New 7 Wonders Of The World

Latest Ranking

2009-12-15T05:19:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I was able to post any update on this site. I have been hooked up to my job and did not have time to post updates about the N7W of Nature.

Right now, I manage to take a peek at the latest ranking and so I am taking this opportunity to somehow share the information.

And so, here are your 28 finalist for the N7W of Nature campaign, based on the latest update from the new7wonders.com web site.

The ranking has divided the list into two groups which are listed in alphabetical order.

Top 14 includes:
Amazon, Angel falls
Bay of Fundry, Dead Sea
Galapagos, Grand Canyon
Great Barried Reef, Halong Bay
Iguazu falls, Jeita Grotto
Komodo, Maldives
Puerto Princesa, Vesuvius

Bottom 14 includes:
Black forest, Bu Tinah Shoals
Cliffs of Moher, El Yunque
Jeju Island, Kilimanjaro
Masurian Lake, Matterhorn/Cervino
Milford, Mud Volcanoes
Sundarbans, Table Mountain
Uluru, Yushan

To check the rankings page, you can visit it at:
http://www.new7wonders.com/n7w/latest-ranking

Bottom 14 really needs more support, but same with the top 14. While voting is still far from being over, support should not stop specially for those in the top 14 if you do not want your candidate to be left at the bottom of the rankings.

To vote your bets, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/n7w

Additional Update:
Through this campaign, our wonders have gain more popularity and as a result, visits to them has increased. One example is Puerto Princesa, home of the Underground River and one of the previous bet, the Tubbataha Reef. Through its wonders, tourist both local and foreign has started to check on this great wonders. This is great news not only for the economy of the area, but for nature itself. This increases awareness on conserving and protecting our environment.

For more about the latest news from the N7W campaign, drop by at:
http://www.new7wonders.com/index.php?id=633

Until next update, hopefuly, sooner. Hope this brief update is informational enough.

Thank you and great day.

Enjoy our wonders and let's all take part in taking care of them.

Ranking Update- N7W Of Nature

2009-03-16T03:35:00.001-07:00

The ranking update as of March 22, 2009.

All of the wonders in number one spot remained the same except for the Amazon. Wow, the supporters of Puerto Princessa are putting a big fight here. One day, they were in second spot, now they have regained the top of the rankings for Group E.

Below is the complete list of the top 7 with their close number two's.

For Group A: Al-hasa Oasis- SAUDI ARABIA
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/AlhasaOasis/

Not far behind is Kalahari Desert - BOTSWANA/ NAMIBIA/ SOUTH AFRICA
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/africa/c/KalahariDesert/

For Group B: Bora Bora Island=FRENCH POLYNESIA
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/oceania/c/BoraBoraIsland/

Inching closely is Galapagos Islands - ECUADOR
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/southamerica/c/GalapagosIslandsArchipelago/
For Group C: Yu Shan- CHINESE TAIPEI To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/YuShan/

Close at second is Mount Everest - CHINA/ NEPAL
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/MountEverestMountain/

For Group D: Djavolja Varos, Rock Formation- SERBIA (Holding still at rank 1)
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/europe/c/DavoljaVarosRockFormation/

Climbing strong is Belogradchik Rocks - BULGARIA
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/europe/c/BelogradchikRocks/

For Group E: Puerto Princesa Subterranean River - PHILIPPINES (Dethrowned the Amazon)
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/PuertoPrincesa/

Falling behind, but not giving up is Amazon, River/Forest- BOLIVIA/ BRAZIL/ COLOMBIA/ ECUADOR/ FRENCH GUIANA/ GUYANA/ PERU/ SURINAME/ VENEZUELA
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/southamerica/c/AmazonRiverRiverForest/
For Group F: Niagara Falls - CANADA/ UNITED STATES (Flowing mightily at number 1)
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/northandcentralamerica/c/NiagaraFallsWaterfall/
Rushing fast is Danube River - AUSTRIA/ BULGARIA/ CROATIA/ GERMANY/ HUNGARY/ MOLDOVA/ ROMANIA/ SERBIA/ SLOVAKIA/ UKRAINE
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/europe/c/DanubeRiver/

For Group G: Great Barrier Reef - AUSTRALIA/ PAPUA NEW GUINEA (Guarding its 1st position).
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/oceania/c/GreatBarrierReefCoralReef/

Fighting strong is Cox's Bazaar Beach - BANGLADESH
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/CoxsBazarBeach/

For the complete list of the ranking per group, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking/

As always, your support is needed to make sure your bets will stay up in the ranks. Be on guard!

Till next update, and hopefully with a few pictures of the nominees.

Good day!

New 7 Wonders Update - March 14, 2009

2009-03-13T23:53:00.000-07:00

I have not been able to update the ranking as frequent as I would like it due to my busy schedule at work. So while I am able to squeeze in a few minutes, I am taking the opportunity to update the top 7 wonders as of March 14, 2009.

For Group A: Al-hasa Oasis- SAUDI ARABIA
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/AlhasaOasis/

For Group B: Bora Bora Island=FRENCH POLYNESIA
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/oceania/c/BoraBoraIsland/

For Group C: Yu Shan- CHINESE TAIPEI
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/YuShan/

For Group D: Djavolja Varos, Rock Formation- SERBIA (Holding still at rank 1)
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/europe/c/DavoljaVarosRockFormation/

For Group E: Amazon, River/Forest- BOLIVIA/ BRAZIL/ COLOMBIA/ ECUADOR/ FRENCH GUIANA/ GUYANA/ PERU/ SURINAME/ VENEZUELA

To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/southamerica/c/AmazonRiverRiverForest/

For Group F: Niagara Falls - CANADA/ UNITED STATES (Flowing mightily at number 1)
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/northandcentralamerica/c/NiagaraFallsWaterfall/

For Group G: Great Barrier Reef - AUSTRALIA/ PAPUA NEW GUINEA (Guarding its 1st position).
To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/oceania/c/GreatBarrierReefCoralReef/

For the complete list of the ranking per group, go to:
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking/

I hope to squeeze in more time to keep updating the ranking explore more on each category.

Keep supporting your candidates so that your bet will not be left off the rankings.

Have a great day everyone!

Am Back - Wonders Ranked# 1

2009-02-04T01:44:00.000-08:00

I am back. It's been a while since I was able to post here. Been busy with work, and had no time updating my blog. While I may have not been able to post any updates regarding the New 7 Wonders of Nature, I tried to keep myself updated if my bets will make it to the top 77. From the tally of votes to come up with the top 77, it seems that most of my bets made it, however, since they decided that it is only one entry per country, my other bets failed to enter.

Right now, it appears that the new 7 wonders will be coming from different categories since the entries were divided into groups and the new ranking displays the rank per group as well. So it would not be possible to have two entries on the Magic 7 that falls under the same category.

Since this is my first post after a long time, I will start by listing the current entries which are ranked# 1 per group.

For Group A: Kalahari Desert - BOTSWANA/ NAMIBIA/ SOUTH AFRICA

To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/africa/c/KalahariDesert/

For Group B: Galapagos Islands =ECUADOR

To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/southamerica/c/GalapagosIslandsArchipelago/

For Group C: Mount Everest - NEPAL

To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/MountEverestMountain/

For Group D: Davolja Varos - SERBIA

To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/europe/c/DavoljaVarosRockFormation/

For Group E: Puerto Princesa - PALAWAN/PHILIPPINES

To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/PuertoPrincesa/

For Group F: Niagara Falls - CANADA/ UNITED STATES

To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/northandcentralamerica/c/NiagaraFallsWaterfall/

For Group G: Great Barrier Reef - AUSTRALIA/ PAPUA NEW GUINEA

To vote for it, go to: http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/oceania/c/GreatBarrierReefCoralReef/

For the complete list of the ranking per group, go to:

http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking/

I will try to list at least the top 5 per Group the next time and try to provide basic information for each entry.

For now, its just nice to be back.

Great day to everyone and keep on voting your candidates per group to make sure they wont fall on the rankings.

Top 10 Update

2008-06-18T19:51:00.000-07:00

As of June 18, below is a list of the Wonders included in the top 10 ranking.

(Update as of June 19)

1. Ha Long Bay - Vietnam -staying strong at number 1
2. Tubbataha Reef - Philippines - not far behind at number 2 (now at number 3)
3. Cox's Bazar Beach- Bangladesh - bounced back to regains the number 3 position (stolen the 2nd spot)
4. Chocolate Hills - Philippines -dethroned from the number 3 spot by Cox's Bazar
5. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park - Philippines - stagnant for the past few days at the 5th spot
6. Ganges River - Bangladesh/India - still at number 6
7. Mount Everest - Nepal -keeping its position at 7th rank
8. Amazon River, River/Forest - Bolivia/Brazil/Colombia/Ecuador/Peru/Venezuela -keeping its ground at the 8th position
9. Mayon Volcano- Philippines - after moving up a spot, stayed at number 9
10. Mount Fuji - Japan -holding on at number 10

For the complete ranking update, visit http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking/

Chocolate Hills' U.S Based Support Group

2008-06-13T00:04:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Hills' campain to the New 7 Wonders of the World gained additional support from a U.S based group. The main purpose of the group is to boost Chocolate Hills' chances of securing a spot in the top 21 list of Finalists.

The group also intends to help promote this wonder of nature to gain more attention and attraction. Hon. Manuel Molina, heads the group, who is also Mayor of Carmen, the place where Chocolate Hills is located. With him are as follows:

Bob Galang - coordinator and assistant head
Camilo Alfarero - logistics in-charge
Agnes Culpa Nazareno - secretary-treasurer
Sylvia Dagami Fortich - head communications
Lino Chatto Jr. - project manager
Peter Dejaresco - official media coordinator

To learn more about the group, visit their official web site at:
http://www.chocolatehills.us/

To read more about the article, visit:
http://www.theboholchronicle.com/fpage.php?issue=344&s1=4574&s2=&s3=&s4=&s5=4578&s6=&s7=&s9=&s10=

Additional resource:
http://ourphil.blogspot.com/

New 7 Wonders - Top 10 Ranking Update

2008-06-12T20:50:00.001-07:00

There have been changes in the ranking on all 77 nominees. Sswitches in rank is also noticeable in the current top 21.

Here's the list of the current top 21 nominees as of June 13, 2008.

1. Ha Long Bay - Vietnam
-retained its position at number 1.

2. Tubbataha Reef - Philippines
-retained its position at number 2.

3. Chocolate Hills - Philippines
-made its strides to the number 3 position, swapping with Cox's Bazar

4. Cox's Bazar Beach- Bangladesh
-dethrowned from the number 3 spot.

5. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park - Philippines
-move up a notch from the number 6 spot.

6. Ganges River - Bangladesh/India
- down one notch, swapping with Puertor Princesa Subterranean River National

7. Mount Everest - Nepal
-stayed in the 7th spot

8. Amazon River, River/Forest - Bolivia/Brazil/Colombia/Ecuador/Peru/Venezuela
-keeping the 8th position

9. Mayon Volcano- Philippines
-move up one rank to swap with Mount Fuji

10. Mount Fuji - Japan
-lay lowed from the number 9 spot

Completing the top 21:

11. Cocos Island - Costa Rica
12. Ein Gedi Oasis - Israel
13. Pinnacles Desert - Australia (update: now in rank 14)
14. Fernando de Noronha, Archipelago - Brazil (update: now in rank 15)
15. Komodo National Park - Indonesia (update: now in rank 13)
16. Colca Canyon - Peru (update: now in rank 16)
17. Coatepeque Lake, Crater Lake - El Salvador (update: now in rank 17)
18. Grand Canyon - United States (update: now in rank 18)
19. Niagara Falls - Canada/United States
20. Great Barrier Reef - Australia
21. Big Sur Beach - United States

For the complete list of the 77 nominees and their respective ranking, head to http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking/

Mt. Mayon

2008-06-07T22:37:00.000-07:00

Mt. Mayon (Albay, Philippines) - Rank 09 as of June 13, 2008
Mayon Volcano, also famous as "Perfect Cone" due to its almost perfectly cone shaped figure, is an active composite volcation which is located about 15 kilometers of Legaspi City, in the province of Albay.

The volcano got its name after a maiden, "Mangayon" which means beautiful. This main landmark of the province of Albay stands 2462 meters high from the Albay Gulf. The upper slopes of the volcano are steep averaging 35-40 degrees and are capped by a small summit crater. On its sides, layers of lava and other volcanic material are found.Alternate pyroclastic and lava flows brought about the formation of its symmetric cone. Mt. Mayon is part of the "Pacific Ring of Fire", just like other volcanoes located around the rim of the Pacific Ocean.

With about 47 times eruptions in the past 400 years, it is the most active volcano in the country. The first recorded eruption was in 1616, and the latest was a quiet eruption on 2006. The eruption on February 1, 1814 is considered the most destructive where the volcano was belching dark ash. The town of Cagsawa got buried when the volcano bombarded the town with tephra. The result, only the bell tower of the town's church remained above the new surface. This also resulted to burnt trees and damaged rivers. Ashes spitted by the volcano which accumulated to about 9 meters in depth, also affected proximate areas and resulted to a number of 2,200 perished Albay natives. Lasting seven days of raining fire, the longer eruption recorded on June 23, 1897 .

Despite all these discouraging facts, the volcano is still regarded as an ideal destination for an ultimate climbing. On July 20, 1938, it was proclaimed a National Park by President Manuel L. Quezon. The area is abundant with varieties of rare and endangered flora. Among them are the Nepenthes rajali, commonly known as pitcher plant, and Cyatheaceae spp or tree ferns which were listed in the Convention of International Trade of Endangered Specied (CITES).

While many aspires to reach its summit, PHILVOCS (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology) advises visitors who have come only for sightseeing to stay at the viewpoint located at the mid part of the volcano. For more adventurous and dedicated climbers, make sure to consult with PHILVOCS for the precise volcanic activity. Accompanied by an experienced guide is also recommended. It would take about 2 days to get to the top and go back down the volcano. Those who love to get a great picture of Mt. Mayon, and enjoy the relaxing and refreshing warmth of hot spring baths can head to the town of Tiwi. Other activities visitors can indulge in includes bird watching and camping. A visit to Albay's ancient churches, caves Camalig, and beaches within the area are other points of interest.

The information featured here are from the following web references. You may check the links for additional information, including travel details and photo galleries.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mayon_Volcano
http://www.mayonecotourism.ph/
http://www.camperspoint.com/article.php3?id_article=19
http://www.worldisround.com/articles/53247/index.html

To vote for Mt. Mayon for the New 7 Wonders, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/MayonVolcano/

To vote for other nominees, and for current live ranking information, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/
or
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking

The following images are from the following web sites:

http://www.worldisround.com/articles/53247/index.html

http://www.worldisround.com/articles/82298/index.html

http://www.camperspoint.com/article.php3?id_article=19

Victoria Falls

2008-06-04T22:28:00.000-07:00

Victoria Falls, Waterfall (ZAMBIA/ ZIMBABWE) - Rank 35 as of June 13, 2008
The Victoria Falls also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (name used by local people) is a waterfall situated in southern Africa between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Africa, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By some measures, the falls are considered the largest waterfall in the world. The claim is not based on it being the highest or widest, rather, it is due to it being 1.7 kilometers wide, and 108 meters high, which forms the largest sheet of falling water in the world.

Shared by Zimbabwe and Zambia, both countries have a national park to protect the falls with their respective tourism centers: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and Livingstone in Zambia, and Victoria Falls National Park and the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

With the unusual form of Victoria Falls allows a face-on view of virtually its whole width, at the same level as the top, from as close as 60 metres, due to the whole Zambezi River dropping into a deep, narrow slotlike chasm, connected to a long series of gorges.

When the full width of the river plummets in a single vertical drop into a chasm that is 60–120 metres (200–400 ft) wide, results in the formation of the falls. First Gorge which is the depth of the chasm, varies from 80 meters at its western end to 108 meters in the center.

Two large islands, Boaruka Island (or Cataract Island) near the western bank, and Livingstone Island near the middle, located on the crest of the falls divide the curtain of water.

During the dry season, the number of islets on the crest increases, and also becomes wide. During the month of September to January, up to half of the rocky face of the falls may become dry, and the bottom of the First Gorge can be seen along most of its length. This makes it possible to walk across some stretches of the river at the crest, though this is not necessarily a safe thing to do. It is also possible to walk to the bottom of the First Gorge at the Zimbabwean side.

Visitors can do a number of activities, one of which, the 'Flight of Angels' which provides a fabulous vista of the falls, the upstream river and its many islands. Microlighting which provides stunning views of the Fall will be enjoyed by more adventurous people. One of the very popular adventures is rafting the wild rapids below the Falls. Visitors can also go kayaking, Canoeing and fishing. Land based activities includes a guided safari walk, horseback riding, and a lunch on Livingstone's Island, an energy regaining activity.

Information/Facts:
- Located in Livingstone, Zambia and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
- Standing 108 meters in height
- Flowing an at average rate of 1088 cubic meters/second

Principal Gorges:
- First Gorge: where river falls into at Victoria Falls
- Second Gorge: (spanned by the Victoria Falls Bridge), 250 m south of falls, 2.15 km long
- Third Gorge: 600 m south, 1.95 km long
- Fourth Gorge: 1.15 km south, 2.25 km long
- Fifth Gorge: 2.55 km south, 3.2 km long
- Songwe Gorge: 5.3 km south, 3.3 km long, (named after the small Songwe River coming from the north-east)
- Batoka Gorge: about120 kilometres long, it is the gorge below the Songwe (Batoka is also used as an umbrella name for all the gorges).

The information featured here are from the following web references. You may check the links for additional information, including travel details and photo galleries.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victoria_Falls
http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/509
http://www.places.co.za/html/vicfalls.html

To vote for Victoria Falls for the New 7 Wonders, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/africa/c/VictoriaFallsWaterfall/

To vote for other nominees, and for current live ranking information, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/
or
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking/

The following images are from the following web sites:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victoria_Falls

http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/509

Cataratas de Agua Azul

2008-05-29T23:13:00.000-07:00

Cataratas de Agua Azul (Chiapas, Mexico) - Rank 77 as of June 13, 2008
Agua Azul (Rio Xumul-Ha) which means, "River of Blue Water", is located in the state of Chiapas, about 69 kilometers from Palenque by the road that leads towards San Cristóbal de las Casas in Mexico.

This waterfall consists of many cataracts following one after another. The larger cataracts may stand up to 6 meters in height. With its water flowing fast through limestone ridges gives it the turquoise blue effect, hence, the name Agua Azul. Note thought, the water turns brown during the rainy season, thus, visiting the falls should be done during the month of November to May, to see it on its blue color.

Breath-taking green valleys surrounds the river, and as you leave the area on the road upwards, you can look left into the valley below and see the river winding through it. The river is a great place for people to swim and relax. Caution, however, not all areas of the river is safe for swimming or bathing. While a signpost for dangerous portion may be visible, not all unsafe areas may have it. Extra care is needed to make your swim to the river a refreshing and relaxing experience.

The information featured here are from the following web references. You may check the links for additional information, including travel details and photo galleries.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agua_Azul
http://www.mexperience.com/guide/outdoors/chiapaswaterfalls.htm#About
http://www.tourbymexico.com/chiapas/aguaazul/aguaazul.htm

To vote for Agua Azul Waterfall for the New 7 Wonders, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/northamerica/c/AzulWaterfall/

To vote for other nominees, and for current live ranking information, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/
or
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking/

The following images are from the following web sites:

http://www.mexperience.com/guide/mexicophotos/aguaazul.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agua_Azul

Chocolate Hills

2008-05-29T00:09:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Hills (Bohol, Philippines) - Rank 03 as of June 13, 2008

One of the most famous attractions in Bohol, Cholocate Hills are a collection of hills (no less than 1268 in number) that spreads at about 50 square kilometers throughout the Barangays of Sagbayan, Carmen and Sierra Bullones in the centre of Bohol Island itself.

The hills which are covered with grass are uniform in shape, and about 30 to 50 meters in height, the largest standing 120 meters high. During dry season, the color of the grass covering turns cholocate brown, thus, the name Chocolate Hills was derived from. On other seasons, the hills are green in color.

To this date, there has been no official explanation agreed upon on how the hills were formed. There different theories about the formation of the hills.
The most common belief is they were an ancient coral limestone reef that was shaped by many thousands of years erosion by both water and wind.

The hills also have a legend. The first legend tells of two feuding giants who in battling with each other hurled rocks, boulders and sand trying to destroy there foe, who in the end became friends. The mess of the battlefield which the two giants forgot to clean gave birth to the Chocolate Hills.

The second legend, which is romantic in nature, is again about a giant called Arogo who was extremely powerful and youthful. Arogo fell in love with Aloya who was a simple mortal. Aloya’s death caused Arogo much pain and misery. In his sorrow he could not stop crying, when his tears dried the Chocolate Hills were formed.

The Chocolate Hills is listed by Philippines by the Philippine Tourism Authority as one of the tourist destinations in the Philippine, and it has been declared the country's 3rd National Geological Monument. It is also proposed for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The information featured here are from the following web references. You may check the links for additional information, including travel details and photo galleries.

http://www.bohol.ph/article.php
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chocolate_Hills
http://www.philippines-travel-guide.com/bohol-chocolate-hills.html
http://www.polaris-dive.com/eng_nf/gallery06.htm

To vote for Chocolate Hills for the New 7 Wonders, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/ChocolateHills/

To vote for other nominees, and for current live ranking information, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/
or
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking/

The following images are from the web site:

http://www.polaris-dive.com/

Niagara Falls

2008-05-27T23:28:00.000-07:00

Niagara Falls (Canada/USA) - Rank 19 as of June 13, 2008
A natural phenomenon, Niagar Falls sees between four and six millions cubic feet of water go over its crest every minute, which is second in size to Victoria Falls in Africa. Niagara Falls are 188 feet high, with the deepest section of the Niagara River just at their base-going down 170 feet. The rim of Horseshoe Falls measures 2200 feet across-the same height of Yosemite's famous Cathedral Spires. It is the most powerful waterfall in North America.

The falls are located in the international border separating the Canadian province of Ontario and the U.S. state of New York. Niagara Falls is composed of two major sections separated by Goat Island: Horseshoe Falls, on the Canadian side of the border and American Falls on the United States side. The smaller Bridal Veil Falls also is located on the American side, separated from the main falls by Luna Island.

Niagara Falls were formed when glaciers receded at the end of the Wisconsin glaciation (the last ice age), and water from the newly-formed Great Lakes carved a path through the Niagara Escarpment en route to the Atlantic Ocean. The Niagara Falls are very wide.

Just 15 minutes north of the Falls rests an impressive array of Niagara vineyards. Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries currently number 17, many of which produce award-winning vino, including the region's famous ice wines. At a similar latitude to the Bordeaux region of France and Napa Valley, the Niagara climate is ideal.

Niagara Falls has received its reputation as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World" when Aaron Burr's daughter-Theodosia-chose a Niagara Falls honeymoon in 1801. She was followed up by Jerome Bonaparte-Napoleon's brother-in 1804 and, thus, a tradition was born.

General Information
- Located 17 miles (27 km) north-northwest of Buffalo, New York, 75 miles (120 km) south-southeast of Toronto, Ontario, between the twin cities of Niagara Falls, Ontario, and Niagara Falls, New York. - Reputed as the Honeymoon Capital of the World

- Four to six million cubic feet of water fall over the crest line every minute
- Over 50,000 Niagara honeymoons are arranged each year
- The falls stopped flowing for 30 hours when ice fields from Lake Erie jammed at the source of the river.
- Marilyn Monroe visited the falls to film portions of the thriller Niagara Falls, released in 1953. Other notable visitors have included King George the V in 1939 and Princess Diana with her sons in 1991.

The information featured here are from the following web references. You may check the links for additional information, including travel details and photo galleries.

http://www.niagarafallstourism.com/niagara_falls_tourism.html (Niagara Falls Tourism Official Web Site)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niagara_Falls
http://www.niagarafallslive.com
http://www.infoniagara.com/

To vote for Niagara Falls for the New 7 Wonders, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/northamerica/c/NiagaraFallsWaterfall/

To vote for other nominees, and for current live ranking information, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/

The following images are from the web site http://www.niagarafallslive.com

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

2008-05-26T23:16:00.000-07:00

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (Palawan, Philippines) - Rank 05 as of June 13, 2008
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is one of the most important conservation areas in the Philippines. It features spectacular limestone karst landscape with its underground river. A distinguishing feature of the river is that it flows directly into the sea, and the lower portion of the river is subject to tidal influences.

The site contains a full mountain to the sea ecosystem and protects forests, which are among the most significant in Asia which allowed the Park to be inscribed as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO.

The Park which is also known as St. Paul's Subterranean River National Park is located in the Saint Paul Mountain Range, some 81 km north of Puerto Princesa City within portion of Barangays Cabayugan, Marufinas, and Tagabinet. The entrance to the Subterranean River is located a short hike from little town of Sabang.

The City Government of Puerto Princesa has managed the National Park since 1992. The intention is to protect the impressive cave systems, lush old growth tropical rain forest, interesting wildlife, unspoiled natural beauty of the area and one of the most impressive cave system in the world. Its main focus is 8.2 km. long underground river that flows beneath a spectacular limestone formation before directly emptying into the sea.

It is a core area for the Palawan Biosphere Reserve and is designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA). It was also declared as a National Geological Monument. In recognition of global significance, the Park has been inscribed to the list of natural World Heritage Sites.

Key attractions of the Park includes a 1-hour tour inside the mystic underground river to be amazed with interesting rock formations, and be acquainted with thousands of baths and swiftlets living deep inside the cave.

The Park boast a number of cave systems which have interesting geological features include the Ugong Rock view deck which allows one to marvel at the spectacular karst mountain formations and the natural beauty of the areas surrounding the Park. Other sites to explore include Lion cave, Daylight hole and the Kawili Cave.

Bird lovers would appreciated different colorful birds found in the area. which includes parrots, hornbills, megapodes, pitas, leaf birds and herons. Other wildlife seen are the monitor lizards, macaques, squirrels.

Feeling the heat after hours of touring the park, one can indulge in the white sand beaches available on the shorelines. With cool and crystal clear waters, it's ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and even just enjoying the feel of the sun. Most popular are the Sabang beach, Panaguman beach and Marta Fe beach.

The information and pictures featured here are from the following web references. You may check the links for additional information, including travel details.

http://www.puerto-undergroundriver.com/index.php (Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park Official Web Site)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puerto_Princesa_Subterranean_River_National_Park
http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/652
http://www.flickr.com/photos/garndt/1512523846/in/set-72157602083391472/

To vote for Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park for the New 7 Wonders, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/PuertoPrincesa/

To vote for other nominees, and for current live ranking information, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/

Mt. Fuji

2008-05-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

Mt. Fuji (Japan) - Rank 10 as of June 13, 2008
Mount Fuji (Fujisan) stand at 3776 meters above sea level, and it is Japan's highest mountain. Mount Fuji is a dormant volcano, which last erupted in 1707-1708. It stands on the border between Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures and can be seen from Tokyo and Yokohama on clear days. Surrounded by three small cities which are Gotemba (east), Fujiyoshida (north) and Fujinomiya (southwest).

Mt. Fuji has been worshipped as a "sacred mountain" and has been popular to artists, tourist and normal people. Thus, about 200,000 people climbs the mountain every year, and about 30% are foreigners. Japan, being one of the most mountainous countries in the world, mountain is an historic element of Japanese culture.

The easiest way to view Mount Fuji is from the train on a trip along the Tokaido Line between Tokyo and Osaka. If you take the shinkansen from Tokyo in direction of Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka, the best view of Mount Fuji can be enjoyed from around Shin-Fuji Station on the right hand side of the train, about 40 to 45 minutes after leaving Tokyo.

The best way to enjoy Mount Fuji at a more leisurely pace and from a nice natural surrounding, is to head to the Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko) region at the northern foot of the mountain, or to Hakone, a nearby hot spring resort.

Mount Fuji is officially open for climbing during July and August via several routes.

Basic Information
- 3775.63m above sea level
- located between Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures (West of Tokyo)
- Consists mainly of basaltic lava(about 50% silicon dioxide)
- mountain top temperature averages monthly to -18 to +8°C (degrees Celsius)
- last recorded eruption was in Dec. 16, 1707 - Jan. 1, 1708

The information provided above and sample pictures featured below are from the following web references. You may check the links for additional information, including travel details, and photo galleries.

http://www.mt-fuji.co.jp/index-e.html (Mt. Fuji Official Web Site)
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2172.html
http://www.sacredland.org/world_sites_pages/MtFuji.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fujisan
http://gojapan.about.com/cs/photogallery/a/fujiphotoindex.htm

To vote for Mt. Fuji for the New 7 Wonders, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/MountFujiMountain/

To vote for other nominees, and for current live ranking information, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/

Tubbataha Reef

2008-05-23T23:04:00.000-07:00

Tubbataha Reef (Palawan, Philippines) - Rank 2 as of June 13, 2008
The name 'Tubbataha' is the Samal (dialect of Sulu Archipelago) word for "long reef exposed at low tide". Samals are seafaring people of the Sulu Sea and are one of the few people who have accessed the Park in early 1980's. Cagayanen people who are more geographically associated with Tubbataha Reefs referred the Park as 'gusong'.

Tubbataha Reef has been declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site (see http://whc.unesco.org/pg.cfm?cid=31&id_site=653 and/or http://www.wcmc.org.uk/protected_areas/data/wh/tubbata.html)

The national park covers some 33,200 hectares, located in the middle of the Sulu Sea about 150 kilometres southeast of (and 12 hours by boat from) Puerto Princesca, the capital city of Palawan island. It is the largest coral reef and the only National Marine Park in the Philippines. It houses variety of marine creatures which includes whale sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, tuna, jackfish, colorful reef fishes, and seahorses. About 300 coral species, and at least 40 families and 379 species of fish were recorded to be seen at the park.

The information provided above and sample pictures featured below are from the following web references. You may check the links for additional information, including travel details, and photo galleries.

http://www.tubbatahareef.org/ (Tubbata Reef's Official Web Site) http://www.pbase.com/kleine/tubbataha_reef

To vote for Tubbataha Reef for the New 7 Wonders, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/nominees/asia/c/TubbatahaReefReef/

To vote for other nominees, and for current live ranking information, visit:
http://www.new7wonders.com/

My New 7 Wonders

2008-05-23T21:18:00.000-07:00

I'd like to share my list of the 7 New Wonders, without ranking. These are just my pick for now, but the list may change once I get to know more about the other nominees. There is a long list to check, and I only had a chance to view the some of them. I must admit, some of the places are familiar to me which was a factor of why I selected them. =)

My Candidates:
Tubbataha Reef (Palawan, Philippines)
Mount Fuji, Mountain (Japan)
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River (Palawan, Philippines)
Niagara Falls, Waterfall (Ontario, Canada/New York, USA)
Chocolate Hills (Bohol, Philippines)
Azul, Waterfall (Chiapas, Mexico)
Victoria Falls, Waterfall (Zambia/Zimbabwe Africa)

On my succeeding posts, I will try to provide brief description about my selection and the other nominees, and links where additional information can be found.

For those who already have their list, make sure to have your vote count.

Visit the web site http://www.new7wonders.com/ to cast your vote.

Greetings!

2008-05-23T20:08:00.000-07:00

Mother Nature is filled with beautiful places, that we do not even notice them. Others may be known to us, but there are a lot more waiting to be discovered, and appreciated. Thus, the process of looking for New 7 Wonders of the World is truely a great event. This gives us the opportunity to learn more of the hidden masterpieces of nature that took the great hands of time to craft.

It is in my interest to try to gather information about the nominees for this event, that in my hopes will help us to better appreciate the beauty of nature, and preserve these wonderful creations.

Feel free to share comments or additional information about the featured "Wonders", or other majestic beauties that we may feel should be included to the list of New 7 Wonders of the World.

Everyone's contribution will be greatly appreciated.

Let's get to know more of the wonderful gifts around us.

Enjoy!