Travel to places where nature heals your diseases.

Even though modern medicine may have successfully found ways to cure chronic diseases, natural therapies are still considered the best. The high-end treatment therapies may have surpassed the traditional remedies, but the package of side effects that come along cannot be ignored. On the other side, if we look at the benefits of natural products and herbal treatments, the comparison is unbeatable. With the awareness being spread about natural therapies, more and more people nowadays are moving towards herbal ways to cure their diseases. Though natural ways may take time to cure diseases, but the results are promised that too without any side effects on the body. So why not take advantage of Mother Nature and relieve ourselves from painful syringes and daunting surgical procedures? Here are some of the popular destinations in the world that offer treatment therapies in a natural way:

1.    Seoul, South Korea: Rising as a medical hub around the world, South Korea is known for its state-of-the-art technology in providing best medical services. Nine out of the numerous hospitals present here are accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI), an agency that surveys medical facilities around the world. Apart from modern therapies, Korea is also known for Traditional and Oriental medicine. The city of Seoul is one such place that offers traditional therapies that are said to be more than 2, 000 years old. The idea of Traditional and Oriental medicine is to create harmony and balance in the body in order to provide a healthy and happy life. The body, thus, is considered a constitution. In this form of medicine, the highly professional medical experts first examine each patient’s constitution and then prescribe herbal medicine formulas and non-surgical therapies like acupuncture and Chuna therapy. Along with that various herbal medicines and herbs also constitute to provide best natural treatments to the patients. Today, this city is flocked by patients from across the globe who prefer natural treatments instead of modern medicine.

Image courtesy : www.koreaherald.com

2.    Hanoi, Vietnam: Apart from being an exotic city of beaches and rich culture, Vietnam is a popular destination for medical tourism as well. This place not only offers highly acknowledged cosmetic, dental and other surgeries, but natural treatment therapies too. Traditional acupuncture, mud baths, hot springs, spa, natural herbal baths etc. are part of its thousand years old natural procedures of healing. Performed by the most qualified medical practitioners, the natural therapies here cost much lesser than any other high-end medical service provider. Amidst the lush green natural surroundings, experience the most unique methods of curing diseases. Rejuvenate yourself with relaxing message and mud baths and create a balance between your body, mind and soul. Then you will realize how easily you are getting rid of those chronic diseases that were stuck to your body like leeches. Medical tourism to Vietnam is worth planning if you wish to cure your diseases the natural way.

Image courtsey : vietnamtravel.asiatica.com

3.    Kerala, India: Ayurveda has been serving mankind since ages. Perhaps the oldest surviving complete medical system in the world today, its history dates back to around 5000 years, much before the discovery of modern medicine. Certainly a hub of Ayurveda, Kerala is most visited by people from India and abroad for herbal Ayurvedic treatments. This state offers word-class ayurvedic therapies in plush beach resorts surrounded with beautiful greenery and serenity. Offering various health benefits, the ayurvedic resorts in Kerala offers promised results for diseases like obesity, spondylitis, arthritis, diabetes, psoriasis and many more. You can also pamper yourself through relaxed massages that are done with exclusive herbs and essential oils. The authentic ayurvedic treatments of Kerala have been proven extremely beneficial and are acknowledged all over the world today.

Image Courtesy : therapies.healthxtourism.com

Five Affordable Destinations to Explore This Season

Who would not want to take his/her family out for an international vacation? But most people think that trips to abroad are always too expensive to make a big hole in their pockets. The reality, however, is far different. With neck to neck competition in place, many travel companies offer great package deals these days. The idea is to get maximum clientele, especially during the season. They offer great deals to suit every budget. So all you need to do is to take advantage of these offers and plan your trip well in advance. This way you can get decent discounts and save money.

Now you must be thinking that discounts are okay, but where to go? So, no need to worry as we have a solution for that as well.  Read on to know about top five affordable destinations that you can explore this season:

1.    Colombo, Sri Lanka: From golden beaches to lush green surroundings, thrilling adventures to relaxing spas, rich heritage to unique culture, Sri Lanka has been able to mesmerize global tourists since ages. It is the land of faith and religion where original soul of Buddhism flourishes in its numerous Buddhist temples. The tranquility of beautiful natural surroundings rejuvenates mind, body and soul. Colombo, being the capital of Sri Lanka, is the most famous travel destination of the country. Explore the city through City Tour buses or stroll through the lanes, the city has a lot to offer. Beaches, museums, spas, shopping malls, temples, zoological parks and much more, Colombo has enough to give you wonderful memories to take back home.



2.    Genting Highlands, Malaysia: Beautifully perched on the heights of Gunung Ulu Kali, Genting Highlands is a hill resort in Malaysia. Within an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, you can reach this cool and breezy destination, a place where fun never stops. Immerse yourself in the serenity of natural surroundings or get to the groove of casinos, Genting has all the elements to give you a heavy dose of fun and entertainment. Spoil yourself in lavish casinos, enjoy the theme parks or check your daring through electrifying adventures; in a nutshell, make the most of your holiday at Genting Highlands.

3.    Kathmandu, Nepal: Comprising three ancient cities of Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, the Kathmandu valley is a home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Being a major contributor to the country’s economy, Kathmandu is the main tourist destination in Nepal. The city has the most urbanized infrastructure offering best facilities to tourists visiting the city from all over the world. Numerous temples, monuments, museums and heritage sites are some of the attractions of this place. You can also get a chance to relax your senses through meditation and yoga. Or else, you can pamper yourself with some of the best ancient massages at secluded resorts located amidst serene natural surroundings.

Image courtsey: www.travelgrove.com

4.    Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE): Undoubtedly known as the shopper’s paradise, Dubai offers luxury at its best. But don’t get confused that a trip to Dubai would also be expensive. Crack a great package deal and rush to this magnificent place which is decked up with world-class art and architecture. Lavish shopping malls, ultra-modern constructions, exquisite designs, heritage sites, sumptuous food, vibrant nightlife and much more - what else could you ask for? Be there and experience it yourself, surely, you would come back with great memories.



5.    Bangkok, Thailand: Awarded as the ‘World’s Best City’ by the Travel + Leisure magazine, Bangkok is definitely a place of fun and frolic. The capital city of Thailand has numerous tourist attractions to entice visitors. Talk about its culture, architecture, landmarks, nightlife or food, the city offers everything in abundance. It is also growing as a destination for medical tourism. The main attraction, Buddhist temples, will give you a sneak peek about the cultural values of this place. Whether you are a cultural enthusiast, fun lover or a shopaholic, the city would never give you a chance to repent your visit.

A day’s trip from Venice to Burano

If you would like to explore Venice more than just a city, plan a day’s trip to Burano, a small island of colors and lace.

Listed among the most colorful places in the world by various international magazines, Burano is a small island in Venice. The vibrant, colorful houses sprawling across the island are the most significant feature of this place; so is the leaning tower, lace museum and centuries old art of lace making.

Unique Character: Burano is a photographer’s paradise. It gives an amazing view when the bright sunshine creates a reflection of beautiful colored houses on green water of canals flowing through the narrow lanes. The numerous boats coming in and out, old aunts sitting in squares, chatting and weaving exquisite laces, children riding their bicycles, ladies looking at their flower pots from the windows while tourists gazing upon the beauty of this magnificent place – together everything creates a unique character of Burano.

Colorful Houses: According to a legend, the fishermen used to paint their houses with bright colors so they could see their houses from the sea. The legend, however became the tradition that further became the necessity of this island. They say, if you are a resident of Burano and wish to paint your house, you first need to send a letter to the Government and they will tell you, which color you can paint your house with. Interesting, isn’t it?

Image courtsey : urbanpeek.com

The Authentic Art: The lace art, being another distinguishing feature of Burano, is unique and original. You will see numerous shops and stores in Burano offering beautiful range of handmade lace products like table cloths, baby booties, dolls, masks, etc. Dating back to 1500 years, the lace culture first started in posh hoses of Burano. Soon the art spread and lace makers from Burano started visiting France to initiate lace production there. It is said that lace making was so intense and required a lot of hard work that it would take an entire month to complete a piece of table cloth. Perhaps that’s the reason why most of the products displayed in shops in Burano are machine made. But if you want to get a souvenir, you certainly need to pick up the one which is handmade.

Do not forget to visit Museo del Merletto, the lace museum that displays the rich history and art of lace making from the initial days to present. Get to see some rare and precious pieces of this exquisite art here.
The Leaning Tower: San Martino Church is another important place to visit when in Burano. Its leaning tower again creates an identifiable landmark of the city. Also enjoy the famous opera of Gian Battista Tiepolo here.

Image courtsey: urbanpeek.com

The ever so busy Galuppi Square: The most happening place on Burano has to be Galuppi Square, where you can find anything to everything. The lace shops, restaurants, cafes, small souvenir shops and ice cream parlours keep the visitors busy here. Stroll through this square, collect some souvenirs, relish the sumptuous authentic Venetian food, enjoy the sunset at the coffee shop by the canals and make your trip a memorable one.

A Journey into the Heart of India: Madhya Pradesh

Peacefully embellished in the centre of the magnificent canvas called India, symbolizing the affluent culture and the natural heritage of the Indian Subcontinent, Madhya Pradesh is very appropriately revered as the Heart of India. One of the prominent cultural and religious hubs of the nation housing diverse communities such as hindus, buddhists, jainis, and muslims, the state of MP is festooned with astounding heritage marvels presented by these communities, which represent their spectacular cultural values.

This glorious state of India gained enormous fame and prosperity during ancient Mughal rule. The picturesque beauty of this sacred land increases with the valuable sight of wavy Narmada River flowing in the Vindhya and Satpura ranges. Madhya Pradesh, thus, never fails to thrill the tourists with its attractive locales.
Madhya Pradesh is known world over for Ujjain, one of the four places in India, where the sacred Kumbh ka Mela takes place once in every twelve years.

Image Courtsey : en.wikipedia.org

Through this edifying blog, we will take a journey of hope and belief, through the legendary Heart of India.

Ujjain

Welcome to Ujjain! It is truly honored as one of the holiest cities of Hindus.
When a Hindu embarks on a pilgrimage, it is never complete without a visit to this sanctified city. Ujjain is located comfortably at a distance of about 60 km from Indore, which is a well connected city in MP, through road, rail and air routes.

This city of temples that renders utmost peace to the religious souls is the home to the renowned temples like Kaal Bhairov, Maha Kaal and many others. Kaal Bhairov temple is dedicated to the fierce form assumed by Lord Shiva. Shiva in the form of Kaal Bhairov caters to the real ethos of life which has an obverse and negative side as well. It is the manifestation by Shiva of this form that brings Hindu religion so close to the real nature of man. Shiva as Kaal Bhairov wears a necklace of bones. This may appear a dichotomy to a western tourists visiting the temple, but Hinduism encompasses a vast horizon and serving liquor to Lord Shiva in the form of Kaal Bhairov is something that is considered holy and desirable. Worshipers believe that that the liquor is drunk by the God. It is a miracle indeed and one must visit the Kaal Bhairov temple to savour this phenomena.

Image courtsey: holydham.com

In addition to the peace imaging temples and the whole pastoral feel of the city, Ujjain is also famous for a saint called the Dabral Baba who formerly was an employee of the University of Ujjain. He developed some uncanny powers by worshipping Kaal Bhairov. It is a legend in the city that respected Baba will most likely make some startling observations that will help you.

Ujjain also holds the honor of hosting the Kumbh Mela once every twelve years, which is considered to be one of the largest religious gatherings on earth. This holy gathering is said to have 30 million devotees attending every time it takes place.

Maheshwar
Maheshwar was a glorious city at the dawn of Indian civilization when it was known as Mahishmati, capital of king Kartivarjun. This temple town on the banks of the river Narmada finds mention in the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata. It was revived to its ancient position of importance by the Holkar queen Rani Ahilyabai of Indore. Maheshwar's temples and mighty fort-complex stand in quiet beauty, mirrored in the river below.

Rajgaddi and Rajwada, also known as Ahilyabai Fort, is the right place to begin a tour of Maheshwar, for this pious and wise queen was the architect of its revived importance. A life-size statue of Rani Ahilyabai sits on a throne in the Rajgaddi within the fort complex. Mandleshwar is another place of interest to visit.  This town is situated on the banks of river Narmada, at a distance of about 5 km from Maheshwar. The town was founded by Mandana Mishra, and has a stone fort constructed by Mohammedan rulers. It also has a fine flight of 123 steps leading down to the river and expanding below into a quaint wide ghat. With their soaring spires, the many-tiered temples of Maheshwar are distinguished by their carved overhanging balconies and their intricately worked doorways. Kaleshwar, Rajarajeshwara, Vithaleshwara and Ahileshwar are the temples to be seen. When in Maheshwar, one cannot miss the towns like Oon and Bawangaja, situated at 10 and 18 km distance form Kahrgone and Barwani, respectively. Oon was a flourishing place 1000 years ago. About a dozen temples, both Hindu and Jain lie clustering here and represent an architecture patronized by the Parmara kings of Malwa. The carvings on the temples are quite similar to those in Khajuraho. The Bawangaja temples are 170 km from Indore. The 72ft high Jain statue here has been hewn in the rock. It belongs to the early 15th century. Both Oon and Bawanjanga are important parts of Jain pilgrimage.

Image courtsey: www.flickr.com

Omkareshwar

Another pilgrimage site in Madhya Pradesh is Omkareshwar, where Narmada and Kaveri rivers unite. It is considered as sacred and fulfilling to visit this land. The place is famous for the Shiva temple, which consists of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Sidhhanath Temple, another sacred temple in Omkareshwar, is one of the best representations of the medieval Brahmin architectural style of construction. Deogarh, a city known to be a Jain centre, is popularly known as the abode of God. Deogarh Fort consists of many Jain and Hindu Temples. The Dashavatar temple is the most famous temple in Omkareshwar.

Mandu

Moving ahead of the religion, Madhya Pradesh houses some real architecture of Mughal Era too. This is on an ostentatious display at Mandu.

This city was established by the Mughals during their on-going battle with Rajputs. All the buildings and other places suggest a strong influence of the Mughal art and architecture on them. The place has a number of buildings that are in ruins today and stretches up to 45 kilometers. There are at least 12 gateways that have been made at the exit points of the city to protect it from any invasion. Besides this there are many other historical sites worth a visit, such as Jahaz Mahal and Jama Masjid.

Image Courtsey: www.elixirworldtours

The state of Madhya Pradesh invites and resides people from all faiths and religions in its spheres. A visit to one of the most venerated parts of India is a must, when on a world exploration voyage.

Top five medical tourism destinations around the world

Be it about the picture perfect looks through world-class plastic surgeries, or a smile that could make anybody fall in love with you-  this blog is a perfect piece of information for those who can walk that extra mile to bring out perfection in their looks.
With many medical service providers offering world-class treatment facilities and best customer services, medical tourism industry is booming up rapidly. According to latest CNN reports the medical tourism industry is growing at a fast pace worldwide, which is up to 25% each year. Due to advance technologies and high-end treatment facilities, patients are heading abroad for procedures that cost nearly 80% less than at home. With 350 international hospitals being awarded JCI accreditation in 2014, the choice has been broadened. Depending on their budget, patients can now choose from a huge list of hospitals across the globe today. Here is the list of top five medical travel destinations around the world that offer best treatment services:

1.    Korea: Perhaps the favorite destination for women, Korea is popular as the Plastic Surgery Capital of the World. The top-notch technology, highly skilled doctors and world’s best services make Korea a mecca of plastic surgery. People from all over the world rush to this wonderland to get their faces lifted, chins thinned or noses tweaked. Not only women but men also make up to fairly a good percentage of patients coming for getting plastic surgeries done. Keeping the high footfall of patients in mind, many hotels have tied up with hospitals to provide stay facilities. Not only that, even the hospitals are now offering high-end lodging services to international patients. Also to overcome language issues special bilingual staff has been employed by the hospitals. What else could you ask for?

Image courtsey: k-mice.visitkorea.or.kr

2.    India: With the presence of professionally trained best health care practitioners, India has become one of the most-visited medical travel destinations around the world. Many medical institutions of India have been acknowledged internationally for providing best medical facilities along with premium customer service.  Recently Apollo Health City, Hyderabad, India has received IMTJ Medical Travel Award 2014 for providing ‘Excellence in Customer Service”. If you are conscious about cost and can manage well with some cultural differences, India could be the best option for getting cardiac surgeries, joint replacements and organ transplants done at affordable prices. Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai and Ahmedabad are the most visited cities by international patients in India.

Image courtsey: www.healthnews.com

3.    Brazil: Another place famous for providing best cosmetic surgeries in the world is Brazil. Cosmetic procedures like fat reductions, breast augmentations, tummy tucks, and face lifting are done here with high expertise. Not only the prime locations like Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, small cities like Santos also attract patients from all over the world for providing top-notch medical treatments.
4.    Costa Rica: Majorly popular for providing the best dental care, Costa Rica is one of the top five medical tourism destinations for Americans. It is a home to highly professional surgeons, dentists and certified doctors. It is said that nearly 15-20% of international tourists visiting this beautiful land take advantage of its medical facilities and get themselves treated while being on vacations. Interesting, isn’t it? Its beautifully stretched long coastline provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere that help patients to recover faster.

5.    Singapore: With the presence of world famous Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Singapore is the world’s sixth-rated healthcare system providers. Be it the stem-cell therapy, cancer treatment, or cardiac surgeries, Singapore offers best medical services in highly urbanized culture. A little higher on the budget side, Singapore assures safe and quality healthcare services.

Image courtesy: ealthtournyx.com

The Uttering Uttar Bharat – A Voyage to North India

Besides a picturesque beauty of wide lush green lands, high snow peaked mountains and free-flowing waterways, Uttar Bharat or North India offers an array of opportunities to adventure enthusiasts too. Exploring the wildlife safaris, an enthralling cruise in an open jeep and rafting, in the natural flow of the river are some of the highlights of an adventurous voyage to North India.

 Read on to know about the available adventures in the land of Uttar Bharat.

JUNGLE SAFARI

Popular Jungle Safaris in India:

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Sundarbans, West Bengal
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kanha National Park, MP
Bandhavgarh National Park, MP

Jim Corbett National Park

Established in 1937 and named after Jim Corbett, who was a British hunter and tracker-turned-conservationist, author and naturalist, famous for hunting a large number of man-eating tigers and leopards in India, this national park spread over 520sqkm of the core area and 800sqkm of buffer area. The primary objective of this national park is to save endangered species like Royal Bengal Tigers and fish eating crocodiles known as Ghariwal. 73% of the forest is covered with dense moist evergreen jungle with huge natural plantation of of sal, haldu, papal and mango trees. Corbett Park also homes 50 species of mammals, and more than 500 species of birds, elephants, leopards, hog deer, rhinos and many more. A large number of migratory birds can be seen here during winters. One can peep into this wonderful wildlife either on a jeep or elephant safari.

Image courtsey: selectrajasthan.com

Tips while on a wild voyage:   

•    Keep silence while you are visiting the abode of the wild animals
•    Don’t pollute the jungle area by throwing any waste materials
•    Follow all the rules set by the jungle authorities to prevent any legal harassment

Best time to visit:

15th November to 15th June. The park remains closed in monsoon.

RIVER RAFTING

Some of the most popular White Water Rafting spots in North India:

Upper Ganga River Rafting Expedition, Rishikesh
Alaknanda River Rafting Expedition, Rishikesh
Zanskar River Expedition, Ladakh   
Brahmaputra River Expedition, Assam

Rishikesh
In this famous spot, the rafting starts from 4 major points-

•    Bramhapuri to Rishikesh - These 9Kms long stretch is ideal for beginners as it has grade 2 rapids.
•    Marine Drive to Shivpuri – This 11Kms rafting includes 3 rapids like Cash Flow and Three Blind Mice.
•    Shivpuri to Rishikesh - 16Kms long stretch offers 4 rapids like Roller Coaster, Golf Course and Cliff Jumping.
•    Kaudiyala to Rishikesh – This is the longest river rafting spot of India which covers a stretch of 32Kms. It belongs to grade 4+ rapids; therefore it is not advisable for the beginners.

Image courtsey: www.alaknandariverrafting.in

GMVN or Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam conducts river rafting courses at Kaudiyala. They also appoint trainers and provide many rafting accessories including rafts, and river side camping equipment.

Tips while on rafting:

•    Carry a first aid box full of inhalers and bee sting kits
•    Side-step carrying any valuable items with you including cell phones or wallet
•    Anti-tan cream or lotions
•    Strap your cameras and sunglasses to secure them
•    Avoid the cotton. Wear  nylon or other synthetic fabrics instead

Best time to visit for Rafting:

September-November and March-May!
   
HOT AIR BALLOONING:
Popular spots for Hot Air Ballooning in India:

Hot Air Ballooning - Jaipur
Hot Air Balloon - Tiger Safari - Hampi Bangalore
Hot Air Ballooning - NCR & Around (On Request only)


                                                                  Image courtsey: www.thrillophilia.com

Ballooning over the desert state of Rajasthan:

The hot air balloon ride in Rajasthan starts from Jaipur and covers many spectacular areas of the state including Pushkar Camel Fair. A rider can enjoy the aerial view of golden sand of Thar, historical monuments of Jaipur the Pink City, and the wild animals at Ranthambore National Park. The rides are conducted in the early morning soon after sunrise, as well as in the evening before sunset.  Though the Flights usually last for an hour, it is recommended to spare 4 hours for it. The ballooning companies provide pickups and drops from the hotels. Two prominent names in this field of hot air ballooning In India are Sky Waltz and Wanderlust Travels.

Tips while Ballooning:
•    A certain level of mental and physical fitness has to be there because the whole ride is covered while standing in the basket
•    For a safer ride, go ballooning when the flow of the wind is calm
•    Wear sturdy footwear
•    Wear a jacket if you are going for an early morning voyage
•    Do not forget caps and sunglasses

Best time to visit:
Mid September to the end of March as the weather is cool and dry.

Sao Paulo Brazil, All Set for FIFA World Cup 2014

Looking for a vacation in Sao Paulo, are you? Well folks, this summer is just the perfect time to pack your bags and head towards one of the largest business hubs of South America; Sao Paulo! A perfect vacationing spot, which offers history & culture, fun & frolic, special events and loads of amusement, it is is the destination for your upcoming vacation. Ask why?

Adding to all the existing fabulous reasons, to take a holiday in Sao Paulo, the most impressive one this year is that Sao Paulo is one of the host cities to FIFA World Cup 2014!!

Situated at the eastern coast of Brazil, this one of the largest cities of the world is an eclectic mix of old and new architecture. There are buildings that have been standing for hundreds of years paired next to modern style, modern looking skyscrapers. As far as the people, the city is mainly Portuguese speaking with a hint of Italian thrown in.

Image Courtsey: articlexone.blogspot.com

Although Sao Paulo indisputably is a business destination, Paulistanos are definitely not workolihics!  Sao Paulo is a high-profile cultural centre that displays a wide range of options for amusement and recreation. From a spread out range of concerts and exhibitions to a colossal gastronomy scenario of more than 12,000 restaurants, this city is bubbling with thrill and activity. Vacationers fall for the incredible tourist attractions that go way beyond its staggering skyline. To name a few are, the Japanese District of Liberdade, the Ibirapuera Park, the several high-profile shopping malls and a charming city centre.

Another high up thing Sao Paulo is known for is its influx of special events. There are characteristically more than ninety thousand events that take place in the city, in the course of a given year. Standing out in the list for the ongoing year 2014, is FIFA World Cup, which is one of the most anticipated events in the field of sports. It is also the biggest single-event sporting competition in the world. Held once every four years, football fans across the globe follow the gaming action live, watch their favourite players vie on field and witness new records being set.

Sao Paulo is the very birthplace of Brazilian football, as it was the home of Charles Miller, the British descendent who presented this beautiful game to the city in 1894 and helped its rapid proliferation throughout the country.

Fédération Internationale de Football Association, the international governing body for football has slated the 20th edition of the FIFA World Cup in Sao Paulo, opening on 12th June 2014. The first inaugural FIFA tournament was held in 1930 in Uruguay.  This is the second time Brazil has been chosen to organize the game. Not only this, Brazil has won the title five times and is the only team to have qualified for every tournament since its inception.

Image Courtsey: bergvision.blogspot.com

Teams Coming in for FIFA 2014

This is going to be one interesting event with a thrilling outlay of 32 teams from five different continents and confederations, in the battlefield. Each team, magnanimously charged with enthusiasm and heroic spirits, will battle it out in Brazil for the most coveted football competition title. The stupendous list of 32 teams comprises of Algeria, Cameroon, Australia, Iran, Ecuador, Greece, South Korea, Honduras, Switzerland, Ghana, Costa Rica, USA, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cote d'Ivoire, Mexico, Japan, Nigeria, Chile, Russia, France, Portugal, Netherlands, Croatia, England, Belgium, Uruguay, Colombia, Italy, Argentina, Germany, Spain and Brazil.

The Armadillo Fuleco is the official mascot of the game.

Where in Sao Paulo?

The inaugural match between the teams of Brazil and Croatia will be held at the expressly constructed, grand Itaquerao Stadium in Sao Paulo.

The games during the final competition phase will be held at various venues within the host nation.

The Official 2014 World Cup Song – “We are One” Sing it along!

Every FIFA World Cup is incomplete without an official song.

Each FIFA left the awestruck audience with several hits over the years. The top ranks include Ricky Martin's "The Cup of Life" and Shakira's foot-tapping "Waka Waka". Brazil has also earned the nickname "Land of Music" on account for its love for music. Sao Paulo adds to the title.  As a result, this year in Sao Paulo, football as well as music fans are looking forward to a musical masterpiece which could be a blend of pop culture and the infamous Brazilian beats.

The newest buzz from FIFA's information desk revealed that the official song for the 2014 soccer World Cup will be composed and sung by popular American rapper Pitbull along with the singing sensation Jennifer Lopez. The song is titled "We Are One" (Ole Ola). To go with it and to add glamour, Brazilian artist Claudia Leitte will be performing live to the musical beats. She will perform on stage alongside Pitbull and Jennifer Lopez on 12th June at Sao Paulo. There is a subtle hint of a Samba dance performance by the lady.

If you wish to watch the video, after it is released, check the official FIFA youtube channel. Sony is the official releaser and partner in the song.

Image courtsey: blogs.worldwatch.org

So ladies and gentleman, and the ardent football lovers out there; this is the time to book your flights to Sao Paulo and be the part of this grandest game event, festooned with some splendid music performances, in this marvellous city of Brazil.