Olomouc, Czech Republic
Photo by: treyka, Creative Commons

Olomouc is one of the large cities in the Czech Republic that has attracted throngs of tourists from different parts of the world. It is a charming city that can be found in the center of Moravia. It is a busy place at the center of historic landmarks such as cathedrals and palaces. It is indeed one of the places you should visit when in Olomouc, Czech Republic.

Considered as a place of rich culture and education, you will not find much quiet time in this area, most especially if you visit it in June when the festivities light up the sky and show the grandeur of the Czechs. Every tourist knows by heart that when you visit a place such as the Olomouc, you will become so amused with how they have embraced their more than a thousand years of history by the significant design of their landmarks.

You can reach Olomouc in many ways – by car, bus or train. That is hordes of tourists often find themselves submerged in thought as to what landmark they have to visit first. You also have to check your budget for this place is quite expensive should you want to reach your place of destination in less time. No tourist would want to visit this place in a jiffy so rest assured that you will be just spending a lot of your pocket money on food and lodging.

When you leave the Czech Republic and head home, you shall be full of wonderful memories of your stay there. Travel destinations come and go, new faces shall fleet but if you have Olomouc in your mind, nothing shall come close to the charisma is envelopes you.

Lake Manyara National Park
Photo by: stignygaard , Creative Commons

If you’re an adventurous, thrill-seeking and nature loving person, this is the haven for you.

Lake Manyara National Park is well known for its abundance of birds. There are also different varieties of trees which include sausage trees, umbrella trees, baobabs, yellow fever trees and doum palms. There are over 400 species of birds. Some examples are pink flamingos, yellow-billed storks, herons and cockscrews. Mto Wa Mbu is the most popular mosquito creek that you will ever see. It is a small park with mammals including zebras, lions, baboons, impalas, wild beasts, hippos, elephants and buffalos. It is a perfect place for rest and tranquility because it guarantees you a relaxing ambiance to enjoy.

Other than the beautiful scenery there are many other activities to experience. Some of the sports and exercises that you can do here are biking, nature walks, horse riding and rappelling.

The word Manyara comes from the word Maa which is the language of the Maasai, which is the tree plant used to create hedges. The whole place occupies 230 square kilometers. Two thirds of the park is an alkaline lake so the place is mostly submerged in alkaline water.

Tree-climbing lions are also a thrill to see, because they’re the only ones in the world. They are sometimes the only reason why people actually come and pay to visit. There are also rare mahoganies and acacias, which are the only places where lions could find themselves at home. The place is also homes to a lot of baboons-which also makes it concentrated on primate families.

Fatu Hiva
Photo by: wikipedia , Creative Commons

Fatu Hiva belongs to the Marquesas Islands in the French Polynesia territory in France. To the local Marquesan, this is known as Fatu Iva where the letter H is not pronounced. Back in the sixteenth century, Spanish explorers have once named this place as Isla Magdalena or Magdalene Island. This name is now rarely used. This is the southernmost island in the Marquesas group of islands in the Pacific Ocean.

This place is best known for its natural rainforests which have drawn much attention to visitors – both local and foreign. This is a commune which is best opted by those who wish to appreciate nature in the simplest and most magnificent way. The commune’s population of five hundred and eighty-seven (as of 2007) is only located in three villages namely Uia, Omoa and Hana Vave.

Uia is located at the eastern coastline. This is best known for a number of narrow valleys; Uia being the largest one. The streams between the valleys flow in to the interior of the island. There are large cliffs in between these valleys which goes straight in to the sea. For visitors to travel around these areas, they can only opt to either go by boat or over the high ridges. Hana Vave or Bay of Virgins is located in the north of the western coastline of Fatu Hiva. This is where it is said to have the most scenic sites. Omoa on the other hand is located near the south of the western coastline where it is said to be to have the well protected harbor.

The center of the Fatu Hiva island is a plateau. The flat plains are covered greatly by pandanus trees and tall grasses. There is a mountain ridge by the south of the plateau called Tauauoho. And no visit to Fatu Hiva is ever complete without trying their dried bananas – the local specialty.

Mana Pools National Park
Photo by: Wikimedia commons , Creative Commons

Mana Pools National Park is located in the extreme north of Zimbabwe, and is a fragment of Parks and Wildlife Estate, the 10,500-square kilometer domain that extends from the Mozambique River in the east to the Kariba Dam in the west.

Situated here are the remains of old channels that have been left behind by the Zambezi River. These remains formed small seasonal pools dispersed over two thousand square kilometers. No walls or any physical borders surround the park and animals are given great freedom to move throughout the land. In fact, they could even move northwards across the Zambezi River to as far as Zambia where wildlife conservation sanctuaries are also found.

One of the great things about Mana Pools is that visitors can walk in the open woodland without having to use guides since the visibility is good and the chances of suddenly coming across wildlife are very slim. This opportunity to walk alone unaccompanied by a guide in an area with dangerous animals is unique in Zimbabwe. It is actually the thing that made Mana Pools National Park the magical place that it is today.

During the summer season, over 450 species of birds can be seen. Some of the common sights include waterbucks, sables, elands, kudus, lions, wild dogs, and cheetahs. During the winter months of June and July, photographers love coming to Mana Pools because during its normal misty mornings along Zambezi River.

The other enjoyable activities visitors usually do here aside from walking during the morning to observe the animals include game drives, fishing, and canoeing.

The ideal time to go to Mana Pools is perhaps between the months of March and August since the climate is dry and warm, and the temperature is moderate. For those who plan to have the best game-viewing experience possible, it is best to go during September and October as the animals concentrate by the river to drink.

The Great Mosque of Kairawan
Photo by: worldlearning , Creative Commons

Are you tired of all the vacation sights offering the same activities you have experienced in your previous get-away vacations? Is there a lingering feeling of void in you after engaging yourself on a typical trip? Well, if this is your case, you should plan carefully for your next vacation. Usually, a change in scenery will do the trick in helping you kill the boredom in your urban lifestyle and your repetitive trips.

The Great Mosque of Kairawan can supply you with that change. Aside from the fact that you don’t need to repeat the same stuff again, visiting this sacred place can help you find the inner tranquility within you. Next to Jerusalem, Mecca and Medina, this mosque in the African country of Tunisia is the fourth holiest place on Earth. You will enjoy the distinct calmness within its intricately designed walls, an experience you might want your vacation to have.

In addition to the soothing ambience you can feel inside its corners, the whole mosque is an architectural wonder. The ancient Arabian techniques of designing mosques are clearly seen in the facades of the structures inside, most especially in the 115-feet high minaret. The whole courtyard is also uniquely designed, from the materials used to pave it to the water-recycling methods incorporated in it. Aside from the receptive function, the courtyard is also the water collector for the mosque. The surface was angled in a way to drain the rainwater into a central filter, also with the elaborate designs. Everything inside the mosque is a definite mind reliever, especially for a busy person like you.

However, if you visit this place, you need to remember that it is still a sacred venue. Prepare modest clothes for the place unless you don’t mind using the robes offered inside for those wearing improper attires. You may also notice Muslims doing their rituals. In that case, be a humble witness and just enjoy the overall calming aura that your successful trip provides.

The Gelati Monastery
Photo by: Martijn Munneke , Creative Commons

One of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites can be found in Georgia. This is the Gelati Monastery. This place is one of the most visited places in this region as best attributed to both its history and beauty. It is the home of many cultural and intellectual aspects of Georgia. It is a monastic complex located in western Georgia.

The Monastery of Gelati was founded and built around the eleventh century by one of the greatest kings of Georgia, King David the Builder. This is also where the Church of the Virgin can be found. Among the most common reasons for visitors to take interest in this place is because of the fact that this monastery used to be the center for some of the greatest Gregorian philosophers, scientists and theologians. This center was then referred to as the Gelati Academy; at times considered to be the new Hellas or the second Athos. There are a significant number of murals and manuscripts which have been preserved throughout centuries and are now being exhibited within the monastery.

There are about ten great people who were buried within the Monastery of Gelati and this has also become part of the biggest tourist attractions in the area. As you look up in the dome of the monastery, you will find the Christ Pantokrator. And as you walk around this place, you will be able to appreciate the great mosaics and murals decorating the walls of the structure. Among other things which you will find in this place would be the mosaic of Archangel Michael, the murals of the Ascension and of David IV of Georgia. The northern wall is full of ancient art and other relics which will sure keep you standing in awe. There are also other icons which stand as memoirs to the greatest saints and significant people to the monastery.

Medina of Tunis
Photo by: upyernoz , Creative Commons

If you are the adventurous type of person and looking for some place exotic to experience, visit the Medina of Tunis. In case that you are finding it hard to find a new spot to spend your vacation at, the Medina of Tunis can help you solve it. This place is famous for its enormous markets. Moreover, since the area of the market is so large, the products available are also a plenty. From the leather bags to decorative plates, from perfumes to purses of all sorts, the Medina of Tunis can provide you with all of that. In addition to that good news, all the prices are affordable even for tourists of limited financial capabilities. In that case, you won’t need to always break your piggy banks just to make your vacation a successful one. Also, most of the time, vendors are open for bargaining, so get ready for some Tunisian business negotiating. To help you with that, arm yourself beforehand with some basic terminology in their language.

As you shop, remember to observe the overall scenery of the place. If you are observant enough, the market itself can turn into a wonderful collection of beautiful ornaments.

In case these reasons are not yet appealing for you, know that the Medina of Tunis is also hailed by UNESCO as a member of the World’s World Heritage Spot, so the place is surely rich in culture and history.

The National Palace Museum
Photo by: Jim Epler , Creative Commons

The National Palace Museum was first established in the Forbidden City under Dai Kong in the Sung Dynasty on October 1925, and was moved after the expulsion of the last emperor of China. The museum collections mere relocated under the orders of Chiang Kai-Shek from Beijing to its current location to prevent it from falling into the hands of the Japanese. The present building was constructed in 1964 and was finished by August of 1965. It went under renovation in the late ninety’s and reopened on December 25, 2006.

It is a haven for attainable knowledge interesting for archaeologists, historians, connoisseurs and antiquarians as it contains the imperial family’s national treasures. It contains the finest collection of 4000 year old Chinese paintings and other works from the Ming, Quing and Tang dynasties. It also holds the world’s largest collection of ancient Chinese artifacts. The rotation of the 60,000 exhibit pieces happens once every three months- which means that it will take approximately 12 years to see everything the museum has to offer.

The main artifacts are mostly potteries, paintings, bronzes, jades, rare books and documents and some of the calligraphies from the different dynasties of China. Some of the most treasured items of the palace include jades like the “Jadeite Cabbage” and the “Meat-Shaped” Stone made of jasper which was made in the image of pork. They are also housing a realistic painting by Giuseppe Castiglione entitled, “The One-hundred Horses” which embeds in a native theme.

Jerash
Photo by:
Esme Vos , Creative Commons

Aside from the popular Desert Castles, the country of Jordan has many other structures and historical sites. One of these is the Jerash site in Jordan which is also known as the “Pompeii of Asia.” Jerash is located 48 km on the northern part of Amman and is situated on the valley of Gilead. The Jerash site boasts of being one of the most preserved and largest Roman architecture built outside Italy where the Romans created a great civilization. Until today, the grand structures such as streets, temples, public plazas, squares, baths, walls and fountains are in good condition.

The place has been created during the Neolithic age some 6500 years ago. Traveling to the Jerash is ideal during the spring since the climate is good and the wild flowers in the area are in bloom providing a nice vibe and ambiance for visitors. Also, the view contrasting the old city to the modern structures of Jerash is outstanding.

For visitors, there are many places worth touring in the area such as Hadrian’s arch, the Corunthium column, circus, temples dedicated to Artemis and Zeus, the Forum, the South Theatre and the North Theater and many other well preserved buildings displaying great architecture and art.

A contrasting cathedral was built during the 4th century with an ancient synagogue which has marvelous mosaics can also be found in the area alongside some thirteen churches which were built by the Christian community who settled in Jerash during 400 to 600 AD.

The Raffles Hotel
Photo by: Bruce Tuten , Creative Commons

If you are looking for that happiest place on earth, visit Paradise Harbor, Antarctica. This is a haven for shutterbugs, so bring along your lenses, tripod, and charge their batteries so you capture all the bounty of nature. This place happens to be Antarctica’s pride and joy due to the serenity of the location.
Several tourists who already visited Paradise Harbor, Antarctica, can very well attest to the magnificent shots they have taken when they saw the calving icebergs. True enough, these glaciers have beautiful reflections when the light bounces on water. You will be amazed when the icebergs break off in chunks as you pass by in your zodiac or otherwise known as a rubber boat.

You really have to ride in these smaller boats for you to tour the entire scenery being offered by Paradise Harbor, Antarctica. Since it is easier for small boats to maneuver in tight narrow passages, a regular cruise ship cannot pass through and besides, since tourists are known to come in groups, it will be a wonderful ride. If you are on the solitary expedition, kayaks are available too but it would be better to go with the group since emergency situations can really leave you helpless.

Another added attraction that would surely make this place special is the candid movements of penguins, whales and sea lions. They are not bothered by human presence anymore since they have already became accustomed to these zodiacs bearing as many as twelve people who are taking shot after shot with their cameras. Always bear in mind that Paradise Harbor, Antarctica is nature’s gift to mankind, so make sure you do your part in keeping it clean and not polluted. Your family will remember the happiest place on Earth as witnessed through your lens.

Normandy Beach
Photo by: caspermoller, Creative Commons

One of the greatest battles ever to take place in the history of the world took place at Normandy beaches in France. Today it is possible to visit the location where so many people died fighting for their freedom. This location will bring to life the harrowing battle of that fateful day in June 1944 when allied troops landed on the beaches of Normandy, attempting to liberate France from the grip of the Nazis. D-Day refers to the first day of a military operation, hence it was deemed fitting to call the beaches by that name, bringing to mind the valiant heroes who fought to obtain freedom for their country.

There are several ways to visit the Normandy beaches. Several of the ways are to take a river cruise down the Seine from Paris or an ocean cruise porting in Le Havre or Honfleur.

For travelers wishing to experience the historic past of France, notably a first-hand view of where the Great Invasion of 1944 took place, will find other fascinating things to experience as well. It’s also a great opportunity to savor Normandy cuisine at one of the many French restaurants in the area. Also get a close look at the charming villages along the way. A scenic drive along the Normandy Coast, a museum visit, and getting a first-hand glimpse of the famed beaches in their tranquil state can all offer a beguiling experience. The journey lets the average traveler reminisce and think how it must have been for the combatants and dwellers of the area back in 1944.

The D-Day beaches themselves are a sight to behold. They are still referred to by their wartime code names — Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah. The Utah and Omaha beaches are where American forces made their landing, while Sword and Gold are where British forces landed. Other must-see spots in the area are the Mulberry Harbor and Pointe du Hoc, a cliff top location that overlooks the sea. There are not too many places where you can stumble upon unexpected scenes that hit a spot in the heart. The D-Day beaches and other memorable sights in Normandy can accomplish just that.

The Budapest Castle Hill
Photo by: kyz , Creative Commons

It is a given that Europe has the most breathtaking views and places in the world. Many influential civilizations have originated on this continent, so it would be interesting to see whether they were able to preserve their own or not.

The Budapest Castle Hill is one of the most visited spots in the continent of Europe. Besides being situated in culture-rich Hungary, the Budapest Castle Hill is itself home to many landmarks that are popular all over the world because of their beauty and implication.

The most popular of the landmarks here would be the Royal palace. It is notable for its then gothic-turned-Baroque finish. The reconstruction was done when a particular event happened which eventually destroyed much of the palace. Mary Magdalene Tower is also one popular landmark because it is the only remaining Christina church that wasn’t turned into a mosque during the Turkish rule in Hungary.

The Vienna Gate, on the other hand, was the marketplace before and can be traversed even if it is kind of steep for most people. The Budapest Castle Labyrinth is an underground spot that is recommended for family viewing, since it features elements that children would like to see (some things that appear in many games that they play, such as the aura of the area.) Other areas worth visiting would be the Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Basthion, the Sculpture of a Turul Bird and the National Gallery, which are all in the vicinity of the Budapest Castle Hill.

Coffeehouses and restaurants are also available for visitors to have a taste of what Hungary or the area of Budapest has to offer to people’s appetites. Souvenir shops are also all over the metro so that visitors will have a remembrance or a keepsake of their trip to this wonderful place in Hungary.

Wat Arun Temple in Bangkok

Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting and dynamic cities. The city offers tourists a wonderful mix of ancient and modern cultures. There are many scattered skyscrapers that are mixed in with traditional-styled wood houses. Tourists can also visit the Grand Palace, which is arguably the most popular sightseeing attraction in Bangkok.

Every year many visitors travel to the city to appreciate Thailand’s special cultural traditions. There are over four hundred Buddhist temples in the city, so it is not unusual to see monks wearing saffron-colored robes when they are out gathering morning alms. This city is called the “Venice of the East” because the Chao Phraya river, which runs through the city, is connected by several canals. Tourists can travel around the city by cruising the river, taking the underground subway or the elevated sky-train.

Many have called Bangkok the food capital of Asia, if not the world. This city has many wonderful restaurants and it is renowned for its street food stalls that make a variety of tasty dishes. No Thailand trip is complete unless visitors have experienced Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife. The city really comes alive in the evening and there are many venues to enjoy. Travelers are guaranteed they will experience a trip that will be not only interesting and fun, but also very memorable.

Bangkok Famous Landmarks

Fasilides Castle
Photo by: mk_b , Creative Commons

Fasilides Castle is a stunning tourist destination in Ethiopia. It is an old castle built in 17th century for the Ethiopian emperor Fasilides Alam Sagad. The castle can be found in Gondar, Amhara Region. The castle’s structure is purely made of stone. Definitely, Fasilides Castle is a representation of Ethiopia’s great history.

Ethiopian Emperor Fasilides Alam Sagad is one of the remarkable rulers in Abyssinia, the ancient name of Ethiopia. He founded the city of Gondar in 1636 which became the capital of Abyssinia, which is in the northwestern part of Ethiopia. The Gondar city during that time was one of the most significant business centers in Abyssinia. It is also home to various cultural and administrative amenities. Because of that, the city prospered and different structures were built. From time to time, castles, churches and other infrastructures were constructed. One of those is the emperor’s castle, the Fasilides Castle. It is one of the most important castles in Ethiopia. There are many other castles and old churches around the place, but the Fasilides Castle is the most remarkable because little damage has been done to it. A tourist can be amazed at how this enormous castle was built during the early times and how it battled to remain standing until the 21st century. Currently, a preservation task group is taking care of this castle as well as the other castles and churches in Gondar in order to maintain their ancient beauty.

Paying a visit at Fasilides Castle is not hard as there are also many tourists roaming around the old city. The locals here are sell souvenir items, food and refreshments, perfect if you are hungry or needing ornamental gifts to take back with you. So, if you ever visit Ethiopia, don’t forget to visit the Fasilides Castle!

Dragon Mountain Temple
Photo by: wikipedia commons , Creative Commons

The Lungshan Temple is one of the most well known temples in the world. Located in Lukan, Taiwan, it is dedicated mainly to the divine spirits like the Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin. Its astonishing architecture will overwhelm you and the intricacies of its design will enchant you, as you travel through a portion of China’s ancient culture through entering this enigmatic portal of religious figures. Its architecture highly resembles that of the Sung Dynasty and it was constructed by the Buddhist master Chao-shan in 1963. It is the oldest Buddhist temple located in Taiwan. The Lungshan temple is also known as Taiwan’s forbidden city.

Translated in English, the Lunghshan literally means, “dragon mountain. “ It is also known as the meeting place of the gods because of the hundreds of deities being worshipped in this religious place. Everything from the pillars to the doors were given as a dedication to the goddess of Mercy-but aside from her, deities such as the sea goddess Matsu and the war god Kuan Kung are also worshipped there as well as some of their other gods.

The temple is usually visited by dedicated worshippers and curious tourists from all over the world. This worship place also holds witness to many festivals as it hosts various celebrations within the venue. They usually light up incenses in there as offerings to their gods. Paper money is usually burned to serve as bribery, to lighten the load of the souls in the other world.

The temple underwent a series of destructive devastations throughout the years. It had gone down in an 1815 earthquake and was destroyed in an 1860’s typhoon. It was also bombed in World War II. After it served as a home for squatters and government offices, it was proclaimed as a historical site.

The Madaba Mosaics
Photo by:
Verity Cridland , Creative Commons

For those who are really interested in ancient art and history, the Madaba Mosaics in Jordan is simply an irresistible place to visit. The Madaba Mosaic Map is significant because it is the oldest surviving depiction of the Holy Land which includes Jerusalem that dates back to the 6th Century AD. Also in art history, the mosaic map is considered the oldest known floor mosaic of geographic significance. Because of the existence of the Mosaic Map in Madaba, the identification as well as verification of many biblical sites was facilitated.

The scholars who studied the floor mosaic were able to determine the location of the site Askalon. Excavations in 1967 have also proven the accuracy of the depiction of the Cardio Maximus and Nea Church in the map.

Artists who worked on the map remain a mystery and some have suggested that the genius behind the mosaics were probably Christians who were commissioned to make the map during that time. The artwork was originally 21 by 7 meters, but at present, it is only 16 by 5 meters. It includes about 2 million tesserae. The factors that led to the destruction of some parts of the mosaic map are damages caused by fire, moisture and activities on the site by different visitors to the church. The church was used frequently and the people who neglected the mosaic might have added to destruction of some parts.

Thanks to many people and foundations as well as private companies who have donated and contributed for its restoration, the mosaics in Madaba have become well taken care of and its total destruction was hindered. A visit in Jordan will not be complete without seeing the map which will tell you what many parts of the Middle East looked like thousands of years ago. If you are in Jordan or you plan to visit fascinating places, travel back in time and don’t forget to include the Madaba Mosaics in your destination.

Flores
Photo by:
Rafael Amado , Creative Commons

If tourists haven’t been to Guatemala, then they’re missing a lot of what the country has in store for them. If they are in Guatemala but cannot decide where to go next, then Flores should be their next stop.

Flores is quite different from any other popular cities in Guatemala because for one, the Spaniards were not able to colonize this city right away. It took them until 1697 to penetrate the area and rule the people under their reign. It will be interesting for the visitors to see how much or how little the Spaniards influenced the way the people live, and how the structures and the buildings look.

Another reason would be because of the body of water that surrounds the city. Resembling a peninsula or even an island, Flores boasts its clear blue water that is home to lots of aquatic wildlife. Visitors can go and explore the city’s edges using boats, and even try fishing for both common and unfamiliar species of fish.

The foods that the people eat here are made from the finest herbs and spices that are grown in the fields outside Flores. This means that Flores gets almost all of the delicacy ingredients available from other towns and cities, making it a melting pot for the most sought-after ingredients in the entirety of Guatemala.

Visitors can stay in hotels if they want to explore the area for a few days. One popular hotel in the city is Hotel Villa Del Lago, since it has a clear view of the body of water surrounding the area. The people in the city are also very accommodating, so tourists will surely enjoy their trip.

Visiting Flores in Guatemala should be one of the things tourists do before going back home or if they feel like going home, since they will feel at home very much in this city.

Nimes Amphitheatre
Photo by: wyzik, Creative Commons

Looking for a taste of adventure and a historic trek back in time to the glory days of the Roman Empire? Head for Nîmes in southwest France, which is renowned for its Roma architecture. One structure that looks marvelous even without activity is the Nimes Amphitheatre in France. This structure was built in the first or second century A.D. When visiting the place, travelers can ponder events of the past and almost hear the sounds of gladiator combat or echoes of fighting bulls and ecstatic spectators in the audience.

Originally the amphitheater at Nîmes was used for purposes not at all related to entertainment. It had once been a fortress. It also became a walled village for thousands of destitute people, complete with houses and a chapel constructed at the center. During the 19th century, the Roman amphitheatre at Nimes was restored. The historic landmark today is used primarily for exciting bullfights. It has numerous internal stairways for up to 20,000 spectators can leave the stadium in about five minutes. The structure follows an enclosed elliptical design. The spectator area surrounding the arena has 60 radiating segments, each corresponding to two superimposed arches visible from the outside. Terraced rows are separated by a circulation corridor. The Nimes Amphitheare is a sight to behold inside and outside. When illuminated at night, the building façade looks mesmerizing. The amphitheatre is actually one of the best preserved architectural masterpieces in the whole of France.

Today, the Nimes Amphitheatre still reverberates with pulsating action. Among the events held in the awesome landmark made of marble and limestone are concerts & aquatic spectacles & special performances, circuses, bull fights, and international festivals. During winter, the place is covered with a fabric dome roof and heated.

Visit Nimes for a rare glimpse of an architectural feat like the amphitheatre and many other nearby attractions that add color & life to a city that’s continually undergoing modernization while retaining historical sites.

Mariánské Lázně
Photo by: Caroig, Creative Commons

If you were to visit the Czech Republic, there is one tourist destination you could stay for a longtime – Mariánské Lázně. There are so many things that this place has to offer that evolve around the Art and Culture, Food and Beverages and Recreation of this culture. Over the years, this tourist destination has welcomed guests to visit the Springing Fountain, mineral springs, churches, colonnades, museums and the geological parks.

You will feel like a child all over again when you see the springing fountains that is found in Mariánské Lázně. The best time to watch it is at night when a display of wonderful lighting highlights the water’s motions. One piece of trivia is that the waters that could be drunk here are very laxative. Yes, they are even exported to other parts of the world as seltzers to aid in constipation.

When you consider of visiting Mariánské Lázně to help you cure some skin ailments, then you in the right place – they have mineral springs that would cater to your submerged baths for a given time to ease the itch and inflammation brought about by impurities of the body. What is attractive to tourists is that many of the several mineral springs in the area are free of charge.

You can call the Mariánské Lázně as the place where different religions converge to pay homage to their respective churches that can be found at this place. Even though this small town has around less than 20 thousand citizens, anywhere you turn, you will successfully find a refuge for your soul.

Museums are also one of the attractive tourist destinations since you will be able to witness the works of brilliant and gifted artists who have received world recognition in their respective crafts. There is one built for the great Fryderyk Chopin that houses his musical albums and prints.

Amandari Resort
Photo by: hirohama , Creative Commons

Amandari is a luxury resort which richly defines Balinese. It upholds the values, culture, and the extraordinary beauty of Bali. Looking at every side, every corner of this magnificent place just makes it even better. It is located in central Bali near the wonderful village of Ubud. Amandari resort is in the midst of the breathtaking rice terraces, richly green forests, and the powerful Ayung River Gorge. Its architectural design is inspired by the wantilan or the village meeting place. The coconut wood and the stone floor just complete the open lobby.

Amandari resort has many facilities that offer different types of activities. They have a restaurant which is known to serve Western and Indonesian cuisine, and a bar with a wide variety of drinks to choose from. They have a library where you can do more than just read books and newspapers. It is also a place where you access the Internet. Amandari resort also offers a fully-equipped gym, an overlooking swimming pool, a world-class tennis court and golf course, and a locally-inspired spa. If you are more into extreme sports, then the white water rafting in the Ayung river is perfect for you.

Tourist can also enjoy the unique art, singing, and dancing in the nearby villages. Trips to these villages, either by foot or bicycle, can be arranged and you can instantly experience the warm culture and tradition of the area. Price ranges from US$ 750 to $3,500, depending on the suite and duration of stay. Amandari resort has received numerous awards from different award giving bodies for being one of the top resorts to stay in. The island of Bali is said to be the Island of the gods and a stay on Amandari resort would just make you feel that the gods share with you the true Balinese spirit.

El Djem Amphitheater
Photo by: hisgett , Creative Commons

Have you ever wanted to visit an ancient amphitheater? An adventurous trip to El Djem is what you need. To do this you have to visit Tunisia. Known historically as a temporary settlement for ancient civilization, including Romans, Tunisia is a product of ancient cultures. Evidence of that is the enormous El Djem Amphitheater. Situated in the town of Mahdia Governorate, El Djem Amphitheater is an obvious landmark of the country. Its big dome can accommodate at most 35,000 spectators, making it the third largest amphitheater in the world, next to the Coliseum of Rome and the eroded amphitheater in Capua. In that sense, imagining that you are sitting in one of those numerous seats inside the amphitheater is a very unique experience. Obviously, it would be much better for you to actually experience it.

However, remember that because of age, this amphitheater had lost its original structure and form. This was due to the endless wars it had suffered through the years and the constant use of some of its building blocks for other purposes. With that, full security measures are implemented to further lengthen its lifetime. This can also be seen as a consequence of this amphitheater being a World Heritage Site since 1979. Thus, it would be unwise for you to scrape off some pieces of the actual dome for souvenirs. Aside from the fact that doing this is virtually impossible, many stores offer miniature sizes of this amphitheater.

On the positive side, pictures are allowed, so bring fully charged digital cameras to capture those priceless moments.

Myvatn Lake
Photo by: kaet44, Creative Commons

Myvatn Lake, located in Northern Iceland is the country’s fourth largest natural lake. Myvatn Lake or Midge Lake got its name from the insects that live in the water. It has an area of 37 square kilometers with numerous islets on the lake. There many geological formations due to an active volcano nearby. There is so much volcanic activity in this area that nine eruptions took place in nine years. Also, North America and the Eurasian plate are said to be drifting 2 centimeters away from each other every year due to the eruption of active volcanoes.

Myvatn Lake was formed due to the blocking of a river by a large lava field. The lake is said to be fertile because the lake water is rich in minerals. For those who want to get in touch with nature, the area is a known sanctuary for different kinds of birds including 15 species of ducks.

Other activities that can be enjoyed are camping and fishing in the nearby Laxa – where many fishers enjoy catching salmon and trout. Sheep are a common sight in the area since sheep farming is a common form of livelihood. The sun shines bright in Myvatn Lake making the lake a suitable place for algae to grow. The algae give the water a greenish color.

There is also an annual marathon held during the summer. Tourists will have much convenience during their visit, for there are hotels, restaurants, shops and travel firms in the area. Car and bike rentals also provide ease of mobility around town and visiting the various sites in Myvatn. Myvatn Lake is also a home to the early inhabitants of the world. A Viking board game and a 10th century dwelling lodge are some of the greatest archeological discoveries in the area. The place is an excellent destination for nature lovers and even for those who just want a quiet get-away.

Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
Photo by: nestor galina, Creative Commons

Tierra del Fuego got its name from the campfires tended by one of its early settlers, the Yamana tribesmen, which was visible to the ships passing by. Hard to reach and isolated, it is no wonder that early explorers such as Ferdinand Magellan and Charles Darwin refer to it as the end of the world. Magellan was actually the one who first used the name Tierra del Fuego, thinking that the fires meant that the Indians where waiting to ambush his armada. Exploration into this archipelago continues up to this day with adventure seeking travelers. Tierra del Fuego can offer many activities for its adventurous visitors.

This triangular archipelago is richly blessed with a multitude of natural attractions. One can go sailing and sightseeing amongst glaciers, trek along the forests, hike its mountains and go fly-fishing in its waters. Skiing is also a popular outdoor activity here. Though for centuries, this windswept place has been home to many shipwrecks. This is the place to get the best seafood in Argentina. Sea Run Brown trout is found in abundance in the waters of the Rio Grance, San Pablo, and in the Lago Fagnano.

The largest city in Tierra del Fuego is Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Although the subpolar climate in the area is inhospitable, Ushuaia is a very busy hub of activity mainly due to the increasing number of Antractica-bound ships that make a stop in its port. Aside from tourists, this former penal colony has steadily been attracting people to resettle here due to the relatively high wages.

Lemaire & Neumayer Channels
Photo by: cloudzilla , Creative Commons

Make your Antarctica expedition more memorable by including the Lemaire & Neumayer Channels in your travel itinerary. These channels happen to be one of the favorite tourist destinations since it is one of the most magnificent places to see in Antarctica. It is such narrow passage, so before you pack your bags to make this first stop, check with the locals if the passage is open. There are times when glaciers as big as the cruise ship you rode goes through the narrow passage blocking the entire portion of the channel.

Since the glacier is just passing through, it shall be cleared in no time. You would really feel as if you are the king or queen of the world since the moment you pass through the Lemaire & Neumayer Channels, penguins and seals will greet you. They are also one of the reasons why tourists seem to be so enamored with the place. In addition to these playful animals, occasionally whales drop by and even follow your zodiacs around.

Zodiacs are not only at night in the form of constellations. These are what you call small inflatable boats. They are safe to ride and have brought thousands of adventurous tourists through the Lemaire & Neumayer Channels! So always keep your cameras ready for the entire duration of the trip so you don’t miss a photo opportunity. Did you know the channel even has a nickname for camera buffs? They call it the Kodak Gap since you can really take amazing shots when you pass through the narrow passage.

What actually attracts tourists to Antarctica is the extended time that daylight is present. Even if you are not a professional photographer, you will appreciate the magical natural lights that are so beautiful when you take your shots.

Kutna Hora
Photo by: Robert Paul Young, Creative Commons

Escape the deafening sounds of the city when you travel to the Czech Republic. There is once place that will offer tranquility known as the Kutna Hora. This little town is one of the top tourist destinations which will take you a day’s trip from Prague to reach. Do not underestimate this small town for it is extremely rich in history. It is in the 13th Century when Kutna Hora discovered silver in their land. That is why a few decades after that discovery, the royal mint was started and soon produced the Prague groschen coins. Even though they are indeed known as the original royal mint, you will find it very interesting and worthwhile to know that even though the town sleeps, the history of past periods still seep through every wall.

Aside from the melting pot of royal mints, the little town of Kutna Hora has attracted millions of tourists from different parts of the globe to come and feel what its like to visit the Ossuary or more commonly known as the Bone Church. This is the resting place of over 40,000 bones from different people who donated their family’s remains to the Church. It is one landmark to visit for your travel since it would surely give you the creeps. Since they are human bones artfully laid out, you surely would gasp in awe and respect to the builders of such place. You can reach Kutna Hora by bus where you’ll find first-class hotels for you to drop off your things before you start the tour.