My first postcard from Cape Verde

The Cape Verde Islands

6 May 2015 | From Lucia of Cape Verde

POSTCROSSING SWAP

Cape Verde or Cabo Verde is an island country spanning an archipelago of 10 volcanic islands in the central Atlantic Ocean. The Cape Verde archipelago was uninhabited until the 15th century, when Portuguese explorers discovered and colonized the islands, establishing the first European settlement in the tropics. Ideally located for the Atlantic slave trade, the islands grew prosperous throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, attracting merchants, privateers, and pirates.

The Cape Verde islands consist of two small (volcanic in origin) archipelagos, about 400 miles off the western coast of Africa. The islands gained their independence on July 5, 1975, and politically has remained a stable democracy; however, as of 2007 Cape Verde is considered as a developing nation. Most of the indigenous people are descendants of African slaves, and some still speak Crioulo, a Creole dialect. The local economy depends on agriculture and limited tourism. 

Written in the faces

Three men and a map

17 Apr 2015 | From Lidiya of Ukraine

POSTCROSSING FRIEND

I was having a hard time trying to translate the words written in front of the postcard as some are in cursive. However I'm pretty sure the last word is translated to Ukraine. It can't be 'Greetings from Ukraine' as a whole though. Hmm or is it? Maybe I should ask Lidiya next time...

The postcard shows three men standing behind each other, and onto them a part of Ukraine's map is drawn. I'm not certain if the three men represents something. But I can tell that they are wearing a Hutsul, a traditional Ukrainian dress.

Probably the first most noticeable feature in the Hutsuls’ dress is that men like to wear more decorations on their dress than women. Men’s shirts have lavishly embroidered fronts, and embroidered strips around the neck and on the sleeves.

Illustrated map of China

Geography of China

10 Mar 2015 | From Karen of China

POSTCROSSING SWAP

China is the most populous and fourth largest country in the world by total area. China is officially known as the People's Republic of China (PRC) and is located in East Asia. It stretches some 5,026 km (3,123 mi) kilometers across the East Asian landmass. China is bordered in the east by the East China Sea, Korea Bay, Yellow Sea, Taiwan Strait, and South China Sea, and shares land borders with a total of 14 countries in the north, south and west. It is bound by Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Russia in the north; Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Taiwan and Philippines in the east; Vietnam, Laos, Burma, Bhutan, and Nepal in the south; and India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Kyrgyzstan in the west. 

Administratively, China is divided into 22 Provinces (shengs), five Autonomous Regions (zizhiqus), four Government-controlled Municipalities (shihs) and two Special Autonomous Regions (Hong Kong and Macau). The country claims sovereignty over Taiwan as its 23rd province.

By virtue of vast geographical extent, China is endowed with diverse landforms which include hills, mountains, high plateaus, deserts, plains, and deltas. Freshwater lakes in the country are mostly found in the middle-lower Yangtze Plain and include Poyang, Dongting, Taihu, and Hongze. The lakes in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau include Qinghai, Nam Co, and Siling Co. These are saltwater lakes.

My first written and stamped postcard from my country

Islands of Cebu and Bohol

25 Feb 2015 | From Ronan of the Philippines

POSTCARD SWAP (INSTAGRAM)

Clockwise from top - leftmost: Baclayon Church, Bohol; Chocolate Hills, Bohol; Tarsier - world's smallest primates, Corella; Alona Beach, Panglao Island; Kawasan Falls, Cebu 

The capital of Cebu island is Cebu City. Cebu City is the first Spanish settlement in the country and the oldest city in the country.  In the beginning of the 16th century the Spaniards arrived in the southern part of the Philippines. Since then Cebu City has been  the centre of trade and commerce in the southern part of the Philippines. Cebu is the hub around which the Visayas revolve. It is the most densely populated island in the Philippines and is second only to Luzon in its strategic and economic importance to the country. The main attractions are its white-sand beaches and spectacular diving, namely off the northern tip of Cebu at Bantayan and Malapascua islands, as well as on the southwest coast at Moalboal.

Just a quick ferry journey from Cebu, Bohol offers independent travellers a wealth of options both on and off the beaten track. Bohol is considered as the friendly heart of the Visayas and one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the Philippines. The island province can be best described for its cute bug-eyed tarsiers and the majestic Chocolate Hills.

The province is a popular tourist destination with its beaches and resorts. The Chocolate Hills, numerous mounds of limestone formations, is the most popular attraction. The formations can be seen by land (climbing the highest point) or by air via ultralight airplane tours. Panglao Island, located just southwest of Tagbilaran City, is famous for its diving locations and routinely listed as one of the top ten diving locations in the world. Numerous tourist resorts dot the southern beaches and cater to divers from around the world. The Philippine tarsier, amongst the world's smallest primates, is indigenous to the island.

Discover Taiwan

Geography of Taiwan

16 Dec 2014 | From Victoria of Taiwan

OFFICIAL POSTCROSSING

This is my second postcard showing an illustrated map of Taiwan. The postcard may be a part of the 'Share Taiwan with the world' postcard series.

Taiwan, historically called Formosa, is an island in East Asia located some 180 kilometres (112 miles) off the southeastern coast of China across the Taiwan Strait.  It is shaped like a leaf that is narrow at both ends. Taiwan proper makes up 99% of the territory of the Republic of China (ROC), after the ROC lost its mainland China territory in the Chinese Civil War and fled to the island in 1949, and the country itself is commonly referred to as simply "Taiwan".

Taiwan is a tilted fault block, characterized by the contrast between the eastern two-thirds, consisting mostly of five rugged mountain ranges parallel to the east coast, and the flat to gently rolling plains of the western third, where most of Taiwan's population reside.

Taiwan lies on the western edge of the Pacific "rim of fire," and continuous tectonic movements have created majestic peaks, rolling hills and plains, basins, coastlines, and other natural landscapes. Taiwan's tropical, sub-tropical, and temperate climates provide clear differentiation between the different seasons. There are rare or endangered species of wildlife on the island. Among these are the land-locked salmon, Taiwan serow, Formosan rock monkey, Formosan black bear, blue magpie, Mikado pheasant, and Hsuehshan grass lizard.

Map of Belarus through symbols

Symbols of Belarus

24 Nov 2014 | From Natalia of Belarus

OFFICIAL POSTCROSSING

I wonder how many designs are there in this postcard series collection. I have already received one before - The Nature of Belarus. This postcard is my second. It would be cool to receive them all. Hello, Belarusian Postcrossers! :)

Wheat ears, a wisent, a white stork, and cornflower are considered to be unofficial symbols of Belarus. The European bison, commonly called the wisent, is seen as a symbol of Belarus and the Belavezha Forest. It is also featured on the symbols of Brest Oblast. Belarusian people are very fond of storks. Many folk legends are associated with these birds and they are regarded to be holy birds in Belarus. They represent peace and good luck.

The symbol of the Belarusian fields is the cornflower - a wildflower with star-like blossoms of brilliant blue. People sometimes call Belarus as the blue-eyed country. Wheat is commonly associated with Belarusian cuisine. The elements of the nationalemblem of Belarus include a ribbon in the colors of the national flag, a map of Belarus, wheat ears and a red star.

City of Venice

Zoning map of Venice

4 Oct 2014 | From Massimo of Italy

POSTCROSSING FRIEND

Venice (Venezia) is one of the most interesting and lovely places in the world. This sanctuary on a lagoon is virtually the same as it was six hundred years ago, which adds to the fascinating character. It is located in the marshy Venetian Lagoon which stretches along the shoreline, between the mouths of the Po and the Piave Rivers. Venice is renowned for the beauty of its setting, its architecture and its artworks. The city in its entirety is listed as a World Heritage Site, along with its lagoon.

The postcards shows a map which outlines the zoning designations within the city’s boundaries. There are six zones represented by different colors. For a more detailed zone map of Venice, click here.

Source: Wikipedia

Illustrated map of Ukraine III

What to see in Ukraine

4 Jul, 2014 | From Ira of Ukraine

POSTCROSSING SWAP

This is my third postcard with an illustrated map of Ukraine in it. Shown in the map is a cute and detailed illustration of Ukrainian symbols, people, and famous sights. I have actually forgotten about this swap after I wrote and sent her postcard. I write a lot of postcards, and I sometimes lose track of them.

Ira apologized for sending the postcard a little late though :) I was thinking for a moment as to with whom I arranged this swap with. Good thing my memory somehow never fails me :p

Peace for Ukraine

God Save Ukraine

19 Jun, 2014 | From Lidiya of Ukraine

POSTCROSSING FRIEND

This postcard is from Lidiya - who also sent me a couple of thank-you postcards before in the Official Postcrossing. In this postcard, the words written is translated to "God save Ukraine". Lidiya relates the current situation of their country which she describes as very tense and insane. People are dying everyday and it seems that they are on a warpath.

Now, they are looking forward the Presidential Elections which is very important for the Ukrainians now. It was held May 25, and I am still to receive news from her about the elections. I hope it will be good news.

From Goran's Maltese vacation

The Maltese Islands

28 May 2014 | From Goran of Macedonia 

POSTCROSSING FRIEND | POSTCARD SENT FROM MALTA

I got this postcard from Goran during his vacation in Malta. He shared that Malta is a country he fell in love with. Malta is a great place to visit for sea, sun, culture, and attractions.

Malta is a southern European country in the Mediterranean Sea. The country covers just over 316 km2 (122 sq mi), making it one of the world's smallest and most densely populated countries. The capital of Malta is Valletta. Malta is sometimes traditionally claimed to be an Apostolic see because, according to the Acts of the Apostles, Paul the Apostle was shipwrecked on Malta. Catholicism is the official religion in Malta.

Malta is a favoured tourist destination with its warm climate, numerous recreational areas, and architectural and historical monuments, including nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Source: Wikipedia

Artistic and Graphic Map of Mexico City's Historic Centre

Mexico City's Historic Centre

20 May, 2014 | From Lando of Mexico

POSTCROSSING FRIEND

This is such a funny and interesting map of Mexico City's Historic Centre. The Centro Histórico de la Ciudad de México (historic center of Mexico City), also known as the Centro or Centro Histórico, is the central neighborhood in Mexico City. The map is really detailed, and Lando wrote that it is actually quite complete.

There is a Mexican flag right where the main square is located. Lando's favourite place of course is the Postal Palace "Correos".

The World in our hands

The World in our hands

12 May, 2014 | From Alena of Russia

OFFICIAL POSTCROSSING

This postcard reminds me of the song "World in Our Hands" by English singer-songwriter Taio Cruz. It served as the official anthem for the coverage of the 2012 Summer Olympics by a German  television broadcaster. It got some good rhythm and lyrics in it.

Furthermore, I think the postcard somehow tells us that in our hands lie the future of our world. Everything we do is interconnected to this one big circle that greatly affects the chain that connects and tie us together - whether good or bad. Nothing in this world is a coincidence.

Kärnten, Austria

 

Map and sights of Kärnten

15 Apr 2014 | From Swen of Austria

POSTCROSSING SWAP

Carinthia (German: Kärnten) is the southernmost Austrian state or Land. Situated within the Eastern Alps it is noted for its mountains and lakes.

Major sights include the cities of Klagenfurt and Villach and medieval towns like Friesach or Gmünd. Carinthia features numerous monasteries and churches such as the Romanesque Gurk Cathedral or Maria Saal in the Zollfeld plain, the abbeys of St. Paul's, Ossiach, Millstatt, and Viktring as well as castles and palaces like large-scale Hochosterwitz, Griffen, or Porcia.

Source: Wikipedia

The Russian map through pictures

Russian symbols

15 Apr, 2014 | From Mary of Russia

OFFICIAL POSTCROSSING

Russia is the world's largest country. It covers 9 time zones, all climate zones except tropical, with land that stretches almost halfway around the planet.

Russian culture is rich, spanning centuries of Russian history. Russian culture encompasses art, food, traditions, literature, attitudes and more. The culture of Russia is both a point of pride for Russians themselves and a major draw for travelers who plan trips to Russia.

Colours of Ukraine

Illustrated map of Ukraine

19 Feb, 2014 | From Laura Emily of Ukraine

FACEBOOK SWAP

Ukraine is the second largest country that is part of contiguous Europe. Ukraine is located in Eastern Europe, bordering Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Moldova. Ukraine also has borders along the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.

The state flag of Ukraine is a banner of two equally sized horizontal bands of blue and yellow colour, which symbolise the clear blue sky over yellow wheat field.

Map of the United States of America

 

The US States

17 Jan, 2014 | From Arnold of USA

FACEBOOK SWAP

A state of the United States is one of the 50 constituent political entities that shares its sovereignty with the United States federal government.

The US Staes: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming

Source: 50states

Map of Bulgaria

Map of Bulgaria

21 Nov 2013 | From Nevena of Bulgaria

FACEBOOK SWAP

Bulgaria located in south-eastern Europe, is bordered by Romania, Serbia, Republic of Macedonia, Greece, Turkey and the Black Sea. The largest and capital city of Bulgaria is Sofia. With a territory of 110,994 square kilometres (42,855 sq mi), Bulgaria is Europe's 14th-largest country

A predominantly Slavic-speaking, Orthodox country, Bulgaria was the birthplace of the Cyrillic alphabet, which was created there towards the end of the 9th century AD.

The Bulgars, a Central Asian Turkic tribe, merged with the local Slavic inhabitants in the late 7th century to form the first Bulgarian state. In succeeding centuries, Bulgaria struggled with the Byzantine Empire to assert its place in the Balkans, but by the end of the 14th century the country was overrun by the Ottoman Turks. Northern Bulgaria attained autonomy in 1878 and all of Bulgaria became independent from the Ottoman Empire in 1908. Having fought on the losing side in both World Wars, Bulgaria fell within the Soviet sphere of influence and became a People's Republic in 1946. Communist domination ended in 1990, when Bulgaria held its first multiparty election since World War II and began the contentious process of moving toward political democracy and a market economy while combating inflation, unemployment, corruption, and crime. The country joined NATO in 2004 and the EU in 2007.

Map of Yuan-Ming Park

 

The Yuan-Ming Park

21 Nov 2013 | From Hsiang-Ling of Taiwan

FACEBOOK SWAP | POSTCARD SENT FROM CHINA

This is a map of the Yuan-Ming Park in Beijing, which Hsiang-Ling shared is just near her  university.

Yuan Ming Yuan, also known as the 'Old Summer Palace' and originally called the Imperial Gardens, was an extremely large complex of palaces and gardens 8 km (5 miles) northwest of the old city wall of Beijing (that is, about 8km from XiZhiMen subway station). Yuan Ming Yuan is very close to the Summer Palace; in fact, slightly nearer to central Beijing.

Yuan Ming Yuan was constructed during the 18th and early 19th century and was a wonderland of lakes and waterways, bridges, hills and pavilions.

Illustrated map of Taiwan

Share Taiwan with the World

21 Nov, 2013 | From Hsu-wen of Taiwan

FACEBOOK SWAP

Taiwan, officially the Republic of China, is a state in East Asia. Taiwan is an island which has for all practical purposes been independent since 1950, but which China regards as a rebel region that must be reunited with the mainland.

The island of Taiwan (formerly known as "Formosa") was mainly inhabited by Taiwanese aborigines until the Dutch and Spanish settlement during the Age of Discovery in the 17th century, when ethnic Chinese began immigrating to the island.

Hsu-wen also shared a few things about Taiwan ~

Taiwanese Snacks: fried dumplings, pineapple cake, mochi, tofu pudding, bubble milk tea, red bean with milk ice, etc. Famous Attractions: Taipei 101, Sun Moon Lake, The Taiwan Night Market, etc.

Nature of Belarus

Nature of Belarus

25 Oct 2013 | From Lora and Antonio of Belarus

POSTCROSSING SWAP

This is the other postcard that arrived in the mail from Lora and his son, Antonio. They wrote a lot of personal things, as well as some information about their country - Belarus.

Belarus is situated in the center of Europe. That is why Belarus is often regarded as the heart of Europe. According to Lora, the standard of living in Belarus is far from most European countries. A lot of young people leave Belarus for other countries to earn money.

She also wrote that people in Belarus are hospitable and kind. They always wear a smile, and are more reserved compared to their neighboring countries.

Belarus’ unique natural environment is host to a fascinating selection of rare plant and animal species. Belarus is a very green landscape. Natural vegetation covers 93.1% of the land, and 1/3 of all green landscape is forest. Belarus is also home to a huge array of wild animals and birds, many of them rare species.