of southern Mexico, one can encounter various types of lizards, monkeys and colorful birds, such as parrots. Mexico Economy  Mexico's main trading partners are the USA, which is the most important partner for exports and China and Japan who also sell many products to the Mexicans and thus are Mexico's biggest import partners.  The main exports from Mexico are corn (maize), oil, fruits and vegetables, silver, coffee, cotton. Mexico's largest cities  Mexico City: more than 17 million inhabitants  Guadalajara: about 4 million inhabitants  Monterrey: about 4 million inhabitants  Tijuana: about 2 million inhabitants Mexico City is sinking  The city is slowly sinking to the depths of the oceans like Atlantis! Well, not really. But Mexico City is sinking at a rate of about 10 inches a year as the city pumps draw water from the lake that supports it.  In fact, it has sunk so much that it lost its title as the 7th highest capital city in the world to Yemen and now sits at #8. Mexico City is the oldest city in North America 65 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 Many believe the oldest city in North America is St. Augustine, but Mexico City was actually founded a little over 40 years before it in 1521. The city was built by the Spaniards on the ancient ruins of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan. There are women-only cars in the subway  A socially controversial idea that has become popular in some cities around the world is segregated transportation. Mexico City is one of those cities with subway cars where it is illegal for men to enter, creating a space that's completely safe for women.  Like any large city, Mexico City has its standard crime rate, and this is to try and help combat public groping, assault, and even kidnapping. To compare cities, Mexico City is still about as safe as New York City. It even has the reputation as one of the safer places to go! Home of the world’s smallest volcano  Mexico is home to the world’s smallest volcano! A small-Cano, if you will. The Cuexcomate Volcano sits just outside the city of Puebla and stands a cute 43 feet tall. Compared to Mauna Loa in Hawaii which stands 13,678 feet tall.  This volcano is barely a hill! If that isn’t a good enough height comparison, try this one: Cuexcomate isn’t even half the height of the Statue of Liberty. Mexico is gay-friendly  Same-sex marriage and same-sex adoption are both legal for the inhabitants of Mexico! While its strong ties to the Roman Catholic Church made the country lean towards the conservative side, there has been a social shift, and Mexico has even marketed itself as a gay friendly destination, with Mexico City as a frontrunner. Mexico has near ancient education  What is the oldest university in North America? Many would assume Harvard, but it has nothing on the National Autonomous University of Mexico in Mexico City. This dinosaur opened in 1551 as the Royal and Pontifical University of New Spain, but unfortunately was closed in 1867 during the dictatorship.  It re-opened during the revolution, so unlike Harvard it hasn’t been open as long, but it has been around longer! 66 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

4.2. VARIOUS TOURIST DESTINATIONS OF MEXICO  Long a favorite vacation destination for North Americans, Mexico is also becoming increasingly popular with tourists from Europe seeking to enjoy the country's seemingly endless sunshine, stunning scenery, and beautiful sandy beaches-not to mention its astonishingly rich cultural heritage. So important are Mexico's ancient Aztec and Mayan sites and historic colonial cities that many have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ensuring they'll remain unchanged for generations to come. Interestingly, these locations-including places like Guanajuato, ChichénItzá, and Uxmal-are often as popular as traditional beach vacation spots like Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen.  Topping the whole experience is the country's rich culture, a fascinating mix of native people, as well as colonial influences from Spain, that shows up in everything from the country's culinary creations to its vibrant musical and dance traditions. It's also a country rich in flora and fauna, as it is spread across climate zones that encompass everything from arid deserts to lush tropical rainforests. To ensure you plan the very best Mexican travel itinerary possible, check out our list of the best places to visit in Mexico. 1. Cancún and the Mayan Riviera Figure: 4.2 Mayan Riviera  Lying along a beautiful stretch of coastline on the Gulf of Mexico are the resort destinations of Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and the island of Cozumel, collectively known as the Mayan Riviera. This magnificent area on the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula attracts some five million visitors each year, in the process generating huge tourist revenues. Despite these 67 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

numbers, you're unlikely to feel like a part of a crowd due to the Riviera's wide beaches and endless crystal-clear water.  The area also boasts numerous fun things to do, such as dolphin and stingray swims, snorkeling among reefs and tropical fish, as well as scuba diving in the world's largest underwater museum, a spectacular collection of sculptures submerged at depths of up to eight meters. Then, of course, there's the region's many ancient Mayan ruins, with some of the closest sites within walking distance of the beaches, while the largest and most impressive- ChichénItzá and Tulum-are just a few hours away. 2. Puerto Vallarta Figure: 4.3 Puerto Vallarta  Another of Mexico's increasingly popular beach destinations is the Pacific coastal city of Puerto Vallarta. Often shortened to just \"Vallarta,\" the city first appeared on the vacation radar in the 1960s as a playground for North America's social elite and has since become extremely popular among foreigners looking for second homes in a sunny, warmer climate. Many parts of it remain untouched by modern development.  Nowadays, the city is as likely to attract an older cruise ship audience looking to swim with the dolphins as it is younger travelers looking for adventure, found here in activities as diverse as paragliding and jet skiing. For those who like vacationing at a little slower pace, the city also boasts many locations to shop for arts and crafts or to simply stroll along pleasant beachside promenades with their many green spaces and sculptures. 3. Cabo San Lucas and the Los Cabos Corridor 68 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 4.4 Cabo San Lucas and the Los Cabos Corridor  At the southern tip of the beautiful Baja Peninsula, Los Cabos-often referred to simply as \"Cabo\"-is one of Mexico's top beach destinations. Consisting of a large stretch of coastline that extends from the towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo and known as the Los Cabos Corridor (Corredor Turistico), this 30-kilometer stretch of pristine beaches attracts visitors the world over for its clear waters, diving, snorkeling, and fishing (it also hosts the world's largest marlin contest).  Numerous resorts have sprung up that cater to all tastes and budgets, from luxurious spas to golf-centered properties offering some of the best courses in North America. In addition to spending time on the beaches and exploring Cabo San Lucas, one of the most popular activities is swimming and snorkeling around the famous natural landmark El Arco de Cabo San Lucas, a huge archway carved out of the coastline where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific. 4. Copper Canyon: Mexico's Grand Canyon 69 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 4.5 Copper canyon  Chihuahua, one of Mexico's most northerly states-it shares the border with New Mexico in the US-is home to one of the country's most visited natural attractions, the stunning Copper Canyon (Barranca del Cobre). Located in a region known as the Sierra Madre Occidental and consisting of a spectacular group of deep canyons, Copper Canyon is in fact larger and deeper than its better-known cousin, the Grand Canyon. Taking its name from the distinctive copper green coloring along its steep canyon walls, these amazing natural structures were formed by six rivers that converge in the Rio Fuerte before draining into the Gulf of California.  Thanks to the area's increased popularity as a travel destination, there are numerous options available to those wanting to explore this area of outstanding natural beauty, from scenic rail trips aboard the Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico to more adventurous excursions by bike or even on horseback. 5. Mexico City's Historic Centre 70 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 4.6 Historic Centre, Mexico City.  Mexico City (Ciudad de México) is not only the capital of the country and the seat of government, it is one of the country's most popular alternative travel destinations thanks to its many world-class museums, art galleries, and attractions. Don't be put off by its size. Instead, focus your efforts on the historic city center (Centro Histórico de la Ciudad), a 15-square- kilometer UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting more than 1,400 important colonial buildings from the 16th to the 19th centuries.  It's here, you'll find most of Mexico City's major attractions, many within walking distance of Constitution Square (Plaza de la Constitución), the city's bustling main plaza, including the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor with its Aztec relics. Adding to the whole experience are the huge volcanic mountains overlooking the city, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, each over 5,000 meters tall and offering a perfect excuse to get out and explore the stunning scenery in this part of the Mexican Highlands. 6. ChichénItzá: The Mayan Metropolis 71 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 4.7 ChichénItzá  A popular day trip for those visiting Cancún and Playa del Carmen or the Yucatán capital of Mérida, the magnificent Mayan city of ChichénItzá is one of Mexico's most visited archaeological sites, as well as one of the biggest and best restored. Highlights of a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site are numerous. A must-see here is the massive El Castillo, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulkan, and at 30 meters high, the site's tallest structure.  Another noteworthy point of interest here is the magnificent Caracol, an almost 1,000- year-old observatory that stands testament to just how advanced the Mayans were. The building is notable for the narrow slits in its walls allowing the sun to penetrate twice per year, so priests could accurately determine the date. Also, of interest are the site's numerous statues, including many examples of the famous Mayan Chacmools holding their sacrificial vessels as they continue to protect these old temples. 7. Guanajuato Figure: 4.8 Guanajuato  Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its many old colonial buildings, winding lanes, and narrow alleys, Guanajuato is a city that just begs to be explored on foot. A particularly pleasurable experience is visiting its many plazas, including the delightful Jardin de la Union, the city's main square with its splendid old architecture. It's here, you'll find the beautiful old San Diego Church and the majestic Juárez Theater, along with fountains and flower beds, cafés, and restaurants.  Afterwards, head underground to the city's subterranean streets, part of a network of tunnels that once carried a river but are now used by cars and pedestrians wanting to get around the city quickly. 72 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 Known as an art city, Guanajuato is home to many fine galleries, as well as interesting museums, none more so than the Museum of Quixote, dedicated to the works of Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes. The city also hosts Latin America's most important festival in honor of the writer, the International Cervantino Festival. And if you've got the stomach for it, check out the city's famous Mummies of Guanajuato exhibit, with its many naturally mummified remains of locals who died during an outbreak of cholera in the mid-19th century. 8. Ixtapa and Zihuantane jo Figure: 4.9 Ixtapa and Zihuantanejo  While there's no denying the appeal of Mexico's larger beach resorts, there's much to be said for paying a visit to some of the country's many smaller vacation destinations. Two of the very best are the towns of Itapúa and its neighbor, the much smaller former fishing village of Zihuantanejo on the country's Pacific coast. Although the larger of the two, the former coconut and mangrove producing town of Itapúa has been carefully master-planned as a tourist hub to good effect-its streets and beaches are uncluttered and easy to get around.  The contrast to traditional beach resorts is even greater in beautiful Zihuantanejo, which has worked hard to keep its small-town feel. Lying along a small, well-protected bay, it's a delightful and safe town to explore, home to a number of fine hotels and restaurants. Fun activities include shopping in its fish market or, better still, taking a fishing excursion to catch something of your own. 9. The Ancient Fortress of Tulum 73 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 4.10 The Ancient Fortress of Tulum  Famous as the only fortified Mayan settlement located on the coast, the ancient city of Tulum is one of the Yucatán Peninsula's most visited attractions. In the Mayan Riviera and within easy reach of the beaches of Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel, the site's well- preserved ruins can be seen for miles around due to their location atop 12-meter-high cliffs overlooking the beautiful Caribbean Sea.  Tulum is also famous for its tall walls, giving the site the feel of a fortress and suggesting a military, as well as religious significance. Dating from the 13th century, the town was inhabited up until the Spanish arrived in 1544 and contains many other important archaeological finds, including the Temple of the Frescoes (Templo de los Frescos), with its sculptures and reliefs, and the Castillo, the site's largest building, famous for its cliff side location. 10. Cozumel: Island Life Figure: 4.11 Cozumel: Island Life 74 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 The Island of Cozumel has pretty much everything needed for a perfect Mexican getaway. Located 20 kilometers from the Yucatán Peninsula, this lush tropical paradise takes its name from the ancient Mayan, \"Ah-cuzamil,\" which translated means \"land of the swallows,\" and has long been inhabited. And while the first visitors to the island were reputedly Mayan pilgrims, followed by European smugglers and pirates, modern-day travelers are drawn here by the promise of endless sunshine. The top beaches for these sun-seekers are Playa San Juan, Playa San Francisco, and Playa Santa Rosa, to name but a few.  Many are attracted to Cozumel by the superlative diving experiences to be enjoyed around its coral reefs. These beautiful locations are rich with fish and other marine life, and it's relatively easy to include at least a little underwater activity by booking a diving experience through your resort (or ahead of your travel), or simply grabbing a pair of flippers and a mask when you get here.  If you're into serious diving, head to the Palancar Reef on the southwest tip of the island. Here, you'll be rewarded with an undulating seabed that plunges from its shallow spots to depths of 80 meters. A relatively new experience includes diving around man-made landmarks, including sculptures and bronze figures, as well as structures deposited to encourage coral growth.  Be sure to drag yourself away from the island's crystal-clear waters long enough to see at least a little of the island's capital, San Miguel de Cozumel. Here, you can grab a ferry for a day-trip to either Playa del Carmen or Cancún, or explore top tourist attractions such as the Island Museum with its fascinating displays relating to the island's history, or partake in some shopping or dining. 11. Guadalajara 75 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure:4.12 Guadalajara  Second only to Mexico City in size, Guadalajara, capital of the state of Jalisco, has successfully conserved its unique mix of colonial and native Tapatíos influences. Famous for its broad avenues flanked by picturesque parks and fine old buildings notable for their European flair, Guadalajara is a hotbed of traditional Mexican culture, from the mariachi music that seems to emanate everywhere, to its fascinating Charreadas, a type of rodeo that is usually accompanied by festivities such as dancing, singing, and plenty of great food.  It's a fun city to explore on foot due to the four large squares that together form the shape of a cross and comprise the old city center. The best of them, Plaza de Armas, is the perfect place to begin a tour and includes such notable buildings as the 17th-century Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno) and the beautiful Baroque Guadalajara Cathedral (Catedral de Guadalajara), built between 1558 and 1616. 12. Mérida: Yucatán's White City 76 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 4.13 Mérida: Yucatán's White City  The capital of Yucatán, Mérida is one of Mexico's finest old colonial cities and is perfectly located to serve as a base from which to explore the region's many fine Mayan sites, including ChichénItzá and Tulum. It's an equally popular day trip or overnight stopover from the resorts of the Mayan Riviera. Established in 1542 by the Spanish, Mérida is laid out on a grid pattern, making it easy to explore its numerous attractive parks and fine old buildings.  The European influences are everywhere, particularly in the old city squares and plazas where evidence of French architecture can still be seen. It's also a remarkably neat and tidy city, something of a badge of honor for its citizens who like to dress in white, giving the city its long-standing nickname of Ciudad Blanca, the \"white city.\" 4.3. SUMMARY  the world’s most prominent volcano and earthquake region is situated in Mexico  It has 4 time zone  Mexico has many European references  Most people in Mexico speak Spanish, most of the world's Spanish speakers are in Mexico  Mexico still uses ancient education 4.4. KEY WORDS  UNESCO – United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization 77 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

 Paragliding – Sport of flying parachutes with design modifications that enhance their gliding capabilities.  Jet Skiing - Jet skiing is a high speed water sport that is great for developing your balance and coordination skills as well as your leg muscles.  Canyon - A canyon is a deep, narrow valley with steep sides  Aztec relics - A member of the indigenous people dominant in Mexico before the Spanish conquest of the 16th century. 4.5. LEARNING ACTIVITY a. Learn about 4 different time zones of Mexico. ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ b. Learn about Mexican Culture and cost of living. ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 4.6. UNIT END QUESTIONS 78 A. Descriptive Questions Long Questions 1. Discuss about any 5-tourist destination of Mexico 2. Describe Mexican flag and geographical features of Mexico. 3. State the specialty of Mexico. 4. Elaborate the Mayan related destinations at Mexico. Short Questions: 1. Explain the ideas about the Mexican flag 2. Why Mexico is called ‘ring of fire’? 3. Explain about the Mexican cactus 4. What is mariachi band? 5. Why Mexico is safe for women CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

B. Multiple choice Questions: 79 1. Which of the following is not one of the main exports of Mexico? a. corn(maize) b. tea c. coffee d. silver 2. Main language of Mexico a. Spanish b. Latin c. Italian d. English 3. Official currency of Mexico a. Dollar b. Cent c. Pounds d. Peso 4. Mexico has _____ time zones. a.2 b.5 c.4 d.3 5. The peninsula to the west of mainland Mexico is called a. Baja California b. Hawaii c. Guadalajara d. Tijuana CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Answers 1-b, 2-a, 3-d, 4-c, 5-a 4.7 REFERENCES Reference books:  Specific Country Guide Books of Lonely Planet Publication.  DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Europe  A.K Bhatia – International Tourism Management.  International Geography for Travel and Tourism by John P.Wrades 80 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

UNIT 5 TOURIST DESTINATION SOUTH AMERICA Structure 5.0 Learning objective 5.1 Countries of South America 5.1.1 Basics of South America 5.1.2. Countries of South America 5.1.3 List of Indigenous languages 5.2 Various tourist destinations of South America 5.3 Summary 5.4 Key words\\Abbreviation 5.5 Learning activity 5.6. Unit end questions 5.7. References 5.0 LEARNING OBJECTIVE After studying this unit, the students will be able to • Explore more about South America • State about the countries of South America • List the Indigenous languages of South America • Elaborate the various tourist attractions of South America 81 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 5.1 South America Political Map 5.1 COUNTRIES OF SOUTH AMERICA 5.1.1. Basics of South America • South America is a continent entirely in the Western Hemisphere and mostly in the Southern Hemisphere, with a relatively small portion in the Northern Hemisphere. It can also be described as a southern subcontinent of the Americas. The reference to South America instead of other regions (like Latin America or the Southern Cone) has increased in recent decades due to changing geopolitical dynamics (in particular, the rise of Brazil). • It is bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean and on the north and east by the Atlantic Ocean; North America and the Caribbean Sea lie to the northwest. It includes twelve 82 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

sovereign states: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela; one region of France: French Guiana and dependencies of sovereign state. The major dependency is the Falkland Islands, a British Overseas Territory. In addition, the ABC islands of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Ascension Island (dependency of Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, a British Overseas Territory), Bouvet Island (dependency of Norway), Panama, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands (a British Overseas Territory), and Trinidad and Tobago may also be considered parts of South America. • South America has an area of 17,840,000 square kilometres (6,890,000 sq. mi). Its population as of 2018 has been estimated at more than 423 million. South America ranks fourth in area (after Asia, Africa, and North America) and fifth in population (after Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America). Brazil is by far the most populous South American country, with more than half of the continent's population, followed by Colombia, Argentina, Venezuela and Peru. In recent decades, Brazil has also generated half of the continent's GDP and has become the first regional power. • Most of the population lives near the continent's western or eastern coasts while the interior and the far south are sparsely populated. The geography of western South America is dominated by the Andes mountains; in contrast, the eastern part contains both highland regions and vast lowlands where rivers such as the Amazon, Orinoco, and Paraná flow. Most of the continent lies in the tropics. • The continent's cultural and ethnic outlook has its origin with the interaction of indigenous peoples with European conquerors and immigrants and, more locally, with African slaves. Given a long history of colonialism, the overwhelming majority of South Americans speak Portuguese or Spanish, and societies and states reflect Western traditions. Relative to Europe, Asia and Africa, 20th-century South America has been a peaceful continent with few wars. 5.1.2. Countries of South America • South America includes 14 countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Falkland Islands (United Kingdom), French Guiana (France), Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay and Venezuela. Spanish is the official languages in all South American countries except Brazil, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, and is spoken even in country that are not historically Spanish. Portuguese is the official language in Brazil. 83 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Official languages in Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana are respectively English, Dutch and French. • Before colonization from European nations, South America was inhabited by several Aboriginal nations speaking a wide variety of languages from different language families, most of them being long forgotten now, but a lot are still known by few and are currently in danger of extinction. At the time of European contact, it is estimated that 1,500 languages were spoken in South America; only 350 of those languages are still spoken today. Quechua is the native language family with the most speakers. • The classification and studies of indigenous languages in South America is not very advanced compared to the classification of North American indigenous languages. As such, it is difficult to determine what languages are related to each other to develop proper language families. 5.1.3 List of indigenous languages • Extensive language families (more than 5 languages) of South America; dark spots are language isolates or quasi-isolates and grey spots are unclassified languages; Queucha, the language family with the most speakers, is not shown This list only includes languages with living speakers • Akawaio (Brazil, Guyana, Venezuela) • Arawak (French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela) • Arutani (Brazil, Venezuela) • Baniwa (Brazil, Venezuela) • Baré (Venezuela) • Bari (Colombia, Venezuela) • Carib (French Guinea, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela) • Chaima (Venezuela) • Cuiba (Colombia, Venezuela) • Cumanagoto (Venezuela) 84 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

• Curripaco (Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela) • E’ñapaWoromaipu (Venezuela) Other languages • German, Colonia Tovar (Venezuela) Extinct languages • Boniva Figure: 5.2 Tourism Destinations in South America 85 5.2 VARIOUS DESTINATIONS OF SOUTH AMERICA CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 5.3 Salar De Uyuni, Salt Flat Bolivia 1. Salar De Uyuni, Bolivia • Located in the Southwest of Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni is without a doubt the most popular destination in Bolivia to visit. It is the world’s largest salt flat and spans nearly 11,000 square kilometres. The salt flats look different year-round, arguably the most photographic in the wet season (January to April). 86 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 5.4 Santuario De Las Lajas, Baslica Church Colombia. 2. Santuario De Las Lajas, Colombia • This famous basilica church in southern Colombian is located in the Department of Nariño. The Gothic Revival style church has become synonymous with the south of Colombia with thanks to its unique location and was built between 1916 and 1949. Figure: 5.5 Milky way Over Lake Titicaca, Peru 3. See the Milky way Over Lake Titicaca, Peru • Lake Titicaca straddles the border between Bolivia and Peru in the Andes Mountains. Said to be the birthplace of the Incas, Lake Titicaca is one of the most magical places in South America to experience the Milky Way. 87 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 5.6 Cartagena, Colombia 4. Cartagena, Colombia • The historic colonial city of Cartagena is one of the most beautiful places to explore in South America. The city is protected by UNESCO World Heritage status which allows a great deal of insight into colonization in South America. 5. Mount Fitz Roy, Argentina Figure: 5.7 Mount Fitz Roy 88 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

• Mount Fitz Roy is located in Patagonia and is one of the favourite choices for mountaineers and hiking enthusiasts when visiting South America. It is located on the border between Chile and Argentina, near El Chelten. It was first summited in 1952. Figure: 5.8 Amazon River 6. The Amazon River • The Amazon river is one of the world’s longest rivers (by some definitions it is) and certainly the longest river in South America. There are many ways to experience the Amazon, but a great way to really get to know the Amazon is to join a small cruise that will take you to remote villages. This way you can meet local people and learn more about the way of life in the Amazon. 7. The World’s Most Dangerous Road, Bolivia • There were many times riding down death road in Bolivia that I questioned my sanity. Although this is one crazy ride to the bottom, it is a really fun, exhilarating one. 89 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 5.9 THE WORLD’S MOST DANGEROUS ROAD 8. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador Figure: 5.10 GALAPAGOS ISLANDS 90 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

• The Galapagos Islands is an archipelago of volcanic islands in Ecuador. They are famous for being home to a huge variety of marine wildlife and thus one of the most sought-after destinations for snorkelling and diving in the world. 9. Machu Picchu, Peru Figure: 5.12 MACHU PICCHU • It was a pinch-me moment the day I stood atop Machu Picchu in Peru. This incredible citadel set high in the Andes mountains has quickly become one of the world’s top bucket list destinations. 10. LA PAZ, BOLIVIA • When I made a last-minute decision to travel to La Paz, Bolivia, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. What came next was a world of colour, vibrant street culture and often chaos. This incredible city feels like a step back in time. 11. SWING AT THE END OF THE WORLD IN BANOS, ECUADOR • Chances are you’ve seen the swing at the end of the world before, but have you ever visited!? The swing is located in Banes, Ecuador. 12. TORRES DEL PAINE, CHILE 91 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

• Torres del Paine became my favourite hiking destination when I first visited some five years ago. Chile is one of the most diverse countries to visit and you can really see why when you visit the South of the country. Figure: 5.13 Moai Statues, Easter Islands Chile. 13. MOAI STATUES ON EASTER ISLAND, CHILE • Speaking of diversity, Easter Island is Chile’s hidden gem. This mystical island is famous for the Moai statues that dot the island in various formations. There are many myths and legends as to why they are there but essentially, it remains a mystery. 14. RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL 92 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 5.14 RIO DE JANEIRO • Rio de Janeiro is easily one of the most photogenic cities in the world. Be sure to venture to the top of Sugar Loaf mountain for an epic view of Rio from above, including the cities’ famous Christ the Redeemer statue. 15. CANOPY WALK, THE AMAZON, PERU • The Amazon is full of epic experiences and the canopy walk is no exception. You could easily spend an entire month exploring the depths of the Amazon, which stretches through Peru, Bolivia, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador and Brazil. 16. VALPARAISO, CHILE Figure: 5.15 Valparaiso • Chances are you didn’t imagine yourself skiing in South America but the good news for ski enthusiasts is that you can! Valparaiso is located a short drive from Chile’s capital Santiago and offers some great slopes for all experience levels. 17. ANGEL FALLS, VENEZUELA 93 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 5.16 - Angel Falls • The epic Angel Falls in Venezuela stands at a whopping 979 metres, making it the world’s largest uninterrupted waterfall. The entire area is protected by UNESCO World Heritage status. 18. GEYSERS EL DE TATIO, CHILE • Located in Northern Chile, the Geysers el de Tatio is the third-largest geyser field in the world. This natural phenomenon is best enjoyed in the morning when the mist fills the air and the morning sun hits the surrounding mountains. This is one of the lesser-known places you must visit in South America, so be sure to include it on your travels. Figure: 5.17 The Hand in Atacama Desert, Chile. 94 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

19. ATACAMA DESERT, CHILE • The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places in the world, but this does not mean it is lacking in liveliness. There are cactus valleys to explore, local cultures a plenty and this is one of the best places to take advantage of no light pollution and see the Milky Way. 20. THE SACRED VALLEY, PERU • The Sacred Valley is the heart and soul of Peru. It is here where you can learn about ancient traditions, customs and cultures. Begin your journey in Cusco and after a few days in the hustle and bustle, make your way in to the Sacred Valley on a journey towards Machu Picchu. Figure: 5.18 Iguassu Falls Bordering Argentina and Brazil. 21. IGUASSU FALLS, BORDERING ARGENTINA AND BRAZIL • I will never forget the time I visited Iguassu Falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil. This is mostly because I didn’t have the appropriate visa to do so and quickly learned of the trials and tribulations to obtaining one at short notice. Regardless of the lessons learned, Iguassu Falls was easily one of my favourite places in South America. 22. CUSCO, PERU 95 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

• There is no other city in the world quite like Cusco. This was once the capital of the Inca Empire and to this day you can still feel remnants of that. 23. BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA Figure:5.19 - Buenos Aries • Buenos Aires feels more like a European city than anywhere else in South America. The capital of Argentina is thriving with nightlife, great food and vibrant culture that will leave you feeling carefree in no time. 24. SANTIAGO, CHILE • The capital of Chile is often overlooked or given just one day to explore as a stopover city. There is so much to see and do in Chile that it isn’t hard to see why you might skip over Santiago. If you do have time, this is a great city to get a feel for South America before you venture off in to the more adventurous parts of the continent. 25. SAIL TO ANTARCTICA 96 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

Figure: 5.20- Antarctica. Rounding out our list for the places you must visit in South America is a special finale. If you’re feeling very adventurous or looking to check off the last continent on your travel list, then a cruise through Antarctica is one of the world’s most sought-after bucket list experiences. 5.3 SUMMARY  South America has14 countries  The continent is compact and roughly triangular in shape  While some parts of South America have been deemed dangerous by the U.S. Department of State, much of the continent is perfectly safe to visit  Extensive language families (more than 5 languages) of South America 97 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

5.4. KEYWORDS • Southern cone – The region of south America comprising of Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile and Southern Brazil. • Aboriginal – It is a member of Tribes living in Australia when Europeans arrived there. • Quechua – Member of a South American people of Peru and parts of Bolivia, Chile. 5.5 LEARNING ACTIVITY 1. Learn about the experience of swinging the end of the world ___________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ 2. Learn about The excitement of trekking in Mount Fitz Roy ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 3. Find out what UNESCO heritage site is in south America and why? ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 5.6 UNIT END QUESTIONS A. Descriptive Questions Short Questions 1. What is the famous attraction tourist spot in south America? 2. How many countries are there in South America? 3. List out the languages spoken in South America and the place they are more often used? 4. What are the other and extinct languages in South America? Long Questions 1. Explain any 5-tourist destination of South America. 98 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

2. Explain the geographical features of South America. 99 3. State the indigenous languages of South America 4. List out the countries in South America B. Multiple choice Questions 1. Angel falls is located in a. France b. Venezuela c. Chile d. Brazil 2. Most populous country in South America a. Brazil b. Chile c. Argentina d. Bolivia 3. Official language of Brazil a. Portuguese b. Latin c. English d. Dutch and Spanish 4. The Atacama Desert is one of the ____________ places in the world a. Cleanest b. Driest c. Dottiest d. Deadliest 5. The South American Continent is roughly ________in shape a. Triangular b. Rectangular CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)

c. Circular d. Hexagonal Answers 1 – b, 2 – a, 3 – a, 4 – b, 5 – a. 5.7 REFERENCES Reference books:  Specific Country Guide Books of Lonely Planet Publication.  DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Europe  A.K Bhatia – International Tourism Management  International Geography for Travel and Tourism by John P.Wrades 100 CU IDOL SELF LEARNING MATERIAL (SLM)