Alberobello ARC Trulli shops
Photo by: Verity Cridland, Creative Commons

Step on to Alberobello and it will seem as if you have instantly shrunken into an elf with the quaint little houses that are reminiscent of fairytale images. The white houses, which have their distinctive cone shaped roofs, can easily bring out the child in you. Children who are lucky enough to catch a glimpse of these charming houses delightfully point at it with traces of disbelief in their eyes. And once you feel the undeniable myriad of excitement and child like wonder, then you know that you have just truly arrived at Alberobello.

These magical houses are called “trulli”, one reason for Alberobello’s claim to fame. The trulli are circular, and fashioned out of limestone blocks. The origins on why the structures were made this way is debatable to this time, but the mystery doesn’t rob the town of any of its charm nonetheless. The town is small and all major points of interests can easily be accessed through walking. You can have your share of their best local fare at a number of restaurants that are open to the public throughout the day. And for a real treat, why not stay in a trullo for a night for a totally unique experience.

Come to Alberobello for the summer months and indulge yourself in the number of different festivities that you will be able to catch. It’s a charming place for both locals and foreigners alike and will bring delight to all ages. Just don’t forget to take a piece of the magic with you home by purchasing your own version of the trullo from the many gift shops that surround the main plaza. At the end of the day, Have a glass of their finest wine and make a toast to the charm of such a fairytale scene that would otherwise only exist on a movie set.

Streets of Syracuse
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Syracuse, in the mysterious Italian island of Sicily was once a powerful Greek force that rivaled any notable colonies in history. And because of its Mediterranean influence, it’s easy to get lost in the idea that you are actually vacationing on a Greek island. Today, this holiday destination is a modern city that boasts of having the best of both Italian and Greek influences that delight any visitor looking for a Mediterranean holiday.

Although the city of Syracuse is located within the mainland of Sicily, transportation from the mainland shouldn’t be a problem as there are a trains that run through the coast. Cars can also be easily transported through ferries that travel to Messina. From Syracuse, it’s easy to travel to other towns and cities surrounding the area as there are normal bus routes that you can take if you want to travel around.

While in Syracuse, don’t forget to stay a day or two at their most famous destination, the Ortygia Island. You will find the best of Mediterranean living has to offer you there are you feast on the best seafood and drink the finest wine. You can also visit their aquarium if you want to come up close and personal with the different aquatic life forms that can be found in their sea. Don’t forget to make a stop at the Greek theater and the roman amphitheater which both claims to be the biggest of their kind in the land.

Syracuse is a place where both the Greek architecture and roman way of life happily coexist with each other, making it easy for anyone to quickly lose any sense of time. So don’t forget to book your own trip today and have a grand time lazily taking in the sun, the sands and everything else there is for a truly happy life.

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Your roman holiday will not be complete without first taking a stroll down at the Quirinale district and tossing a coin or two at the Trevi fountain. A structural masterpiece that has been regaled to be the most famous in Italy used to be just another regular fountain on display. It wasn’t until Hollywood took notice of its potential and featured it in its love story classics such as “La Dolce Vita” and “Three Coins in the Fountain” that visitors started flocking to the scene. Today, it’s alive with the spirit of lovers, local and foreign alike, with the hope of finding their own eternal love, just like in the movies.

The Trevi fountain is most glorious and magnificent to see during the night when it is strategically lighted and the image of Neptune, the god of the sea, on his chariot comes to you in a very authoritative stance that commands both power and subtlety. Locals say that the fountain is a reflection of the moods of the seas which could transcend between calmness and restlessness all at the same time. And don’t forget to throw a coin into the water in a way that makes Trevi fountain unique and different from all the other fountains in Italy.

With your back facing the fountain, throw the coin over your shoulder and hope that it safely lands where it’s supposed to. Legend has it, that anyone who throws a coin into the fountain this way is assured to return back to the magnificent city someday.

The Trevi fountain is a representation of the classic Rome and the new thriving city that it is today. So make it a point to pass by whenever you find yourself in Rome. You’ll simply be overwhelmed with the feelings of magic, love and hop that surround the place.

Rome Famous Landmarks

A quiet afternoon at the Barcaccia Fountain
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The Spanish steps in the Piazza di Spagna can be considered as one of the most iconic images of Italy that is known to the foreign world. Because of its majestic beauty and truly one of the most notable architectural accomplishmenst of the Baroque art era, it is the most popular tourist destination in the city of Rome. The staircase’s claim to fame is due to the fact that it is the grandest of all staircases in Europe today. Your Roman holiday will not be complete if you don’t take a stroll down this magnificent work of art.

The Piazza di Spagna is also home to other famous Italian icons such as the Barcaccia Fountain where you can throw in a coin while you whisper the deepest longings of your heart. And you can also take a walk along another particularly beautiful staircase called the Trinita dei Monti. The total experience is that which will both amaze and excite you as you bear witness to the old world seamlessly transcend with the new modern way of life. As much as there are all these magnificent structures to astound you, you will be able to still have a feel of the modern comforts of the new world with the best hotels and restaurants surrounding the square.

A visit to the Spanish steps is not just a feast for the eyes, but for all the other senses as well. Why not have a cone of world famous Italian gelato while you listen to the chatter of different languages that linger on in the air? And at the end of your Roman holiday, let yourself be overwhelmed by the different colors, smells and sounds as you bid farewell to a classic destination that will always be a favorite among the passersby that have gone before you.

Rome Famous Landmarks

Lama Temple
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When you say grand and biggest preserved lamasery in China, the Lama Temple or Yonghe Lamasery comes to mind. This temple is in North Beijing, known as the place of peace and harmony. With its magnificent big halls and fancy archways that serve as home to Buddhist arts, it is a tribute to China’s rich culture.

The temple, built in the 16th century during Qing Dynasty was intended to serve as the residence of Emperor Yongzheng. In the 17th century however, it was changed to Yonghe lamasery housing sculptures of Buddhist gods, Buddhas, and demons. The temple is one reason why the Great Wall’s construction was not completed during the Qing Dynasty as it housed monks from Tibet and Mongolia.

Yellow tiles were used for the flooring of the Lama temple, the same with the Hall of Harmony and Peace. Hall of Harmony and Peace has 3 bronze Buddha statues: Gautama Buddha, Kasyapa Buddha, and Maitreya Buddha.

The other hall is the Hall of Everlasting Protection where a Bhaisaya guru Buddha is placed as a center attraction.

The Hall of the Wheel of the Law is a venue for reading and religious ceremonies. The Je Tsongkhapa statue is found here along with the Five-Hundred-Arhat-Hill made of the metals tin, gold, silver, iron, and copper.

The Hall of Heavenly Kings houses a Maitreya Buddha statue, and the wall sculptures of the four Heavenly Kings.

The last hall, the Pavilion of Ten Thousand Happiness, has an 18 meter tall Maitreya Buddha Sandalwood sculpture.

It is not difficult to find this temple. The Lama Temple is one of the most popular and most important buildings of Chinese culture. The courtyards and the halls, with its intricate decorations and spacious areas are so majestic.

The Courtyard at the Santa Maria delle Grazie
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The church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is truly a spectacular Italian landmark that no visitor exploring Italy should dare miss. Located in the Italian fashion capital of Milan, the church is open to viewers from Tuesday to Saturdays starting at 8am to 8pm. And although there is no entrance charge to enter the church, there is a reservation charge for those who want to catch a glimpse of the famous Last Supper painting by the great Leonardo. Just make sure to book your reservations immediately when you get to Milan or even before you embark on the trip to ensure a guaranteed access to the famous painting.

Having survived the bombing during the second world war, the Santa Maria delle Grazie is now a privileged member of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites as it is the home of the famed last supper painting. And although the painting has miraculously survived war attacks in the past, its greatest challenge today lies in its proper conservation and restoration. This specific work of Leonardo has been drawing crowds for decades and even more the past few years because of a certain controversial book featuring “The Last Supper”.

Regardless of religious affiliations and conspiracy beliefs, art enthusiasts and history buffs alike will revel in the beauty that the Santa Maria delle Grazie. The architecture is a representation of everything that is remarkable about the human design and ingenuity and can be considered as one of the most studied structures in history today. So don’t miss your chance at getting a closer look at the cultural side of Milan after a long grueling day of sightseeing and shopping around the city, just head to the peaceful sanctuary and offer a prayer or two.

Mount Meru viewed from Kilimanjaro
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As the rain falls on dense swamps and tall grass, the wild animals frolic and play. Reticulated giraffe, cheetah, zebra, elephant hippopotamus and lion – they are all here. Close to 300 species of birds look for trees for shelter as they await the rainbow after the downpour. This is the Meru National Park, a one of a kind forest reserve East of Meru.

Those who have read Joy Adamson’s “Born Free” (which was later made into a film) would find the name of the park familiar. It’s because here is where Joy and husband George Adamson raised Elsa the Lioness before releasing her into the Kenyan wildlife sanctuary. The lion that was born in the wild but raised by conservationists did survive in the great outdoors and even had cubs of her own. Today, visitors can even see the gravesite of Elsa, where parts of Joy’s ashes were scattered.

From the Mulika Lodge Airport, guests are minutes away from the national park. Among the tourist attractions in the park are the Adamson’s Falls, the Tana River, George and Joy Adamson’s Residence (which is open for public viewing), and the majestic view of Mount. Kenya.

Unlike other game parks, hunters find this place a very difficult terrain to embark on a safari because the abundant rainfall in the area resulted in the proliferation of tall grass and lush swamps (which hides game animals from the hunters’ view). This is probably one of the reasons why the Meru National Park is overlooked by most of the tourists who go to Kenya in the past.

Poor security and poaching in the area had a grave impact on Meru National Park. The Kenya Wildlife Service, through the help of International Fund for Animal Welfare or IFAW has fully restored the park and is now one of the most promising destinations in the African continent. The restoration project has provided wildlife conservationist’s basic infrastructure to better serve the tourists as well as equipment for security measures.

National Museum of Iraq
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The National Museum of Iraq is known to house a significant number of historical artifacts that has helped people learn more about the Mesopotamian civilizations and middle-eastern life in general. It first opened its doors to the public in 1926 through the efforts of author and British traveler Gertrude Ball, who unfortunately passed away months before the museum welcomed its first guests. Because of many conflicts that befell the country in the past, many important relics that were originally included in the museum’s display have been looted and sold to private collectors through the black market. In 2009, the national museum once again opened its glory to the world for a day by the Iraqi prime minister Al – Maliki.

Although the national museum no longer holds its former grandeur, it is a relief to know that history is not completely all lost. There are many artifacts that are still kept within its walls, some even dating back to the prehistoric era.

If you want to take a tour of the National Museum of Iraq, you can do so just by logging on to its official website and taking the virtual tour. The museum is still under constant renovation and strictly under lock and key because of important historical items that are being guarded. You can also help the efforts of the Iraqi government for the further development and protection of the museum by sending in cash donations or volunteering your services. You can also report certain cases if you happen to find any relics that they declare to be part of the museum’s collection. For the meantime, while the museum is being rebuilt, you can enjoy the photos on the official museum website.

San Gimignano viewed from a tower.
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There is a lot to be said about the towers of San Gimignano. This town is famous worldwide for its picturesque medieval scenery. When you visit, it is like setting foot into a fairytale, in a time when towers were as natural to a town as towering skyscrapers are to the modern cities of today. It serves as a symbol of power and wealth as families during the thirteenth century scrambled to have their own towers constructed to their name as a sign of their social standing in the overall strata. San Gimignano may be a vague memory of its former glory today, but your holiday along the Tuscan hills will never be complete without stopping by this town for a stopover.

Don’t be afraid to take a walk along the Piazza Della Cisterna where the friendly locals who go about their daily routines will greet you warmly. The grueling task of purchasing assorted souvenirs to take back home can instantly turn into a treat as many trades and wares can be bought on the cheap. Intricate ceramics as well as custom jewelry will make fine tokens and remind you of your most enchanting trip. And don’t forget to sample the fresh produce and the infamous Vernacci wine at any charming bistro of your choice.

It’s best to come in for the winter and spring holidays if you’re looking to explore San Gimignano in peace and without the bustle of the loud summer crowd that it naturally draws in during the months of June to September. It will also be easy to have your own picking on the type of accommodations you choose at this time since most hotels, villas and bed and breakfasts have special offers in store for people who will come to visit during the lean months.

Welcome to Nairobi National Park
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At a glance, you wouldn’t think that there is a national park a stone’s throw away from bustling Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. Nairobi is perhaps the only major city in the world that has a natural game protection park in its outskirts. Little do visitors know that the Nairobi National Park is the country’s oldest national park.

Established by the end of 1946, the 117 square kilometer savanna is a sanctuary for the Black Rhinos, a specie unique to Kenya. These huge creatures can be seen in the park all year round while most animals migrate (depending on the time of the year). A mere seven-kilometer ride from the country’s capital is all that’s needed to reach the park. Guests can take a day tour to explore the vastness of this protected sanctuary as there are no accommodations within the park. However, those who would like to visit the area can choose some of the good hotels or inns in the nearby city of Nairobi.

If you happen to visit the national park between July and August, you will have a good chance of seeing herds of zebra, eland and wildebeest that feast on the area’s abundant grass. Among the animals that are regularly seen roaming on the great savanna include lions and buffalos as well as leopards and hippos. Because of the good network of roads, a saloon can be used to explore the park. But if you want to experience the wild up-close, a 4×4 vehicle is just right.

Visitors can trek the Nature Trail or step in to the Education Center right after the main gate to know more about the animals that call this place their home. And right after that, they can stay outdoors and relax in six picnic sites within the park. Nearby is the historic Ivory Burning Site, a monument to the government’s fight against poaching of elephant tusks and rhino horns.

Ponte Vecchio
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Ponte Vecchio is a popular medieval bridge in Florence crossing the Arno River with bustling tourist everyday. No wonder it is tagged as one of the famous places in Italy.

The name Ponte Vecchio is Italian meaning Old Bridge. The name suits the bridge because it dates back during the Roman Empire. Originally, the bridge was made out of wood but a flood destroyed it in the 1333 and was rebuilt in 1345; thus the bridge we see today, is a three arched bridge made of stone. The architecture of the bridge is mainly attributed to Taddeo Gaddi. In 1565, Giorgio Vasari was commissioned to build the upper part of the bridge, today it is called the Vasariano Corridor.

The corridor connects the Ufizzi Gallery and the Pitti Palace and functions as an art gallery. During World War II, it was the only bridge spared by the Germans during the siege in Italy; however, access to the bridge was obstructed by destroying the buildings at both sides of the bridge.

Today, the bridge is lined with leather and jewelry shops, hawking their craft learned through the ages. You can find deals outside the bridge as well.

Midway the bridge, you can enjoy the view of the Arno River and the Tuscan houses near the shores. It is also a good idea to go to the bridge during sunset. Aside from the fact that the volume of tourist is not that bigger, you can also view the river with the city lights illuminated on it, making it more picturesque.

Different musicians and buskers also frequent the place during sunset to entertain tourists. You might also want to visit Ponte Santa Trinita and Ponte alla Grazie to take good pictures of Ponte Vecchio with the sunset. It’ll be a great way to end your day in Florence.

Pitti Palace its not just two stories.
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If you’re an art enthusiast or you’re trying to pin down some of the famous places in Italy, Palazzo Pitti or Pitti Palace is definitely worth visiting. It is, after all, the largest museum complex in Florence.

The Pitti Palace is located south of the Arno River and a five-minute walk from Ponte Vecchio. It is the former residence of the Medici Family. Before the Medici’s bought the palace, Luca Pitti, who is described as an ambitious Florentine banker, owned it. The ordinary façade of the palace might fool you at first, but when you get inside the complex all your first impression will definitely be erased. Inside the palace you can view the Royal Apartment complex. During the rule of the Medici’s the palace functioned as a guesthouse for different royal families.

The Royal Apartment is composed of 14 rooms, all lavishly decorated fit for the guests and contains portraits of the Medici’s. Other than the Royal Apartment, you could also visit the Palatine Gallery, home to more than 500 Renaissance art works of Europe’s greatest painters. Famous among the collection is Raphael’s La Donna Velata or “Woman with a Veil.” You will see works of art by Boticelli, Reubens, Lerreggio and Pietro da Cortona. Other parts of the Palace are the Gallery of Modern Arts, which opened in 1928; the Silver Museum; Costume Museum, which showcases the evolution of Florentine fashion; and the Porcelain Museum.

After visiting the museums, you might want to take a break and take in everything that you saw in the palace. If that’s the case the Boboli Gardens is a perfect place then. Situated right behind the Pitti Palace, it is an Italian formal garden dating back from the 16th century. It is adorned with grottos, pools, fountains and corridors of clipped hedging. The Boboli garden is also one of the famous places in Italy because of the beautiful statues located all through out the garden. You can even spot some works by the famous Michelangelo.

So don’t forget to bring your camera and enough batteries if you’re going to visit the Pitti Palace! It will definitely be a humbling experience to stand before the creation of great Florentine artists.

Treetops Hotel overlooking Falls
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It is said that the best places to stay are the ones with history embossed on its walls. And if it happens to be in the African savanna, then the stay is made much more exciting.

Such is the hype that surrounds the famous Treetops Hotel, a tree lodge in Aberdare National Park whose foundation is basically made on stilts (because the location where the structure was built is actually facing a waterhole and a salt lick). And while its rustic design has attracted visitors from different nations, it is the story of a little princess that mesmerized the whole world. Princess Elizabeth, who was staying here in February 1952, learned of her father’s death (King George VI), and ascended to the throne while inside the lodge. This is the first time that a British monarch succeeded the crown outside England since the 1801 Act of Union. So in commemoration of this historic event, a lodge suite was named after Queen Elizabeth.

At more than 6,000 feet above sea level, the lodge becomes chilly especially at night. So those who are planning to stay here overnight should bring warm clothes. A rooftop platform and four viewing decks make it easy for guests to have sightings of buffalos, rhinos and elephants while taking sips of their drinks. Serious photographers, on the other hand, can take advantage of the two photographic hides located at the ground level.

Guests can choose between 50 cozy rooms (including two suites). Even if you are inside your room, you will not miss out on anything as there is an optional buzzer in the space-efficient rooms which alerts you when there is something going on – be it a once-in-a-lifetime sighting or simply an up-close encounter of some wild animals. On a clear-skied morning, you will see the majestic Mouth Kenya from the lodge.

Piazza della Signoria Courtyard
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Visitors who find spending their money in entrance fees in museums too much, Florence has a perfect place for you, The Piazza della Signoria. One of the famous places in Italy, for giving visitors a feel of an open-air museum.

Piazza della Signoria is located at the heart of Florence. It is an L shaped square, adorned with sculptures dating back the renaissance period. It is ideal to start your walk at the Loggia dei Lanzi. Loggia dei Lanzi is designed in 1352 and is named after the bodyguards of Duke Cosimo I- the Lancers. It is composed of huge arches on street and is lined with different sculptures, some from the Renaissance Period and other during the Roman Empire. A sculpture by Cellini, called “Perseus” (1554) can be seen along the Loggia dei Lanzi, it shows the Roman God holding the head of Medusa. It previously served as a warning to Duke Cosimo I’s enemies. Like other statues found in the Piazza Roman gods are often a favorite subject as well as important events in the history of the Roman Empire.

Another notable statue is one by Giambologna called “The Rape of the Sabine Women” (1583). The word rape in this context means abduction, it is said that the first generation of Romans abducted women from Sabine to be their wives. The statue then is noted for depicting the struggle and emotions of the said event.

Another point of interest in the piazza is the Fontana di Neptuno or Fountain of Neptune. It depicts the Roman God, surrounded by Nymphs, a symbol celebrating the victory of the Tuscan Navy. The piazza is also surrounded by the city’s important architectural structures. To name a few, around the piazza are the Ponte Vecchio, Galleria Degli Uffizi and the Palazzo Vecchio. The Palazzo Vecchio or Old Palace is a gothic building built in 1322, which attracted Vasari and other Florentine artist to participate in its construction. Inside the building you’ll see frescoes, paintings and statues like the “Victory” of Michelangelo and “Judith and Holfornes” by Donatello. Outside the building you could also marvel at a replica of Michelangelo’s “David.” The original piece was displayed outside the palace until 1873 but now is moved to the Galleria dell Academia.

Visitors can also enjoy mime statue performers around the piazza. You could also sit somewhere in the piazza and observe visitors and local walking around and passing through the piazza. You might be even lucky enough to meet a local, who could show you around the city. The Piazza della Signoria pays homage to Florentine art and history.

Siena at first sight
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For anyone looking for a quiet retreat from the hustle and the bustle, the quaint little town of Siena in Florence proves to be the heavenly destination for its art, history and wine. It has been in existence since the Middle Ages but don’t let that give you an image of an old run down town. Accommodations and facilities here are considered topnotch. So come explore and be enchanted by Siena, a gem that can be found in the middle of the Tuscan wine valley and a town fit for royalty.

If you’re thinking of the perfect time to visit Siena, expect the summer months of July to August to be the busiest of the year as many visitors make their way to this iconic town for not just the warm weather, but for the festivities as well. The Palio de Siena is an annual event that features a significant horse race among the contrades, or the city wards. The race dates back to the medieval era when events portraying sportsmanship and rivalry were all the rage among the dwellers of the town and many of its rites and rituals leading up to the race is still kept as part of this tradition. This all takes place at the Piazza del Campo, where on regular days, it is home to little shops dedicated to their trades of ceramics, metallic arts, and of course Italian wine.

Don’t forget to dedicate a whole day to just exploring the different building that are scattered all around the city such as the Torre del Mangia and the Bernini statue of Mary Magdalene at the Duomo. Its Gothic influences, which are evident in the different buildings, churches and towers, will give you a feel of the glory and power of Siena.

Corfu Island
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Are you wondering where to go for your trip to Greece? There is a perfect place for you and your whole family to visit. The place is Corfu. This is one of the popular tourist destinations in Greece. Ask any visitor who’s found their way there and they will only give you a deep sigh and a smile.

Yes, there are times when you get to visit some places where words are not enough to describe the total experience there. Well, here in Corfu, Greece, you will find yourself almost doing the same thing as the other visitors – giving off a deep sigh since you will be amazed at the landscapes and of course, the golden sand of its beaches.

Corfu is an island at the north side of the Ionian group. Don’t swim too far since you’d find yourself in the Adriatic Sea already but kidding aside, there so many places to drop by while you are in Corfu – you like museums? Corfu is popular with its ancient artifacts just remember that when you are inside any museum that has paintings and other sculptures, better draw it or just capture the moment in your mind since bringing out your cameras is prohibited. Is there an explorer in you? You’d be amazed at the sights of the Venetian fortress that Corfu has.

Visitors really do flock to this island as compared with the other neighboring islands since Corfu was the first one that opened its doors to tourism. Corfu is the happening place to be since there is Central Square Spiniada or Esplanade, the Liston or the rows if cafes where you can unwind after going through different churches in the island.

Corfu – rest, unwind, savor and relish.

Mount Athos
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Why do visitors go to Greece? Some visit for the mouthwatering cuisine. Others crave for the waves in the beaches with all that golden sand but did you know there is one other reason that attracts visitors to Greece? They all look forward to visit the oldest standing monastic community in the world, Mount Athos. One could easily whisper their prayers by just lifting their heads since Mount Athos is 2,039 meters high from the ground. They say that if one does have a height of seven feet, one’s head would be in the clouds already.

Due to the obvious difficulty to reach Mount Athos, the place is one of the virgin places in Greece. This does not hamper a visitor’s journey to reach the top of the Greek world so currently; locals and foreigners swamp the place. Did you know that Mount Athos can only be reached via a boat? There is just one bit of a problem; Mount Athos is strictly for male visitors only.

It is a monastery ran by Monks. They are all men who have isolated themselves from people, especially women. Try not to raise an eyebrow since it is purely logical enough as to why it is opened only to male visitors. There are close to 2,500 male inhabitants so if they see one woman, just hope the lightning strikes them first. There are also necessary permits to be completed but even though it does need some extra efforts just to enter, the experience is definitely worth of the wait.

Tsavo West
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There is a place in Kenya where nature and wildlife can be explored like you’ve never explored one before. It’s in the Tsavo West National Park, the land with magnificent scenery and varied wildlife.

Despite being smaller than that of Tsavo East, Tsavo West is frequented by more visitors each year. It is perhaps because of its breathtaking views that have become a haven for wild animals. This 9,000 kilometer game park is also famous for the Mzima Springs, what with its unique underwater hippo observatory. And there are instances where it is better to explore the park on foot, like going to the Chaimu volcanic crater and Shaitana lava flows.

A rhino sanctuary and an elephant habitat, Tsavo West National Park is operated by the Kenya Wildlife Service, which employs more than 300 personnel to maintain the park as well as serve the tourists. Despite having a lot of personnel, Kenya Wildlife Service allows the vast ecosystem to take its natural course and is only there to protect them from outside threats.

Lions, said to be descendants of the man-eating lions that attacked British engineers who built the railway, are often seen in the park. But the most common creatures here are elephants, rhino, cheetah, leopard, buffalo, giraffe and zebras.

Because of its mountainous terrain, some believe that it has the potential to be a rock climbing site. The Mountain Club of Kenya (MCK) was the first to explore the cliffs inside the park in 1978. Several ascent routes were mapped out. Mountain climbing enthusiasts who wish to conquer the mountains should initially contact MCK.

The not-so-tough adventure seeker can just sit back and relax in the park’s array of accommodations which include the Finch Hattons Camp, one of Kenya’s luxury tented camps. This camp is built near hippo pools so sight seeing at the comfort of the camp is a common activity for guests.

Taormina Cove
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On the eastern coast of the Sicilian island, there is a charming little town that shouldn’t be missed, it is called Taormina. It boasts of having the most beautiful sites and picturesque views that both foreign and local visitors alike come to this town to catch a glimpse of the blue Mediterranean waters. Come explore the ruins of an ancient Greek city that once thrived within the vicinity of the area and be taken back in time.

Probably one of the oldest towns in Italy, Taormina is considered to be one of the top vacations spots in Italy today. If you want to visit the town in peace, without the hustle and bustle of the visitor crowd, then come during the spring months of March to April, when you’ll find flowers blooming all around. This is also the best time to catch holiday deals since it’s considered to be the lean season in this relatively expensive holiday destination. Don’t be surprised if summer comes around and you find yourself stuck with other visitors who will instantly appear out of nowhere.

It’s a quiet town that does not thrive on nightlife, there are just a few nightspots. There are also only a few visitor attractions such as the Greco-Roman Theatre, where you will be able to see a great full view of the coastline and Mount Etna. This is because Taormina is all about simple pleasures and a simple way of life. Make your way to the Corso Umberto to have a taste of what the town is really like while you indulge in flavorful gelato. And don’t forget to grab some handcrafted souvenirs along the way so that you can take home with you, a bit of the magic that Taormina has.

Up, up, up to Meteora
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Greece – it is not just a place rich in history, a haven for archeologists, or even a photographer’s paradise, but it is also where you can reach the heavens. When one visits Meteora, which is located in Thessaly and found in the centermost part of Greece, monasteries are scattered not around but on top of towers made of rocks.

In order to get there you will need to hike upwards. It may sound difficult at first but this has attracted a lot of visitors to come to the place. Meteora also attracts of rock climbing enthusiasts since another way to climb the impressive rocks is to climb it. When one researches about the history of Meteora, the direct translation would surface and it is but fitting for this place since one would literally find it “hovering above in air.”

Speaking of the spiritual journey, there are monasteries like the Agia Triada or the Holy Trinity. For visitor visitations, they are open from 9 AM until 1 PM but it is closed on Thursdays. Visitors are so curious to visit this particular monastery since this was the same place where the James Bond movie was shot. Another monastery called the Varlaam houses impressive relics and religious treasures that are open for public viewing from 9 to 1PM then opens once more from 3:30 until 6PM. It is closed during Fridays.

Amongst all these monasteries there is of course the most popular of them all and this is the Megalo Meteoro or Metamorphisis. Why it is considered the best is simply because it is perched on the highest rock formation in the entire Meteora. Like the others, it is open from 9-1PM and 3-6PM but closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Of course, proper attire should be followed.

Orvieto: The City on a Plateau
Photo by: rdesai, Creative Commons

The name Orvieto is synonymous to wine connoisseurs who produce flavorful wine, but there is more to Orvieto than just wine. It is one of the famous places in Italy to visit. Why? Start it off with its peculiar location: it is situated on top of a plateau of tufa rock, a volcanic rock.

You can get to Orvieto through a cable car or what they call funicular or use the elevator or escalator on the other side. Then, you can start your tour of the city by visiting the Piazza del Duomo where you can get a good view of the Orvieto Cathedral and other important buildings of the city. Aside from being impressed with the cathedral’s gothic architecture and interior, it also houses a famous fresco of Luca Signorelli’s masterpiece, Last Judgement and the Corporal of Bolsena. A corporal is a small cloth where the chalice and host rest during mass. It is said that during a mass in Bolsena in 1263, the consecrated host started to bleed onto the corporal. You might want to visit Orvieta during the feast of the Corpus Christi. The cloth, with participants dressed in period costumes, is paraded on the streets.

Even before the 20th century, Orvieto has been one of the famous places in Italy. It is one of the few places where several popes have visited and chose to be their residence. Even the Holy Emperor Charles V, together with Pope Clement VII, took refuge in Orvieta during the sack of Rome in 1527. One of the visitor destinations today in Orvieta, the Pozzo di San Patrizion, was specially made for the emperor and pope.

You’ll have a better view of the city’s skyline on its highest point, which is Torre del Moro, also located near the Piazza del Duomo. The underneath of the city is also worth visiting. There are numerous caves, wells, cisterns, galleries and wine cellars that were artificially carved underneath the city. They say houses of important families during the medieval period has secret escape routes connected to these caves so they can easily flee when the city is under siege.

In the city of Orvieto modern life blends easily with the tranquil medieval surroundings of the city. That’s why a lot of visitors easily fall in love with this city. Undeniably, Orvieto is one of the famous places in Italy.

Delos Ruins
Photo by: ForsterFoto, Creative Commons

For your travel plans, wouldn’t it be lovely to include Greece in your list? You might say that it is just filled with ruins, blocks of stone and barren land. Well, think again! Did you know that there is much to Greece than that? One of the best and favorite tourist destinations in Greece is at the Delos. You should visit this place since you will find it quite amazing to find out that in the translation of Delos is Brilliant?

When you visit the Delos, you would have a first-hand experience on why this island is such a sacred place for Greeks. To begin with, Delos is where Artemis and Apollo were born. Who would not know them? Well, brushing up on your Greek Mythology would really help you appreciate the place all the more and besides, that is exactly what the other tourists are doing! They got so enamored by Greece that they would like to know more about its magic and beauty in one single view.

You will definitely enjoy the archeological sites in Delos but make sure you do not touch them since they are still being studied by the Archeological Group of Greece so your fingerprints should not come in the way. You will also meet other tourists at the Sanctuary of Apollo. It was turned into a bar where you could taste the Greek cuisine. Just keep in mind that it is very pricey but you have to taste the food otherwise if you just stick to canned meat and bread plus the sodas you buy from the stores, you would not be able to understand why Greek food is simply so mouthwatering. Once you do eat in these restaurants, the common word to say to everyone is, “Jamas!” That is cheers in Greek.

Knossos Palace
Photo by: Mauricio Pellegrinitti, Creative Commons

Greece is such a lovely place to visit either alone or with the family. It may be an expensive travel but definitely worth all the savings you’d set aside. Considered as one a visitor’s destination, there is one remarkable place you should add to your itinerary, Knossos Palace.

The Knossos Palace, or the called the labyrinth is found on the island of Crete. It is the center of ceremonies during the ancient times. There, you could marvel at the sites of images carved so visible on the walls all thanks to the careful restoration and upkeep of archeologists. Well, Greece is not a place for you to spark a romance since it speaks more of taking that journey to revisit the old ruins and keep in touch with the rich history Greece has to offer.

When you visit Greece, all the ancient stories come to life and here at the Knossos Palace, all 130 meters of it. Urban legends or myths like the Minotaur who was believed to be half man and half bull, grace the walls. Ask any local, and remarkable facts surrounding the palace would be revealed like it was erected around the 1400 BC and when youthink as to how it was built, there is only one way to describe it – manually.

Being in Greece for a couple of days would really allow you to get in touch with the past that is the very reason why visitors from all over the country would prefer visiting this place and other visitor spots as well. You will really enjoy the sweet breeze while visiting the Knossos Palace since the Mediterranean Sea is not far behind.

White Cliffs of Dover
Photo by: Ian Wilson, Creative Commons

White Cliffs of Dover form the part of the British coastline that faces the Strait of Dover and France. The cliff is part of the North Downs formation. The chalk like façade consists of pure white calcium carbonate. A black flint accentuates this facade. The cliff spreads across the east and west from the town called the town of Dover located in the country of Kent. Kent is known as ancient but still an important port in England.

The cliff is composed mainly of soft white limestones, coccoliths, plates of calcium carbonate, which is formed by coccoliths, single celled planktonic algae and etc. Flints and quartz are found in this chalk as well. The cliff is located along the coastline. On a clear day, the cliffs can be easily spotted from the French coast.

The cliff indeed has inspired many people including artists. Way back in 1877, Matthew Arnold created a poem pertaining to the Dover Beach. He said that the cliffs are signs of reassuring strengths. The cliffs are an iconic reference in the World War II song sung by Vera Lynn entitled “There’ll Be Bluebirds Over.”

In Ian Fleming’s third James Bond novel edition known as the Moonraker, a chapter was set at the cliffs of Dover wherein the villain tries to assassin James Bond by bombing the cliffs. Guitarist Eric Johnson wrote a composition known as the Cliffs of Dover, which won a Grammy award. EPMD made the White Cliffs of Dover as their reference in their 1992 hits known as the Crossover. In 2005, Radio Times readers named the cliff as the third greatest natural wonder of Britain. Lastly, there’s Jamaica Kincaid who made references to the Cliff of Dover in her essay with the catchy line in “On Seeing England for the First Time.”

Mount Vesuvius
Photo by: dameetch, Creative Commons

Mount Vesuvius is one of the most popular volcanoes worldwide. It is the first volcano that produced an eyewitness account when it erupted in 79 A.D. During the eruption in 79 A.D., it buried the city of Pompeii and Herculaneaum; in the process preserving the civilization that once lived in the area and more than 2,000 people died. In fact, in Pompeii, there are wall paintings excavated complete with all its colors. When it erupted in 1631, more than 6,000 people died. Mt. Vesuvius last erupted in 1944.

Today, Mt. Vesuvius has become one of the famous places in Italy that visitors frequently visit. In 1995, the National Park of Vesuvius was established to draw more visitor. It is a nice deviation from the art galleries and man made structures you usually see on tours. Buses usually can take visitors within the 200-meter of the summit. After getting off, it is advised that you buy the ticket at the gate; it’s cheaper that way. Then, you’ll have to prepare yourself for a 20 – 30 minute steep walk. All throughout the trek, there are some kiosks where you can buy some refreshments, even clothing if you are not prepared for the chilly atmosphere atop the summit.

It is also advisable to wear proper footwear suitable for climbing. The trail is wide and has guarded railings on the side. You will have the option to buy a guidebook; hire a guide or just leisurely look at the crater when you get to the summit. Atop the summit, you will have a good view of Naples, Naples bay area, Pompeii and Herculaneaum. The crater itself also offers a spectacular view. The crater is 650 meters wide and is 1,282 above sea level. You will be able to see sulfuric smoke oozing out from the crater.