Small tropical islands generally promote a life of peace, making them a perfect destination for those on vacation.

This makes a visit to Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a requirement for anyone who leads a stressful life.  In fact, no matter what type of life you lead, one should visit this island at least once in his or her life just to experience the peace that it has to offer.

History of Port Blair

Ironic as it is, for an island that boasts of peace and relaxation, its history is not as restful. Port Blair, along with other islands that are all collectively referred to as the Andaman and Nicobar islands, was given attention by the British only because they needed space for a penal colony in India. The name of the island and the colony was named Port Blair in honor of Lieutenant Archibald Blair of the British East India Trading Company. 

Needing larger and larger land area due to the growing number of political prisoners, the prison was transferred from one island to another.  In the late 19^th century, during the growth of the Indian Freedom Movement, the huge Cellular Jail was constructed to house Indian political prisoners.

Tourism in Port Blair

Having both a colorful history and a great location, Port Blair has a lot to offer travelers and tourists.  Upon entrance to the main city, one can just travel a few km to Corbyn's Cove.  This is the ultimate tourist's paradise, with hotels, restaurants and stores located in just a single place.  Since the beach is right beside this cove, one can simply walk down to it, dress up in one of the changing facilities and sunbathe or just walk around.  For those who prefer to swim, the ideal scuba diving spot, Snake Island, is just close by.

Another area for tourists who enjoy scuba diving is Wandoor, the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.  This is a 280km² area of open sea that is preserved for the marine life that is found there.  Corals are bountiful in this area, and for those who are not so keen on going underwater, glass boats are available.

If one gets tired of the water, there is always the option to get up and tour the surroundings.  Part of the Cellular Jail is still available, and it is preserved as a monument that is of great historical significance.  This was built to house the Indians who desired to win the independence of their country, and so more than one martyr died in this spot.  A museum and photo gallery is within the jail, and a light and sound show is given every evening, highlighting the memories of the freedom struggle as well as the experience of being thrown into the Cellular Jail.

Port Blair is just one of the many islands that can be visited in the area, and tourists are encouraged not just to tour one island, but to visit all islands in order to get a complete and concrete feel of the whole area.  Some areas of the islands area more populated than others, and if you wish to have a peaceful vacation, then you should go to the less populated areas.  Wherever one goes, no matter which island, it's still a given that he or she would have the most restful vacation of their life.