Taitung Coastline, Taiwan
Photo by: Prince Roy, Creative Commons

Located between breathtaking mountains and an Azure Ocean on a small plain at the southern peak of the East Rift Valley, Taitung, Taiwan offers spectacular landscape views. Many visitors find this tropical destination calming because of its relaxing coastline. Taitung is surrounded by orchards and rice fields that contribute to its aesthetic beauty. The main part of this city is small and compact, and walking around the city is one of the pleasant ways to explore the place. Riding rented bicycles are a good alternative to discovering the area. Establishments near the Forest Park North of Jonghshan road who offer inexpensive rentals.

Taitung, Taiwan is not just rich in breathe taking sceneries. It is also rich in both culture and tradition. There are many historical and recreational places in Taitung visitors can go and visit.

Here are some popular places located within the Taitung perimeter.

• Museum of Prehistory
Located in Buowuguan Road, Fengtin village, is a museum rich in cultural history. The museum houses a tremendous exhibit on the different aboriginal groups in Taiwan. The museum also offers a beautifully sculpted garden area just outside the building.

• Beinan Cultural Park
Located in Wenhuagongyuan Rd., Nanwang Village, Taitung City, this park actually contains the largest and the most vital prehistoric archeological site in Taiwan. The outskirt of the park also consists of exquisite grounds and a strategic view of the area.

• Taitung Railway Art Village
Located at the old railway station, Taitung City converted some of its buildings that are located near the old railway into an exhibition area for local and residential artists. This place is perfect for art lovers.

There are literally hundreds of activities that can be done in Taitung, Taiwan. Hiking, Biking or even swimming escapades. Taitung is guaranteed to satisfy every visitor’s heart that will make them coming back for more.

Downtown Helsinki from above
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Heksinki is the economic capital of Scandinavia, where two of the world’s business giants—Laponia Jewelry and Nokia—have their main office. Aside from being known as the home of two widely recognized companies, Heksinki is also popular as Finland’s premier tourist destination. Every year, thousands of visitors from the United States, Sweden, Germany, Japan, and other countries flock to this classical Finnish city.

One of the most famous landmarks in Heksinki is the Lutheran Cathedral, a perfect example of the city’s trademark 19th century neoclassical architecture. Planning to travel to Finland? Don’t forget to drop by the Senaatintori (Senate Square), an imposing structure where the bronze monument of Tsar Alexander II stands. Alexander II is the Grand Duke of Finland who fought for autonomy of Finnish government.

Another classic architectural wonder in this city is the Finnish National Museum with a distinct tall spire. This museum is a must see for tourists who want to get familiarized with the culture and history of Finland, as it displays an extensive collection of Finnish traditional costumes and other artifacts that document how the country evolved into its present state.

Heksinki also has a treat for music lovers. If you appreciate opera music, then you must visit the Finnish National Opera House and the Finlandia Hall where concerts and performances of Finnish musicians usually take place.

Aside from visiting Finnish landmarks and enjoying Finnish music, there are a lot of things you can do in Heksinki such as having fun in famous bars at night and shopping at various department stores.

Alta Petroglyphs
Photo by: jurek d., Creative Commons

Norway is a great country to visit because of its peaceful environment and remarkable tourist destinations. But what makes this country stand out in Europe is on of its city that possesses some of its extraordinary historical heritage and natural wonders.

Alta, takes pride for being that city. It has with it a complete package of scenic spots and pleasurable activities. You can never missed out fun when you are in this place because everywhere you go and everything you do is something you will value forever.

Here are some marvellous places that you need to discover in Alta:

Altaelva River

An elegant body of water that runs between two canyons. This site will blow your stress away because everything in it is so natural and tranquil. You can even try sailing in the river to be acquainted more with nature.

Alta Rock Carvings

These remarkable pieces of art tell stories of the early civilizations in Norway, especially the Komsa culture. These carvings are well-preserved and the entire place was perfectly designed with Stone Age theme to captivate you more.

The City Center

For more urban pleasure, this place offers you with the best of Norwegian fine dinning and shopping experience. You will be amazed with the delicious seafood dishes and well-crafted souvenir items.

Langfjorden

Back to natural wonders in Alta, this place is something to cherish. It has a good view of small mountain ranges that is covered with green grasses and lies along the coastline. A picture-perfect site when you go boating around the city.

Grote Markt in Gouda
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Just outside the northeastern outskirts of Rotterdam, you will find a little town, which has lent its name to one of tastiest and most interesting cheeses in the world – Gouda. But don’t just let the images of European cheeses fill your imagination, as this quaint little town is definitely worthy of a visit. If you want to see what a Dutch town looks like, then there’s no better way to it than taking a walk on the city center of Gouda.

Are you in love with cheese? If you find yourself nodding to this question, then take a walk to the cheese market and De Waag to explore the different options that are in store for you. Be adventurous and try out everything, especially the variety that you won’t be able to find anywhere else in the world. Though you’d expect to find a place in gouda where they make gouda cheese, it’s quite interesting to find out that this cheese is not made anywhere in this town, but in the neighboring areas.

Notable museums to visit in this picturesque little town are the Staduis located in the center of the Markt, the Museumgouda and the Museumhaven Gouda. You should also check out the Verzetsmuseum Zuid-Holland or the resistance museum if you want to learn more on how the Dutch founded their resistance movement during the 2nd world war.

Aside from the gastronomical cheeses, you should make it a point to try out Goudse stroopwafels, which is Gouda’s very own traditional wafer cookie. Just one bite and you’ll surely be coming back for more. The main shopping street called Kleiweg has all the famous boutiques and department stores so if you want to exercise your shopping muscle, then you know the perfect place to go.

So if you’re in the mood to experience town living at its best, head out to Gouda and see what this charming destination has in store for you. Spend a day or two roaming the streets and befriend the locals while you’re at it just remember to keep a Dutch translation book in handy as most locals can’t speak English very well.

Cobbelstone streets at Ebeltoft
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Ebeltoft is one of the tourist centres of Denmark. It is home to the world’s first glass museums and the longest wooden warship of the world, the Frigate Jylland. Although small and slightly populated, Ebeltoft is very lively in the summer. It’s because tourists are not housed in hotels like every typical holiday season. Ebeltoft has what we call as summer houses or holiday homes. These are mostly made of wood but are very extravagant and liveable. It’s a rather modern city being the home of the critically acclaimed European Film College. Tourists will enjoy Ebeltoft because the people here are noted for being very open-minded to foreigners and well to do when it comes to speaking.

There are several beautiful tourist attractions in Ebeltoft, lead by the Kalo castle and the Rosenholm castle. For Christian sites the Thorsager round church is the place to visit. As for museums, Farvergardeb is a very unique specialty museum. There are also restaurants to enjoy, the Molskroen and the Oer Peter Foldby. They serve Danish cuisine with a local taste of Ebeltoft city.

Although the employment rate of the area is quite low, you will enjoy the numerous artisans who work there such as painters, potters and even jewellery designers. Ebeltoft is indeed a very refreshing city. Whether it’s visiting the old town hall or sight seeing in glass museums and visiting really old churches, Ebeltoft will really bring out the tourist in you as well as the passion to learn and experience Denmark.

Suva Harbor
Photo by: jaredw 1986, Creative Commons

If you want to learn more about the political and commercial aspect of Fiji, you should go visit Suva, Fiji. This is the center of politics and commerce in Fiji. But do not think that you will get bored during your stay in the place because there are also a lot of tourist spots in this area.

The place houses the government buildings of the parliament that is also a tourist attraction in Suva. You can also go shopping for exotic fruits and vegetables in the street markets of Suva, Fiji. You will be overwhelmed by the number of colourful local fruits and vegetables lined along the streets of Suva. You will feel very much at home because of the friendly atmosphere created by the warmth and hospitality of the Fijian people. You will feel as if you are in the middle of a festive occasion.

You can also buy souvenirs form the Municipal Handicraft Centre where interesting artefacts and handicrafts created by local Fijians are sold. Your friends and family will surely be glad that you brought them something very local and historical. These products are sold in several market stalls outdoors.

After you tire yourself shopping for different fruits and vegetables and souvenirs for your loved ones, you can now visit the different parks in Suva, Fiji. One of the coolest parks that you should not miss is the Colo-I-Suva Forest Park. This place will let you see nature at its finest. You can go bird watching, swimming, hiking, and so on. You will find many tropical species of flora and fauna while hiking. And after the hike, you can relax in one of the forest’s breathtaking waterfalls which are usually the destinations of the hiking trails.

Another park that you can visit is Albert Park. This is famous not because of interesting natural sights but because of the famous event which took place on the location. In 1928, Charles Kingsford-Smith made his emergency landing on the spot where Albert Park is located on his trans-Pacific flight.

Aside from street markets and parks, you can also enjoy visiting museums and cultural centers. If you want to soak in the culture of Fiji, you should visit the Fiji Museum where several artefacts and archaeological findings are on display. Some artefacts date as far back as 3500 years ago. You will at least have an idea of what Fiji was like thousands of years ago when tourists or foreigners have not yet discovered the place.

Boracay Sunset, Philippines
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Boracay, Philippines is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Every year, thousands of local tourists and foreigners go to Boracay to enjoy the stretch of beaches covered with white sands and coral reefs. Boracay is 345 kilometers away from the south of Manila. It is an island located in the province of Aklan that is 7 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide.

Three communities make up Boracay: Yapak, Balabag and Manoc-manoc. Both Yapak and Manoc-manoc are characterized by hills that are elevated up to a hundred meters above sea level. What link these three communities are tropical jungles that boast the most colorful greens.

If you want to get to the island, all that you have to do is fly from the Caticlan or Kalibo Airport. There are direct flights from Manila and Cebu to these air gateways. The small island still experiences scarcity of electricity and public transportation, but the nights in Boracay make you forget this lack.

Getting around the island of Boracay is simple and easy. For you to go from a place to another, you can use any one of the three transportation means: tricycles and Pedi cabs; motorbikes and bicycles; and shuttle services from your hotels. There are hardly any taxi cabs in the island because everything can be done by means of walking. You are going to see almost every visitor walking barefoot around this magnificent island.

Your stay in Boracay, Philippines can never be complete if you do not come to the Long Beach. The Long Beach is a four-kilometer beach covered in glittering white sand. It can be found in the west coast of the island, between Angol and Balabag. Many of the people who have seen the white sand beach can tell that it is the finest beach that you can find in Asia. Water in this beach is shallow and the sand is shinier and brighter than in any other beach in Asia. There are at least 350 hotels that can serve your every need while you are enjoying your stay in the beautiful and stunning island of Boracay. You are going to agree that a summer getaway in Boracay is second to none.

Seokguram Grotto in Kyongju, South Korea
Photo by: eimoberg, Creative Commons

There are many wonderful cities in South Korea. There are many places worth visiting here. To make the most out of your trip, you may want to start in Kyongju, South Korea. This is a coastal city found in North Gyeongsang province. Kyongju has many low mountains scattered throughout the city.

The city is actually referred to as the museum without walls. This is because the city has numerous historical sites. If you love to see remnants of the past, a visit to this city will those visions. There are many important historical treasures that can be found here that are designated as World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO.

Here are some of the sites that made this city what it is today and why has it been acclaimed as popular tourist destination.

Bulguksa Temple. The best time to visit is early morning. Its structure is very impressive and this is actually considered a masterpiece of the Buddhist art. It was in the 8th century when the temple was built at the time of the Silla Kingdom.

Gyeongju National Park. You have to take a map when you visit the park. You can reach it by taxi or bus. You will be guided by hiking trails, but it can get confusing, especially if you don’t understand the language. This is where the map will become very handy.

Seokguram Grotto. You can reach the grotto after hiking a few kilometers from the Bulguksa Temple. You will be amazed at its Silla art and impressive Buddhist artifacts. You are not allowed to take pictures inside the grotto. You should allot a full day here to soak in everything that it has to offer.

Kilkenny Castle and the River Nore from Wind Gap
Photo by: IrishFireside, Creative Commons

Year after year, more and more people come to Kilkenny, Ireland. Why you ask? Well simply because it is one of the places in Ireland that is home to beautiful architecture that represents the identity and the culture of the Irishmen and women.
And if that thought got you interested enough to make you visit Ireland this summer or the next, here are some structures that you need to visit and feed your eyes on.

1. Duiske Abbey
Description: This Cistercian monastery was founded by William Marshall in A.D. 1204. During that time, it is said to be largest and the most beautiful among the 34 monasteries built all across Ireland.
The theme of the building borders more on the gothic Romanesque style that is prevalent in that era.
Location: You can see the monastery at Graiguenamanagh, Co Kilkenny.

2. Jerpoint Abbey
Description: This national monument has been constructed by the King of Osraige in the late 12th Century in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Today people visit this holy place because of its beautiful sculptured cloister arcade with exquisite carvings that are still beautifully intact. Apart from that, some tourists also believe that the structure marks the resting place of Saint Nicholas – the model for our current Santa Claus. But those and beliefs are yet to be proven.
Location: From Thomastown, the abbey can be reached by travelling 2.5 kilometers south west along the N9 National Primary Road.

3. Saint Canice’s Cathedral
Description: This cathedral is said to be the 2nd longest in Ireland. Although the structure was built sometime during 13th century, the locals believe that the site where its foundations were laid has been used as a Christian worship place since the 6th century.
To tourists, Saint Canice’s stand out because of its beautiful limestone structure, early gothic design, rich and colorful stained glass windows, ancient thrones and the sights that any tourist can appreciate from way up the 9th century round tower.
Location: Saint Canice’s Cathedral is perhaps the most accessible as it sits right in the middle of Kilkenny City.

Those are three of the churches you should absolutely see. And if you still have time to spare after touring those, you can also visit other structures like the Kilkenny Castle, the City Hall, the Black Abbey and the Hoban Memorial.

Zurich – quality of life
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Have you heard of Zurich? If you haven’t, you have to stop by and read this page.

From 2006 to 2008, Zurich has been regarded as the city with the best quality of life and the wealthiest city in Europe. It is one of the leading financial centers in Switzerland, with the focus on offshore banking.

One should expect the city to have a humid continental climate. As such, summers in the city are very warm and humid with regular thunderstorms, while winters are very cold with frequent snowfall.

Majority of the population speak German, while the few others speak Italian, Slovenian, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Albanian, Croatian, Serbian, and English, among other languages.

Main attractions of the city include churches and museums. Churches like the Grossmünster, Fraumünster, and St. Peter’s Church, and museums such as Kunsthaus Zürich, Museum of Design Zürich, Swiss National Museum, Haus Konstruktiv, and Uhrenmuseum Beyer are among the most visited sites of the city.

People who visit Zurich also enjoy its popular events such as the Street Parade every August of the year, Sechseläuten or the spring festival of the guilds, Zürcher Theater Spektakel or the international theater festival, Kunst Zürich or the international contemporary art fair, Weltklasse Zürich or the track and field athletics meeting held every August of the year, and the Zürifäscht which is the largest public festival in the country that features music, fireworks, and some other attractions.

The city is also filled with bars, restaurants, hotels, lounges, and clubs. If you love shopping and nightlife, you should not hesitate to go to Niederdorf and Langstrasse.

Now if you love ballet, opera and theater, you shouldn’t miss stopping by the Zurich Opera House which is one of the major opera houses in Europe, Schauspielhaus Zürich, the main theater complex of the city, and the Theater am Neumarkt, one of the oldest theaters built in the city.

The other attractions of the city are Lindenhof Hill, where the Roman and medieval castle lies, Lake Zurich, Guild houses, Zoological Garden, Uetliberg Hill, Sunrise Tower, and Sihlcity.

One would never forget his visit to Zurich City because of these appealing places and events.

Bandung at night
Photo by: o b s k u r a, Creative Commons

Want to enjoy nature’s beauty without escaping the city landscape? Then, Bandung City is the destination for you. It is the third largest city in Indonesia which is surrounded by a series of volcanoes. It has a cooler climate than any of the other cities in Indonesia, making it a favorite weekend destination for Indonesian locals. From the city, you can enjoy roaming around the forest with just two hours of walk. Also, the Tangkbuhan Prahu volcano is one of many trail hike most visitors would go for. Indeed, this city is truly enriched with nature’s gift, as formerly, the place was used as a coffee bean and tea plantation because of the rich fertile soil from the volcanic ash. It is only around 18th century that people came to reside in the city and most of them were Sudanese natives. For this reason, Sundanese culture is well maintained in Bandung, reflected mostly in their products.

While touring the city, you will note that the historical structures have a Dutch influence. This is because of the Dutch colonialism over the country for many years. The Dutch inspired architectures add a unique view to the city, as Asian and Western cultures collide in the structures. Furthermore, there are also lots of golf courses in Bandung, so you can enjoy a round of golf as you appreciate the nature’s beautiful scenery. Above all, what most visitors go for Bandung city is its market. The city is famous for its shopping districts as there are many textile shops here. They are well known for jeans and excess produces of stylish clothes, so you can enjoy shopping here!

If you are travelling to Indonesia for the first time, don’t forget to visit Bandung city as well! Enjoy shopping around the place with its countless merchandise to choose from. Also, try to hike on the forest up to the volcanoes surrounding the city. Along with it, you can notice the lovely products of nature’s scenery; this includes water falls, a flowing river stream and the forest’s undisturbed beauty. Enjoy nature’s beauty and shopping spree in this wonderful city!

Sigatoka Coastline
Photo by: RodBland, Creative Commons

When visiting a place, it is important to soak in their culture so that you will learn more how the place and its attractions came about. You will also know more about the people, food, and other aspects of the locals’ lives. If you want to know more about Fiji and its people, you should visit Sigatoka, Fiji.

The place is mainly a farming community but you will learn a lot about Fiji because it has around 200 archaeological and cultural sites that history lovers will surely enjoy.

One thing that most people find interesting in Sigatoka, Fiji is the odd mansion that looks as if it came straight out from fantasy books. It is located on the hill behind the heart of the town.

You will also find the huge sand dunes in Sigatoka amazing and wonderful. And aside from it being a great sight to see, it is also a place where archaeological artefacts have been found.

Another great historical and cultural place in Sigatoka is the Tavuni Hill Fort. Some people said that the fort was build by a Tongan chieftain named Maile Latamai Finau several hundred years ago. It is a great place to visit if you want to know more about the old Fiji long before travellers and tourists set foot on it.

It is also a good idea to visit the Vatukarasa Village to meet and greet the locals of Sigatoka. Before the visit, though, you should learn a bit about the local courtesies such as not wearing hats or dark sunglasses. If you are a woman, do not go there traipsing in your two piece or bikini because the local villagers think that ladies should be well-covered.

Aside from culture and history, you can also enjoy several great views and nature destinations such as the Naihehe Caves. You can also ride the Coral Coast Railway which will pass some scenic views like lush green forests, caves, and coastlines. It will be like a fantasy train ride in an enchanted place.

All parts of Fiji probably have a great beach that tourists should never forget to visit. It is also the same in Sigatoka, Fiji. It has the Natadola Beach where the sand is pure white and tropical trees shade the area. You can also hire a horse if you want to see the whole place.

There are many things to do in Sigatoka, Fiji. And the good thing about it is that while you are having the time of your life, you are also learning a thing or two about the place.

Pintung Night Market, Taiwan
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Located in Pingtung County south of Taiwan, Pintung offers fairly cold weather during winter and an extremely hot weather during summer. Pintung City is centered between the eastern and western coast mountain. Although the current population of this place is around 210,000, it is still considered by many people as a small city. But being small doesn’t really mean there is nothing to see. There is definitely beauty in Pintung City. Many historical and leisure sites can be seen in Pintung City, historical temples and night markets are the most common.

Here are some of the popular destinations that can be found in Pintung.

Night Markets – Although not as big as the night market in Kaohsiung, Pintung’s night market still offers the best deals in the country. Similar to Kaohsiung night market, the items that are sold here are very cheap and reasonable. Exotic and mouth watering dishes can also be found here.

Temples – Temples are very common all over Taiwan. But what make the temples in Pintung unique are their unique temples that are made entirely from different ocean stones and seashells. These temples are usually located near the Pintung’s border limits.

Zhong Shan Park – A Park that is located right next to a department store, this place is extremely popular not only for tourists but also to locals. Many people use this as recreational, practicing and performing grounds. Numerous people can be seen here doing Taichi, dancing, training and playing fun local games.

Ken Ting National Park – This place is also a popular place to visit. Mainly for recreation purposes, many people visit the park during weekdays. The park provides a calm natural ambiance. There are also many activities and sight seeing that can be done inside the park.

Pintung is also rich in local cuisines. To make the stay more exciting, why not explore the Pintung on your feet. This way, discovering Pintung’s beauty will be memorable.

Walking downtown Utrecht
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When you first look at the city of Utrecht, you may get the impression that it is not any different from any other European city. But as you take a closer look, you will realize that it has its own charm and character that sets it apart from other modern cities in the Netherlands. Though you may get that feeling that the city has a long history behind it, it has in a sense aged gracefully as you will see that it does not only offer its visitors a glimpse back into the past, but a look into the future as well.

If you really want to take in all the sights that Utrecht has to offer you, then you should see the view from the Domtoren. This 112 meter tall giant is said to be the highest church tower in all of the Netherlands. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as the climb to the top can prove to be a workout. But once you get to the top, you’ll quickly realize that it’s all worth it as you can also catch a glimpse of Amsterdam and Rotterdam on good days.

After a long climb up the tower, you can take a few minutes break to catch your breath at the Cloister garden. Come on a Saturday morning and you may just get to watch a carillon concert that will simply take your breath away. Take a canal cruise on the Oudegracht and sample the different food and drink that the best bars and restaurant in this area can give you. It’s a real treat for all the foodies out there.

For art buffs out there, make sure to include the Centraal museum to see an extensive collection of Rietvald design. But if you’re taste is more towards the traditional or exotic, depending on your views towards aboriginal art, then the Aboriginal Art Museum definitely be on your must visit list.

So there you have it. Take a trip to Utrecht in the Netherlands if you want to discover sights and sounds that no other Dutch city has.

Kabul – Birds eye-view of Babur’s Garden
Photo by: Carl Montgomery, Creative Commons

Dreaming of a thrilling trip? Well, there great surprises that awaits you at Kabul, Afghanistan that will surely take your breath away. Experience the post-war scenario in this historical city that gave birth to one of the bravest people on earth today, the Taliban.

But more than just knowing its past, this city offers great deals of vacation packages that you and your family can truly enjoy. There are different hot spots you can visit in a three-day tour package, and more inimitable activities to do.

Sites to see

As contrary to what most people expect from this place, you will be seeing less of desert and more breathtaking scenarios. Some of the notable spots to visit are the Kuh-e Darwaza, where tall ancient city walls were built centuries ago, and the Shor Bazaar, which is an old part of the city and boasts a huge bird market.

Another regal site to visit in Kabul, Afghanistan is the Babur’s garden. It is a significant place among locals because it is where the great Mugul Emperor, Babar, is buried. It also has an oasis that makes the spot a cool place to do some recreational activities. Other places that you should not miss are the Noon Cannon, Mausoleum of Timur Shah, and the Shahdo-Shamshira Mosque.

A unique dining experience

After a day’s tour around the city, the next best thing that you should do is to sit down and dine. Kabul takes pride on its dishes that resembles Indian cooking, thus you should expect some hot and spicy tang in the food. You can also have a taste of their world-famous bread, the Naan, which is a perfect soup mate. Moreover, you should also savour the homemade wine and some unique fruit mix drinks.

Kabul, Afghanistan may be a famous place in world history because of the war that took place. But more than the damages that the war had caused are the great sceneries and tourist spots that continue to stand with pride.

Kawasan Falls in Cebu
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Cebu City is the Philippines’ oldest city. It is often referred to as the “Queen City of the South”. Christianity all began in Cebu, Philippines. This is the reason why as you explore the city, you will be welcomed by its rich history. Cebuano’s, the locals of the city, take pride in their culture and rich historical heritage that endured the times. The legacy all began when Ferdinand Magellan planted the cross on the shores of Cebu. From that century up to this day, the city has been gradually urbanized to become a metropolitan center that serves as portal for the economic growth of the south of the Philippines.

Cebu City is more than just a venue for trade and business. There is more to the city than big malls and fancy hotels. Every year, Cebu attracts thousands of tourists to its festivities. The Sinulog Festival is one of the city’s biggest celebrations. This festivity is meant to honor and culminate the city’s patron saint, the Santo Niño. The festival transpires on January’s third Sunday. Sinulog Festival is characterized by a Mardi Gras parade on the streets and a lively show at Fuente Osmeña.

Going to Cebu is entirely easy. There are direct flights from international airports to Cebu itself. If you are in Manila, all you need is a single flight to Cebu. The Queen City of the South has recently become a top tourist destination because of the 167 islets and islands that are surrounded by sparkling sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Cebu is a place for diving fans because of its many diving grounds and excellent facilities. Cebu, Philippines is strategically located; it is a top tourist spot for individuals who want to hop islands by riding boats or buses. You can go from one side of the city to another in just thirty minutes.

If you plan on going to Cebu, Philippines, it is better to get there between December and May. It is in these months that the weather is dry. During summer, temperature can be as high as 37-degrees Celsius, making you enjoy the hot sun while in the cozy beaches of the coast.

Dusk by the lake in Lausanne
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Lausanne is another French-speaking city in Switzerland, and if you’re wondering about what sets it apart from the other French-speaking cities, that would be the seat of International Olympic Committee which is right at the heart of Lausanne. So, it wouldn’t be surprising to note that a lot of sporting activities take place in the city. Water sports, mountaineering, cycling, ice hockey, football, swimming, skating, baseball, marathon and running are among the favorite sports of the people in Lausanne.

Yearly, athletic contests such as road running occur through the city streets, Tour de Romandie or road cycling competition, marathon, triathlon and other sporting events are held in Lausanne.

The city also showcases their culture through different annual events. They have Prix de Lausanne every January which is a world renowned week-long dance competition taking place at Theatre de Beaulieu. Every July, they also have this Festival de la Cite or Feast of the City, and they host many other festivals throughout the year.

Just like other cities, monuments and museums are the popular sites of attraction for tourists. Notre Dame de Lausanne is the most famous monument in Lausanne, and museums such as Olympic Museum, Elysée Museum, Art Brut Collection, Lausanne History Museum, Science Center for Kids, and Cantonal Botanical Museum and Gardens among others are the hotspots of the city.

Nature lovers and art enthusiasts would be overwhelmed with the Mediterranean plant species and Gothic-style architectures found in the parks and the old town respectively.

The city’s proximity to Lake Geneva gives it that mild climate. Cool breeze from the lake and warm humid winds from the Atlantic marks its summer months, which are usually hottest between July and August. The climate becomes cooler when autumn comes in September, and snow falls on December.

Beau-Rivage Palace along the shoreline of port Ouchy and Hotel de l’Angleterre are among the grand palace hotels in the city that are busy accepting visitors all year round.

You won’t go wrong if you choose Lausanne as one of your destinations when you make your tour of Switzerland.

Nadi Sunset
Photo by: Abulic Monkey, Creative Commons

Fiji is one of the most popular tourist spots among foreigners. And if you also want to know why it is so popular, you should consider going there on your next vacation trip.

One of the most popular places in Fiji is Nadi, Fiji. This is because the place is the main point of entry if you want to go to different tourist spots in Fiji. It has the main International Airport, which is why the place mainly caters to tourists, though there are about 10,000 local people who are native Fijians or Indians living in the place.

Because of the majority of Indo-Fijian population in Nadi, the place is also the center for Islam and Hinduism.

You will surely enjoy your stay in Nadi, Fiji because of the many different things that you can do there. No matter what kind of interests you have, Nadi will surely have some interesting activities waiting for you.

If you are an outdoorsy type of person, you can go biking to some of Nadi’s cool trails with other bikers. You can bring use your own bike if you were able to bring it or you can rent a mountain bike from the rental shop along with maps, road book, and bike accessories that you will need for safety. This is a fun way to get the feel of the place while the wind is blowing on your face.

You can also go scuba diving in Scuba Bula diving center. This is a great diving center because they have 22 diving sites and the nearest one is only 10 minutes away! How cool is that? Once you are underwater, you will see the amazing marine life which includes hundreds of colourful fish species. The view is breathtaking. No wonder why many people choose Fiji when they want to go Scuba diving.

On the other hand, if you are the type of person who enjoys cultural and religious sites, you can visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple. This is the biggest Hindu temple in the southern hemisphere. You will feel as if you are in India because the temple looks very much like the temples in India.

There are many other things that you can do in Nadi, Fiji such as beach and island hopping, jet skiing, boating, and many other leisure activities. There are also many hotels to choose from—from low budget hotels to luxury hotels.

You will surely enjoy your stay in Nadi, Fiji. And if you think you have done all the interesting activities that you can do there, you can visit the nearby islands and places in Fiji that offer other interesting activities for all kinds of tourists.

Downtown Masan, South Korea
Photo by: Nzfooty, Creative Commons

When searching for places to go overseas, doing the proper research is essential. One of the places you’re certain to find is a place in South Korea known as the Masan City. This city is found in South Gyengsang Province and located at the Masan Bay that is about 35 km west of the city of Busan. The city is well renowned for its textile industry and the site of the production tools of Hite Brewery.

Once you have made your itinerary for Masan, here are some of the recommended spots and activities that you may want to get yourself busy with.

The term Masan means horse mountain. From the Dotseom Island, you can take a ferry ride to see the circus and carnival at the Masan Bay. You can also stretch some muscles and perspire by hiking till you reach its Muhaksan or the highest peak.

For entertainment, a visit to central business district in Chang-dong, including its commercial neighborhood, which is the Hapseong-dong are places to go to. Here you will find many restaurants, bars, and many more.

Masan has a baseball stadium that hosts the Lotte Giants. You can also try going around its amusement park and zoo that can be found at the small island of Dot-do, which is open only during summer.

You should also make sure to give the delicacies a try while you are in Masan. You can start by eating a plate of spicy Agujjim, a steamed dish made with black mouth angler. You can also try visiting its popular fish market, Eosijang.

French Friars Cathedral in Waterford
Photo by: Roomic Cube, Creative Commons

Waterford, as Ireland’s oldest city, has lured millions of visitors every year. Well why not? If you come to think of it, the city does not only pride of being the oldest, but it also offers several places of interests that tourists and locals alike are bound to enjoy.
What are those places of interest?
Here is a list of them.

1. The Waterford City Hall
In some places, a city hall is just a solid structure with nothing but walls and desks inside of them. But that premise does not apply in this particular hall. This is because the building itself is a magnificent work of art designed by a local Waterford architect named John Roberts during 18th century. Currently, this building does not only house government officials and workers but it also holds the city’s municipal art collection.
2. Dungarvan Museum (Waterford County Museum)
This local museum takes you back in time as it narrates the history of Dungarvan and Waterford from Ice Age to Georgian periods with the use of a huge collection of photographs. The numerous photographs are also backed up by artifacts that include anything from trophies, accessories, old cameras and coin collection.
3. Reginald’s Tower Museum
By being considered to be the oldest tower made of mortared stone in the entire Europe, Reginald’s Tower Museum has rightfully claimed to be the most popular landmark in the area. Since its construction on 1003 A.D. the castle has been utilized as a military fortress, a prison and even a shelter. Now, after centuries of rich military and political history, it became the venue of the city’s civic and maritime museum.
4. Dunmore East Beach
This should be your final stop if you have grown tired of all the hustle and bustle in the city. The golden sandy shores offer rest and relaxation to anyone who wants to spend a lazy afternoon at the beach. Just a warning though, the beach can be pretty crowded during summer, so if you plan to take your kids with you, make sure that you help the lifeguard by keeping your eyes on them.

Bamiyan Monks Caves in Afghanistan
Photo by: Tracy Hunter, Creative Commons

A place damaged by war can still offer you a worthwhile experience. Just like in the case of Bamiyan, Afghanistan, where the remains of ancient times continue to awe tourists coming from various parts of the globe. There are more wonders to see in this place that you will surely cherish forever.

A three-day visit to Bamiyan, Afghanistan is already a good tour package that will allow you to experience the best of this place. You will be doing a lot of sightseeing, camel rides, and shopping for potteries, embroideries and carpets. But the highlight of the tour is always to be acquainted with the scenic spots, and some of these are the following:

Bamiyan Valley

A remarkable sight to behold. Here, you will encounter wide slopes and soaring cliffs. The panoramic view is breathtaking and it is a perfect spot if you are seeking for some breathing space.

Shari Ghul Ghula

A very important place that the locals are preserving for centuries now. It is also called “the city of screams” and it is notable for being one of the cities destroyed by Genghis Khan during his reign.

Band-i-amir Lake

If you want a cool and relaxing ambiance, this spot is perfect for you. Its gleaming sapphire blue waters are irresistible, and the entire place is famous for being a lovers’ spot.

There are other remarkable places you can visit while you are in Bamiyan, Afghanistan. But as you take a trip along the road, you will still be mesmerized by the ancient qala (forts) and the caravanserai or commonly known as the rest spot for camel caravans.

Moreover, you can also indulge in some of the luscious dishes that only Afghani people can make. Their hot and spicy flavors will really drive your appetite, and their delicious mix of seasonal fruits is a perfect trip companion.

Matamanoa – Quiet Paradise
Photo by: Richard Gifford, Creative Commons

If you want to forget about your daily worries and work-related problems, you should go to Matamanoa Island, Fiji. True to its purpose or objective of pure rest and relaxation, the island has a policy that does not allow children who are below 12 years old in the island. The idea behind this is that they want adults to fully experience the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of the place, without having to run around or take care of small children. Although it can be said that this place is not for families with small children, this is nevertheless the best place for adults who want to relax and forget about everything.

You should think about joining a guided tour or activities so that you will not miss anything in the island. Of course, you have to pay an extra fee but at least you will be able to enjoy the things that the island has to offer.

If you want to go solo, you can try different outdoor activities like snorkelling, wind surfing, fishing, and boating. Water sports are great activities because the island boasts several great beaches. If you want to go island hopping, you can take advantage of the yacht cruise that will take you to different interesting islands, one of them is the location of the movies “Castaway” which starred Tom Hanks. Foods and drinks are all available on board.

One special kind of boating is to ride on a boat with glass bottom. You can watch the colourful world underwater while riding a boat. It is amazing how you can see fish, corals, and other sea creatures without getting yourself wet. This is the perfect solution for people who are scared of diving in deep water but still want to enjoy seeing marine life.

If you love to play sports and you still want to do it while you are in Matamanoa Island, Fiji, you can still do so because the island has several recreation centers where you can play volleyball, tennis, and even board games. You can do this if the weather outside is not so good, which is rare because it seldom rains in Fiji.

Another thing that you can do to rest and relax is to pamper yourself with different tropical massages, manicure, facial, and pedicure while you are in your own room. You will not only feel good during your stay in Matamanoa. You will also look good.

Kakadu Evening in Darwin
Photo by: Phineas H, Creative Commons

It is almost always sunny in Darwin, Australia. Its tropical climate is a great outdoor vacation destination for people all over the world. Vacationing during the months of April through September is the best time for you to be able to experience the great outdoors. Darwin, small as it would seem, is a major tourist destination. It serves as a hub for nature park tours to places such as the Kakadu National Park, the Litchfield National Park, and the Katherine Gorge. The weather is very warm and sunny during the dry season. But, during the wet season, you can expect to experience thunderstorms and monsoon rains. These rains replenish the water that the dry season has sucked out from the landscape.

Darwin is another multicultural city of Australia. Its population is composed of both locals and immigrants mostly from Asian countries like Indonesia and East Timor. Visitors from Southeast Asia is not surprising as Darwin is considered to be a gateway to and from these countries. There are plenty of things to do in Darwin. Because the population of this smallest Australian capital city is relatively young, you can expect the city to be vibrant and updated. It is best to experience the city by taking walking tours, getting on and off the tour bus, or through rental bikes that you can ride along the designated path weaving in and out of the lush esplanade. From these paths you can already appreciate the breathtaking views of the harbor.

The young crowd in Darwin makes for a very exciting nightlife. The pubs and nightclubs in Darwin ooze with vibrant, youthful energy. Mitchell Street, the hub of Darwin’s nightlife, serves as the center of activity. Satisfy your gustatory cravings with the fresh seafood fare at the Cullen Bay. This and other restaurants in the city of Darwin have in their menus a mixture of continental selections and authentic Northern Territory food choices. These include mud crabs, buffalo, kangaroo and crocodile. You can expect that a platter of local seafood would not cost you an arm and a leg at the Stokes Hill wharf. You can even catch your fish in the world-class fishing destination that is Darwin. That’s fresh as fresh can be! More fresh food could be found at the Parap, the Nightcliff, and the Mindil Beach during weekends when Darwin is scattered with open air markets. Arts and crafts as well as other musical performances could also be found in these open air markets.

Pusan temple at the foot of a hill
Photo by: angel malachite, Creative Commons

You are deciding where to go next on your travel adventure when your interest is piqued by South Korea’s second largest metropolis, Pusan. Its official name is Busan Metropolis City that has the largest port city in the country, which is the fifth largest in the whole world. This can be found at the Southeasternmost edge of the Korean Peninsula. The name may be familiar because it hosted the APEC 2005 Korea. Pusan hosted the 2002 Asian Games and became one of the host cities the same year for the FIFA World Cup. It continues to show its interest in sports after it has announced that the city is officially bidding to become the host for the Summer Olympic Games in 2020.

Aside from sports, this is also considered a favorite spot for shoppers because the place houses the Shinsegae Centrum City, which is actually the largest department store in the world. The city has current projects of building numerous multi-skyscraper projects. It is also pursuing to create the third tallest building in the world, the Lotte Super Tower that they aim to finish in 2013. They hope that this is going to follow in the steps of the Burj Khalifa building in Dubai.

Pusan usually gets a humid subtropical climate and any extremities in weather are very rare. The last storm that caused lots of damage and fatalities in the area happened on September 12, 2003 during the Typhoon Maemi.

While in the area, you may want to visit its beaches, parks, resorts and museums. For hiking enthusiasts, you have to visit the Geumjeongsan. This can be found near a highly established national institute for high school education, which is known as PNU or the Pusan National University.

Along Dongnae-gu, you can go at its famous natural spa area, which is known as the Dongnae Oncheon. You will find lots of shopping centers, restaurants and tourist hotels within the vicinity.

The city is the summer capital of the country because it has six beaches that people love going to during the season. You can definitely make the most out of your time by spending enough days going around the scenic spots at Pusan, South Korea.

Jakarta Skyline at Twilight
Photo by: yohanes budiyanto, Creative Commons

Jakarta is a dynamic city at the heart of Indonesia. It is the country’s capital as it is the largest city in Indonesia as well. Upon visiting Indonesia, your first step would be in Jakarta. For this reason, it is vital to know the important tourist destinations in the city. Be guided with the following destinations:

• Immanuel Church
It is a baroque style church built around 17th century. It is rich in old paintings which complements its baroque style architecture. The church is also equipped with a 400 year old organ which attracts a lot of tourists.

• Istana Merdeka
This is the Presidential Palace. In the early years, it is known as the Koningsplein Palais. It is neoclassical in structure as it is built around 17th century. The palace has a well preserved garden which matches up the palace’s classical architecture.

• Jalan Pekojan Old Houses
These are Chinese houses built in 18th century as a response to the growing community of Chinese merchants. Today, these historical houses still stand and many are converted into temples and ash houses.

• Theme Parks
There are lots theme and amusement parks in Jakarta. The most visited are Dunia Fantasi, Atlantis Water Adventure, Taman Ompian Jaya Ancol and Sea World. The Indonesia Miniature Park is one remarkable tourist spot in Jakarta as it is the most famous destination place for a lot of tourists.

• Museums
Because of Jakarta’s rich history, there are many museums built within the city. Some of the museums are as follows: the Jakarta History Museum, Fine Art and Ceramic Museum, Wayang Museum, Bank Mandiri Museum, Maritime Museum and Bank Indonesia Museum. Each of these museums has different kinds of artifacts to present as evidenced on their names.

• Kelapa Gading District
This is Jakarta’s shopping district. It is located in northern part of Jakarta and a lot of malls and shopping centers can be found here. It is a must-visit destination for many tourists as a lot of merchandises can be purchased here.

Because Jakarta is a very large city, a single day would not be enough to tour around the city. Allot enough time in roaming around Jakarta and experience the city’s delightful beauty!