List of 10 Largest Islands in The World, by Area

Here is the List of 10 Largest Islands in The World:
1. Greenland, 822,700 sq mi (2,130,800 sq km)
2. New Guinea, 303,381 sq mi (785,753 sq km)
3. Borneo, 287,000 sq mi (743,330 sq km)
4. Madagascar, 226,660 sq mi (587,040 sq km)
5. Baffin Island, 195,928 sq mi (507,451 sq km)
6. Sumatra, 182,812 sq mi (473,481 sq km)
7. Honshu, 87,200 sq mi (225,800 sq km)
8. Victoria Island, 83,897 sq mi (217,291 sq km)
9. Great Britain, 80,823 sq mi (209,331 sq km)
10. Ellesmere Island, 75,767 sq mi (196,235 sq km).

Although Australia and Antarctica are larger than Greenland, but Australia and Antarctica are generally considered as continental landmasses rather than islands.

Overview of the 10 Largest Islands in The World:

1. Greenland, 822,700 sq mi
Greenland is the largest island in the world with an area of 2,130,800 sq km (822,700 sq mi).
Greenland is the largest island in the world with an area of 2,130,800 sq km (822,700 sq mi). But it also is the least densely populated territory in the world with only 56,480 (2013) population. The reason is because three-quarters of Greenland is covered by the permanent ice.

In the indigenous Greenlandic language, the name of the country is Kalaallit Nunaat means land of the Kalaallit. But Erik the Red, the early Viking settler, named the island as Grœnland (translated as Greenland) in the hope that people would be attracted there if it had a pleasant name.

Geenland is an autonomous constituent country of the Kingdom of Denmark. Its physical geography is a part of the continent of North America, located at east of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, between the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. But Greenland has been culturally and politically associated with Europe for more than a millennium.

Denmark affirmed sovereignty over Greenland in 1814. And under the Constitution of Denmark, it was fully integrated in the Danish state in 1953. Greenland still does not have an independent seat at the United Nations.


2. New Guinea, 303,381 sq mi
New Guinea is the second-largest island in the world covering a land area of 303,381 sq mi (785,753 sq km).
This is a file from the Wikimedia Commons licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.
New Guinea is the second-largest island in the world covering a land area of 303,381 sq mi (785,753 sq km). It also the largest within the Southern Hemisphere and Oceania. Isolated by the Arafura Sea to the west, and the Torres Strait and Coral Sea to the east.

The eastern half of the island is the independent state of Papua New Guinea. Meanwhile, the western half of the island has been administered by Indonesia since 1962. New Guinea is considered to be the easternmost island of the Indonesian archipelago.

New Guinea is the most linguistically diverse area in the world, because it is currently populated by almost a thousand different tribal groups with more than a thousand separate languages. According to Ethnologue's 14th edition, there are total 1073 languages.

No wonder if the island has been known by various names. The island is historically called Irian. But it also known as Niugini (Tok Pisin), Nieuw-Guinea (Dutch), Neuguinea (German), and Papua (Indonesian).

Because of the shape of New Guinea is often compared to a bird-of-paradise, the island also has the usual names: the ‘head’ called Vogelkop (Dutch) or Kepala Burung (Bahasa Indonesia), and ‘tail’ is known as Papuan Peninsula.


3. Borneo, 287,000 sq mi
Borneo, also known as Kalimantan, is the third-largest island in the world and the largest in Asia, with an area of 743,330 sq km (287,000 sq mi).
Borneo, also known as Kalimantan, is the third-largest island in the world and the largest in Asia, with an area of 743,330 sq km (287,000 sq mi). Mount Kinabalu in Malaysia is the highest point of Borneo, with an elevation of 13,435 ft (4,095 m).

Borneo is politically divided among three countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. About 73% of the island is Indonesian territory. While the East Malaysian states make up about 26% of the island. And the sovereign state of Brunei comprises about 1% of Borneo.

Borneo is a home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world, which is estimated to be around 140 million years old. Borneo’s rainforest is the centre of the evolution of many endemic species of plants and animals.

The WWF has classified the island into seven distinct ecoregions: Borneo lowland rain forests, Borneo peat swamp forests, Kerangas or Sundaland heath forests, Southwest Borneo freshwater swamp forests, Sunda Shelf mangroves, Borneo montane rain forests, and Tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas, and shrublands.


4. Madagascar, 226,660 sq mi
Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world, with a total area of 587,040 sq km (226,660 sq mi). Madagascar is located in the Indian Ocean, 250 miles (400 kilometres) east of mainland Africa, east of Mozambique.

The highest point of Madagascar is Maromokotro, at the elevation of 2,876 metres (9,436 ft). There is variation in climate: tropical along the coast, temperate inland, and arid in the south. Because of the prominence of red lateritic soils, Madagascar has been called the "Great Red Island".

Madagascar is also described as a "world apart" or an "alternate world" because of the uniqueness and rarity of many of its plant and animal species. One of the rarest plants is Baobab tree (Adansonia grandidieri) which only exist in Madagascar.


5. Baffin Island, 195,928 sq mi
Baffin Island is the fifth-largest island in the world and the largest island in Canada, with an area of 507,451 sq km (195,928 sq mi). Its highest peak is Mount Odin, with an elevation of around 7,000 ft. Baffin Island was named after English explorer William Baffin.

The island has been continuously inhabited by Inuit peoples for centuries, and its population is about 11,000 (2007 estimate). Today, Baffin Island is part of the Qikiqtaaluk Region, in the Canadian territory of Nunavut.

Baffin Island has an extremely cold climate. All-year-round northern airflow brings long-cold winters and foggy-cloudy summers. Snow can occur at any time of the year, although it is in July and early August.


6. Sumatra, 182,812 sq mi
Sumatra is the sixth-largest island in the world, and the largest island that is entirely located in Indonesia. Sumatra is also known as Andalas or Percha Island. But in ancient times, Sumatra was known as Swarnadwīpa (Island of Gold) and Swarnabhūmi (Land of Gold), because of the gold deposits in the highlands of Sumatra.

Sumatra is the fifth most populous island in the world with more than 50 million people in total. But its great extent makes it not particularly densely populated, with just over 100 people per sq km. The most populated city in Sumatra is Medan, which is also one of the most visited and developed cities in Sumatra.

The climate of the island is tropical, hot and humid. Sumatra island is home to a vast tropical rainforest that once dominated the landscape. But the serious deforestation causing the lost almost half of its tropical rainforest. In October 2008, the Indonesian government announced a plan to protect the remaining of Sumatra's forests.

The several active volcanoes form the backbone of the island. On 26 December 2004, the western coast and islands of Sumatra were struck by a tsunami following the Indian Ocean earthquake. This was the longest earthquake recorded, and killed more than 170,000 Indonesians, primarily in Aceh province.


7. Honshu, 87,200 sq mi
Honshu is the seventh-largest island in the world, also the largest and most populous island of Japan. The total area of Honshu island is 225,800 sq km (87,200 sq mi). Its climate is generally humid and mild.

Honshu  island separates the Sea of Japan from the North Pacific Ocean to its south and east. Honshu is linked to the other major Japanese islands by a few bridges and tunnels. Honshu experiences frequent earthquakes because it is home to several mountains and volcanoes.

Nonetheless, Honshu is a rich and populous island. Zinc, copper, and oil have been found on Honshu. Fruits, vegetables, rice, grains, and cotton are grown. Even most of Japan's tea and silk is from Honshu.


8. Victoria Island, 83,897 sq mi
Victoria Island is the eighth-largest island in the world and is the second largest island in Canada, with an area of 83,897 sq mi (217,291 sq km). Victoria Island is located in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago that sets the border between Nunavut and the Northwest Territories of Canada.

The Island is also known as Kitlineq. Though it is more well known as the Victoria Island since Peter Warren Dease and Thomas Simpson called it Victoria Land in 1839, named after Queen Victoria.
The population of the island was 2,162 according to the Canada 2016 Census. With the largest  settlements on the island is Cambridge Bay.


9. Great Britain, 80,823 sq mi
Great Britain is the ninth-largest island in the world, the largest European island, and the largest of the British Isles, has total area of 80,823 sq mi (209,331 sq km).
Great Britain is the ninth-largest island in the world, the largest European island, and the largest of the British Isles. Great Britain, located in the North Atlantic Ocean, has total area of 80,823 sq mi (209,331 sq km).

Great Britain is physically connected with continental Europe via the Channel Tunnel. In 2011, the population of Great Britain was about 61 million people, making Great Britain as the third-most populous island in the world after Java in Indonesia and Honshu in Japan.

Great Britain is politically part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and constitutes most of its territory. Therefore the term of Great Britain is often referred to include the whole of England, Scotland and Wales.


10. Ellesmere Island, 75,767 sq mi
Ellesmere Island is the tenth largest island in the world and third largest island in Canada, with an area of 75,767 sq mi (196,235 sq km).
Ellesmere Island is the tenth largest island in the world and third largest island in Canada, with an area of 75,767 sq mi (196,235 sq km). Ellesmere Island is located within the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, in the Canadian territory of Nunavut.

By Inuit people, Ellesmere Island is called Umingmak Nuna, meaning "land of muskoxen". While Ellesmere was named in 1852 after Francis Egerton, 1st Earl of Ellesmere. Today, Ellesmere Island is politically part of the Qikiqtaaluk Region.

The population of Ellesmere Island was only 191, according to the record in 2016. Ellesmere Island is the most mountainous in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. However, the only one woody species to grow on Ellesmere Island is the Arctic willow.


It can be a difficult process to figure out the exact number of islands on earth. But at least, now you know more things about the 10 largest islands in the world.


Navigate in Singapore: 9 Essentials Things About Transportation in Singapore

Whether you are traveling for a few days or relocating for years, this guide will help you to understand more about public transportation in Singapore so you can navigate the city like native people.

Whether you are traveling for a few days or relocating for years, this guide will help you to understand more about public transportation in Singapore so you can navigate the city like native people.

Here are 9 things you need to know about public transportation in Singapore:

1. Public transport is clean, safe, and better option
Public transport system in Singapore is very well-developed and efficient, you don’t have to worry about using public transportation even if you don’t have a GPS device. Other reason is: we all know about the climate condition in Singapore, so using public transportation is a better option than walking, especially when the sun is at its strongest.

Check website gothere.sg/maps to find the most efficient way to traveling around Singapore through public transportation.


2. Get Ez-Link Card
The popular Ez-Link Card, also called as the CEPAS (Contactless e-Purse Card), is a cost-effective way of paying for public bus and train in Singapore. EZ-Link Card gives you transfers and cheaper fares. Basically, this smart card is an essential to have to get around in Singapore.

Trip’s fares in Singapore are charged based on total distance, starting at around $0.80. You can buy Ez-Link Card for around $12 (with  a stored value of ±$5) from any TransitLink Ticket Offices that are located in most MRT stations. If your card’s stored value is running low, you can reload it at any ticketing kiosk in MRT stations.


3. Train network will take you to anywhere around Singapore
Singapore’s train network can take you from the heart of the city to the suburban parts of Singapore in under 30 minutes.
Singapore’s train network can take you from the heart of the city to the suburban parts of Singapore in under 30 minutes. Because Singapore city is small in size and major landmarks are well-connected by its comprehensive train network.

Singapore’s train network is broken up into five major lines: East/West Line, North/South Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line and North/East Line. There are few overlap stations that can be used to switch between these five lines to get to destination quicker.

Train network in Singapore has expanded over the last decade. These public trains are driverless and automated, with overall user experience is seamless. There are detailed maps all across train stations and announcements in the cabins ahead of stations to help you ensure that you will arrive at the correct destination.


4. Buses will take you to every corner of the country
Public buses in Singapore can take travel from the heart of the city to the very end of the country by connecting buses.
Public buses in Singapore can take travel from the heart of the city to the very end of the country by connecting buses. Singapore’s bus system also have an express service for people who need to get somewhere fast. This bus system skips most stops and goes into the highway.

Express bus services numbers end with “E”, for example 401E. This services charge of $2.70 per ride, regardless of distance. The cost is a slight premium, but it is popular bus service among the after-work crowd working in the CBD who want to head home fast.


5. The trains and buses in Singapore include priority seats
These priority seats are reserved for pregnant women, physically handicapped people, and the elderly. Mostly they are located at the front of the bus, and the two corners in a row of seats, as it is closer to the exit.

Though these seats are priority, but aren’t only for specific groups of people. So passengers are encouraged to give up these priority seats for anyone who needs them more.


6. Don’t eat or drink in public transportation
A fine of $500 will be imposed if you get caught eating or drinking in public trains. But it is alright to take sip of water or pop a mint if you are getting claustrophobic. Just remember to not take it too far while you commute. If you feel sick since the beginning, it is better to take other transportation service.


7. Apps you need to use to get around Singapore
The ride-sharing apps, Uber and Grab are other alternatives for you who are traveling in Singapore for just a short period of time, and for anyone who think owning vehicle is too costly. These applications are the fastest and most affordable way to get around Singapore.


8. Taxis are metered and regulated
You can travel by taxi around Singapore within less than one hour because Singapore is relatively small in size. Don’t worry about inflating fares for tourists, because taxis in Singapore are regulated and distances are fairly calculated through the meter.

Though the taxi services in Singapore are way better than in other Asian countries, but locals generally avoid taxis due to their high price. The taxi industry has slightly suffered since the introduction of cheaper services like ride-sharing, Grab, and Uber in Singapore.


9. Learn abbreviations for expressways
Learning these abbreviations for expressways will be useful if you do intend to drive in Singapore.
- AYE: Ayer Rajah Expressway
- BKE: Bukit Timah Expressway
- CTE: Central Expressway
- ECP: East Coast Parkway
- KJE: Kranji Expressway
- KPE: Kallang-Payar Lebar Expressway
- MCE: Marina Coastal Expressway
- NSC: North-South Corridor
- PIE: Pan Island Expressway

The last one is ERP (Electronic Road Pricing). ERP is a small fee imposed by the government to manage the volume of traffic during peak hours. ERP rates differs for every road and time period depending on local traffic conditions.

You may get confused by these abbreviations at first, but navigating the expressways daily will help you master them in no time.

Don’t worry about getting lost, because you can ask for help from many Singaporeans. They usually like to use Google Maps to navigate, and are friendly.


This article is an english version of Anda Harus Tahu 9 Hal Tentang Transportasi di Singapura, written and translated by Reha Wijaya.


10 Stunningly Epic Waterfalls In The World You Have to See Before You Die

Waterfalls with the powerful waters plummeting over vertical drops. These natural waterfalls found around the world are stunningly epic sights you have to see before you die. Moreover if you are a nature-wanderluster.

Each waterfall has its own impressiveness that you won’t soon forget. Some of the waterfalls are watery pits of terror that will challenge the adventurous side in you, and some others will give fun adventures for the entire family.

List of 10 Most Stunning Waterfalls In The World:
These waterfalls definitely have to be in your bucket list.

1. Yosemite Falls, California, USA
Yosemite Falls is breathtaking waterfall located in the Yosemite National Park in California. this waterfall turns into a firefall once a year
Yosemite Falls is breathtaking waterfall located in the Yosemite National Park in California. This park is a home to many stunning waterfalls, but Yosemite Falls with the height of 2,425 feet (739 meters) is the tallest one.

More stunning facts about Yosemite Falls are: this waterfall turns into a firefall once a year, such an amazing phenomenon to be watched; it is accessible to anyone, including to the wheelchair user; April through June is when the water flow at its strongest.


2. Ban Gioc-Detian Falls, Vietnam and China
The epic Ban Gioc-Detian Falls refers to two waterfalls that straddle the borders of Vietnam and China. Ban Gioc waterfall on the Vietnamese side, and Detian fall on the Chinese side. Both Ban Gioc-Detian  form one of the largest waterfalls in the whole of Asia.

Ban Gioc-Detian Falls are the jewels of mother nature with a width of 656 feet (200 meters) and a height of 229.6 feet (70 meters) over three separate tiers. The karst peaks and green surrounds are adding the charm to the already shimmering crowns of Ban Gioc-Detian  Falls.


3. Gullfoss, Iceland
The waterfall named by locals as Gullfoss, which means Golden Falls.
Gullfoss is an incredible waterfall located in Iceland, that fed by Iceland’s second largest glacier named Langjökull. Gullfoss has the height of around 32 meters, and attracts visitors with its enchanting rainbow on sunny days.

In the early 20th century, an English investor almost bought the waterfall and wanted to turn it into an electricity producer. But after the daughter of the owner fought hard to have the contract voided, the government can now own Gullfoss and allow anyone to visit it.

The waterfall named by locals as Gullfoss, which means Golden Falls. Today, Gullfoss is the ultimate Icelandic tourist attraction. Thousands of visitors flock in droves to  this gorgeous waterfall every year.


4. Iguazu Falls, Brazil and Argentina
Iguazu Falls is also known as the Iguassu Falls or Iguacu Falls.
Iguazu Falls is also known as the Iguassu Falls or Iguacu Falls. Literally, Iguazu means ‘big water’. This giant waterfall spans on the border of Brazilian state of Paraná and Argentine province of Misiones.

Iguazu Falls comprises 275 individual falls. The heart of the falls is known as Devil’s Throat, has a width of 490 feet (150 meters) and length of 2,296.5 feet (700 meters). This majestic waterfall is stunning indeed.


5. Kaieteur Falls, Guyana
Kaieteur Falls is the highest single-drop waterfall in the world, with the height of 741 feet (226 meters) and the width varies from 250-400 feet (76-122 meters). This natural wonder located in the Kaieteur National Park in Guyana.

The thick verdant surroundings is adding the impressiveness to this gorgeous waterfall. Though Kaieteur Falls is not as tall as some other waterfalls, but it is still epic, especially because there is a perpetual hurricane  at the base of Kaieteur Falls.


6. Niagara Falls, Canada and USA
Niagara Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the world.
Niagara Falls, located on the Canadian and  USA  borders, is one of the most popular waterfalls in the world. Niagara Falls consists of three waterfalls: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls.

Millions of people visit Niagara Falls each year. There are few ways where visitors can experience the truly majestic of Niagara Falls: from the Niagara Parkway, the Skylon Tower, the walkway, or from above on a helicopter.


7. Pearl Shoal Waterfalls, China
Pearl Shoal Waterfalls is located in the northern Sichuan Province in southwestern China. Within the forested landscape of the Jiuzhai Valley National Park, to be exact. The waterfalls can be found on one of the White Dragon River’s tributaries.

The top of the waterfalls is 533 feet (162.5 meters) wide and the height is 130 feet (40 meters). Pearl Shoal Waterfalls is beautiful but deadly, because high rains often cause the falls to swell to a lethal level. Nonetheless, Pearl Shoal Waterfalls is a breathtaking natural scene to visit.


8. Sutherland Falls, New Zealand
This incredible waterfall is located in the Fiordland National Park, New Zealand’s South Island. Sutherland Falls is named after the explorer Donald Sutherland.

Sutherland Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the world, as it features three waterfalls for a total of 1,904 feet (580 meters). To view the incredible natural beauty of Sutherland Falls, visitors can take Milford Track to hike to the base of the falls.


9. Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being “the most impressive to be found anywhere in the world”
Fed by the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls is located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe in southern Africa. This waterfalll can be considered as a “royal waterfall”, as it’s named after Queen Victoria.

With the width of two kilometers and height of 354 feet (108 meters), Victoria Falls is incredibly powerful. Its beautiful mist can be seen from 20 kilometers away, and its powerful sound can be heard from 40 kilometers away.

Victoria Falls is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being “the most impressive to be found anywhere in the world”. Victoria Falls is amazing all year round, but if you want to see it at its best, make sure to visit during February and March.


10. Angel Falls, Venezuela
Angel Falls, also known as the El Salto Ángel, has the height of 3,212 feet (979 meters). Angel Falls is 15 times taller than the Niagara Falls, and for sure, it is one of the tallest waterfall on the planet earth.

The magical beauty of Angel Falls is located in the Canaima National Park in southeastern Venezuela. Its water drops down from the flat-topped plateau known as Devils Mountain (Auyán-Tepuí).


These finest waterfalls have taken my breath away, and I’m sure yours as well.


Travel Guide to The Golden Triangle India: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur

The Golden Triangle is a circuit that connects three important cities in India: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Traveling to Golden Triangle is the best way to see the most of  India in the shortest amount of time, with the biggest highlight is the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Its popular name was earned from the shape that the three cities makes: a triangle. The Golden Triangle India showcase the diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories, especially the stunning examples of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture.

Here are three important cities of Golden Triangle India:

1. DELHI
India Gate is an icon of Delhi
India Gate is an icon of Delhi
This capital city of India has an extreme diversity as it is a melting pot of antique way of life, modern high-technology, and everything in between. Delhi is divided into New Delhi and Old Delhi, each offers a unique look into the many different layers of India.

Jama Masjid in Old Delhi is the largest and the most popular mosque in India
Jama Masjid in Old Delhi is the largest and the most popular mosque in India
Best Points: 
India Gate is an icon of Delhi and is a popular monument in India.
The Red Fort in Old Delhi has an eerie method of construction.
Humayun’s Tomb which was built in the mid-16th century is thought to have inspired the Taj Mahal.
Jama Masjid in Old Delhi is the largest and most stunning mosque in India. Get a glimpse of Delhi's Muslim culture and architecture by visiting Jama Masjid.
Qutb Minar complex, which was built in the 13th century, is the most impressive ancient ruins in Delhi.

Bad Points:
Delhi is very over-polluted city.
The  problem with hygiene commonly seen on the streets.


2. AGRA
Taj Mahal is the monument of love built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife
Taj Mahal is the monument of love built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife.
Tourists from all over the globe come to Agra every year to witness the beauty of the world-famous Taj Mahal. But Agra offers plenty more attractions and historical landmarks than just Taj Mahal.

Best Points:
Taj Mahal,  the monument of love built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz. The spectacular Taj Mahal is definitely the city’s biggest tourist attraction.
Agra Fort is one of the finest Mughal forts in India. This historical monument was made from a combination of red sandstone and marble,.
Akbar Mausoleum is the impressive marble tomb of the great Mughal Emperor.
Kinari Bazaar is the place to shop spices, textiles, jewelry, marble work, and many more.
The location of Agra is on the extremely picturesque Yamuna River.

Bad Points: 
Heavy traffic causes a lot of congestion.
There are street vendors who overly persistent selling souvenirs, and it can be annoying.


3. JAIPUR
Hawa Mahal is the most iconic landmark in Jaipur
Hawa Mahal is the most iconic landmark in Jaipur.
Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is a historically and culturally rich destination in India. Jaipur has the best examples of Rajasthan architecture that were built in the 6th century, inspired by Hindu, Islamic, and colonial influences

Best Points:
City Palace is one of the outstanding architectures of Mughal and Rajasthani dinasty. City Palace is the home to the former royal family located in the center of Old City.
Hawa Mahal is the most iconic landmark in Jaipur that was built in the 18th century with intricately layered in design.
Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built in the 18th century. It has the bizarre looking 20 astronomical instruments that are used to measure the heavens.

Bad Points: 
Lack of public transportation, with the  bus routes are limited and lack of bus stops.
Jaipur is very over-polluted.

Jaipur has the best examples of Rajasthan architecture
Jaipur has the best examples of Rajasthan architecture

7 Travel Tips to Golden Triangle India

√ Best time to visit the Golden Triangle India is October through March for the warmest, and sunniest weather.
√ One full week is recommended to fully experience the Golden Triangle cities, with the typical start and end point is Delhi.
√ Travel around the Golden Triangle by car, bus, or train. But the best way is renting a car and hire a driver, because India has the lack of traffic rules and the lack of public transportations.
√ Visit attractions in the early morning or late afternoon to escape crowds.
√ Don’t drink the water from the tap. Better buy bottled water.
√ Dress appropriately and nothing too revealing, especially when entering a mosque or a temple. It is also good for safety reason.
√ Respect the diversity of the culture, way of life, or pace of daily routine.


Visiting the Golden Triangle India may not be the easiest trip, but the abundance of ancient attractions and fascinating sights are more than worthwhile.

There will be times visitors will have to contend with crowds, culture shocks, or change plans when traveling. However, from the adventurous trip like this will come out some of the best life-changing travel stories.


10 Largest Man-Made Islands In The World

These man-made islands or artificial islands are constructed by people, not by natural means. Artificial islands are usually formed by land reclamation, or by the isolation of an existing piece of land that happened incidentally during canal construction. Artificial islands may vary in size from small islets to the large islands that support cities.

10 Largest Man-Made Islands In The World
Flevopolder in Netherlands is the biggest man-made island in the world.

So, here are 10 largest artificial islands in the world that not only support cities but also huge international airports:

1. Flevopolder, Netherlands
Flevopolder is a region of reclaimed land, in Flevoland, Netherlands. Flevopolder is completely surrounded by bordering lakes, even the name Flevo itself refers to the ancient lake Flevo.

The construction of the artifical island of Flevopolder began in 1955, and become the largest artificial island in the world, which covers 370 square miles in area. Today Flevopolder is the home for the ±317,000 inhabitans.


2. Yas Island, United Arab Emirates
Yas Island located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The project of island’s development was initiated in 2006, with the total land area covers 2,500 hectares (25 km2). This artificial island is connected to the mainland by boat, car, and plane. Yas Island is aimed to be a multi-purpose leisure, shopping and entertainment center.

Yas Island is a house for hotels, malls, restaurants, Yas Waterworld, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, including Ferrari World, and Yas Marina Circuit. There are also Yas Links which become the 24th World’s best Golf courses outside the USA, and Yas Express Saadiyat shuttle service which interlinks St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort and Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi with Yas Island.


3. Kansai International Airport, Japan
Kansai International Airport, Japan
Kansai International Airport, colloquially known as Kankū, is an international airport located on an artificial island in Osaka Prefecture, Japan. The artificial island has 2.5 miles long and 1.6 miles wide. Construction started in 1987, and on  4 September 1994, Kansai officially opened to relieve overcrowding at Osaka International Airport.

The total cost of Kansai Airport as of 2008 was $20 billion. Initially, most additional costs were due to the island sinking. The island had been predicted to sink 19 feet by the most optimistic estimate. However, the island had sunk 27 feet by 1999.


4. Hong Kong International Airport, Hongkong
Hong Kong International Airport, Hongkong
Hong Kong International Airport is located on the island of Chek Lap Kok, that is why the airport is also colloquially known as Chek Lap Kok Airport. With the 28 feet elevation, the island comprises land reclaimed for the construction of the airport itself, which covers an area of 4.85 square miles.

The airport was opened on 6 July 1998, and has been in commercial operation since. It is one of the world's busiest passenger airports, and the world's busiest cargo gateway. Also a focus city for many airlines,  with more than 100 airlines operate flights to over 180 cities across the earth.

The North Lantau Highway on Lantau Island connects the airport to inner Hong Kong. With the fastest service is the Airport Express, as part of the MTR rapid transit network. Other services are buses, taxis, and direct ferry services via Skypier.


5. Palm Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates
Palm Jebel Ali is an artificial archipelago in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Palm Jebel Ali is proposed to be 50 percent larger than Palm Jumeirah, and is proposed to include homes, a water theme park, six marinas, and boardwalks. The Palm Jebel Ali is expected to house more than 250,000 people, once it is completed.

The construction of Palm Jebel Ali began in October 2002, and was originally planned to be completed by mid-2008, but has been on hold since. The reason is the financial crisis and the prices of properties were reported to have fallen by 40%.

The developers, Nakheel, have confirmed that there’s no work would take place on the development in the near future. In November 2014, 74 owners on Palm Jebel Ali wrote to the Ruler of Dubai regarding the stalled project. Though Nakheel remains committed to the project long term but seems there is nothing more they can do for original investors.


6. Chubu Centrair International Airport, Japan
Chubu Centrair, or Chūbu Kokusai Kūkō, is one of five off-shore airports built on an artificial island in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. The name Centrair is an abbreviation of Central Japan International Airport. In 2015, the airport was ranked as 8th busiest in the nation, given that 10.2 million people used the airport and 208,000 tons of cargo was moved using this airport’s services.

There are few methods to connects the Centrair to the mainland: the fastest "μSky Limited Express" connects the airport to Meitetsu-Nagoya Station in 28 minutes, three high-speed ferry, cars and buses via toll road that links Centrair to the mainland.


7. Palm Jumeirah, United Arab Emirates
Palm Jumeirah is an artificial archipelago in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, which extends into the Persian Gulf. Palm Jumeirah Monorail connects the Palm Jumeirah to the mainland. It is a 5.4-kilometre-long (3.4 miles) monorail, also the first monorail in the Middle East.

Palm Jumeirah is part of a larger series of Palm Islands, including Palm Jebel Ali and Palm Deira. Construction of the Palm Jumeirah island began in June 2001, and when completed, Palm Islands will increase Dubai's shoreline by a total of 520 kilometres.

In 2009, New York Times reported that the Palm was sinking at the rate of 0.20 inch per year. This report was refuted by the developers by saying that the claims suggesting the Palm has sunk by 5 mm, as detected by NASA's laser altimeter satellite, are not possible because that satellite has an accuracy of only ± 2.0 inches.


8. Rokkō Island, Japan
Rokkō Island covers 5.80 km², and becomes the second major artificial island in Kobe, Japan. It was constructed between 1973 and 1992 from reclaimed land. Rokkō Island is connected to JR Sumiyoshi Station by the Rokkō Liner.

Today, Rokkō Island becomes the house for apartment buildings, markets, hotels, a water amusement park, sports and conventions facilities, container yards, wharves, port facilities, Kobe Fashion Museum, universities and schools. There was also Norwegian School, that was moved to Rokko Island in 1990 but closed in 2005.


9. Port Island, Japan
Port Island is an artificial island in Kobe, Japan. It was constructed from 1966, and officially opened in 1981, with an exposition called "Portopia '81." Port Island is connected to Sannomiya Station and to Kobe Airport by the Port Liner automated guideway transit system.

With area 523 hectares, Port Island becomes a house for heliport, hotels, convention center, the UCC Coffee Museum, and several parks. There are also universities on the island.


10. Willingdon Island, India
Willingdon Island is the largest man-made island in India. It was created in 1936, and was named after The 1st Earl of Willingdon, who commissioned the project. Venduruthy Bridge connects Willingdon Island to the mainland.

British Royal Air Force use this artificial isle as a thriving military base during second world war. After India gained independence, the island aerodrome was developed into the  modern airport, and the remaining space on the island became the commercial heart of Cochin.

Today, Willingdon Island is a major port, a landmark, also  a home for tourist centre, travel agencies, souvenir shop warehouses, a few hotels,  business centers, and Central Institute of Fisheries Technology.


Sources:
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flevopolder
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yas_Island
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansai_International_Airport
4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong_International_Airport
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palm_Jebel_Ali
6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chubu_Centrair_International_Airport
7. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palm_Jumeirah
8. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rokk%C5%8D_Island
9. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_Island
10. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Willingdon_Island


10 Largest Hospitals In The World, by Capacities

Here is the list of the 10 largest hospitals in the world based on capacities (number of bed spaces they have). The large capacity of these hospitals allows them to attend to large numbers of patient and high-quality healthcare system.

10 Largest Hospitals In The World, by Capacities
Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Foto: www.medicaltravel.org.tw

1. Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 10,050 beds
Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (CGMH) was established in 1976. It is a network of 7 hospital branches located in Chiayi, Kaohsiung, Keelung, Linkou, Taipei, Taoyuan, and Yunlin. These 7 hospital branches contain a total of 10,050 beds. CGMH was accredited by the Joint Commission International (2014-2017), also featured in National Geographic Channel's documentary, "Taiwan's Medical Miracle."

Chang Gung Memorial Hospital offers most comprehensive healthcare services in Taiwan. Anually, receives around 8.2 million outpatients and around 167,460 surgical patients, and hospitalizes at least 2.4 million. CMGH also receives over 20,000 international patients every year.


2. West China Medical Center of Sichuan University,  4,300 beds
West China Medical Center of Sichuan University, formerly known as West China University of Medical Sciences (WCUMS), is located in Chengdu, Sichuan, China. The Medical Center was founded in 1914 and merged with Sichuan University in 2000. The Medical Center is ranked 3rd in China for medicine.

West China Medical Center of Sichuan University is one of the top five medical schools in China. It is the only "evidence based medical center" or Cochrane Center in Asia, and of the 15 of such centers in the world. West China Medical Center of Sichuan University is also listed in the World Directory of Medical schools published by WHO.


3. Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, 3,400 beds
Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital is located in the Soweto area south of Johannesburg, South Africa. It is the third largest hospital in the world, with 3,400 beds and occupying 70 hectares of land. More than two thousand patients check into the hospital daily.

The hospital was first built in 1942 as the Imperial Military Hospital, Baragwanath. Its first purpose is to be used for the area's black population after the war. In 1997, the name of Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital was given in honour of the South African Communist Party leader who was assassinated in 1993.


4. Clinical Centre of Serbia, 3,150 beds
Clinical Centre Of Serbia is a medical centre located in Belgrade, Serbia. It is considered as the largest hospital in Europe, and oen of the the largest hospitals in the world. Clinical Centre spreads over 34 hectares on the territory of Savski Venac, with a total floor space of 3,113,000 square feet, consists of about 50 buildings, and has a total of 3,150 beds.

Clinical Centre contains 41 organisational units, of which are clinics, polyclinic and other service units. It serves as the main medical centre for Belgrade and the rest of Serbia. Annually, Clinical Centre treats around one million patients, performes more than 50,000 surgeries and over 7,000 childbirths. Also, around 90,000 patients are hospitalized in Clinical Centre.


5. Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, 2,800 beds
Ahmedabad Civil Hospital is a public hospital and is the Asia's biggest hospital located in Ahmedabad, India. It is also one of the oldest and most modern hospital in India. Today, this hospital has 2,800 beds, but there has been a proposal to increase its capacity to 4,800 beds. The proposal has been sent to World Bank to obtain aid for a nine-storey 2,000-bed building on its campus.

Ahmedabad Civil Hospital is very helpful to poor people with fees of surgery are decreased. It has  facilities for specialised diagnostic, rehabilitative patient care, and therapeutic. The hospital, which lies on 45 hectares of land, houses allied hospitals and prestigious institutes.


6. NewYork–Presbyterian Hospital, 2,478 beds
NewYork–Presbyterian Hospital is a nonprofit university hospital located in New York City. It has a total of 2,478 beds, which makes it one of the largest hospitals in the United States, and one of the  busiest hospital in the world. In 2016, New York–Presbyterian Hospital was placed as the sixth-best hospital in the US.

The NewYork Hospital  was founded in 1771, and become the third oldest hospital in the United States. While The Presbyterian Hospital was founded in 1868. On January 1, 1998, the two hospitals announced merger to create New York–Presbyterian Hospital.


7. Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade de São Paulo, 2,400 beds
In English is University of São Paulo Faculty of Medicine Clinics Hospital. The hospital which was founded on April 19, 1944, is a complex of health institutions, located in various regions of the city of São Paulo, Brazil. With the largest part of the complex is located in the Consolação district.

The other part of the complex are Cotoxó Assisting Hospital, in Vila Pompéia; Vila Mariana Unit, in the southern part of the city of São Paulo; Medical Investigation Laboratories, in the Cerqueira César district; Suzano Assisting Hospital, in the town of Suzano; Rebouças convention center, located across the street from the base hospital.


8. Queen Elizabeth Hospital (Hong Kong), 1,900 beds
Queen Elizabeth Hospital, which was named after Queen Elizabeth II, was officially opened on 6 September 1963. It is one of the largest acute general hospitals in Hong Kong, with around 1,900 beds, 13 clinical departments, and over 500 physicians and surgeons.

Queen Elizabeth Hospital serves about one-third of all cancer patients in Hong Kong. The hospital has a full complement of services, provides a tertiary referral centre for major specialties and high-intensity care for all clinical specialties. Also become a teaching centre for training of doctors, nurses and health professionals.


9. Jackson Memorial Hospital, 1,550 beds
Jackson Memorial Hospital, which has around 1,550 licensed beds, is a non-profit, tertiary care teaching hospital and the major teaching hospital in Miami, Florida. It is the center of a thriving medical center includes the University of Miami Hospital, the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and the Miami VA Medical Center.

The Miami-Dade County Jail and the Miami-Dade Justice Center are within a few blocks of the hospital, which is readily accessible via the Civic Center Station of the Miami MetroRail. One of the noted event of Jackson Memorial Hospital is appeared in the fictional short story by Jeffrey Archer, "Where There's a Will" published in And Thereby Hangs a Tale (2010).


10. St George's Hospital, 1,300 beds
St George's Hospital, is one of the UK's largest teaching hospitals located in Tooting, London. It shares its main hospital site in Tooting with the St George's, University of London which carries out advanced medical research. The hospital has most general tertiary care such as accident and emergency services, and child birth services.

St George's Hospital was founded in 1733, and first built in Lanesborough House at Hyde Park Corner. In 1980 St George's Hospital was officially relocated to Tooting. The Lanesborough House building still stands and become the Lanesborough Hotel.


Sources:1. http://www.chang-gung.com/en/about.aspx?id=11&bid=1
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_China_Medical_Center_of_Sichuan_University
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clinical_Centre_of_Serbia
4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Hani_Baragwanath_Hospital
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahmedabad_Civil_Hospital
6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NewYork%E2%80%93Presbyterian_Hospital
7. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hospital_das_Cl%C3%ADnicas_da_Universidade_de_S%C3%A3o_Paulo
8. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_Elizabeth_Hospital_(Hong_Kong)
9. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jackson_Memorial_Hospital
10. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_George%27s_Hospital


10 Oldest Metro Systems in The World

The oldest metro system in the world was opened in 1890, and is still operating today. By 2014, there are over 160 metro systems in over 50 countries in the world. And currently, over 50 metro systems are under construction worldwide, few of them are  expected to be opened in 2020.

10 Oldest Metro Systems in The World
London UndergrounD, 1890. The oldest metro system in the world.

The 10 oldest metro systems in the world are:


1. London UndergrounD, 1890
The nickname of London UndergrounD is the Tube. It is a public metro system that serves London and some parts of Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and Essex. Although its name is ‘UndergrounD’, but only 45% of the system is underground in tunnels. It has 270 stations, and 11 lines. It is also one of the busiest metro systems in the world which serves around 4.8 million passengers daily.

Its origin is Metropolitan Railway, which is the first underground railway in the world, opened in 1863. But the first line to operate underground electric railway, opened in 1890. In the early 20th century, the UNDERGROUND signs outside stations in Central London was given, including maps, joint publicity, and through ticketing.


2. Budapest Metro, 1896
Budapest Metro is the second oldest electrified underground railway system in the world. Its Line 1, which completed in 1896, become an icon in the Hungrary and was declared a World Heritage Site in 2002.

Budapest Metro consists of four lines, which each line designated by a number and a colour. The system is mostly underground, except for short stretches near the each line’s depots. An automated ticket system and fare collection have been implemented by Budapest Metro.


3. Glasgow Subway, 1896
Glasgow Subway  is the third-oldest underground metro system in the world, located in Glasgow, Scotland. It is the only metro system in the United Kingdom which completely operates underground. The construction of the underground began in 1891 and opened on 14 December 1896.

In March 1977, cracks were noticed in the roof of Govan Cross station. In May 1977, the system was shut down for a major refurbishment. In August 1977, all redundant equipments from the old system were sold at a public sale. The line was formally reopened on 1 November 1979, however, ongoing renovation work was still incomplete. On 16 April 1980 the line was finally reopened to passengers.


4. Chicago "L", 1897
Chicago "L" is short for "elevated”. The “L” gained its name because most parts of the system are elevated. Chicago “L” is serving the city of Chicago and some of its surrounding suburbs in Illinois. It is the fourth-largest rapid transit system in the United States with a total of 102.8 miles route length, and runs over a total of 224.1 miles of track.

The very first sections of the "L" began operations on June 6, 1892, when a steam locomotive carrying more than a couple of dozen people, and pulling four wooden coaches. The first full circuit of the Loop was completed in 1897. In a 2005 poll, the readers of Chicago Tribune voted Chicago “L”  as one of the "seven wonders of Chicago."


5. Paris Métro, 1900
Paris Métro, short for Métropolitain, is a metro system in the Paris metropolitan area. The plan of an urban railway system was started since 1845, but many hurdles that put down the plan. The construction finally began on November 1898, and the first line was opened without ceremony on 19 July 1900 during the Paris World's Fair.

Paris Métro is noted as symbol of the city for its uniform architecture, influenced by Art Nouveau. Paris Métro is mostly underground metro system which has 16 lines, and 303 stations. It is also one of the densest metro systems in the world, and the second busiest subway system in Europe.


6. MBTA Subway, 1901
Short for Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, MBTA is a subway system operates in the Boston metropolitan area. It has 133 stations, but only 26 are located underground. Most of the lines operate in tunnels in the downtown area.

The section of the Tremont Street Subway is the oldest transit subway still in use in the United States, opened in September 1897. It also has been designated a National Historic Landmark of the United States. But the first rapid transit line and the first elevated railway in Boston were established in 1901.


7. Berlin U-Bahn, 1902
U-Bahn is short for Untergrundbahn, or underground railway. It is a rapid transit railway, and a major part of the city's public transport system in Berlin, Germany. U-Bahn serves 173 stations, with a total track length of 94.3 miles. Its trains carry over 400 million passengers, and travel 82.0 million miles over the course of a year.

Berlin U-Bahn was opened in 1902. It was then redeveloped in three major phases: the construction of the Kleinprofil network up to 1913, the introduction of the Großprofil network up to 1930, and further development after World War II from 1953 on. Bullet-riddled tiles at the entrances result of World War II battle damage were removed by 21 December 2004.


8. Athens Metro, 1904
Athens Metro is a rapid-transit system in Greece. It is connected with the other means of public transport. Athens Metro is hailed for being efficient and modern. Many of its stations feature art works, and display the archeological remains found during the construction. Also, street photographers often work in Athens Metro.

In 1869, the former Athens-Piraeus Electric Railways was opened as a conventional steam railway. But in 1904, it was electrified and become part of Line 1 of Athens Metro. Law 3920/2011 enacted by the Greek government consolidated Athens Metro operations with Urban Rail Transport (STASY), a subsidiary of OASA.


9. New York City Subway, 1904
New York City Subway is a metro system with the most stations, also one of the longest metro systems in the world. With its 24/7 service, New York City Subway also becomes one of the busiest rapid transit systems in the world.

The first demonstration for an underground transit system in New York City was built in 1869 and opened in February 1870. While the construction of the subway was began in 1900. The first underground line opened on October 27, 1904.

In October 2012, Hurricane Sandy in New York caused flooding several underwater tunnels and other facilities. Within only six months, the immediate damage was fixed, but long-term rehabilitation projects continue.


10. SEPTA, 1907
SEPTA is abreviated from Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority. It is a regional public transportation authority that services to almost 4 million people in and around Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Rapid Transit was incorporated in 1902, but the first subway line completed in 1907.

SEPTA has the 5th largest overall transit system, and the 6th-largest U.S. rapid transit system by ridership. The headquarters of SEPTA are at 1234 Market Street in Center City, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.


Sources:
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_Underground
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Budapest_Metro
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glasgow_Subway
4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicago_%22L%22
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris_M%C3%A9tro
6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MBTA_Subway
7. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_U-Bahn
8. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athens_Metro
9. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_City_Subway
10. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEPTA