The Main Street in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe
Photo by: wikipedia, Creative Commons

Kwekwe, formerly spelled as Que Que, is located in the Midlands of Zimbabwe. The town of Kwekwe was built during 1898 because of a gold mine that was discovered in the area. It was named after the Kwekwe River, a body of water near the settlement which was named after the croaking sound native frogs made. There are four different mine deposits that have been discovered in Kwekwe. Aside from being known for gold, Kwekwe is also an industrial hub for fertilizer and steel.

One of the main tourist attractions in Kwekwe is the National Mining Museum which displays the importance and history of Kwekwe as a mining town. If you like antique machinery, you’ll love the displays and exhibits in the National Mining Museum. If you’re a fan of cricket (the sport) you may pay a visit at the Kwekwe Sports Club. You can watch cricket matches between Zimbabwe’s cricket team and various visiting teams, usually from Kenya.

Another main reason why tourists visit Kwekwe is the safari. There is a variety of wildlife around Kwekwe which includes Rhinos, Kudus, Sables, Elands and other large antelopes and endangered animals such as Lions and the African Elephant. Some tourist guides and operators allow hunting in the safari and their farms. If you want to go hunting, then visit some of the guides. Be warned though that the government is making moves to put an end to wild game hunting due to conservation issues. If you want to stay on the safe side, then just go on a regular safari and shoot a camera instead of a gun.

The Barton Arms, High Street, Newtown, Birmingham
Photo by: ell-r-brown, Creative Commons

Birmingham, located in the west midlands region, is considered to be the second largest city in Britain. Being conveniently located in the heart of England, it is starting to become a thriving metropolis where a diversity of cultures mix. And though it retains its image of a city built by industry, it has somehow managed to reinvent itself to become a vibrant city where you can find newly built establishments that can cater to even the most discerning of tourists.
Birmingham has a couple of old buildings, namely the council house and the town hall that represent the historical and architectural achievements of the city. For those who have an interest in the arts, the Aston hall, the Barber institute of fine arts and the Birmingham museum and art gallery should be included in your itinerary. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to treat yourself to a delicious and exciting tour, as Birmingham is also home to Cadbury world, the largest factory of Cadbury chocolates in the area.

Though most of the city’s activities and attractions are open all year round, the best time to visit Birmingham would be around the spring and summer seasons, when flowers are blooming and the weather is mild. To get a feel of nature within the city, you should definitely head out to the large botanical gardens that are located at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens & Glasshouses. You can also visit the Sutton Park and the national sea life center to catch a glimpse of the natural flora and fauna that the land and seas have to offer you. For a relaxing afternoon stroll, the Woodgate Valley Country Park provides a picturesque view.

If you’re looking for shopping experiences, you’ll be happy to know that Birmingham has one of the most interesting shopping arcades in this area of the United Kingdom. The Bull Ring complex houses more than 140 stores and kiosks, including a branch of the infamous Selfridges department store chain. High-end jewelry can be bought just a stone’s throw away from the city center in a place aptly called the jewellery quarter. If you want to find the best deals on one of a kind jewelry pieces then a visit to the jewelry workshops is a must.

The market area in Soroti, Uganda.
Photo by: wiki, Creative Commons

Although very provincial in surroundings, Soroti is one of the main commercial centers in eastern Uganda. The busy commercial center is punctuated by architectural structures speaking of the city’s rich cultural heritage. The city is also surrounded by the magnificence of nature’s art. The most famous of Soroti’s natural wonders is a rock formation from which you can get a splendid view of central Soroti. The Soroti rock presents a beautiful vista of Soroti and its surrounding areas as well as of Mount Elgon and Lake Kyoga. Tourists who wish to climb the Soroti rock should seek permission from the Town Clerk. Aside from the town panorama, what is behind the rock would give you a glimpse at Soroti’s colonial past. There you can find graves of residents engraved with the dates of their death. The various ages of these people who were buried behind the Soroti rock is testament to the unrestrained killings during Uganda’s colonial period.

Albeit highly commercialized and dotted with stalls and shops, the center of Soroti still features facades that are reflective of the Indian traders who once inhabited the town. The thriving businesses have cleaned up and refurbished the worn down buildings of the 1970s and transformed the center into the bustling commercial it is now. The religious establishments around town remain to be sites of interest for most tourists. There is a great variety of Muslim mosques and Hindu temples around Soroti. There are also Sikh temples and some Christian churches like the Anglican Cathedral and some small Pentecostal congregations. The Islamic burial rituals are also kept alive in the bath house located at the municipal cemetery. Many graves in this cemetery even have Arabic inscriptions.

One of the main tourist destinations in Belize is the town of San Pedro, which is located on Ambergris Caye, which is a group of islands that is located on the northern part of the country. Considered a top tourist destination, the town of San Pedro is often found on the list of must see destinations in the region and this is because of the many activities you can enjoy here as well as the friendly people who live here.

To get to San Pedro, you will need to get yourself a flight from Belize City or you can take one direct from the Philip Goldson international airport. You can also take a water taxi to the town from Belize City that you will have to book an hour in advance. This can take you to Ambergris Caye in an hour or so and the water taxi terminal is a mere 20 minutes away from the airport. You can get also there with a limited flight service that originates from Chetumal Mexico.

When in San Pedro, some of the places you shouldn’t miss visiting include the Ambergris Museum and Cultural Center and the San Pedro Lagoon. There are many things you and your family can enjoy doing at the lagoon and these include bird watching, river rafting, canoeing, water craft activities and boating. If you are fond of arts, you might want to visit the town during the Costa Maya festival which is held every year in August and features art, music, dance and food from the neighboring countries in addition from the country of Belize itself.

Rosario, Argentina is a city in the province of Santa Fe and the third most populated in the country. It is fast becoming a tourist hotspot with visitors from all over the world flocking to its beautiful destinations and engaging in the many adventures that it offers. To get to this beautiful city from Buenos Aires, you may take a plane, the train or rent a car. There are also buses that travel daily for your convenience and cost much less.

There are many spots to visit in Rosario when you decide to take your vacation here. You may drop by the Argentina Flag Memorial, which is locally known as Monumento a la Bandera, or take a tour of the house where “El Che Guevara” was born on Urquiza and Entre Rios Streets. These places will give you a glimpse of their national pride and patriotism.

One of the biggest parks in the country is also located in Rosario, and it’s called the Independencia Park. This park is one of the most visited places in the city where tourists can just relax and take an afternoon stroll or an early morning jog.

Another spot that has become a tourist destination in Rosario is the Rosario Central Stadium where the World Cup was held in 1978. Fans of the series as well as curious tourists stop by this stadium to take photos and get a piece of football history.

Aside from the sites to see and historical places to visit, tourists also frequent Rosario for the different activities that may be done in this wonderful city. For the more adventurous type, there are areas for kayaking and skydiving while horseback riding and sailboat rides are recommended for those who want a more laid back kind of experience.

Still for a relaxing vacation, tourists may hit the beautiful beaches of Rosario and enjoy the nightlife in the bars and restaurants found at the beachfront. And speaking of nightlife, clubs and discos are also abundant in the city where you can enjoy drinks, good food and mix and mingle with locals and other tourists while dancing the night away.

The City of Rosario is also a shopper’s haven for tourists who might want to buy souvenir items. At El Centro, which is the city’s central shopping area, good quality leather wallets, handbags and other accessories are being sold at reasonable prices.

Rosario is definitely a must-see when you are visiting Argentina. So don’t forget to schedule a tour of this amazing city when you plan your next trip.

Juliasdale is a town located in Manicaland, Zimbabwe. The town is most famous for being the place where the first ever casino in the country was opened. However, that is not the only reason for people to visit Juliasdale. The mountainous Eastern Highland around the area provides tourists some lovely places to visit.

Places to visit:

• Ziwa Ruins – Among the ruins located near Juliasdale, the Ziwa ruins are the most popular and the most impressive. In 1946, it was declared as a National Monument; discussion is still going on whether the Ziwa Ruins will be listed as a World Heritage. It contains numerous ancient stone structures as well as pottery.

• The Eastern Highland – It is a mountain range located on the eastern side of Zimbabwe. The highland itself is a wondrous sight to behold but there are many places inside the area that attracts tourists. There’s the Mutarazi Falls, Africa’s second longest waterfall. The Honde Valley where the Pungwe and Honde River are located; it is quite steep. There are an abundance of tea and coffee growing in the Honde Valley due to its climate and topography. The famous Mutarazi Falls is also located in the Honde Valley which constantly attracts tourists.

• Nyanga National Park – Though it is located in Nyanga, a separate town, Juliasdale is really close and it is the last town tourists pass through to get to the park. There are many activities in the National Park such as hiking, camping, fishing, horse riding and boating. There are also numerous rivers and dams located in the park.

The landscape of Innsbruck, Austria is never the same depending on the time of year tourists visit this place. It changes from an almost all white winter wonderland scene to a contrast of brightly colored meadows against snowy mountain peaks during spring, summer and autumn. This makes the city a requisite starting point for those who would like to engage in either winter sports or summer hiking adventures in the surrounding Tirol mountain region.

Although this particular area of Austria is breathtakingly scenic in its entirety, it would be a waste not to further explore a city such as Innsbruck even for just a day. However, some people might find that one day is simply not sufficient to get to know the city in depth. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Even just concentrating on the three top spots within the city will be more than enough for anyone to leave with memories of Innsbruck, Austria that will last for a very long time. The three landmarks in the city that most tourists flock to are:

• Hofburg Palace area – This neighborhood is home to the historical, architectural and artistic heritage of the city. Hofburg is the royal residence built for Emperor Maximilian in the 14th century. The palace itself is oftentimes compared to Versailles in France, because of its lavishly designed interiors, buildings, and gardens close by. The Hofkirche or Court Church that contains a resting place of royals, such as Maximilian’s and Archduke Ferdinand II, as well as the remains of local hero Andreas Hofer.
• Tyrolean Folkloric Museum – In contrast to the royal opulence of the Hofburg Palace vicinity, this museum contains numerous artifacts that illustrate the more mundane lifestyle of city residents. Items here date back to the Middle Ages.
• Olympia Museum – This more modern facility showcases pictures, memorabilia and souvenir items commemorating the city’s role as the host of the 1976 and 1964 Winter Olympics.

In just three easy trips to these locations and to other equally interesting sites, tourists can truly enjoy their vacation in Innsbruck to the fullest.

The Huatajata Island in Bolivia is a scenic town located on the southeastern shores of Lake Titicaca. Consequently, Lake Titicaca is considered the highest navigable fresh water lake across the globe.

The climate in Huatajata is pleasant and cool because it has a high altitude of 3,954ft above sea level. The nights in the island are generally chilly. It rains the whole year round. The population in the island is approximately 3,700. Most of the inhabitants are Amerindians descents. The prominent tribes include Aymaras, Gurani, Quechuas, and Chiquitano.

The Huatajata Island is a good place for exploration near the Lake Titacaca. More often than not, tourists and visitors watch the abundance of waterbirds in the area. The island is less than 2 hours away from La Paz, Bolivia, which makes it good to go exploring on.

You can reach the island either by public transportation or package tour; however, if you can bring your own vehicle, it is much better. This is because you can stop at different focal places. Depending on the water levels of the lake, you can stop at bird conservations and other interesting places. Most tourists prepare their plan as follows: Take the paved road to Lake Titicaca as you leave El Alto. You can also take the road to Copacabana to explore great views of the town.

Due to diversity, the culture of Huatajata Island is already a major attraction for tourists. The Amerindian descents have preserved their culture, living and working in the island in the same way they did more than a hundred years ago.

If you want to experience the ultimate beach vacation getaway in the Caribbean, you should head to Cane Garden Bay, British Virgin Islands. This is a must-visit place in the Caribbean. It is probably the most popular beach in the area.

First, the location is a perfect tropical paradise. You can find tropical palms swaying in the wind, crystal blue water, gleaming white sand, and a bright and sunny weather. The place is picture perfect and you can’t help but wonder if the background is the one usually used in post cards.

The view of the beach is breathtaking enough, but the numerous activities that you can do in the water will also take your breath away—literally. You can go sailing, wind surfing, swimming, snorkeling, and jet skiing. A week-long visit will not be enough to do all the things that you want to do in Cane Garden Bay, British Virgin Islands.

Aside from water sports, you can also go horseback riding and jogging along the beach. This is a fun way to tour the island. You will see the different shops and people that inhabit Cane Garden Bay.

Cane Garden Bay, British Virgin Islands has many restaurants and bars that serve great food and rinks. If you want to try the favorite food in Cane Garden Bay, you should eat at Myett’s, Elm, and Quito’s. If you are craving for home-style food, you can go to Stanley’s which serves “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” Just the name will make your mouth water.

The Bahamas capital Nassau may be a combo of old and new, but Freeport, Bahamas is an ultra-modernistic planned city. Also called Lucaya, Freeport is located on the Grand Bahamas Island—the island they call the Hong Kong of the Americas.

The greatest distinction of Freeport among the other islands in the Bahamas is its location. It is only 50 miles east of Miami Florida so you can imagine how strategic it is for business and tourism. Tourists and entrepreneurs flock to this island all year round, although it’s not only favored due to its location but its magnificent beaches as well. White sand, water sports, and deep-sea fishing—What can more can you ask for when in Freeport?

The history of Freeport goes back to more than five decades ago when a small group of entrepreneurs established a deep-water harbor and an economic zone on the island of Grand Bahamas. The businessmen’s vision was to make it a core shipping hub and an international business centre. Today, Freeport is all that and much more. Wonder how much pride these businessmen had the moment they saw their vision converted into reality.

Anyway, there’s just so much action in Lucaya that you will never find yourself bored. There are pristine white beaches, great hotels, magnificent casino, lively nightlife, and world-class scuba diving facilities. If you feel like playing golf, Freeport offers two large golf courses in the area. Shopping is also great here, especially at the Port Lucaya Marketplace.

Coffee drinkers from all over the world – from North America to Europe – will readily associate good coffee with Colombia. However, only a select number of those millions of coffee connoisseurs are aware that the best Colombian coffee originates from the region around the city of Pereira, Colombia. The city’s strategic location in the center of the coffee growing region is more familiar among locals who have always been aware of how the fertile volcanic soil of the Andes Mountains contributes to the top quality of coffee originating from Pereira.

Because of this reputation, the initial settlers of Pereira, Colombia in the 1800s organized an annual Fiestas de la Cosecha or Harvest Fest in order to reinforce the region’s coffee producing reputation to the rest of he country. This long history of this festival has given rise to different idiomatic expressions in Colombian Spanish that refer to the coffee merchandising lifestyle of the Pereirans.

This mercantile spirit is very much alive in the downtown area of Pereira, Colombia which proliferates with modern shopping malls that can rival the liveliest malls found in North America. These malls are strategically located near interesting landmarks around the city such as the Naked Bolivar or Bolivar Desnudo Monument and the Viaduct built in honor of former president Cesar Gaviria who was born in Pereira. Furthermore, visitors can drop by the Matecana City Zoo which is the largest city zoo in the country.

Soccer season is a good way to mix with the locals who are ardent supporters of the home team, Deportivo Pereira. Regular matches are held at the massive Hernan Ramirez Villegas Stadium that can accommodate more than thirty five thousand spectators.

Those who are looking for a quick glimpse of the archaeological and cultural treasures the city’s pre-Hispanic native population has left behind, a visit to the Museo del Oro Quimbaya is a worthwhile endeavor. The museum houses excellent artifacts, pottery and gold treasures of the Quimbaya people.

Tourists going around the city will surely notice the presence of oversized green buses. Locals call these El Megabus. This El Megabus system of transportation was launched on August 2006 which resulted in the easier mass transit between Pereira and the neighboring cities of Dosquebradas, Cartago and Santa Rosa de Caba.

There is truly more to Pereira, Colombia than its reputation for excellent coffee. The city is alive with different social activities and points of interests that tourists from all over the world have appreciated and will continue to appreciate.

Colombia had been plagued by civil conflict for many decades. The country’s tourism industry suffered significantly during the lengthy war-ravaged times, but all those are things of the past now. Today, Colombia stands proudly in the Caribbean region as one of Latin America’s most prosperous, most promising, and most beautiful nations. Its tourism has greatly improved since the republic’s restoration; many people from all over the world come and visit Colombia and the different wonders it offers.

One of the infinite things that astonish tourists once they are on Colombian soil is the highly noticeable diversity of the country’s very vivid culture. With a past that’s as rich as their coffee plantations, it is not hard to understand why many tourists fall in love with the country and extend their vacations for an indefinite period of time. There are just so many places to see in Colombia, so many things to do and try, that it could get quite difficult to leave. This explains the continuous building of upscale hotels, quaint inns and hostels all over – indeed, the country’s tourism industry is enjoying significant improvement.

One of the places that must be visited when traveling in this lovely country is Baranquilla, Colombia. Baranquilla is lovingly known throughout the Caribbean as Curramba, La Bella – and rightly so. Music is one of the city’s greatest offerings, and notable musicians hail from here, including the Billboard award-winning rock band The Monas and Grammy award-winning solo act Shakira. There are several music festivals worth attending, including the Baranquijazz (for jazz enthusiasts) and the Miche Rock Festival (for lovers of all things rock and roll, including punk, pop, and metal), both of which have enjoyed stellar audience clamor for the past years. Back in the day, Baranquilla, Colombia was greatly responsible for spreading salsa in the Caribbean region. Today, it is an amazing mecca of traditional Caribbean rhythms and the birthplace of new sounds, including raspacanilla, mecumbre, and porro.

All throughout the city are bohemian hangouts where artists meet, converse, and create masterpieces. Nobel recipient Gabriel Garcia Marquez once lived in Baranquilla (early on during his career as a journalist) and has confessed the city’s substantial role in his literary production. His old hive, La Cueva, has been properly restored and is now open to the public as a charming art bar. Meanwhile, the Museo de Arte Moderno de Baranquilla has artworks by contemporary artists. The city also attracts more tourists during April with the Carnaval International de las Artes, an international arts festival. Indeed, to this day, Baranquilla, Colombia offers beauty that inspires.

Fortaleza, Brazil is known to the whole world as a bustling city with roughly 2 million or more residents. And just to accommodate these inhabitants and some tourists who occasionally visit the place, you will find that Fortaleza is practically lined with hundreds of apartment complexes, first class hotels and motels.

But hotels, motels, apartments and office blocks do not really define what Fortaleza is. There are so many places to see and so many things to experience in this place. If you want to know what exactly they are, then read on as we provide you 3 of the places that you should visit when you are in the city.

1. Mercado Central or The Central Market

This place is not only perfect for people who are lovers of flea markets but it is also the spot you have to visit if you want to experience true Brazilian culture. This is because in the marketplace you will find true blue Brazilian food, crafts and products that are practically lined up in colorful stalls on the street.

2. Beira Mar

If you did not have enough shopping in Mercado Central, you can continue your shopping spree in Beira Mar. Beira Mar is open to the public from 6AM to 10PM everyday. Here you can again find food, arts, crafts and some fine linen. What’s more is that the prices of goods in this area are simply unbelievable. But if you want to save more then remember this – haggling in Beira Mar is always a good idea.

3. The Beaches

These pristine beaches can be especially beautiful at night. So if you are comfortable in boats, then you may want to take a 2 – hour cruise that starts in Beira Mar. In the cruise, you can expect to see the city’s skylines and the bars in all the happening beaches out there. If you want to, you can also go down the boat and take a short swim in one of the calmer beaches in the area.

But if you think that taking a cruise is not really a good idea, then you can take the city bus or rent a taxi to take you to two of the most visited beaches in the area which is Praia do Futuro and Praia de Iracema. At daytime, the sun on those beaches can give you a good tan and at night, the shores are especially famous for their great parties and happening bars.

Lisburn Market House
Photo by: wiki , Creative Commons

Visiting Europe will not be complete without visiting Lisburn, Northern Ireland. Its original site is where Hill Street Estate is now located, while Wallace Park is just north of it.

There are linen industries all over Lisburn, Northern Ireland. In fact, this city is the birthplace of the country’s linen industry which started in 1698. Tourists can benefit from exhibitions being held at the Irish Linen Centre at the Market Square. One of the highlights of the city is the proliferation of different churches. These 134 churches are large in comparison with others locations. The Diocese of Connor and the Christ Church Cathedral are two classic examples of the grandiose structure of churches in Lisburn.

Tourists are attracted to this popular city because of the easy transportation means to and from the city. The railway station is not only well kept; it is able to take tourists from Lisburn to Belfast within 10 minutes. Due to the availability of trains, Lisburn is also connected with other cities that make up the route. Bus routes are also available in the major city roads. The vast network of buses allows for progression of local housing developments. Just two years ago, a Bus Centre had been opened to replace shelters and make transportation even easier.

Sports enthusiasts would like to drop by Lisburn Distillery, a football club that plays Premier League and has been through big changes since it started. This is popular for soccer enthusiasts who followed its transformation. Basketball, Cricket and Racquets Clubs are also worth a visit.

For more cultural travel, you might want to drop by Wallace Park, Wallace High School and Wallace fountains, all of which are offered to Sir Richard Wallace, who have made an impact on the city.

Specifically, Lisburn is a city that capitalizes on work and leisure. Even migrants are attracted to Lisburn, Northern Ireland due to its low unemployment rate and the high property prices in Northern Ireland. It is worth noting that living in Lisburn will assure you good housing conditions, best quality of education and high standard of living. Many public facilities are available for you to choose from. A weekend at the Lagan Valley Leisure Plex will make you want to stay more. It offers the largest leisure pool and the fastest water ride in Ireland. You can also go home with bags of shopping items all purchased from major shopping facilities.

Cardiff castle
Photo by: ezioman, Creative Commons

Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, has come a long way from being the industrial city it was known to be a few years ago. Because its government has put an emphasis on modernizing the old in order to have a more vibrant tourism industry, it’s now become an enticing tourist hot spot that many people are starting to appreciate. There are many attractions that can lure you into Cardiff, so instead of looking to other areas for the quintessential welsh holiday, why not decide to stay here for a bit? You might just find yourself pleasantly surprised that you did.

Since Cardiff has a pretty compact central area, the best way to explore the city would be by foot. This way, you not only get the health benefits of an intense walk, but you also get the chance to experience the different sounds and sights up close. Start your walking tour in Cardiff by visiting the renowned Cardiff Castle and be amazed by the grandeur and style that the castle is best known for. If the tour has got you working up a sweat, then make sure to take the road to Bute Park for some relaxation time. This is a very popular place for both locals and tourists alike as it offers tranquility and peace amidst the hectic lifestyle in the city.

If you’re looking for some good food to satisfy your hunger, make sure you drop by the Cardiff bay for a one of a kind dining experience. Here you’ll find the best bars, restaurants and cafes that will leave you wanting more. After you’ve had your fill, explore the bay by taking a boat ride all the way to the far end of their route where you’ll find the Norwegian church still standing.

Shopping in Cardiff is definitely a treat, as you will find an assortment of different goods that you will want to take home to remind you of your travels. Visit the Cardiff Antiques center if you like collecting silver coins, stamps or other vintage items. if you want to come home with something much more representative of the welsh culture, you should head on to the Castle Welsh Crafts for everything a tourist would want to buy. From stuffed animals to a whole suit of armor can be found here. Want to know when the best time would be to come to Cardiff? Since most of the notable attractions that you’ll find here are located outdoors, you should book your trip for sometime around spring thru autumn so that you won’t have to subject yourself to a chilly holiday.

Kasama is located in the Northern Province of Zambia and is the country’s capital. As it stands in the middle of all the neighboring cities and provinces, people can easily travel from one attraction to the next while they stay in Kasama.

A significant number of Kasama’s population lives in the province. They are known for their hospitality, simplicity and peacefulness. With the turn of times, the city has become highly susceptible to changes and development. There are now commercial and industrial centers in the city that cater to both the locals and the tourists. Kasama is often visited by tourists, even by those who only need to do a quick stop on their way to other areas of the Northern Province. These days, people can find great places to marvel at the natural beauty of the entire region. As the city sits on the central-southern African plateau, there is much to see. There are also markets that hold various goods that people fancy. They can find local food items as well as those that are more relative to the local culture. While the city of Kasama is often said to be quiet, it holds a great part of world history that has been attributed to other countries’ influences to Zambia.

A View of the Stirling Castle from the Wallace Monument
Photo by: wsuph002, Creative Commons

Stirling in Scotland is one of the country’s most historical locations

Of all the historic sites in Scotland, Stirling is the one place that has seen the most action over the past centuries. Since it used to be the only passageway to the highlands, many battles have been fought in and around this small city. And though the conflicts have already ended, the energy can still be felt to this day. If you want to visit a magical place that will conjure up images of fairytales you definitely shouldn’t miss a visit to Stirling.

Since it is one of the most accessible cities in the Scottish Central Belt area, you can reach this city from Edinburgh or Glasgow through public transport, particularly by bus or train. This makes it the perfect side trip destination for the day if you just happen to be visiting any of the 2 major Scottish cities we just mentioned.

Start off your Stirling trip with a visit to one of the oldest and yet well-preserved castles in Scotland, the Stirling Castle. Dating back to the 14th century, this castle has one of the most stunning views of the. If you’re interested in history, you should also visit the National Wallace Monument dedicated to the great man sir William Wallace, or Braveheart, as he is most popularly known to as in movies. Here you’ll find not just one but seven battlegrounds where fierce Scotsmen fought for their independence. Bannockburn is another important historical site where the Scots fought and won their victory over the English in 1314.

With so much natural beauty all around you, it’s hard to think that this area has seen more than its fair share of battles through the years. Just like Edinburgh, it boasts of having a number of historical attractions, which gives it that unique feel of being a medieval city even in these modern times. Cobble stone streets and different remnants that you’ll find near the Stirling castle are tell tale signs of just how grand this city used to be in the past times.

So what are you waiting for? If you’re looking for a travel destination that can give you an extensive look into the Scottish struggle for freedom, then the dreamy city of Stirling can offer you this plus so much more. Walk the streets and get a feel of the true Scottish spirit as you listen to bagpipe songs of victory played by men wearing their respective kilts.

If you want a destination that can offer you a new vacation experience, Chile’s San Pedro de Atacama is one of the most recommended spots. Though you will see that the country is so vast yet empty because of the deserts, San Pedro is very different. Indeed, this city is referred to as the oasis of the vast deserts of Chile. In fact, this city is called “The Valley of Moon” because of its shimmering and flat roads surrounded by a moonscape in a patch of green.

Though strange to many people, San Pedro de Atacama is a beautiful place to visit. This oasis is filled with many wonderful attractions that have the power to make tourists love the place. There are also fantastic sand dunes, geysers, volcano, deserts, walks, and formations of Moon Valley here. Indeed, this city is a perfect destination you must try to conquer.

Andean Cordillera

Don’t say no to a visit to Andean Cordillera. A visit to Chile will be incomplete without a glimpse of this magnificent place. This is where the mystic Licanbour Volcano stands. This is also where you can find the Catholic Museum that holds the world’s largest assemblage including mummies, artifacts, and many other treasures. You will never go hungry here as well as most of the restaurants in the city are housed in the Andean Cordillera. Same is true with shopping centers,

Geysers Spouting

Geyser is another beautiful attraction in the region. You can grab an early trip to the Geysers of El Tatio, which will definitely provide you with fun. You can see for yourself thermal wells here and almost more than 40 geysers plus fumaroles that blast up into the cold air of the early morning. And, as the sun comes up, you’ll be glad to see some wonderful gifts of nature to San Pedro. There are also hot swimming pools around the area that are heated by water coming from the deep of the desert.

Fire Pit Dinner

Dinner here is a little bit strange and exciting. You can experience dinner being done in one of the adobe holes, an open-aired courtyard covered with a straw roof with rocks arranged and a fire blazed. Restaurants here usually have fires at the center of it.

Indeed, San Pedro de Atacama is truly a place that can provide a unique travel experience. Though it is by way a little far from the demands of modernity, everybody will find the area so warm and exciting to experience. Just imagine an oasis in the center of a desert.

Street in Mutare, Zimbabwe
Photo by: Wikimedia, Creative Commons

Mutare is the fourth largest city in Zimbabwe and is the capital of the Manicaland province. Even though it is located in Africa, the temperature in Mutare is surprisingly cool with an annual average of 19 degrees Celsius. This is due to the mountains that surround the city which happens to be very lush and green especially during the wet season from December to February.

There are many tourist attractions in Mutare; from theaters to nature reserves.

• Utopia House Museum – Located 2 miles from the city of Mutare. It houses a variety of antique collections. The design of the interior is made to resemble the early 1900’s. Aside from viewing antiques, you can also view excellent plays in the Phoenix Theater inside the museum.
• Civic Center Complex – It is the administrative center of Mutare. It is also a great destination for tourists because the building houses the Turner Memorial Library, Courtland Theater and the Mayor’s Parlour; all of which are open to the public.
• Mutare Museum – Contains more than 500 species of birdlife as well as the various flora and fauna native to the Manicaland province. It also has an interesting collection of native antiques which include weapons and various firearms.
• Caravan Park – Is a great place to go camping. It is located 3 miles away from the city on the road leading to Harare. Tourists can expect a fantastic view of the city. You can stay for a number of days there because of the laundry and cooking facilities.
• Cecil Kop Nature Reserve – One of the main tourist attractions in Mutare. It is located just 2 miles from the city. Visitors and tourists can see various species of wildlife native in Zimbabwe living in their natural condition. It is open to the public every day.

Traveling to Nioro Du Sahel is considered the grandest trip to Mali nature and culture. The town was founded and existed around 16th century and it prospered in 18th century as it became the Bambara kingdom’s capital. Because of its favorable location, it also became the center of commercial trade between Sudan and Senegal. For this reason, you can find a wide range of products, starting from the cultural textiles to the local fruits of Mali.

Due to extreme temperatures, Nioro Du Sahel has many sandy areas, but there are also places of rich greeneries highlighted by the town’s red colored soil. You can tour the town using any transportation methods available to see the indigenous wildlife. What is good about roaming around the town is the residents’ warm welcome as they always smile sincerely whenever they see tourists passing by. In order to appreciate the local culture, you can also try to live with them for a short time as the local residents often times take the honor of entertaining the town’s guests.

In visiting Nioro Du Sahel, it is recommended to visit during Mali’s moderate weather months which take place from July thru September. While exploring the city, it’s advisable to purchase the local’s products such as textiles, fruits and delicacies as you are not only giving yourself a treat but you helping the livelihood of the locals.

Many international tourists are probably more familiar with the city of Bogota simply because it is the biggest, the most populous and the highest profiled city in Colombia. However, what these tourists do not know is that a significant number of Bogota residents favor spending weekend vacations in the quieter, warmer and more scenic city of Melgar, Colombia.

Although the city is located in the landlocked department of Tolima, it is ironically nicknamed “The Sea of Swimming Pools.” This is due to the presence of more than five thousand swimming pools that cater to the swimming whims of local and international tourists who visit the area regularly. These pools are constantly replenished by the nearby Sumapaz River. Melgar owes its warmer, resort-like climate to its position nestled within the region’s valleys.

Because of its reputation as a resort, Melgar, Colombia gives a wide array of options for visitors to appreciate what the local ambiance has to offer. Tourists can visit and enjoy facilities specifically built to highlight the uniqueness of the city’s topography. The City of Reptiles is one such facility which was constructed to protect the diversity of reptile species that can only be found in the region. The reptile facility offers plenty of opportunities to interact with reptiles that can only be found in the wild. Tourists can also explore the nature trails in Cualama and Buenavista. Those who are more adventurous can surely enjoy a visit to the Caves of Palestine.

For the hyper-active, Melgar, Colombia abounds with plenty of opportunities to engage in adventure and extreme sports. High-energy paintball sessions are regularly scheduled in facilities such as the El Gaitero Eco Park. Those with extra adrenalin to spare can count on the regular rafting adventures on the nearby river. The steepness of the region’s landscape gives its rivers a more challenging and a more exciting rafting course which can only be described as a white foam of obstacles on water.

After all that physically taxing action, health spas in Melgar, Colombia can offer much needed relief. Among the most notable and better known spas in the area can be found in resorts such as The Gaudual, Palmer and La Melgar. World class spa facilities and services ensure that guests always leave feeling recharged and energized to enjoy the city’s other attractions.

With so many things to do and so many facilities to enjoy, it is no wonder that Melgar, Colombia has earned its well-deserved reputation as a holiday town locally and internationally.

A view of the famous Tororo Rock in Tororo, Uganda.
Photo by: wiki, Creative Commons

At the heart of Tororo are railway lines that meet from various cites of Uganda. These railway lines pass through other cities of Uganda towards Pakwach, Nairobi, and Kasese. Perhaps the most notable claim to fame of this quaint Ugandan town is the Tororo Rock. The Tororo Rock juts up almost 5,000 feet over sea level. It is located a little over three miles southeast of Tororo’s central business district and seems to tower over the entire town from anywhere in the Tororo District. On the way to the top of the Tororo Rock are various ancestral caves and rock paintings. The magnificence of the Tororo Rock could be equated with that of Paris’ Eiffel Tower.

Also known for being one of the world’s most thunderous places, Tororo boasts of a rich agricultural scene. Food crops and cash crops abound in the area. Tororo is known for producing cotton, onions, cassava, potatoes, beans, and sunflowers among others. Aside from agricultural crops, mineral deposits are also found to be abundant in Tororo. In fact, a recent report by the United Nations cited Tororo as one of the places all over the world with the highest deposits of phosphorus. Tororo is also home to one of the five public universities in Uganda, the Busitem University. In the central business district, tourists can find remnants of plantation homes of the Victorian and Edwardian tea boom in Tororo. These establishments have been restored and transformed by merchants into inns, lodging facilities, and restaurants. A trip to other Ugandan cities can be arranged from the heart of Tororo.

Puerto Iguazu, Argentina is a northeastern city of Argentina that is a favorite destination among foreign and local tourists. It is located at the border in the province of Misiones, adjacent to the countries of Paraguay and Brazil.

To go to Puerto Iguazu, you may take a plane from Buenos Aires. The Aeropuerto International Cataratas del Iguazu, which is located near the beautiful waterfalls, has daily flights to the capital city. From the airport, you may take the bus or taxi to get to any point in the city. You will have no trouble at all getting around since the transport system is organized and the streets are easy to navigate. If you want to reach this wonderful city by boat, there is a ferry that crosses directly from Paraguay and leaves hourly.

When in Puerto Iguazu, you will have an astonishing view of three beautiful countries, which are collectively known as the Triple Frontiers or La Triple Frontera. Not to be confused with Tres Fronteras or the Three Frontiers, La Triple Frontera is the tri-border spot located along the junction of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, giving you easy access to three of the world’s loveliest places to be in.

The main attraction of Puerto Iguazu is the Iguazu Falls. Also referred to as Iguacu Falls by some local settlers, this majestic body of water is located in the Iguazu National Park. These falls lead to the Iguazu River and divide it into two sections: the upper and lower Iguazu. And because of its picturesque scenery, the Iguazu Falls is considered as one of the world’s natural wonders.

The Iguazu National Park has a total land area of 212 square meters. It was built in 1934 in the middle of the subtropic jungle and was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1984. A tour of the National Park will give you a glimpse of the origin of the place and its evolution that led to its current state in the country as one of the most treasured tourist spots.

Nature lovers will surely enjoy a trip to Puerto Iguazu, Argentina for its serene beauty and tranquil environment. Imagine relaxing in the rainforest being surrounded by all the lush vegetation. Surely your body will get the rest that it deserves. So for the ultimate nature trip, count Puerto Iguazu as one of your destinations in Argentina.

Arion Resort and Spa offers a wonderful view of the Saronic Gulf. If you want to experience tranquility, this is the best place to stay. The resort’s most distinctive features are its newly renovated bungalows. Guests will experience ultimate privacy and privileged services while staying at the Arion Resort and Spa Athens. The atmosphere is enhanced by its breathtaking surroundings. Also a visit to Athens will not be complete without seeing the Parthenon in Acropolis. This is just 15 miles from the Arion Spa and Resort Athens. Other interesting sites to visit that are accessible from the resort are the Ancient Agora, the Museum of Cycladic Art, and the National Garden.

Rooms

This resort and spa is part of the Astir Palace Resort. Guests can choose from eight elegant room types.

The Deluxe Room features a contemporary style with elegant furnishing and décor. This room is suitable for business travelers. This is approximately 26sqm and has a king size bed and plasma TV. The Deluxe Room gives you a spectacular view of the resort’s greens from its spacious balcony.

The Grand Deluxe Garden Marina View is more spacious than the Deluxe Room. Guests will enjoy staying in the spacious balcony with sun beds while enjoying the view.

The Deluxe Suite features a king size bed, a nice office furniture, and a relaxing couch. It also has a spacious bathroom with steam bath. This room has a separate living room area as well.

The Ambassador Suite is a spacious 82sqm luxurious room. It has impressive elegant furnishings. Guests will surely love the suite’s superb décor, earth tone carpets, modern facilities and the marble bathroom with private sauna. This suite also has a private balcony.

Arion Resort and Spa Athens’ most elegant and luxurious room is the Presidential Suite. The 175sqm suite has spacious areas. It has a master bedroom with a separate dressing room, a spacious living area, a dining area, and a veranda which is perfect for cocktails. The suite has a 360° view to the sea. It has a bathroom with private sauna and steam bath. It also has a kitchen if guests would opt to have a private chef.

Amenities

Arion Resort and Spa Athens also offers bungalows for guests who would want to have privacy. Some bungalows even have their own private pool.

The resort offers a 24-hour room service. The rooms are also provided with internet access and phone lines. Plasma TV is common in all the rooms.

Guests will definitely enjoy swimming in the resort’s exclusive beach with crystal clear waters. The Ski Beach Bar serves snacks and refreshments. There are also water sports to enjoy.

Restaurants

There are six restaurants on the hotel’s property. The Grill Room restaurant offers views of the ocean while you can enjoy Mediterranean influenced grilled cuisine. The Matsuhisa Athens is a trendy hip spot to enjoy some fun time with friends while dining on Japanese delicacies. The Alia Lounge & Bar, Taverna 37, and the Ski bar are great places to enjoy some drinks and light snacks.

Location
Visit Arion, Luxury Collection Resort and Spa at 40 Apollonos Street – Astir Palace Resort, 16671 Vouliagmeni- Athens, Greece. Check in time is 3pm, check out is 12pm.

For more Information visit www.arionresortathens.com or call 30-210-8902000.

The city of Kitzbuehel, Austria is best known as a high-end ski-resort in central Europe among many seasoned skiing enthusiasts. This reputation of the city is comparable to American counterparts in Aspen and Vail. However, there is more to this city than its expensive and exclusive reputation. It is also known for its charm that is comparable to many fairytale like settings. After all, it has many buildings, houses and streets with designs that look straight out of a long forgotten medieval legend.

But what if the snow is gone and summer arrives? Can Kitzbuehel, Austria retain its sophisticated flair and upscale reputation beyond the skiing season? It certainly can if you will just take a look at these attractions that the city has to offer long after winter has passed.

• Churches – Kitzbuehel has three churches situated within the town center – Pfarrkirche, Liebdrauenkirche and Katharinenkirche – all of which can trace their origins back to the 12th century. These churches feature paintings on the ceilings that are representative of the artistic styles of the period.

• Museums – The area’s main museums are the Heimatmuseum, Bauernhausemuseum and the Bergahnmuseum. Heimatmuseum houses many artifacts and displays that mainly concentrate on the long history of Kitzbuehel. It was built a century after the main churches were completed and provides a repository for local heritage. The Bauernhausemuseum provides a more in depth showcase of what a traditional farmhouse in the area looked like in the past. Lastly, the Bergahnmuseum is all about cable cars. The facility features exhibits that illustrate the evolution of ski lift technology and construction.

• Landscape – Many nature lovers will probably agree that the best part of vacationing in this area beyond the ski season is exploring its natural beauty. Kitzbuehel boasts of almost two hundred kilometers of hiking trails that are clearly marked. Those who become too tired of walking around Kitzbuehel and would like to go further up the surrounding mountains can take advantage of the gondolas, chairlifts and cable cars that are plentiful in the area.

With all these attractions, travelers will surely agree that Kitzbuehel, Austria is not just for rich skiers.