Isla Canales de Afuera Shallows – diving
Photo by: laszlo-photo, Creative Commons

Pinas Bay, Panama is a haven for fishermen. Blue, Black and even Striped Marlin are the reason why tourists in this place augment in numbers year after year. Even though it is just a small town in the province called Darien, still, it will really make a good vacation spot for you.

The Zane Grey Reef below the city is mostly composed of solid rocks and different species of marine life swimming their way down to the 350 feet continental shelf. When you go to Pinas Bay, you will see the hospitable Tropic Star Lodge in this suburb. You won’t need to bring your life jackets, reels or anything you want to carry with you because this lodge is more than enough to answer your needs.

Yachts are available for rent when you want to cruise around the Bay. Wetsuits and swim wears are sold around town whenever you need one. If you choose to stay in your lodge rather than spending most of your time in the blue waters of Pinas Bay, you could chit chat to other tourists and fishermen about the culture and the amazing facts of the city. You could also enjoy the scenic spots of the country while enjoying sunset by the beach.

It may be a home for Marlins and marines but you could visit here too at any time you like. The city is open for all tourists and fishermen from all over the country. Who knows? You might be one of the hundreds who achieved their world record here.

Mount Roraima
Photo by: slash__, Creative Commons

Bartica is a town located within the Cuyuni-Mazaruni administrative region of Guyana. The region contains features of two of the country’s four natural regions – hilly sand and clay and forested highlands. The region’s main industry, apart from tourism, is gold and diamond mining, and Omai Gold Mines Ltd, the largest gold producer in the country, maintains operations there. There are also a number of Amerindian settlements in the area, whose residents grow crops for the mining camps.

The region’s main attraction is the Pakaraima mountain range, which includes Mt. Ayanganna and Mt. Roraima, which is over 2,800 meters high and lies at the point where the borders of Guyana, Venezuela and Brazil meet. The range creates a watershed between the basins of the Branco and Orinoco Rivers, and is home to a unique variety of indigenous flora and fauna, including small amphibians, insects, bushes, grasses and flowers.

There are a number of hotels in Bartica where you can stay on the way to the mountain range. Bartica can also boast of an active nightlife as there are several restaurants, a thriving nightclub as well as Brazilian restaurants and bars operated by expatriate Brazilians.

The town itself is near a number of attractions, including the Marshall Falls and the ruins of Kyk-Over-Al, a Dutch fort that was once the seat of Essequibo County. Bartica also hosts the Bartica Regatta every Easter weekend, where tourists can enjoy a variety of activities, including water sports, talent shows, a street parade, and the Miss Bartica Regatta Pageant. A summer regatta is also held yearly in August.

Train station in Odessa
Photo by: Jean & Nathalie, Creative Commons

Just when you thought that you’ve visited all the good places in the world, look again and go to Odessa, Ukraine. This is one of the third largest places in the whole of Ukraine that boasts of splendid places and attractions to visit. More and more tourists have often traveled to this place for quite a long time already.

An amazing cultural center, Odessa has often climbed the charts of the hearts of most tourists since they were able to visit attractions like the Catacomb, Potemkin Steps and other museums that hold the history of Odessa for everyone to experience.

Once you arrive at Odessa you’ll be amazed at their restaurants as well as hotels. So before you schedule your trip here, you have to make sure that you have reserved a room in one of the famous hotels to sleep at when the sun sets. Keep in mind that in Ukraine, credit cards are not preferred. With this in mind, make sure that you have enough cash or travelers cheques to convert to their currency, which is the Hryvnia (UAH).

There are also tips each and every tourist should be aware of especially if they are spending time at Odessa or any cities or towns. Since you are accustomed to the American way of sharing things and giving compliments, make sure that you do not openly say that you loved someone’s priced possessions since they will give it to you. People in Odessa are known to be generous and hospitable so be a little careful when you say you want their expensive car.

This place does not have snow but their weather could be tricky at times. During the summer, Odessa is very hot and humid ranging from 26 to 35 degrees. So if you are planning on visiting this place during the summer, better bring light fabrics. When winter comes, their usual temperature dips as low as 4 °C. So if you are going there during the cold months, better bring your fur coat and mittens to keep yourself warm. Do not forget to bring your medications should you have something to take just make sure you ask your doctor to issue you a medical certificate in case you get questioned.

Blick auf Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Photo by: Oberau-Online, Creative Commons

Centuries ago, these were two separate towns, which is now one picturesque city, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany has become a favored destination of tourists across the globe. It is enveloped by mountains teeming with abundant trees and greens,serving as a perfect background for your postcard-perfect souvenir photo.

The city used What sets this city apart from other key cities in Germany is the simple fact that it is a world-class ski resort come winter time and a fantastic playground during the summer. During winter, tourists flock the city to experience the first-class alps perfect for skiing and snowboarding, among other winter sports. The five-rink Olympic Ice Sports Center is also a favored location by locals and tourists to have fun during the chilly winter months or one could catch the World Cup ski races, the International New Year’s Ski Jumping competition or the International Ice Skating Gala.

But what is there to do when the snow has melted and summer season has begun? Well, the city prides itself in its numerous sports and recreation offerings no matter what season so for the summer months, there’s mountain biking, kayaking, hot-air ballooning, paragliding, among many others. Simply put, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the ideal destination for a fun-packed vacation or even a temporary home to the most active of tourists—climbers, hikers, cyclists, high-altitude enthusiasts, and more who are seeking the thrill that the city offers.

Although the history, architectural supremacy, and the arts of the city is not as famous among international tourists compared to the activities that Garmisch-Partenkirchen has to offer, the city still boasts of stunning sites that speak so much about their traditions and culture. The history-laden churches around the city such as aMartinskirche and Pfarrkirche are worth exploring too if one wants to look into the architectural history of the scenic city. If you want more of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, then might as well drop by the Werdenfelser Heimatmusem where you can see artifacts and other items that details the region’s history. The Richard Strauss Insitute, on the other hand is a Richard Strauss information hub. Richard Strauss is a celebrated German composer.

Indeed, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a city that covers the interests of the most picky tourist. A city with a humble history and rich future, a vibrant lifestyle and a very active population, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a German destination worth experiencing no matter what month it is of the year.

Taj Mahal dusk
Photo by: A. www.viajar24h.com, Creative Commons

Of all the places and cities in India, perhaps Agra is the most visited. When planning a trip to this country, most sites you would want to see would be located in this region. Most of the places and monuments here are inspired by the stories of their gods and goddesses especially Vishnu and the triumph of good over evil. Keep an open mind when visiting places like these because they are usually rooted to their traditions.

The temperature in this city could be described as continental, there are long hot summers in the months of March up to September when it can reach up to 48°C and bring about dry winds. The monsoon months of July up to September usually brings along with it 27 inches of rainfall annually. There is also a winter which lasts from November to February, which can be pretty warm and cozy during the day but below freezing during the nights.

If it is your first time visiting this city, try going during the months of October to November and February to March when the weather and climate are mostly bearable. Avoid the monsoon season, the extremely hot summer season and the extremely cold winter season. Bring clothes that are appropriate as well like cotton for hot weather and light wool for the colder times.

The Indira Gandhi International Air Terminus is the closest international airport to Agra. It is found in New Delhi which is a 200 kilometer drive away. Because of the major road improvements done lately, the National Highway 2 makes it easier to travel between these two cities.

There are also train stations that cater to inter-city mass transportation. Agra is even the main line between Delhi and Mumbai. These railways also connect the city to other major cities in India. You can also try hiring a local taxi service to take you around town to see the sights or even to go to the other cities.

There are also city buses that run routes within the city; you might also want to try the rickshaws, auto-rickshaws and Tonga. The rickshaws are often quite expensive so you might as well just try the auto-rickshaw of Tempo system. They have specific routes and specific stops and can carry as many as 6 people at a time. Vehicles that emit pollutants are not allowed within the premises of the Taj Mahal that is why you have to the Tonga which is an electric automobile.

• Taj Mahal: the most famous building in Agra and known throughout the world; it is also a part of the New Seven Wonders of the World and one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Agra; it was built by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal.
• Agra Fort: another World Heritage Site.
• I’timād-Ud-Daulah: also known as the “Baby Taj” and was built by the Empress Nūr Jahān for her father.

Nagasaki
Photo by: David McKelvey, Creative Commons

Nagasaki is considered as Japan’s window to the world. This is because the city has excellent harbors that are easily accessible since the 16th century up to the present. These harbors still function as the country’s main port area. In recent years, Nagasaki gradually rose to be one of the prime tourist spots in the country. Ports were turned into tourist destinations and shrines were constructed to open the city for world renown.

Nagasaki has a profusely rich historical background behind its beautiful sceneries. Once a Jesuit colony, more than a few of the city’s natives were practicing Catholics. In 1587, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, ordered the elimination of acquired European customs, however, it is undeniable that Portuguese culture has greatly influenced the people of the city. Through its landscape and extravagant architecture, Nagasaki never fails to give its visitors, “the European feel”.

Nagasaki is situated along a forested area, with captivating mountains and bays along its vicinity. To add to its several overwhelming characteristics, the city boasts of its moderate climate which many tourists love.

So much for these facts, here are some things first-time tourists and visitors like you can do in a trip to the exciting city of Nagasaki!

A trip to Nagasaki will not be complete without a taste of its incomparable food treats. Sampon, the city’s specialty, is one of the most sought after dishes by tourists. It is a noodle dish consisting of vegetable, pork, scallops, shrimp, squid and bacon, creating a rich fusion of meat and sea foods. Its creamy broth soup is what numerous travelers love. Another savory Nagasaki specialty is Saraudon, which is also a noodle dish. It is a perfect blend of vegetables, meat and seafood, seasoned with champon sauce. This combination is then served on top of noodles fried to crispness. Try various street foods along the stalls located in Nagasaki shopping districts and you’re sure to be satisfied!

Every travel expert might just suggest Glover Garden as the first place you need to see in Nagasaki. Glover Garden offers a wide array of luxurious houses set in European style and comfort. The houses are positioned on top of a hill in Nagasaki, thus, providing any onlooker a picturesque view of the whole city’s beauty. To get to Glover Garden, you can either ride the yellow line train to Ishibashi or ride the street cars frequenting the area. If you want a glimpse at Nagasaki’s colorful past, you can also visit the Nagasaki Peace Park, a museum and recreational park built to commemorate the atomic bombing of the city in 1945. Statues were used to symbolize the events that led to the destruction of the city during WWII.

Shurei Gate in Okinawa
Photo by: tata aka T, Creative Commons

Okinawa consists of more than a hundred small islands at the southwest of mainland Japan. The island chain has a comfortable subtropical climate with high temperatures and high rainfall, which keep the islands verdant all the time. Tourists may come at any time of the year except between late summer and early fall when destructive typhoons visit the islands.

Cultural Attractions
The culture in Okinawa is a mixture of Japanese and Chinese influences evident in the various landmarks in this city. A top tourist attraction is the Gyokusendo Kingdom Village that showcases Japanese culture and crafts like Eisa dance performances, dying textiles (bingata), and brewing of awamori. The Ryukyu Village is a theme park that presents the Okinawan culture and lifestyle. The Castle Ruins (Nakijin Joseki) offers a stunning view of the Iheya Island and the Hentona city.

Beaches
The island of Okinawa has so much to offer for tourists who want to enjoy the summer heat in the beaches. One of the best summer destinations is the Moon Beach, which is known for its coconut trees, white sand, and pristine blue waters. The beaches in the Iriomote and Ishigaki islands attract many local and foreign visitors as well. The best time to go to the beaches of Okinawa is between April and November when the weather is warm.

Watersport Activities
Okinawa is home to the most diverse marine wildlife and stunning coral reefs in the world, making the place perfect for water sport activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling. Among the marine wonders to explore in Okinawa are manta rays, tropical fish, octopus, hammerhead sharks, and sea turtles.

Yaeyama Island is one of the main island chains in Okinawa, is a famous destination for tourists who are looking for an alternative to the busy and active cities in Japan. The relaxing rural life in Yaeyama islands offers not only serenity, but also opportunities for water adventure activities.

Shopping
The major shopping street in Okinawa is the Kokusai-dori, which is lined with malls and shops that offer handicrafts, jewelry, and other souvenir items.

Cuisine
The Okinawan dishes are a fusion of Japanese and Chinese culinary styles. Some of the delicious dishes you must try in Okinawa are the Okinawa soba (wheat soup with pork nuggets), somen (wheat noodles), irabu-jiru (sea snake stew), yagijiru (goat stew), and irabucha (parrot fish). Don’t forget to order Okinawa’s specialty rice liquor, the awamori, and the popular Orion Beer.

Disko Bay helicopter safari
Photo by: BortaBra.se, Creative Commons

Uummannaq is located on an isle at the bottom of a mountain in the shape of a heart, which gave the name of the municipality. The literal meaning of Uummannaq is “the heart shaped”. Hospitality and great compassion characterize the local residents, who live 375 miles (600 kilometers) north of Arctic Circle. You can experience the midnight sun from the middle of the month of May until mid-August in Uummannaq. This denotes several hours for daylight throughout the summer season in which to witness the unique culture and landscape in one of the most northerly and probably most attractive towns in Greenland.

For instance, you can see a lot of huge icebergs that derived from one of the 7 glaciers close to Uummannaq or maybe walk around the local museum of Uummannaq and stop by at Santa’s workshop. Dogsled trips are also offered in the winter season, while there are a lot of chances to take a trip to a settlement via helicopter or boat, or even go on whale safaris where the emphasis is on the fin whales in the remaining ice-barren times.

At Uummannaq town, there are lots of prehistoric ruins and finds that show substantial proof that the sealers and hunters have existed in the vicinity for thousands of years. In Oilakitsoq, which is the early winter settlement, one of the most impressive archaeological find in Greenland was discovered in the year 1972. A set of specially well-protected mummies was discovered. These mummies were then dated to about 1475 and are currently on exhibit at the National Museum of Greenland.

The sea maintains to make up the root of existence for the 1300 residents of Uummannaq and for the seven settlement of the town, which are abode to a comparable number of residents. Now, fishing for halibut in England has dominated as the major industry. You can arrive at the town of Uummannaq by flights that are offered many times in a week through Ilulissat to Oaarsut from Kangerlussuaq. From there, a trip for ten minutes is offered via helicopter to the town of Uummannaq. There are also cruise ships that call at Uummannaq at a regular basis.

Uummannaq is a regular North Greenlandic municipality with all that which involves: Winter seasons with ice-coated fjords and impressive views as distant as the eye can perceive; summer seasons with drifting icebergs and midnight sun. The area provides activities for the whole year round.

Juba Housing Tract
Photo by: Stein Ove Korneliussen, Creative Commons

Juba is the capitol of the country of Southern Sudan; likewise, it is the state capitol of Central Equatoria. The country will become independent on July of 2011, and will be renamed South Sudan.

It was a former Turkish garrison that had a trading post in some vicinity. It was also a transportation hub during the Civil War with highways connecting to Uganda, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s currently a river port and the southern terminus traffic along the White Nile called Bahr al Jabal section.

Great sites in Juba include the Juba Bridge, Juba University, old Sudanese hotels, the settlements, and even cattle crossing the street can be a bit intriguing at times, as this is a very common Sudanese practice.

As part of the Southern portion of Sudan, Juba is rich in resources, particularly oil. The Mbororo tribe, nomadic herders of West African origin, often come to reside in the Southern part of Sudan, particularly Juba. Although the economic situation in Juba is affected by the war between north and south, it has an international airport so travel towards the city is quite easy. Travel fees there as well as phone calls are very cheap.

The people in Juba are very accommodating. They are cultured and intriguing. And even those in rural areas are pretty much aware of all of their social issues in the land. The best things to do in Juba asides buying stuff from markets and trade centers are trekking up the mountains and visiting really old infrastructures, or ruins. A tour on the Nile while riding fishing boats owned by Sudanese natives would definitely complete your Juba tour.

A view from one of the peaks in Vanuatu, Erromongo.
Photo by: PhillipC, Creative Commons

Maewo is an island in Vanuatu located in the Penama Province. It is 105 kilometers east of Espiritu Santo, whose total population is 1,772.

The island is a very beautiful island, filled with lush and green vegetation. This island receives the highest rainfall in Vanuatu, with more than 2,500 mm per year. Because of this, Maewo is very fertile and well wooded. It is filled with fresh water and bountiful waterfalls, plus it also has hot springs located at the center of the island. It is a frequent stop for boats for fresh water supply. Its coastline is covered with many pristine black sand beaches.

The locals of Maewo are known to have many ancient secret societies. Its cultures are rich and diverse, where one could find many different custom dances and rituals (such as pig killing). There is only one air field in the island, at Naone which is situated in the North. Flights operate every Wednesdays and Fridays.

Important Phrases to Learn

Learning a few phrases while in Vanuatu will prove handy. Remember that the islands used to be a French colony, thus many of the locals can understand French. Here are some handy phrases you might find helpful:

• Hello – Halo or Bonjour
• Goodbye – Tata or Au revoir
• Please – Plis or S’il vous plait
• You’re welcome – I orate nomo or C’est de rien
• Yes – Yes or Oui
• Excuse me – Skiusmi or Excusez Moi
• Good morning – Gudmoning or Bonjour
• Good evening – Gudnaet or Bonsoir

Things to Do

• Go to the summit of Earth’s most accessible active volcano, the Mt. Yasur. You can peer into the crater and see the bubbling lava! The sight is even more spectacular at night time, when the lava is even more visible against the black sky.
• Go scuba diving and snorkelling! The waters of Vanuatu offer good visibility and warm waters, ensuring excellent conditions for swimming, kayaking, fishing, diving, snorkelling, waterskiing and other water activities. Check out the shipwrecks and WWII relics. The most popular diving sites are the shipwreck of the liner President Coolidge as well as the destroyer USS Tucker.
• Go hiking through Maewo’s lush rainforest and rugged mountains.
• Check out Vanuatu’s varied birdlife, especially on the southern islands. The perfect time for bird watching is during breeding season, which happens between months September to January.

Da Beach
Photo by: tiarescott, Creative Commons

The islands of Polynesia are already known to the world for their majestic seascapes and scenic landscapes. With this great popularity, tourists of all sorts flock here year after year. However, there is still one island that seems to be a secret Garden of Eden here in the South Pacific. This is Huahine, only thirty minutes away from the main island of Tahiti.

Indeed, with the crystal clear lagoon waters, white sand beaches, untamed landscapes, lush forests, and quaint villages, Huahine is a place to spend a once in a lifetime escapade. With a little sign of modernity and a bunch of hospitable villagers, there can be nothing better than a trip to this magnificent island.

With its freshness, Huahine also offers the same great attractions and activities as that of the more modern islands of the South Pacific. You can experience snorkeling, boating, and even jet skiing in the clear waters of the lagoon. You can also take part in witnessing the healthy underwater life through diving or being onboard a glass-bottomed boat. There are friendly waves here that are ideal for surfers, too.

There are also great island adventures here in Huahine to keep your schedule busy. You can try horseback riding, camping, hiking, flight seeing, and a lot more. In terms of water adventures, you can go sport fishing, shark feeding, and riding sailboats, powerboats, and outrigger canoes.

Aside from these normal island activities, there are more things that this fertile land can offer you. For instance, you can enjoy an archeological tour in some of the hills and shores of the islands. You can also visit certain villages and vanilla farms in a circular trip of the island either by car or bicycle.

Since there are a good number of historical sites here in Huahine, a visit to this place is incomplete without getting a view of its history. There is an open-air museum in the island that houses 200 fully restored archeological stone structures. There is a huge concentration of pre-European ancient temples or marae here as well. Local guides can lead you to a very informative tour of Huahine’s historical sites.

Indeed, if you are seeking for a serene and new place to spend a vacation, there can be no better place than Huahine. With its pristine waters and untouched beauty, every second you are here in this island will be a worthy and memorable one for you.

The quiet city of Kaedi, Mauritania should be one of the places to go to should you decide on a trip for this year. It is not as hot and sandy as the other nearby places since there are a lot of days when rain is present. So pack your bags and choose clothes that would be appropriate for their weather changes. Don’t forget to bring your camera since Kaedi, is such a wonderful place to capture moments with your family or better yet bring your tripod should you go there on your own.

One great adventure here at Kaedi, Mauritania is the chance to see different kinds of animals freely roaming around. You will get to witness them up close and personal for your award-winning shots. These are the zebu, sheep and goat. Although you also could see sheep and goats in your city or zoo, these animals are not domesticated at all! They will be very annoyed at you if you persistently try to catch their attention so keep a good distance from them if you do not want to be kicked or charged.

Other sites to choose from are national museums and heritage parks. Yes, even though they seem to be in the middle of nowhere, you can reach them through train. This ride would be challenging for you since imagine it as the only source of transportation among nearby cities. A lot of people would be zooming past you so guard your pockets against trouble.

Zoroastrian tower in Yazdian desert
Photo by: indigoprime, Creative Commons

Zabol is a gateway between Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan. It is the southeastern-most province of Iran. This city is located in the Sistan Plain and is part of both Baluchistan and Sistan provinces. This is place is best for outdoor travelers as the terrain here is very rigid and is good for trekking and other adventures.

In Zabol, you can sign up for a Sistan Plain tour group. This is a great place to discover and see the rougher side of Iran. Here it is mostly desert, as this area is closer to Central and South Asia. This is a great place to discover and experience natural oases. This is a great vacation and adventure for any nature lover. This can give you the ultimate desert experience.

Another thing to look forward to when in Zabol is their carpet industry. Since the city is very near Central and South Asia, a lot of people who live here are the Baluch from Pakistan. These people are comprised of several tribes like the Sarbandi, Sanjarani and the Zamir-Farsyoon. These people are great when it comes to carpets. They handcraft the carpets themselves and are of the greatest quality. The best Baluch rugs in Iran are sold in Zabol.

Zabol is a great way to experience Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan all in one go. You can get Baluch rugs and at the same time, experience the underappreciated beauty of the Iranian desert. Make sure to take time and visit Zabol.

National Park of American Samoa
Photo by: Wikipedia, Creative Commons

Tau, Samoa is considered as the westernmost and largest island of the Manu Islands group. Manu Islands consists of many small groupings of islands which include Tau islands, Ofu islands, and Olosega islands, situated at the eastern end of the Samoan archipelago. Half of the Tau Island is being administered by the National Park Samoa which lies 10km southeast from the Ofu-Olosega combination and is 110km east from Tutuila. Tau is the American Samoa’s second largest island and is the fourth largest place of the Samoan archipelago. This place has lots of sleepy villages with few cars and zero tourist infrastructures.

Despite Tau lack of tourist establishments, its tropical beaches and densely Forest Mountains serve as this island’s main tourist attraction. Tau’s current form today is the product of the collapse of the volcanoes located near its vicinity. In fact, the entire area in effect is the remains of the northern flank volcano with large embayment of the south coast. From the southern shore down to its series of flat steeps locally known as Liu Bench, the eastern end of the Mataaloasagami Ridge can be seen.

Much of Tau cliff line is still inclined or is composed of steep slope that drops directly to the sea or narrow coastal reef. There are also narrow coastal reefs present in the east, northeast and west coasts. 45km to the east of Tau Island the Vailulu Seamount can be spotted. This is an active volcano that currently marks the Samoan hotspot. This seamount rises from 4,800m of depth that has a height of 590m from beneath the sea surface.

Main Highway near Espiritu Santo
Photo by: PhillipC, Creative Commons

Espiritu Santo, the largest island in the country of Vanuatu, was the first discovered island of this Melanesian nation. The island has 4000 square kilometres of land, mostly of volcanic origin. The nation’s second largest city, Luganville, rests in its Southwestern coast, with multiple village municipalities to the east and north connected with it. Most of the island though, is inaccessible to roads.

Vanuatu is an archipelago, and has a total of 82 islands, more than half of which are populated by Melanesians and Westerners alike. The islands themselves form a very rough profile, with most inland being composed of sharp, and steep rocky formations, volcanoes, and cliffs, topped with an even dense rainforest. Because of its volcanic nature, Vanuatu experiences recurring earthquakes and mild tsunamis.

Surveys have shown that less than 10% of the land is arable, as natives there rely on home-grown crops and farm produce. Agriculture provides for more than 50% of the islanders’ food, with fishing coming in second.

Tourism thrives in Vanuatu, with large numbers of Australians, New Zealanders, and Asians coming to the islands for its pristine natural beauty and undersea attractions. The filming of the Survivor reality show series only served to enhance the country’s reputation as a total vacation getaway.

Espiritu Santo has a colourful past, especially during the World War II era. During that period, many Americans used the island as a refuelling station and a pit stop for its naval and aerial forces. Testaments to their stay in the island are the numerous military steel huts strewn around the area, a dumping site for military equipment called the Million Dollar Point, and significant traces of war-era buildings in Luganville that point to a massive American base.

Being an inaccessible island, Espiritu Santo has a few nature conservation sites. Aside from these, tourist attractions, especially white sand beaches and dive sites, abound around the island.

The Loru Rainforest Protected Area. This conservatory is located in the lowland areas of the island. The rainforest protects various endemic species of birds, bats, and some reptiles. A two-kilometer coast is included too, to protect the marine riches in the fringe reef.

Western Caves. The western side of the island is steep and almost inhospitable. Yet the land has caves the can be explored via rented ships and tours to the west side.

Vathe Conservation Area. This is the rainforest conservatory where tourists are given the opportunity to trek. Guides are provided and the walk is long and mosquito-infested, but easy nevertheless. Exotic birds form part of the main attractions here in the reserve.

Offshore Islands. Many surrounding islands, such as Bokissa, Aore, and Tutuba, offer excellent places for kayaking, snorkelling and diving spots. They are accessible by chartered boats.

Hanging Bridge at Rangamati
Photo by: mijaved, Creative Commons

Of all the places in Bangladesh, Chittagong is the most visited by people from other countries not because of its tourist attractions but because it is the main seaport of the country. Dubbed as the “Porto Grande” by the Portuguese in the 16th century, this city has always lived up to its name. Aside from the industrial appeal of this place, there are actually a lot places you can visit here if you simply wanted to take a vacation.

The weather here is the same as any town or city in the region, pleasantly cool winters and humidly warm summers. The dry season usually lasts from the month of November until March, while the rainy season begins in June and ends in October. It is advised to bring suitable clothes for whatever time of the year you plan on going and to also put on a lot of sun block.

Warm summer seasons in this city are actually welcomed since there is a long stretch of beach just near the town of Cox’s Bazar. This is considered as the longest beach in Bangladesh and even the world. There are also interesting sights to see near this beach like the surrounding islands. You can also rent out paddle boats and canoes for lake cruises. There is also a Safari trail on the Chittagong-Cox’s Bazar road that serves as a sanctuary for different species of animals from elephants to tigers and monkeys.

There are also a number of historic and cultural landmarks that is sure to pique your interests. One of which is the World War II Cemetery which serves as a final resting place for over 700 soldiers who fought in the Myanmar border during the war. The Court Building Museum is also worth a visit since it captures the essence of the Independence War in Chittagong in 1971. The different tribes and diverse culture in Bangladesh can be viewed in the Etymological Museum in Agrabad. The city also has several religious attractions such as the Shrine of Shah Amanat which is always bustling with people desiring to pay respect to this saint.

It is relatively easy to get around the city as well as the neighboring cities beside it since the roads have been rehabilitated and are fully functional to drive on. There are also rent-a-car services available for places like Cox’s Bazar, Rangamati and other places that have tourist attractions. The city is also connected via a train system and domestic flights to Dhaka and Kolkata.

Zagreb
Photo by: kriskaer, Creative Commons

The beauty of Zagreb, Croatia can be compared to the charm and brilliance of Budapest, Prague, and Vienna with its cobbled pavements old city medieval architecture. It is the capital of the city and among the most visited places in Croatia, especially by tourists from Italy, Austria and Germany.

The Zagreb International Airport is the fastest way to get to the city when you are coming from another country. And once you are in, others kinds of transportation are quite accessible for your convenience. The train has regular schedules and taxis are abundant in every area. There are also buses that you may ride in when going around the city.

In Zagreb there are the Upper and Lower tows, which you may visit while vacationing in the city. The Upper Town, or more popularly known locally as Gornji grad and the Lower Town or Donji grad are where the cafes, restaurants, bars and other establishments that are essential to visiting tourists can be found. These are considered as the city’s cultural and religious centers.

Museums can be found around Zagreb and can be visited for a fee. These museums are where the city’s best-kept art and historical pieces are kept for the tourists, local and foreign alike, to marvel at. Among these is the Muzej Mimara or Mimara Museum. This museum is home to an astounding number of artworks, around 3, 700, which are donated by ante Topic Mimara. Over 1,500 exhibits are on display here, dating back to the prehistoric era until the 20th century, including some of the works of Lorenzetti, Rembrandt, Delacroix, Caravaggio, Renoir, Veronese and Canaletto among others.

The Archeological Museum in Zagreb, on the other hand, is where some 400,000 items of historical value are kept, though not everything is put on display. Among these important items are the Egyptian collection, which made the museum famous in the world, and the Zagreb mummy and bandages that bear the world’s oldest Etruscan inscription and the numismatic collection. An interesting part of the museum is the portion intended for the stone monuments that mostly date back to the Roman period.

Zagreb is indeed an art haven and a great place for those who would like explore the county’s rich history. Drop by this city and be amazed by its huge collection of art and history pieces.

The Naga Staircase at Wat Phra That Soi Duthep, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Photo by: Akuppa, Creative Commons

Chiang Mai is Thailand’s Rose of the North is an epitome of nature’s work. The whole area is mostly composed of Buddhist temples and wildlife reservoirs. However, you might also take in consideration that not all the temples can be photographed. So, when you are there, always remember to ask permission to its warden before doing anything.

Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in the country. When you visit the sacred monastery, remove your shoes and be clothed properly. The monks are the ones you will encounter inside so might as well give you these useful tips. For women, you should not have physical contact with the monks in any way. Shaking their hands is also prohibited to men and women alike. The greeting is usually done by placing both hands over the face while doing a slight bow which they call as Wai.

If you don’t want to visit the temples, there will still be a place for you and that is at Chiang Mai Zoo. Situated in a hilly terrain with thousands of flowers as its setting together with scenic waterfalls and valleys, this place is truly irreplaceable. Over 7000 animals can be seen here. Birds range from 4500-5000 in numbers, almost 500 mammals, 218 kinds of reptiles and 1100 fishes. Touring around the place will starve you. Good thing there are small snack stands and restaurants that can give you a scrumptious meal. The Elephant Camp in Tapae Road is also a must-see location. This is the place where you can see the largest mammal play your favorite sport, football or paint abstract pictures like professionals. You can also ride at its back at any time you like.

The city is also proud of the mountain-bounded Huay Tung Tao Lake. This 700-year old city has never lost its brilliance over the years. While traversing the lake, you can spot almost thousands of Buddha images and small market place full of Thailand crafts. You can also swim through the crystal waters or do bird-watching when you want to.

Chiang Mai is a special place to visit. Don’t wait, it has been waiting for you since the day it was discovered.

Ipoh train station
Photo by: plassen, Creative Commons

There are a lot of places to visit in Ipoh, Malaysia. The Padang Ipoh, for instance, has plenty of historic buildings of classic colonial architecture. Among these buildings are the Ipoh Club, HSBC Building, St. Michael’s Institution, and the FMS Bar. The Town Hall is another fantastic attraction because of its gothic structural designs. There is also the Muzium Darul Ridzuan which is a remarkable historical museum. And tourists may visit the Gua Tempurung Cave, as well. It is actually the biggest limestone cave in Malaysia. Then, the tourists can also go to the Tambun Hot Springs to soak in sulfur-rich water. Or they can go to the Lost World of Tambun to enjoy the rides in this water-theme park.

Ipoh also has numerous shopping localities. The Pasar Malam, for instance, is very popular for the variety of goods that it sells. Souvenirs and antiques may be purchased in Memory Lane on Sunday mornings. And shopping malls such as the Ipoh Parade and the Kinta City Shopping Center are the best places to buy branded items. But for those who prefer peculiar boutiques, they can go to the Ipoh Garden South. In addition, special goods such as Ipoh fragrant biscuits are popularly sold, as well. Pottery is also abundant in Ipoh. And the stores along Jalan Kuala Kangsar are the best places to shop for pottery.

Moreover, great food can also be found in Ipoh. The bean sprouts chicken is an Ipoh signature cuisine. The sar hor fun is another. Kong Heng Restaurant and Thean Chun are the places to order this dish. The Ipoh white coffee, on the other hand, may be tasted at places like Nam Heong and Xin Yun Loong. These coffee shops tend to be very jam-packed during tea hours, though, especially during the weekends. But they also serve vermicelli, congee, satay, and kuih. And their white coffee is best paired with toasted bread and kaya. Furthermore, the salted chicken of Ipoh is another dish that tourists must not fail to try. Aun Kheng Lim Restaurant at Theatre Street is famous for these salted chickens.

Coral Bay panorama
Photo by: Roy Montgomery, Creative Commons

There are some people who are seeking fun and adventure when they go on a vacation. There are those who plan this out to make sure that they are going to have some quality time f to think about certain things and to help them relax and forget about their problems. If you want to explore the U.S. Virgin Islands and you want to have lots of good time shopping, partying and roaming at various spots, then the Cruz Bay may be the ideal choice for you. If you want the opposite, your best bet is to go to the Coral Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Coral Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands is known for its quirky lifestyle. Its residents are either sailors who live on their own boats at the Harbor or landlubbers who prefer to live at the top of the hills overlooking great sights of the British Virgin Islands and the Caribbean Sea. Aside from the people, most creatures that you will find on the place include mongoose, goats, donkeys and roosters.

Life is pretty simple at the Coral Bay. You can only find one gas station in the area, few grocery stores and some restaurants, bars and shops. Once you have arrived, you can try snorkeling at the Salt Pond. You may also want to visit Ram’s Head, which is popular for full moon night hikes, which are also believed to be magical. There are other local spots that you can try to enjoy, like the St, John Bar and Restaurant and Island Blues where you can belt out your favorite karaoke songs. You can spend some bucks shopping at the Cocoloba complex and sample local dishes at other good eateries that you can find.

Downtown Wellington
Photo by: W J (Bill) Harrison, Creative Commons

Wellington is the capital of New Zealand. The city is named after Arthur Wellesley, the first duke of Wellington who defeated Napoleon Bonaparte in the Battle of Waterloo. Wellington is the home of Parliament and all the government offices of New Zealand, which is the reason why it is also considered as the political center of New Zealand.

It is considered as a good place to live in. It is a compact city easily navigated by foot; it has a dynamic atmosphere with a warm explosion of culture, creativity, and events.

Wellington has sunshine at an average of 2,000 hours throughout the year. During the winter months, the city gets a cool blast from the south that makes it seem colder than it actually is inland. The city receives a temperate marine climate, with windy and sea breezes occasionally happen in summer. Summers can be hot so you do not forget your sunscreen and winters can be a bit cold so a waterproof or windproof jacket can be such a big help.

In addition to being the capital, not, Wellington is also a culinary capital with more than 300 cafés and restaurants found throughout the city. You can also choose from a variety of delicacies that ranges from American to Asian to Middle Eastern among many others. All throughout Wellington, the treasure trove of food can be found offering the finest food, wine, and coffee.

There are many activities that you can engage in while in Wellington. The city is known for stunning views, a rich collection of arts and culture, and a wonderful downtown area that you will never run out of ideas of what you can do while in Wellington.

If you wish to explore the history and heritage of Wellington, you can find a number of establishments to visit. You can take a free tour of Parliament and visit some of the old buildings and government offices in Thorndon like The National Library Gallery and the Old St. Paul’s Cathedral.

You can also hike through the major walkways in Wellington. The experience of viewing the scenic places and exploring the compact city by foot is exhilarating.

There are many things that you can do that include visiting nature parks, museums, cafés and restaurants. You can also have lots of fun doing family activities and hiking while enjoying the different city sights.

Places to visit

1. Nature. Wellington is a city that is rich in breathtaking nature spots. Its closeness to nature is undeniably great for such an urban city.

a. The Karori Sanctuary. A conservation facility that is home to New Zealand’s endangered wildlife.

b. Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café. A unique reserve and café that is located in Akatarawa Valley where you can interact with native and exotic animals and enjoy various activities like swimming and picnic.

c. Kapiti Island. An island that is the home of the most endangered and rare birds in New Zealand. You also get to experience an interpretation of the local flora and fauna and the local history of the area through its local guides.

2. Arts and Culture. The richness of New Zealand’s culture can also be experienced by visiting some of the popular attractions and museums in Wellington.

a. Museum of the New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. The bold and innovative national museum which celebrates the geology and national environment as well as the ethnicity of the locals.

b. Pataka Museum. A museum that showcase the best contemporary Maori, Pacific Island, and New Zealand art.

c. The Wellington Writer’s Walk. Included in Wellington’s major walkways, the Writer’s walk features 15 text sculptures in Wellington’s harbor.

3. National Heritage. Being New Zealand’s political capital, Wellington houses many historical and political buildings that are worth visiting.
a. Parliament. A historic complex located at the historic village of Thorndon.

b. The National Library of New Zealand. New Zealand’s leading cultural and information center located across the Parliament.

c. Old St. Paul’s Cathedral. A consecrated sanctuary that is a living proof of New Zealand’s greatest heritage battles.

Birds eye-view of St. Julian’s
Photo by: tonync, Creative Commons

If you are looking for a nice vacation where you can enjoy the liveliest beach, then St. Julian’s is the place that you have to be. It is a popular town for tourist where you can find the highest concentration of bars and clubs.

From being a small fishing village, St. Julian’s has become a lively tourist destination in Malta.

The warmest months are from July to September which is also the best time to come for a vacation. This way, you will be able to enjoy the beach and the sun. There are short periods of rainfall and is usually cooler in the winter.

Food

When it comes to dining, here are some of the restaurants that you can visit in St. Julian’s.

1. La Maltija Restaurant This is a charming restaurant that offers traditional Maltese food. As a first class restaurant, the La Maltija boasts of an exceptional range of dishes as well as a wine cellar that offers the best local wines from Malta, as well as those that came from France, Africa, and Italy.

2. Café Juliani This café is located in the Hotel Juliani and offers a view of the Spinola bay. If you want to enjoy a cozy meal at any time of the day, the Café Juliani is the ideal place for just that. The menu offers quick, healthy, and fresh foods all through out the day.

3. Blue Elephant This restaurant specializes in Thai cuisine and guarantees a pleasurable visit. It promises to give you a taste of Eastern cuisine and the ambiance of one, too.

4. Barracuda Restaurant This restaurant offers Mediterranean dishes and is located in shorelines of St. Julian’s. It has a very elegant surrounding and promises to satisfy your craving for good food and fine dining.

Resorts

Although there are no sandy beaches in St. Julian’s, you can still try and visit the Reef Club at the Westin Dragonara Resort. This is a beach lido that is open to visitors during the summer. You can enjoy the sun and the amenities by paying a daily or seasonal fee. The view is relaxing and beautiful and a wide range of summer drinks are offered from the bar.

Activities

You can try doing some sports and enjoy the night out in St. Julian’s. Scuba diving and snorkeling are some of the activities that you can try to get into while in St. Julian’s. As for the evenings, there are two major areas that you can go to. One is along the seafront of St. Julian’s and the other is in Paceville. There are quite a number of bars in the area where you can enjoy from the lively atmosphere.

Attractions

While in St. Julian’s, you can also visit these places:

1. Paceville This is the nightlife capital of Malta. It is very much a resort area that has many restaurants, bars, and clubs.

2. St. George’s Bay This is the place where you can enjoy sightseeing and relaxation in the morning. At night, it is frequented by many people who want to sit and relax on the shore.

3. The Spinola Bay This is considered as one of the most romantic bays in Malta. It also has some restaurants and bars alongside of it. An evening visit to the Spinola Bay can prove to be a therapeutic idea.

4. Portomaso This is a unique waterfront area with a yacht marina. With a great view and a number of establishments to visit, it is a must that you see this area while in St. Julian’s.

5. The Millennium Chapel If you need a moment of silence and want to sit in prayer, the chapel is a place where you can enjoy the peace and the quiet in Paceville.

Turkish Fort in Taif
Photo by: Michael (mx5tx), Creative Commons

Found in the Mecca Province of Saudi Arabia is the city of Taif. The city is characterized by the agricultural activities that produce honey and grapes primarily. Aside from the rich agricultural resource that it offers, the city of Taif also presents a number of scenic spots that the tourists will surely enjoy. Here are some of them:

At the Southern tip of the city lies the Al Rudaf Park, which is a vast natural park where clusters of trees embellish the wrinkled but breathtaking granite rocks. Children will also enjoy the small zoo situated in the vicinity.

Located on the northern part of the district is the Rock Carving Site, which serves as a home to the Okaz Souk, the most-famed and largest pre-Islamic gathering place or souq. This kind of place used to serve as a venue for commercial, political and social gatherings. It also served as a setting for competitive recitation of both prose and poetry.

The remains of the Turkish Fort nestled near the Rock Carvings. According to legends, Lawrence of Arabia fought in the fort in 1917. Lots of battles were said to have happened on its ground and graves could still be found until now.

Taif’s regional museum called Shubra Palace is located in a building which dates back to the 1900. It is believed that the palace served as the lodging for King Abdul Aziz in the 1930s.

Al Shafa, a small village that is gifted with rich agricultural reserves, rests high upon the mountains of Sarawat. Taif’s fruit gardens are located in this sleepy village. If you also want to experience a camel ride, this is the perfect place to be.

The sanctuary of Muhammed, Wadi Mitna, in 619 AD is also situated in the heart of this city. According to history, the prophet went to this place for the support of the Tawfiq and Hawazeen but was stoned. Later, however, he was provided shelter by his fellows in a small house that is now recognized as a mosque.

So if you really want to experience culture, history and fun all at the same time, this city has a lot to offer. In terms of climate, the district is blessed with hot and dry temperature that could shoot up to 40 °C during summer.

A church in Trujillo
Photo by: feserc, Creative Commons

Nothing beats a place where the weather stays warm and fair all year round. That’s why coming to Trujillo is one of the best ideas to consider for a long vacation.

Trujillo is the capital city of the department of La Libertad. It was the third largest city in Peru. Charming yet urban in nature, Trujillo has earned several distinct titles. This progressive city is often refered to as the “City of Eternal Springs” (“La Ciudad dela Eterna Primavera”) due to its favorable weather that can be experienced all year round. Trujillo’s consistent sunny climate is one major factor that contributes to the expanding tourism industry.

Beaches in Trujillo are very popular to tourists. Aside from the abundant seafoods and cool waters, these beaches are also known as hot spots for surfers and water sports enthusiasts. The Huanchaco Beach is one perfect spot for both surfing and fishing. Visitors in Huanchaco should also try the ceviche, a traditional seafood dish that is base on marinated raw fishes, as part of their beach escapade.

A visit to the awe-inspiring archaeological sites such as the Chan Chan citadel and the temples of the Sun, the Moon and the Dragon (Huaca del Sol, Huaca dela Luna and Huaca el Dragon) should never be missed. Trujillo is one of those Peruvian cities that are rich in historical records. These ancient ruins are reminiscent of the great pre-Inca cultures, the Mochica and the Chimú. The pre-colonial city of Chan Chan is located at the fringes of the city. Built in adobe, the remains of the Chan Chan city include walls, courtyards and temples. The presence of these ruins further indicates that the early inhabitants of Peru have advance civilizations long before the Spaniards came to claim the land.

Trujillo is also known for its active cultural participation. In fact, it received the title of “National Marinera Capital” because of the city’s campaign to preserve and practice the famous marinera dance. This is a Peruvian dance where barefooted women on their white lace skirts swirl and spin to the music. Trujillo holds an annual National Marinera Contest every March.

Other festivities that are yearly observed in the city are the International Spring Festival, competition of “Caballos de Paso” and the exhibition of “Caballitos de Totora”. For the best Peruvian getaway, tourists are advised to visit Trujillo during one of these festivities.

Indeed, Trujillo is a place where everything is abundant. It has great marine resources, archaeological sites and remarkable traditions that are worth sharing to others. Above all, this Peruvian city has abundant sunny days that most visitors will surely enjoy.

Tiberias
Photo by: Emmanuel Dyan, Creative Commons

Tiberias may ring a bell for a few people. Unlike famous cities in Israel like Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Tel Aviv, etc, Tiberias seems to be unheard of. Yet Tiberias is rich in history. The city sits by the Sea of Galilee, locally known as Lake Kinneret. One fascinating exhibit in this city is a 2,000-yr-old boat recovered from the lake in 1998. The reason for the fascination is that the boat would have been afloat during the times of Jesus of Nazareth. A tour around the lake by car will take tourists through several synagogues and Byzantine churches from the 3rd to the 6th centuries, what is believed to be Peter’s home, the beginnings of the mighty Jordan River, and the Ein Gev – a kibbutz famous throughout the country for its lakeside fish restaurants and summer concerts.

Many travel advisors recommend going to Tiberias from Jerusalem through the new toll road that will take travelers through Mt. Tabor which is famous for being the site where Jesus reappeared before his closest disciples. In Jewish history, Mt. Tabor overlooks the Valley of Jezreel where armies have marched to conquer land since ancient times. In the Jewish Bible, the army of Deborah of 10,000 defeated an invading army by charging down the mountain’s slope.

Another popular stop along the route from is Megiddo National Park in the valley which is popular as the site of the Great Battle at the End of Days mentioned in the Bible. Once called “Har Megiddo”, people now connote Megiddo with “Armageddon”. However Megiddo Park is also famous for containing an excavation site of cities going back to 3500 BC, the ruins of King Solomon’s gates, the chariot city of King Ahab and an amazing tunnel cut through solid rock that provided King Ahab’s city with water.

One thing to consider about a trip to Tiberias is that the city sits 600 ft below sea level, so one must prepare by dressing for warm weather. It can get really hot in the summer, so bring a lot of water for the trip. With all the sites to see between these two cities, it is recommended that tourists stay in Tiberias for at least 2 days before travelling back.