It is a huge monument, a construction that can be clearly identified from space but for many, the real cost of the Great Wall of China has remained hidden.

Building walls

It seems odd to think that even in the 21^st Century, we still think of walls a means of protecting land, property and people – the exact reasons why the Great Wall of China was built.

A wall denotes a boundary, an obstacle over which no one is authorised to enter unless they have permission to do so.

The Great Wall of China stands as a testament to a time long past, to the skills of labourers and a dynasty that wanted to protect its wealth. But do we know the true cost of the Great Wall of China?

More than money

It took hundreds of years to complete with extensions added by dynasty heads over the centuries.

Extending over 4,000 miles over some of the most mountainous, inhospitable terrain, it is estimated over a million labourers lost their lives over the course of the building. Where the foundations have been exposed, archaeologists have found remains, thought to be of those who died creating this amazing man-made monument.

There are parts of it that are sadly crumbling and not accessible for the majority of the public. Small villages live in the shadow of parts of the wall, a world away from the well-kept steps that we see so often in traveller’s photos.

Why was the Great Wall of China built?

It was built to protect. It was also a sign of dominance, wealth and power, the main reasons why other cultures and people built huge monuments.

It is a show on engineering, a construction that is lasting the test of time. A tourist trap today, it is no longer needed as a protector of the interior of China.

A walk in history

And by exploring its history further with NCC Home Learning, you can find out more about the ancient civilisation that built this wall.

You can begin to understand how parts of this now defunct dynasty are still evident today in the culture of the fastest growing population on earth and why these types of creations and concepts were just as much about the display of wealth as they were about power and dominance.

Do you dream of taking off on a motorcycle and heading off on a round-the-world trip? The wind in your hair, new sights on the horizon and the freedom to go and do just as you please?! Well, we can help you make your dream a reality with our guide on how to travel the world on a motorcycle and avoid common pitfalls or stressful situations.

Rethink your packing!

Do you think you’ve packed light? Think again! Have a look at your packing, and get rid of at least half of what you’ve planned to take. The key is to adopt a minimal lifestyle and reduce bulk which will be a hindrance while travelling on a motorcycle. Outfits that you can mix and match and layer over each other for cooler weather are a great choice. But most importantly – will you take Marmite with you? Here’s our article on Brits’ most important packing choices!

Carry only rare spare parts with you

Do a bit of research to discover which spare parts are easily found in the areas you’ll be travelling in. Only take with you the rarer spare parts that are likely to need replacing, to save you the hassle and extra time in locating rare parts in far-flung locations. There’s a lot more detail on what to take from tools to tyres and quick fix-it solutions here.

Plan to ride only during daylight

Travel safely by sticking to this vital rule – only ride during daylight. Nighttime riding accounts for 27% of motorcycle fatalities, due to reduced visibility and other factors such as hidden obstacles in the road or drunk drivers. Stay safe and reduce the risk of an accident by planning ahead and travelling whilst it’s still light out. Make sure that you’re covered by motor trade insurance such as One Sure offers, for your protection and peace of mind.

Plan to stop

Motorcycle riding is exciting, but it can also take its toll on you if you don’t plan in adequate rest times. You don’t want to rush by all the amazing sights anyway, so make sure that you have worked out when and where you will rest. Take frequent breaks on long travel days, and have a full rest day every few days to recharge your batteries and refresh yourself.

Carry the right currency for the countries you’ll be travelling in

You’ll want to have the right currency for each country you travel in. Be warned: Don’t change your money at airport currency exchanges as they tend to have the worst rates and will stick a big fee on top too. If you’re withdrawing money from an ATM, take out the sum that you will need in one transaction if possible to save on multiple withdrawal fees. Click here to get more info on exchanging currency abroad.

So there you have it, some easy and useful tips to kick-start your motorcycle trip around the world! If you follow this advice you’ll be well on your way to making unforgettable memories and avoiding stress on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

So, you just got married. It can be a joyous experience and indeed something to remember for your entire lifetime. But equally the honeymoon is just as joyous as the marriage ceremony, and if you are looking to have a honeymoon that will be sure to be memorable, then we have you covered.

In this article, we have compiled a list of several locations around the world which you can travel to via airplane with tickets for cheap flights, by boat or maybe simply drive there. Marriage is a wonderful ceremony, and your honeymoon is just the icing on the cake.

Here are some of the most romantic place to visit for your ceremony.

Perfect Place For Your Honeymoon

# 1 – France

Hitting off the list is perhaps one of the most obvious places to visit on this list. Paris, France has long been seen as the places were romance and love flourish. For those who want the perfect romantic honeymoon spot, this may very well be the place to visit.

# 2 – India

The Taj Mahal is universally known around the world to be one of the most romantic places to visit. India has a long history of romance and love. Not only that but India is one of the most visually pleasing places to visit in the world.

# 3 – Caribbeans

The Caribbeans Islands are just gorgeous and a great place to visit not only for a honeymoon but just to get away. But why this is a great destination is because of the scenery and the ability to have specific areas fo the island to yourself and to your lover.

Truly paradise on earth. Great atmosphere. Great climate. Beautiful sceneries. And an amazing culture. This may be the best place to have your honeymoon.

# 4 – Hawaii

Hawaii the islands of America. Hawaii offers, much like the Caribbean’s a fantastic scenery and atmosphere. With a fantastic climate, stunning sights, superb service and free health care – it really is no wonder as to why this state is so popular with many people, to visit.

Make Your Honeymoon An Experience To Remember Forever

Make your honeymoon night and week to remember for the rest of your life. These destinations will not only be the icing on the cake, but it will also be a garnet place to visit to respire the feelings all over again.

Best wishes to all the newlyweds out there and those who are getting married in the near future.