Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

The Chateau de Chenonceau in France


The owner of an accounting firm in Houston, Texas, Sue Ann Ma also takes time off from work and enjoys traveling. One of the countries that Sue Ann Ma has visited is France. 

A popular tourist destination in France is Chateau de Chenonceau located in the Loire Valley. It is the most visited castle in France, right after the famed Versailles in Paris. The castle sits atop an exquisitely arched bridge spanning the River Cher, and boats can pass through below. 

It is often called “the ladies' chateau” as women were influential in its design and construction. The chateau had a series of owners beginning with the Marques family in the 11th century. Normandy nobleman Thomas Bohier bought the property in 1513, building a new castle whose construction was overseen by his wife, Katherine Briconnet. 

Later King Henri II granted it to his mistress, Diane de Poitiers, whose contribution was constructing the bridge over the Cher river. The death of Henri II saw the Queen, Catherine de Medici, forcibly taking over the chateau from mistress Diane. Queen Catherine then added the grand ballroom and gallery atop the bridge, giving the chateau its now distinctive image.

Friday, November 4, 2016

When to Visit China


Sue Ann Ma oversees a full-service accounting firm in Houston, Texas as the sole owner and CPA. In this capacity, she provides clients with a wide rangeof accounting and financial services and maintains a strong reputation for excellence. Outside of work, Sue Ann Ma enjoys traveling. She has been to countries including China and hopes to visit again in the future.

Due to its vast size, there are benefits to visiting China at almost all times of the year. July and August are the country’s busiest season. It is also its hottest. Summertime brings temperatures that average above 95 degrees during the day; however, the northeastern and mountain areas may be cooler. Large cities are particularly uncomfortable due to the combination of high heat and crowds. The monsoons also occur during these months in most areas.

As it moves into September, weather starts dropping. Southern China experiences some lingering heat, but the north becomes more comfortable. By October, weather around the country tends to be at its best. Summer rains and heat are typically gone and most major attractions are still open. With the exception of the Chinese National Day Holiday, the month is also fairly calm in terms of crowds. From November to March, China has its low season. Crowds and prices are at their lowest, but weather is also extremely cold. Some attractions may also close due to the snow.

By springtime, weather and crowds begin warming up again. Prices are still relatively low and temperatures are comfortable. Unfortunately, China experiences quite a bit of rain between April and May. Further, the country hosts a few events and holidays during the season that can drive prices and crowds up significantly.