The Nitra River merge
Photo by: miaminr, Creative Commons

In western Slovakia, you will find a great city to explore, Nitra. This is located at the end of the Zobor Mountain at the valley of the Nitra river. The place has an estimated population of about 85,000 and it is the fourth largest city in Slovakia. It is also one of its oldest cities and had the distinction of having the earliest seat of political and cultural events. Because it is located at the north temperate zone, the climate is continental and it experiences four seasons. It is located at the warmest part of the country.

So where do you go about when traveling in the city? First on the list, make sure that you visit the Grand Seminary at Pribina’s Square. There are various religious structures that you can view within the area such as the St. Emmeram’s Cathedral; there is also a Piarist church and religious congregation with Roman Catholic influence that was founded by Saint Joseph Calasanctius.

Even if you are not the religious type, you will get a feast out of good architecture and sights that can fill up your cameras and travel blogs. There are various castles and structures that can be seen in the city that greatly showcase how rich its history and past have been. As you roam about, you can also take a peek at various museums to view the galleries and learn from the artifacts that are proudly displayed at these spots. This will truly be an enriching and amazing experience that will create a great impact on you.

Pretty nice accomodations.
Photo by: chopr, Creative Commons

From the capital Male, Lhaviyani Atoll is 140 kilometers away. Also known as Faadhippolhu, this atoll has a lot of exotic dive sites which are unparallel by other great dive sites in the world. Whatever your fantasy is about the deep blue sea, you will certainly find in Lhaviyani. It’s quiet, it’s fresh, and it’s virgin. Out of the atoll’s 50 isles, only five are inhabited by people. What could be more exciting than to explore the secrets of this place in the middle of the Indian Ocean? It’s surely every diver’s haven.

If you are a diver, one of the best spots to go to is the Fahigiri Reef. It’s at the eastern tip of the channel of Fehigili. The reefs here are caves which house soldier fish, squirrelfish, harlequin sweet lips, and other exotic sea creatures you probably haven’t seen in your entire life.

Now, if you want to do exquisite drift diving, the place to go is Kanuhuraa Kandu to the south of the Kanuhuraa channel. On the other hand, Fushifaru Kandu is the spot to face the challenges of tidal currents which flow inward the atoll. While exploring either dive sites, you may come across some barracuda, tuna, eagle rays, jackfish, and gray reef sharks on the side. What could be more thrilling than meet these creatures?

Other underwater realms of Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives can be experienced in Narcola Giri, Aligau, Kuredu Ocean Reef, Dhighdhoo Faru, and Hinnavaru Kandu. These are the sites you shouldn’t dare miss if you are just looking for that chilling-water-filled-with-colorful-and-vibrant-marine-specie diving experience.

Port of Constanta in far horizon
Photo by: Kaiban, Creative Commons

Constanta is another one of the great cities of Romania which was called by the former King Carol I as the lung of Romania, because of its harbour. Today it continues to be the prime seaport of Romania, and is located on the western coast of the Black Sea. It used to be the site of ancient Tomis, the provincial capital of the Roman Empire under Emperor Constantine I. The city’s south port facilities connect to Danube River and agricultural lands of wheat and barely extend towards the shorelines. Constanta is not just a city; it’s a wonderful resort and the door to the blue sea and to the world. Monuments, fountains, and monuments surround the city’s beautiful landscape.

The huge Casino of Constanta is one the popular tourist attractions. The Casa cu lei (the house with lions) is also a very important historical structure. Other very cultural and tourist attractions include the Orthodox Cathedral St. Pavel and Peter, the Constanta lighthouse, and the Statue of Mihai Eminescu on the sea’s shore. Constanta also boasts of an Archaeology Museum that resemble most of its Greek and Roman History.

For the very active tourists who want action other than sightseeing, Constanta also has many natural wonders such as the Mosque of Constanta-Minaret, and the ancient ruins at Histria. Beaches, community resorts, spas and the Opera Constanta are enough to keep tourists busy for a couple of days. And for those who crave for night life, Constanta’s Jupiter Disco is definitely the place to go.

Maracaibo pier
Photo by: AlejandroAndres, Creative Commons

What has been an isolated place in the beginning is now one of the most popular places in Western Venezuela. Maracaibo is the second largest city and is also a popular choice for tourists who come to this South American country.

It is already in the habit of most South Americans to strongly preserve a strong heritage and to actively promote their culture but it seems to be more evident in Maracaibo. In the absence of appropriate technology in the past to have it connected with the other cities, it has learned to stand on its own and be still strong even with the isolation. With the fast development of technology in transportation, it soon evolved from being isolated to become one of the most valued commercial centers in the country.

Also, what caused its isolation in the beginning, Lake Maracaibo, now serves as one of the hottest tourist spots in the city. Being the 23rd largest lake in the world, their lake boasts of being able to hold an amount of water much larger than the lake in Caracas can.

Other than this already famous landmark, Maracaibo has more. They have Our Lady of Chiquinquirá Basilic that is considered a very important landmark in Maracaibo. The church is already beautifully designed but what makes it stand out more is the park where it is located. In the Plaza de la Virgen, a very unique depiction of the Virgin Mary is being displayed. There are also strange wood houses standing over water that can be seen in the city.

Canopy Bridge in Monteverde
Photo by: walking with a Ghost, Creative Commons

If you are looking for some of the most spectacular natural attractions Costa Rica has to offer, don’t pass up a chance to visit Monteverde. Located near some of the country’s acclaimed cloud forests, Monteverde has been named one of the country’s seven wonders and has become a major tourist draw despite its remote location and difficult access. The town of Monteverde itself remains mainly rural, although it now has tourist-friendly features such as a bank and ATM machine, as well as Internet cafes, supermarkets, restaurants and bars.

The most popular attraction in the Monteverde area is undoubtedly the Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, which is visited by some 70,000 tourists annually. The cloud cover that shrouds the forest is due to the area’s higher elevation, and the increased humidity this brings. The nature reserve is home to 400 species of birds, 1,500 species of reptiles and amphibians, 2,000 species of trees and plants and 100 species of mammals. The most popular way to explore the cloud forest is through a canopy tour where tourists walk across a network of elevated bridges from where they can enjoy a bird’s-eye view, although there are also many excellent trails for hikers.

Tourists used to Costa Rica’s temperate climate should not forget to bring some warm clothes, as the weather can be quite chilly. Since Monteverde is a dairy producing community, visitors should not forget to sample some of the delicious local cheeses. You can also do some souvenir hunting at the local craft markets or the co-op center, and visit the Hummingbird Gallery or butterfly garden.

Roman Amphitheatre in Bosra
Photo by: seier+seier+seier, Creative Commons

A lot of people visit Syria because of its ancient ruins. For some reason, the tourists seem to be magnetized by the history that is told by each site that was built centuries ago. The castles and towers always manage to amaze people so much that the spectators almost always gasp in awe at the first sight them.

So where exactly can you find the ruins? Well in most cases, the tourists are lead to believe that they can only be found in the key cities namely Damascus, Aleppo and Palmyra. But while those cities have their own share of ruins to boast of, none of them hold the greatest remnant of the Roman Empire – a huge amphitheater. And this amphitheater can be found in the ancient city of Bosra.

This structure is said to have been built during the 2nd century BC. During its prime, it became the heart of the metropolis that served as a home to one of the Emperor’s vast legions. Today, if you are given the chance to see it, you will find that the site is more than overwhelming. The towering walls and the seats that are comparable to the coliseums in Rome still remain intact. This is probably one of the reasons why it is one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.

Finally, let us tackle the question that you may have in your mind right now: How exactly can you go there?
In terms of location, Bosra is not really far from Damascus. If you want, you can either ride a bus or hire a driver that will be willing to drive you to the sites. Either way, the trip from Damascus will only last for 1.5 to 3 hours at a maximum. The travel might seem long, but it is worth it because if your hired driver or your bus took a path to the old roads of Shahba – Suweida, you will be able to pass by a lot of interesting ruins. Now if you have time to spare, you might as well ask your driver to pull over so that you will be able to take snapshots of the great sceneries.

Boats on Berbice River
Photo by: madmack66, Creative Commons

If you would like to experience a vacation where you can literally get away from it all, try Skeldon, a small town located in the East Berbice-Corentyne region of Guyana. The region is most notable for being the only one in the country to include features of all four of its geographic regions – forested highland, coastal plain, intermediate savannah and hilly and sandy clay area. Skeldon’s major industry is sugar production, and the Guyana Sugar Corporation, the country’s main sugar processor, maintains a factory there.

The area has a laid-back ambiance but there is very little in the way of entertainment or nightlife. There are no large theaters and restaurants, and the cinemas screen mainly Indian films. There are up to six available TV channels, which mostly screen either local programming or pirated American or Indian films, many of which have very graphic sexual or violent content. The bars are mainly for men, where the customers play cards or dominoes while downing beer, rum and vodka. The electricity supply is also rather erratic, and power interruptions are a way of life.

There is a beach, no. 63, located some 10 miles from the town of Covington, which is a popular gathering place on weekends and public holidays for tourists and locals. The beach can become rather boisterous after a while, and it is quite common for men to begin dancing which each other (which is acceptable here). Transport around the area is mainly through the local mini-buses (known as tapirs).

For tourists willing to endure the rustic lifestyle, however, the area has a surprisingly high standard of living. There is an abundance of fresh food available, which means people are generally very healthy, and the chance of contracting malaria is very rare.

Gobi Countryside
Photo by: Munkho 09, Creative Commons

Tsetserleg is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Mongolia. It is situated between grooved mountains with tree-lined roads and an old temple looking across the town.

Tsetserleg is a perfect getaway with combination visits to nearby towns in Mongolia like Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuu with a side trip to Khujirt or Kharkhorin. Decent hotels and restaurants can be found here if you would like to experience a taste of their Mongolian delicacy. Interesting structures also include an eye-catching Museum of Arkhangai Aimag, busy bodied Buyandelgerüülekh Khiid monastery, and Galdan Zuu Temple.

Nature and mountain lovers can take advantage of the hiking and trekking opportunities along with the great camping sites. Tourists seeking attractions and other activities can stay at the Fairfield Café & Guesthouse.
A shopping destination for artifact lovers is available at the art shop which sells locally made artifacts, traditional jackets and dresses.

The only way you can get to Tsetserleg is by bus or a shared or rented vehicle. You can also do hitching since all vehicles travel across town goes through Tsetserleg via the main road going to Arkhangai. You can also take the bus which departs daily on an eleven hour trip going to Ulaanbaatar.

Crocs in Sun City, South Africa
Photo by: ignatius.., Creative Commons

If you want to have a posh South African holiday, the best place to go to is Sun City, South Africa. Sun City is the most premier resort in the country. The resort is known as a popular celebrity destination. A lot of famous musicians have also performed in the Sun City Super Bowl, including Queen, Tina Turner, Ray Charles and Elton John. This place is a definite must-see for anyone who is planning a South African getaway.

Sun City is in the heart of South Africa’s North West province and is a short distance away from metropolitan Johannesburg. Sun City is actually one big complex. Inside it is the Sun City Hotel, the Cascades Hotel, the Cabanas and the Palace of the Lost City. Here, guests can enjoy a grand 18-hole golf course, with real Nile crocodiles wading in the waters of the 13th hole.

Sun City is beautifully designed to give a very indigenous African feel while at the convenience of modern facilities. The hotels look more like castles than buildings, and the lush green backdrop the rich forest provides enhances the resort’s aesthetic. The resort was touted “Africa’s Kingdom of Pleasure.”

Here, you can enjoy many things. One very popular destination is the Valley of Waves. This is a man-made beach water park inside the resort. It is basically a large lagoon with a golden white sand beach. Beneath the water, there is a wave machine that generates waves every 1.5 minutes.

You can also try many water and sports activities in the Sun City. Sports you can participate in while here are tennis, golf, swimming, mountain biking and horseback riding. Water sports available here are water skiing, kayaking, windsurfing and para-sailing. Moreover, there is also the Sun City Gym and Heath Spa, where you can keep in shape while vacationing.

Sun City is a great place to visit. It is South Africa’s most posh and exclusive resort. Here, there’s an activity for everyone. Sun City is definitely worth every penny. Experience South Africa in Sun City; it’s simply the best.

Guayaquil Vista
Photo by: el grito, Creative Commons

Because of its economically important location near a maritime port leading to the Pacific Ocean, it is not surprising the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador is the biggest in the country, with a population of over three million residents spread over an area of more than a thousand square kilometers. While it is true that these statistics could be daunting for first-time visitors who would like to explore the city of Guayaquil, it is possible to make the most of what the city has to offer in just a day. It is just a matter of knowing which areas to visit first and spend the most time in.

For a trip into the city’s historic and colonial past, a visit to the Las Penas district in the northeastern part of the city is a must. It is the only part of Guayaquil where wooden houses as old as four hundred years remain unchanged and unharmed by many of the fires that had ravaged the city during its colonial era. It has recently become a haven of local artists who have converted some of these colonial houses into impressive art studios and galleries

A more modern twist to a historical site is in store for visitors to Guayaquil who will drop by the Malecon 2000 project which restored the facilities around the historic Simon Bolivar Pier. In a backdrop of the historic tall ship called Guayas, tourists can enjoy strolling along the parkways and the shopping mall within the area until late at night.

Two main parks offer quick relief from the warm equatorial climate of the city. These are the Parque Centenario in the city center which is known as the biggest park in the city and the Parque Seminario which is famous as a home to hundreds of tame iguanas indigenous to the country.

A great way to end an entire day of exploring Guayaquil is by checking out its night life. The center of night-time socializing for the city’s trendy residents is the Kennedy Mall with its numerous bars and discotheques. Travelers seeking a quieter gastronomic treat can choose among the world-class restaurants in the city’s districts such as Urdesa, La Alborada, and La Garzota.

With these selection of places to choose from that are open from morning till very late at night, the city of Guayaquil can truly be explored to the fullest within a single day.

La Ceiba – Pico Bonito
Photo by: Wikimedia, Creative Commons

La Ceiba is the third largest city in Honduras, and is a region that is rich in terms of tourism and agricultural industries. Like most of the Honduran cities, La Ceiba boasts of clean and lovely beaches, as well as mountains and rivers. La Ceiba is the most vibrant city among all of Honduras and is a very important port and administrative area. It’s a main producer of grapefruits, bananas, pineapples, and many other delicious agricultural goods.

La Ceiba has numerous hotels, both in the downtown area and those out of town. Downtown hotels include Quinta Real, La Quinta, Villas del Mar, Cibeles and a lot more. The very exciting out of town hotels include the Casa Verde Yoga Retreat, Omega Tours Jungle Lodge, Villas Pico Bonito, etc.

La Ceiba is very rich in natural wonders. Outstanding tours begin with the Cuero y Salado Wildlife Refuge. It protects the endangered manatee population and a series of freshwater and saltwater wetlands. The Pico Bonito Cloud Forest is also a place to visit, as it is one of the most diverse parks in all of Central America. You will find variety of birds in this forest including keel-billed toucans and white-faced monkeys. You will also find very inviting and refreshing swimming holes including the Zacate River trail that leads to the river itself.

The Lodge at Pico Bonito at a village nearby provides great accommodations and sits within a working cacao and coffee farm. They provide tours to the butterfly farm, the serpentarium and to the Pico Bonito Cloud Forest. Other great tourist destinations include the Cacao Lagoon, Los Chorros, and Cayos Cochinos, all encompassing natural wonder wonders and great animal species.

By the Mekong
Photo by: Allie Caulfield, Creative Commons

Laos, a country in Southeast Asia, is an epitome of magnificence and recreation rolled into one. Luang Prabang, Laos is literally known as the Royal Buddha Image of the homeland. It is also one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site because of the beautiful site and sceneries you can find in this place. Since the town is surrounded by nature, different attractions are now open to build up Laos’ tourism economy.

To start your day right, visit the Haw Kham Royal Palace Museum and Wat Xieng Thong to make you acquainted with the historical facts of Laotian people. Taking pictures is prohibited in this area that’s why you should relish everything you see there during your journey.

In the northern part of Luang Prabang lies the Pak Ou Caves that can only be navigated by a boat. As little as one dollar, you can witness hundreds of Buddha statues inside the cave which can never be compensated by any amount of money.

In the south, you can see the 180-foot Kuang Si Waterfalls flowing from the top of a high mountain. The bridges will help you walk over the water without getting yourself wet. Benches are incorporated within the venue when you want to rest your feet for a while. When you want to dive into the waters of this terrific location, try to ask your tour guide for any information about the accommodation.

Staying in Luang Prabang, Laos will definitely be a memorable travel. Save your money now and explore the place with your relatives or friends.

Getting around Miskolc-Tapolca
Photo by: Cacuci Cristian, Creative Commons

What are the must-see sights when you visit Miskolc-Tapolca? For starters, this is a place renowned for its cave baths at the Tapolca. You can get there by land so arm yourself with a map or better yet, ask for your way around since the road signs may pose as a challenge for you. The thermal water is so great which you have to get used to since it has a temperature of around 36 degrees Celsius. It is pretty hot so the first thing to do is dip your toes to check if it’s too hot for you.

You can’t actually do laps there since the water would not permit you but if you are accustomed to sauna baths and real natural waters, this would be the best place for you to relax for tired muscles.

The other attractions in Miskolc-Tapolca evolve around the Boat Lake but what you could really visit and have fun at are the caves wherein you could go trekking and rappelling to your heart’s delight. In the Cave Chapel, you would feel as if you are so once with nature since this chapel is located underground which you could reach by foot alone. Better you bring along your hiking boots to make your exploration very comfortable.

There came a time when the temperature at Miskolc-Tapolca dove to as low as -35 degrees Celsius. Even though Hungary is known for their 0 degrees, a negative mark would really keep you indoors since the weather is too cold for outdoors. Although this happened back in the 40s, the standard climate ranges from very cold to just right cold of around 11 degrees Celsius.

On a general note, when you visit the thermal and healing waters of Miskolc-Tapolca, you will notice that your skin infections would gradually decrease. For people suffering from Psoriasis, the waters within that temperature would serve as a healing component for the cracked, inflamed skin. Although it would be advisable to put some body lotion after the soak since the chilly air would instantly dry the skin all over again.

Harbor in Ibiza
Photo by: Fancy Pants, Creative Commons

If you want to visit the Mediterranean, Ibiza island is a great destination. It is an island that is part of the autonomous community of Spain and is known for the same brand of hospitality and cultural image. The island is better known in Catalan as Eivissa. The pronunciation is quite similar and regardless of how you address it, the locals will know that you are referring to one and the same place.

They offer summer-club parties that has drawn much attention from foreigners and locals alike. After the sunset the nightlife begins in this island. Various bars and clubs host performances for DJs to liven-up the evening. These parties are often scheduled to begin at the beginning of June. The closing parties or the official end of the season is held some time on the first week of October. One of the best places to visit would be the Café del Mar.

Ibiza is known for many natural beauties and sites that have been made to mark specific times in history. This is why the majority of the island is protected as part of the World Heritage Sites registered with the United Nations. This aims to ensure that these sites are preserved not only for the present generation and tourists alike but for the future children of Ibiza as well. Some of these sites include “God’s Finger” and “The Egg” in Sant Antoni.

Among the most popular places to visit in Ibiza are those that are near the shoreline. Beaches such as the one in Es Canar, Cala de sa Galera and Playa d’en Bossa are among the most popular places to go. The beach will show you the beauty of the island as you relax and enjoy the warm sun and cool waters.

Bodrum – Gümbet Bay (Bodrum Peninsula, Turkey) just after the sunset.
Photo by: bazylek100, Creative Commons

Bodrum is a city in the southwest part of Turkey. It is a Turkish port town formerly called Halicarnassus. It is famous for its resort tourism and yachting activities. It has a rich culture and history as like any other Turkish land. It is the birthplace of Herodotus, the “Father of History.” Its famous landmark is Bodrum Castle made by the Knights Hospitaller in 1402. The term Bodrum in Turkish means basement, dungeon, or cellar. But contrasting to its name Bodrum is a very inviting resort destination. It has beautiful scenic spots and its lively port adds to its vibrant ambiance.

Bodrum has a Mediterranean climate. Mostly summer is hot and humid, while in winter it is mild and usually sunny. Best way to reach Bodrum is through land and air. There are many buses available in going to and from this area. By air, Bodrum has its own international airport which is just 60km away from the main city area.

Accommodations in Bodrum are plenty. But for those who want a quieter stay, the choices are in the east hills and west of the town. For most nights, the loudest outdoor discos are alive near the resort areas. The most famous loud disco in Mediterranean is the Halikarnas.

Bodrum Castle is a must-see. This castle has taken several years to finish. This is one of the world’s best-preserved medieval structures. It has five main towers with different architectural styles. This was done to represent the different nations to whom it was constructed. It has a 180 x 185 meters area and 47.5 meters in height. The view from the castle of the harbor and international marina is quite appealing. It’s open to the public and now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. It showcases the interesting Aegean shipwreck remains. It is said to have the biggest collection of its kind.

For a laid-back leisure experience visiting Gumusluk is the perfect idea. It is a fishing port and a protected archaeological site in one. Ample developments are created in this area of Bodrum, but mostly it has preserved its quiet charm. Activities include going to Rabbit Island for a panoramic view, fishing in the pier or play backgammon (tavla) with the locals, relaxing by the natural rock pool at the far end of the bay, or watching the beautiful sunset at a Cafe.

A historical tour wouldn’t be complete in Bodrum if you haven’t gone to the Amphitheatre on the hillside, the Ruins of Mausoleum (one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world), and Myndos Gate in the west area.

Another place to visit is the Windmills of Bodrum. These structures are facing northwest and were built and used during the mid 18th century for flour grinding.

Panajachel View from Santa Caterina
Photo by: JoePhoto, Creative Commons

Many people who plan their vacation usually want to visit a place with breathtaking views and amazing natural spots. If you are also looking for a place where you can experience nature at its finest, you should visit Panajachel. This paradise on earth has everything that nature has to offer. For one, it gives you a spectacular view to three volcanoes and the famous lake in Guatemala, Lake Atitlan. Panajachel is located in the highlands which overlooks the abovementioned natural sights. Panajachel is also the entry point if you want to visit the three ethnic towns located around Lake Atitlan namely, San Antonio Palopo, San Catarina Palopo, and Santiago Atitlan. These towns make the best weaved cloths and ethnic costumes.

Aside from viewing the lake, you can also check it out closely by riding a canoe by yourself or a guided tour in a boat. You will see the magnificence of the lake up close, not to mention the awesome volcanoes that surround it. When you take a ride or drive to the lake, you will be awestruck with the cloudy sight. You will see a sea of clouds that will make you feel as if you are in heaven. The ride tot eh lake is also an amazing experience in itself.

Panajachel also has a beach. You can take a swim in the cool water on warm days, though the beach is not ideal for sunbathing because it is rocky. Though this is not a major attraction, it is still a good idea to visit the La Playa.

Street Scene in Malmo
Photo by: ctsnow, Creative Commons

Malmo is the third largest and third most populous city in Sweden. Malmo is a relatively modern city which still keeps many historic buildings and parks for the knowledge and enjoyment of its people. The city is known as the city of parks and, true to its name, it is home to many beautiful parks. Malmo is one of the cleanest places on earth. It has even received an award for being one of the Greenest cities on earth

If you are looking for a food trip then look no further. While Gothenburg may have the largest number of pubs per square meter, Malmo has the largest number of restaurants per square meter in all of Sweden. This is why many food buffs find themselves traveling to Malmo in order to taste the culinary genius of its chefs.

In Malmo you will find the HSB Turning Torso. This unique tower looks as if it is twisting. Because of its unique architecture it is build so that the living space increases as the floor increases.

If you’re looking for something more historical then you can go to St. Peter’s Church. It is the oldest building in Malmo dating back to the 1300’s.

The people of Malmo are friendly and unique owing to its mixed population. Malmo has the most number of immigrants in all of Sweden. Because of this their culture is very diverse and very interesting to note.

What’s great about Malmo is that there is a bridge connecting it to Denmark. If you get tired of one nation you can just hop onto the next in under forty minutes.

Malmo is truly a gem of Sweden. Its modern architecture and gentle parks make it one of the most visited cities in Sweden. Visiting Malmo is an experience you’ll never forget.

Manono Island
Photo by: Jorge P. Price, Creative Commons

Cape Fatuosofia is a small island filled with schools, hospitals, dwellings, churches and many other facilities operated by religious group for charitable purposes and to spread and teach religion. Cape is a populated land area that has a tract of land much smaller than a continent that is being surrounded by tropical beaches and high water. There are many things to see in Cape Fatuosofia, mostly aquatic resources. But there are mountains present in this area. Its mountains are standing high above elevated areas that have very steep slopes, surrounded by small summit areas and local reliefs of not more than 300m.

Cape Fatuosofia is situated 10km southwest of the airport and opposite to Manono Island. This isolated area in Samoa is very rich in tropical attractions. Its lagoon for example is characterized by shallow coastal body that is partly or completely separated by the island’s barrier and coral reefs or other depositional feature from larger bodies of water. A land that functions more than just a prominent point, Cape Fatuosofia projects into the sea that makes a notable mark in coastal direction. Though some of them are composed of hazardous consolidated materials, there are still some areas reefs that are safe to visit and dive.

Cape Fatuosofia offers many accommodations in its area. There are many affordable hotels and restaurants close to its port. There are also beach fronts available in this area that has facilities such as swimming pools, wedding chapels, kids club and many others.

Ngorongoro Caldera
Photo by: Chadica, Creative Commons

Anyone would agree to the nickname given to the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania: “The Eighth Wonder of the World.” This is the ultimate place for those who want to experience wildlife on-foot. It is nature’s magnum opus.

The crater is actually part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), which is a wild life conservation area. The NCA is at Arusha’s west in Tanzania’s Crater Highlands. The crater is the site’s main attraction. It is at Serengeti’s east in North Tanzania. It is also the world’s biggest existing and unbroken caldera.

This region has the same tropical climate of Tanzania’s entirety. Temperature ranges from 65 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The “long rains” come in the months of April and May. The climate and the geography of the place contributed to its rich flora and fauna.

Many years ago, a huge volcano erupted and collapsed in itself. The now huge crater serves as home to more than 25,000 large animals. The place is a reserve for plenty of game species that includes lions, zebras, elephants, wildebeests, rhinos and gazelles. Tourists are also welcome to see the hundreds of bird species. During winter months in Eurasia, there are several rare migrant birds.

Other than wildlife, Ngorongoro is a place for culture and history too. One can enjoy the traditions, music, art and food of the Maasai people. There are several museums too, displaying anthropological artifacts from the crater.

Just within the vicinity are first-rated hotels. Some of them are the Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge, the Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge and the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge. They offer world class cuisines: from the traditional Tanzanian food to Chinese and Italian dishes.

River Vah -Swan lake?
Photo by: stevoarnold, Creative Commons

After touring other cities and places in Slovakia for various sights and entertainment, you may want to end the tour by pampering yourself to a relaxing health-oriented treatments, which is big business at Piestany, Slovakia. The life in this town is very much different from the other places in the country. This is very ideal for people who love the laid back kind of lifestyle. Aside from being quiet and safe, the city is very well kept and maintained.

Every year, this town accommodates tourists who are mostly coming from Arab countries and eastern parts of Europe. Most of these people choose to come here to experience various treats at numerous good restaurants that can be found near, around or inside known hotels and health spas. These may be some of the known and oldest businesses in the city with about 30,000 residents, but through time, investors keep on coming about to try and develop other kinds of industries as well.

Health-oriented spa treatment will always be the main attraction of this city. This is because they utilize natural products that have been in existence since the old times and they also perform old-fashion cures that have proven effective through generations. The services are not only effective but these are also being offered at affordable prices.

Before leaving the place, you may also want to learn about its rich past by visiting its museum that features the city’s ancient and modern history sites. You will get to see ruins of 9th century castles, exhibits of folk arts, sacred arts and some learning about the history of the city’s spa treatments.

Vardar Lake near Veles
Photo by: Wikipedia, Creative Commons

Tourists who want to visit Negotino, will only have to take one plane flight to the country of Macedonia and land on either the Ohrid or Skopje international airports. Once there, you may now take a train going to Negotino for a faster ride. You may also ride busses if you want but that will take a pretty long time before you are able to reach this place.

Negotino is widely renowned for its aged wines and brandy. That’s why many people are looking forward to the celebration of the St. Trifun religious holiday in Negotino (St. Trifun is believed to be the patron of the grade fields and the grape growers). On the same date as Valentines day, February 14, people gather around Negotino City Square to sample the famous wines of Negotino. This is also the perfect venue where you could buy wines for people back in your country. Special discounts await tourists who attend this event.

The city has a warm climate all throughout the year which is enjoyed by tourists who want to stay under the warm rays of the sun. Besides getting a tan, tourists also go to Sportsko Rekreativen Center for some recreation during their stay in Negotino. Shopping centers are also great destinations after you have toured the city.
Give yourself a fine treat and fly to Negotino now. A trip for two to Negotino will cost you less than one trip to other countries with higher tourism density. So take advantage of Negotino before it becomes a commercialized travel destination.

Independence Square in Kiev
Photo by: d proffer, Creative Commons

For your vacation destination this year, make it a point to include Kiev, Ukraine. This happens to be the most famous city in the whole of Ukraine that has already attracted thousand of tourists per annum. The sights and sounds of the place is what lure tourists to this enigmatic capital in Eastern Europe.

What are the places to go in Kiev?

1) Kievo- Pecherska Lavra
This is one of the remarkable churches in Kiev that was built around nine centuries ago. This is a great place for you to experience how the architecture was done before as well as make your visit sort of a pilgrimage since it has relics from different saints. Locals also call the Lavra as Monastery of Caves. Would you believe that there are several catacombs underneath it? It is such a holy place where you could worship and experience for yourself how the Christian faith bloomed in such a place.

2) Kiev Opera
This majestic opera house is considered as one of the most sought after places in the entire world. Just make sure that you carry the Hrivna – their national currency. You have to carry a lot since the prices in these opera houses can sometimes reach the stars but the experience is worth it.

3) St. Nicolas Catholic Cathedral
Built in the early 1900s, the St. Nicolas Catholic Cathedral is one of the places that you should visit since you will be able to see amazing Gothic styles and other architectural designs in that era. This place often held concerts as well as other Catholic services like weddings. You will be astonished at its fully-restored look which happened in the 80s nevertheless, the original look has been strictly followed.

4) Golden Gate
There came a time when barriers were erected to protect the city from foreign invaders. That is why in early 1037 such a massive infrastructure was made under the reign of Prince Yaroslav the Wise. For years it really pushed outsiders out but after its restoration in the 1980s, the Golden Gate became a museum.
Kiev has a rich history to its name, which is why it is a favorite place to visit by people from around the world. Having preserved such beautiful structures has enabled Kiev to act and pose as the center of history, arts and culture for Ukraine.

Roasarium at Baden Baden
Photo by: atopisches ezkem, Creative Commons

With the word Baden translating to “to bath/bathe”, Baden-Baden, Germany is considered to be one of the most enchanting cities in all of Germany because of the hot springs of Baden-Baden. It’s unique mix of urban sophistication and rural charm never fail to make its visitors come back over and over again to exprience the best that the city has to offer.

The city is dotted with a panoramic view of the city skyline and verdat green hills, making for a perfect backdrop for any tourist looking forward to a walking tour around the city. Though Baden-Baden is not as famous as other German cities for its drop-dead-beautiful structures or Baroque churches, the city on the other hand, is ahead other cities when it comes to relaxation.

Numerous luxury spas and resorts are found within Baden-Baden, Germany that live up to the expectation of a truly comforting vacation in the city. With 23 hot springs around the city, you’re bound to find one spa that would suit your needs. But one of the most popular spas in the city is the nineteenth-century Friedrichsbad. Dubbed to be the most classiest day spa in Baden-Baden, their basic spa course is made up of 16 steps of a variety of baths, steam and dry rooms, and sprays. How’s that for a spa treatment?

Aside from finding comfort in the city’s extensive spa facilities, there are also numerous opportunities for sports enthusiasts to enjoy the city. Golf and tennis are the most popular sports in the city while other worthy sport to try are horse racing, hiking, mountain climbing, and if you visit Baden-Baden during the winter, you should try your hand at skiing, too. Whether it be summer or winter, visitors will always find something worthwhile and enjoyable to do in Baden-Baden.

If you’ve had enough fill of the spa facilities in Baden-Baden, Germany, you can venture into the culture and arts scene of the city and tour the Sammlung Frieder Burda, where some of Germany’s most important and wide collections of modern art can be found. There are also ruins around the city, such as the Hohenbaden, which dates as far back as 1102 and has been in ruins since the fifteenth century. Though the city is popular for its hot springs, Baden-Baden is still proud of their history and now, of the urban conveniences they have available for everyone to enjoy.

Cricket in Galle Cricket Stadium
Photo by: principe.astuto, Creative Commons

Are you wondering where you can experience a Dutch ambiance when you are in Sri Lanka? Well, you can, and you can enjoy it as much as you want when you visit Galle, Sri Lanka. It is a place of splendor and excitement where Asian and European flavors mix, not only on the native dishes, but also in the culture that is carefully preserved by the locals of the city.

When you find yourself standing in this city and you are looking forward to get the most of the Dutch ambiance, never fail to visit the Dutch Fort, which is considered as a historical landmark of the world. The walls and the pathway are perfect reminders of the accounts of the past, and it continues to amaze visitors from different parts of the globe.

To enjoy an amazing architectural spot in Galle, you can try to visit the Dutch Reformed Church. It has colorful wall paintings and well-detailed carvings on its ceiling, while the Southern Coastal Belt is a perfect spot for walking and enjoying the fair weather of the city. The Clock Tower that stands at the corner of the coastline is also a photo perfect site.

The Ahangama is another must-see site. If you want to enjoy the romantic sunset with your loved one, you can try to visit this place. And not only that, you can also be amazed with how the local residents harvest the sea through silt fishing.

The last spot to visit before leaving Galle is the Koggala Lake. It is a perfect spot for bird watching and some romantic dining experience.

Morning bathers on the Ganges River at Varanasi
Photo by: Paul Mannix, Creative Commons

Varanasi, also called Benares, is part of northern India and is considered as the pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is located along the Ganges River, a holy river that has withstood the test of time and diversity.

The climate here is relatively bearable as compared to other cities because of its geographical location. The summers reach up to 45°C while the winter seasons reach temperatures as low as 7°C. The monsoon season usually comes in the months of June or July and lasts for two months. Tourists are highly encouraged to visit the city from October to April when the weather is not that harsh and the climate is mostly cool.

It is relatively easy to get around since there are two railway systems that pass through Varanasi to connect it t o the major cities of India, there are also daily domestic flights going to and coming from Varanasi and even the roads are developed enough to accommodate drives from city to city.

Shopping in the city of Varanasi and other Indian cities can be very exciting as you get to witness the culture of the place as well as find treasures from the market place. Why not get yourself a Banarasi Saree, a weaved veil that is used during Indian weddings as part of the bride’s attire. The carpets in this city are also of superior quality and are mostly export-grade. There are also other handicrafts such as ivory wares, brass wares, wood crafts, bangles and jewelries that can interest you.

There are also several feasts and festivals in Varanasi that is worth a stopover. One of which is the Buddha Purnima done to celebrate the birth of Buddha. It is usually celebrated during a full moon in May of April. Mahashivratri is also a very important time for the Hindus as this is the “great night of Shiva” and is done during the fourteenth day of April or March. Most festivities are circled upon their religious beliefs and showcase the intricate designs of the Indian as well as Persian influences.

Some places to visit when in Varanasi are:

• Jantar Mantar: an observatory built by Jai Singh because of his love for astronomy.
• Ramnagar Fort: dedicated to the Ved Vyasa the writer of the epic Mahabharata.
• Ganga Ghats: pilgrimage sites for Hindus
• Assi Ghat: worshipers first bathe before they praise Lord Shiva

There are a lot of places and sights Varanasi can offer all tourists whether you went there for religious reasons of to simply admire their culture and architecture.