Dar Es Salaam City
Photo by: Muhammad Mahdi Karim, Creative Commons

Dar Es Salaam Village Museum or Makabusho is a Tanzanian village filled with traditional homes representing 18 ethnic tribes. The whole place is filled with galleries and museums of traditional carvings by local artisans. It also contains many traditional paintings and weave-works. It will obviously give you a glimpse of the Tanzanian tribe’s ethnic cultures and open your world as you explore this country’s history.

Some of the famous tourist destinations here in Dar es Salaam are the Azania Lutheran Church, Mikumi National Park, Ruaha National Park, The Botanical Gardens and the National Museum. It also has the The Makabunsh Village Museum, Old Boma, St Joseph’s Cathedral, Karimjee Hall and the Askari Monument within its boundaries.

The English term for the Arabic term “Dar es Salaam” is “House of Peace.” Its funny how ironic the name is to the current condition of the place. It’s a busy place during the day but terribly hazardous during night.

Other sights include the clock tower and the Karikaroo market. For entertainment, there are restaurants and bars near the beach. Ngoma tribal dances which often end with acrobatic performances are also performed within the village to entertain spectators.

Waiting for the Jorf-Ajim Ferry at Jerba Island
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The Isle of Djerba, more popularly known as Jerba Island, is the biggest island in North Africa. Also called the “Polynesia of the Mediterranean,” Jerba Island has many interesting attractions such as luxurious hotels, fine sandy beaches, ancient fortresses, mosques, castles, and classic Roman sites. The island is very accessible to many European countries such as Italy, Germany, France, and Czech Republic, as there are direct international flights from Europe to Djerba. That is why if you’re coming from Europe, the Jerba Island is the perfect place to start exploring the southern part of Tunisia.
One of the places in Jerba Island that’s frequented by many tourists is the town of Ajim, which is one of the locations for filming the first Star Wars movie in 1977.

Jerba island is home to an old Jewish community. A synagogue worthy of a visit is the El Ghriba synagogue, which is the most popular and oldest in the world. The tourist spot has existed for more than 2,000 years.
Beach enthusiasts will be delighted with the safe beaches on the east coast that offer serenity and relaxation, thanks to the breathtaking view of the blue skies and calm waters. High-quality hotels and exciting water sports are the other good reasons for visiting the beaches in Jerba Island.

If you are interested in exploring the Tunisian culture, you should drop by Jerba’s main town, Houmt Souk, which has many sights to offer. You will pass by women wearing the traditional attire made of white cloth with orange trimmings topped with a straw hat. You can also find bargains such as spices, wicker furniture, leather crafts, and jewelries. Most restaurants in the Souk serve a wide variety of fish and seafood dishes.
Do you want to visit Jerba? Allot half a day for exploring the island, since this destination is relatively small. You can arrange a tour and hire a taxi through the hotel where you can stay for the rest of your vacation.

Usti nad Labem, Czech Republic
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If you want to experience diversity in your European travel, go to Usti nad Labem, Czech Republic and you will not be disappointed. For one, it has a mixture of both historical and present elements that make up for an interesting city.
Nature lovers and outdoorsy people will definitely thrive in a vacation in a land like this. Since it is perfectly situated in the Elbe Valley within the Czech Highlands and about 40% of it consisting of natural preserves, you can definitely get the strong feel of nature perfectly suited for your vacation. One of the main tourist spots is the natural monument Vrkoc which is a high volcanic neck of basalt. It has a well-shaped column form separation of the rock. The preserves also consist of natural formations with massive clinkstone and rock formations.

The city also has some great waterfalls that make up for such pleasant sights. These are truly wonderful to behold especially after walking the trails and a long hike. They said it is especially wonderful to visit during the spring to see the formations scattered with flowers everywhere you look.

Once you’re done with nature, you can now see the man-made architecture that dates back to the early 14th century. You can visit the Blansko Castle and the ruins to get a taste of the history of the place. Another great tourist spot is the Chateau Velke Brezno. It was built as a villa with an Empire Style and was later reconstructed with a neo-Renaissance style. You can also visit the Rock City in Tisa which is the village that has the remains of a huge sandstone table. If you are interested in art, you can always visit their museums too.

Rincon, Puerto Rico
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Rincon, Puerto Rico is one of Puerto Rico’s municipality founded by Don Luis de Añasco in 1771. After the city of Carolina and San Juan, Rincon ranks as the third among the richest municipality in Puerto Rico. Rincon, Puerto Rico is known for the best beaches for surfing in their country. Such beaches include Marias, Domes, Sandy Beach, Tres Palmas, Rincon Town Beach Plaza and Pools Beach. The World Surfing Championship in 1968 was held in Domes Beach. Since that event, many locals and tourists have been visiting Rincon for a one of a kind wave experience.

The city’s flag was designed and created by Evaristo Moreno. The white star in the center symbolizes the urban region. The nine wards were represented by nine stars surrounding the white central star. Orange, red and yellow colors means vitality, vigor and Christianity. The white and green symbolizes purity, unity, vegetation and hope.

Rincon, Puerto Rico is known for their production of fruit and sugar cane. They are also into cattle ranching. Their other industries include clothing, chemical, electronics and electrical products and scientific instruments. Aside from the famous beaches, Rincon is also popular for their Punta Higueras Light that the Spaniards built in 1890s. The lighthouse was unique because of its rotating candlepower beacon consisting of 26,000 unmanned pieces.

Tourists come to Rincon to experience their colorful festivities and activities. Such festivities are the Whale Festival held every March, International Film Festival of Rincon held every April to May, the Coconut Festival every May, and Feast of Santa Rosa de Lima every August.

Baracoa, Cuba
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Surrounded by the Sierra del Purial mountain range, Baracoa is an isolated city located on the Bay of Honey. Baracoa is a part of Guantanamo Province at the far eastern end of Cuba. Founded by Diego Velazquez de Cuellar, this city was the first capital of Cuba.

Baracoa has a lot of tourist attractions. Fuerte Matachin is a museum built in 1802; the structure itself serving as part of the highlight. There are also a lot of hotels in Baracoa, one of which is the Hotel El Castillo. Other popular hotels are the Hotel Porto Santo, Hostal La Habanera, and Hotel La Rusa.

Music is a part of this remote town. Tourists usually visit Flan de Queso. But a more traditional musical venue would be the Casa de la Flana. Just a few meters away, a lot of waterfalls can already be seen in the river Toa. Also located in this town is Caribbean’s highest waterfall, Salto Fino. Guantanamo’s national park Alejandro de Humboldt is situated 20 kilometers north.

Reaching Baracoa is not as hard as most people think. Although it is located at the far end of Cuba, it can be reached by bus from Santiago de Cuba or by plane from Havana. The Gustavor Rizo is the region’s airport which usually operates domestic flights. Tourists may fly the Cubana de Aviacion in order to reach this area for a very reasonable price!

Baracoa is home of the native and unique dishes. The popular dishes in this town are Cucurucho and Bacan which are both cooked with native ingredients.

Albufeira
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The city of Albufeira is in the municipality of Faro in the region of Algarve located at the southernmost area of Portugal. With a population of 13 thousand people, the city typically accommodates 300 thousand people during peak seasons of tourist visits. Albufeira has luxury hotels, apartment complexes, bars and resorts that offer amenities and accommodation to the many visitors who frequent the sunny beach area.

Thriving on economy which depend both on tourism and commerce, the Albufeira is the place to go when one is on the Algarve region and looking for a great spot to hangout during the night and go bar hopping or dining in restaurants. The active lifestyle and entertainment area is along the Montechoro dubbed as The Strip where the famous bars and other attractions for entertainment are located.

There are numerous beaches one can choose from when one is in Albufeira. These include the Gale, Coelha, Sao Rafael, Castelo, Vigia, Falesia and others. The Gale is a long beach that goes on for many kilometers and has many tourist amenities. Coelha has many rock formations while Sao Rafael and Vigia are also known for the wonderful layout of the rocks. The Falesia on the other hand is a great contrast because of the green pines.

Numerous tourist spots and places of interest are located within the city. The Our Lady of Good Journey is made during the 16-17th century and is of baroque style. The place where the church is situated is a great spot for bird watching. Another place of interest is the Guia, a historic village and the main church of the city with beautiful altar and statutes worth visiting.

As for the food, Albufeira serves superb and fresh seafood dishes bought daily from the local fishermen. Luxury hotels and restaurants do serve varying dishes ranging from the European, Western and Asian menus because of their professional chefs, though it is recommended that one try the regional dishes served by local restaurants catering authentic Albufeira dishes.

From sunny and warm beaches, great historical sites, sports, leisure and food, Albufeira has everything so consider visiting the city to enjoy what it has to offer.

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
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Puerto Plata is a destination for tourists looking for a reasonably-priced vacation location with a selection of exciting places to explore within the area. The international airport is ideally located in the heart of Puerto Plata where most accommodations are only 20 minutes away. This is definitely the place for adventure-minded people. Tourism districts like Luperon, Maimon, Confresi and others surround the city. Other tourists destinations like Sosua and Cabarete are also nearby and will only take you 30 minutes to get there.

Playa Dorada, which is located east of Puerto Plata, owns the most number of hotel accommodations. This tourist destination compound boasts of 15 low rise resorts which resemble a “U” shape. They stretch through the same gold sand beach and share the Playa Dorada Golf Course, built by famous golf course architect, Robert Trent Jones. You can mingle with other tourists during your evening outings in the casinos and local night spots. You can find a lot of activities to occupy your time during the day, as well. You can explore Playa Dorada Plaza, the city’s shopping centre where you can also enjoy movies in addition to the many shops. It is safe to stroll during the night and day because hotels are situated closely with each other. This is also the ideal destination for spring break vacations.

West of Puerto Plata City, you can find Confresi, another exciting place to explore when you are in the area. One shouldn’t pass on visiting Maimon, which is a five minute drive from Confresi. Their beaches contain a multitude of resorts that used to be the hub for most Europeans. Nowadays, even tourists from outside of Europe visit the area. You should visit Maimon if the purpose of your travel is to soak up the sun in a beautiful beach resort.

Market area in Nabeul
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Nabeul is the capital of pottery and ceramics in Tunisia. Tourists can come and watch how pottery is made, as the potter’s wheel spins to form exceptional pottery.

Nabeul may strike others as a rather messy place, but there’s no denying how interesting it is as a tourist attraction. There are lots of places to visit and sights to behold in this city located at the east of Hammamet. One of the major destinations in Nabeul is the Archaeological Museum. An easily accessible and superbly designed structure, the Archaeological Museum features a vast collection of potteries and clay. The museum has rooms designated only to artifacts of the Punic Period (7th to 4th century B.C.). Aside from pottery, the museum also houses collections of jewelries, oil lamps, and coins. This is where the relics of artifacts of the Roman period (2nd to 4th centuries A.D.) are found as well. Visitors will also marvel at the two clay monuments, dubbed Baal Hammon and Tanit, which are said to be owned by the goddesses of Carthage.

Kerkouane, the origin of the items displayed in the Archeological Museum, is also a famous site for sightseeing.
Within Nabuel lies a village known for stone carving—Dar Chaabane. This craftsmen’s village produces most of the artworks in windows and doorways all over the country.

Another most recommended tourist spot in Nabeul is the Place du 7 Novembre, which is lined with all sorts of restaurants, banks, and shops. Souvenir shops run aplenty in the city; most of them sell embroidery, mats, ceramic goods, woven rugs, and of course, pottery.

No visit in Nabeul is complete without participating in the orange blossom festival held in April every year. Nabeul also hosts a Friday market where a variety of Tunisia’s local products is traded.

Larnaca, Cyprus
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Larnaca is the oldest city in Cyprus. Its earliest settlers were believed to have inhabited the place more than six thousand years ago. There are two parts to the city with one being historical and the other is filled with modern restaurants and hotels near the beautiful beaches. Larnaca’s airport, the Larnaca International Airport, is also the largest in Cyprus. And whenever the tourists’ flight comes at a particular time of the day, they will be able to see the shadow of a famous shipwreck. It is known as the wreck of Zenobia. Divers from different parts of the world come to Larnaca to see it. The ship had sunk on its first voyage in 1980 due to a malfunctioned system. It is forty-two meters under the sea but its topmost part is easily reachable at eighteen meters.

Furthermore, Larnaca, Cyprus is known for its seaside restaurants that offer marvelous seafood cuisines. Kantara, Ganga, and Rendez-Vous are the best. True, dining in these restaurants is very expensive. But it is all worth it because they also offer a large selection of fine wines. However, great food may also be found in less expensive restaurants like Militzis and Hobo’s. Additionally, the Church of St. Lazarus makes a beautiful landmark to visit. It is an Orthodox Christian church that dates back in the ninth century and is believed to be built just about the tomb of Lazarus.

For some exciting nightlife, Larnaca has a line of lively bars. Club Deep is among the most well-known bars in the area. There are also lots of hotels such as the Blue Serenity Private Villa, which is a lavish place. The Sandbeach Castle Hotel, on the other hand, is a cheap but clean place to stay. There are also apartments that are already furnished, so tourists will be comfortable. These are all located near the seaside for a beautiful view. Prices are slightly increased during the winter seasons though. But the overall prices are well worth the quality of the places.

Meknes, Morocco
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Meknes, Morocco is one of the imperial cities in Morocco. It is an old city and was founded several centuries ago. The city is popular for its stylish structures that have their own distinct designs that you can only observe in the structures of Meknes.

This city is usually overlooked by most tourists because they think there are better cities to visit. But once you have finished visiting those more popular places in Morocco, you should also check out Meknes.

There are several things to do in Meknes, Morocco. One thing to experience in Meknes is Savor Morocco. This is both a cooking workshop and a tour company. You can join the class by signing up. The first half of the group will do the cooking class while the other half will take the tour and vice versa. Everyone will experience both cooking and touring. In the cooking class, an expert will teach you how to cook several Moroccan dishes that you can only eat in Moroccan restaurants. You will have your own station complete with the cooking tools and equipments and ingredients that you will need. Sharing the stove with another student makes it more fun. After cooking, you all can enjoy your freshly cooked meals with the rest of the class. For the tour part, a tourist guide will accompany your group and will tour you to the great places in Meknes. This will surely let you experience Meknes at its finest.

If you want to get lost in time and learn more about the history of Meknes and Morocco in general, you should go to Volubilis. This area showcases historical ruins and will make you feel as if you travelled back to the past. Not many people visit the place because the place looks a bit neglected, but it is still amazing. You should go there when the weather is warm and sunny.

Paralimni, Cyprus
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The town of Paralimni is the largest within the Famagusta District. It is located approximately forty minutes away from the airport in Larnaca. The town’s name meant “by the lake” because it was, then, built on a shallow lake’s shores. But during the fifteenth century, the town was relocated inland so the pirates will not see it. It is also believed that its first settlers arrived merely after Famagusta, a nearby town, was captured. And now, Paralimni, Cyprus has developed into a nice tourist spot. Plenty of world-famous shops like Marks & Spencer are seen here. Numerous cafes, restaurants, bars, and popular food joints such as Carrefour and Orfanides are also accessible.

In addition, several beautiful churches and marvelous gardens, as well as, fountains are really great attractions. The Twin-aisled Vaulted Church is among the three beautiful churches that Paralimni, Cyprus is known for. Some of its parts are very old; dating as far back as the thirteenth century. It is adorned with antique porcelain plates that have existed since the eighteenth century. It also houses an ecclesiastical museum. Charming windmills are also found in the countryside that surrounds Paralimni. In the past, these windmills were used to get underground water. However, due to the modernization of the place, electric pumps have replaced majority of these windmills.

Additionally, lots of tourists also come to Paralimni, Cyprus for the Famagusta District Shooting Club which is located at its boarders. This is a place for many enthusiastic activities. Moreover, the architecture in Paralimni is significantly improving. Most of the houses here are simple and ordinary. Nonetheless, they have really eye-catching gardens. The blossoming trees are especially attractive.

Fatima City in Portugal
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Fatima is a city in Central Portugal which is located in the central region of the Ourem municipality in the Medio Tejo. It has a population of 7 thousand inhabitants. The town is located 123 kilometers north of Lisbon and 187 km south of the city Porto. The small town has become popular all over the world when in 1917, religious visions of three children on the Virgin Mary become known to many. The city is named after a Moorish princess, Fatima who was converted to Catholicism following her marriage to the count of Ourem.

Millions of people gather to commemorate the apparitions during key dates of May 13 and October 13. The paying of homage of many people roots to the spiritual visions in the pasture Cova da Iria. In 1917, three Portuguese children Lucia dos Santos and Jacinta and Francisco Marto saw visions of angels and the Virgin Mary. The three shepherds as they are popularly called have been declared as blessed.

The place is a typical example of a destination in Portugal which relies on religious tourism. The shrine of the Fatima has been developed following the mass visits of pilgrims and religious devotees alike especially during special Marian occasions. Specialty shops selling memorabilia as well as religious souvenirs are numerous in the city streets. As for people who would like to visit the place, hotels and other forms of accommodations which cater to low cost budgets up to more expensive ones are available.

Numerous tour packages are available for devotees and people who would just like a peaceful experience and a sight of the shrine dedicated to the Lady of Fatima. Other than religious homage, the tours will also include views of the Obidos and its charming wall architecture as well as the nearby fishing area of Nazare. The Batalha Monastery is also worth a visit. It has a marvelous Gothic style of architecture and is declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For devotees and people seeking a spiritual refuge and a site for prayer and appreciating the blessings the Almighty has provided, a visit to Fatima is a must.

Zlin, Czech Republic
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Zlin is a city in the Czech Republic. During the late 1800’s, a resident of Zlin named Tomas Bata founded a shoe company here. Then World War I hit and his shoe factory was commissioned to start making shoes for the Austro-Hungarian Army, bringing jobs and much needed income to the city. The business continued to flourish to the point that even the 1930’s Great Depression couldn’t stop the expansion of this business empire. Although this shoe factory no longer resides in Zlin, you can still see the Villa of Tomas Bata along with other monuments and representation of the growth of this city because of him.

The difference between this city and other cities in the Czech Republic is the fact that there is an ultra-modern design of infrastructures that makes it somewhat an urban utopia. People who clearly understand architectural design can have a deep appreciation of the modernity and the details placed in their designs. City folks who have been touring ancient ruins and historical places in Europe can definitely feel at home in this place because the aim of their design is to give a lasting impression of the most modern architecture to suit the needs of their growing business sector.

On the other hand, for those that love entertainment and leisure, you can always visit the Grand Cinema. This was built in the 1930’s and is considered to be the largest cinema in Europe with over 2,500 seats in it. Not only does it have a large seating capacity, but it also boasts of having the largest screen in Europe.

Plzeň, Czech Republic

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Plzeň is the fourth largest city in the Czech Republic. It can definitely boast of its rich architectural history. It is also widely known all over the world for their locally produced brand of beer, the Pilsner Urquell. There’s a lot of buzz going around the city because it is considered to be the seat of academic, business and cultural life of the west Bohemian part of the republic. It is no wonder that there is a growing number of visitors from all over the world that are starting to discover the many wonders to be found in this part of the Czech Republic.

Adding to the town’s rich and interesting history, it is actually made out of a chessboard plan pioneering the style of high-Gothic urbanism. The Church of St. Bartholomew, being a great infrastructure, symbolizes the city’s foundation for Gothic architecture is also known as the top tourist spot you shouldn’t miss.

There is also a network of three-story cellars that proves to be an interesting tourist destination because of the remarkable way it was built. This is a historical underground infrastructure that was built around the Middle Ages. However, there are other landmarks that represent different periods of time. For example, there is the monumental Town Hall that was built around the Renaissance period. A series of houses and buildings built in the Baroque style signifies the period very well. The third largest synagogue built around the 19th century is also located in this place. It is constructed in a Moorish-Romanesque style.

Another good thing about being in Plzeň is that not only will you get to taste their world-famous beer, but they also offer a guided tour in their breweries. You get to see first-hand how this world-class beverage is made and get to taste some of it on the tour as well.

Victoria, Canada
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The capital city of British Columbia is Victoria. The city receives more than 3.65 million tourists every year. Visiting this city can be fun as it experiences moderate weather compared to many other cities in Canada.

Many tourists enjoy beautiful views when exploring a new location. Some of the awesome views and sight seeing are: aerial view of Victoria, Beacon Hill Park, Butchart Gardens, Gate of Harmonious Interest, Inner Harbour, Legislative Buildings, and many more. You may also want to try whale watching, visit the Butterfly Gardens, go fishing, or just visit the Victoria Bug Zoo. You could also try sailing the sea, kayaking, canoeing, surfing, windsailing, and any other watersports you have in mind. The Wax Museums are also a good place to enjoy popular people although they are not alive. Another popular attraction here in the city is the Little Niagara Falls.

If you are on a honeymoon, try the carriage ride at the Beacon Hill Park and spend some quality time with your partner. For a high class adventure, take a look at the aerial view of the city via plane or helicopter. For something different, have a picnic at French Beach.

On the other hand, if you are the athletic type of person, try hiking at the East Sooke Park. Or climb to the top of Lone Tree Hill in the Highlands. or the Mill Hill for other extraordinary view of Juan de Fuca Strait. Meanwhile, additional quick tour are through double-decker bus, that is another attraction for the tourists; or a kabuki cab. Other hiking trail is the Mount Finlayson at Goldstream Park.

One of the must-try dining options in the city are the English Style Fish and Chips which are served at many local establishments. Wine tasting tours are available at 3 Saanich Peninsula wineries. But before you leave, remember to bring some souvenirs for your friends and family.

Stone Town
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If you are looking forward for a cultural and exotic adventure, better prepare your tickets and visit the stunning city of Stone Town. Found in Tanzania’s center of tourism, Zanzibar, Stone Town can surely free you from the everyday stresses of the urban cities.

Aside from being the home of an array of coral reefs, Zanzibar is also famed for its Stone Town. Known worldwide as the perfect example of Eastern Africa’s earlier civilizations, Stone Town is an adventure into the past. Its name came from the coralline rock many ancient households had used to build their homes. Nowadays, those same structures made from the same coralline rocks still garnish the whole town, making it an extraordinary place for you to visit.

In addition to the houses, ancient Arabic architectures were perfectly preserved in this vast area within Zanzibar. Since this region of Tanzania was once the center for trading in the Indian Ocean, there area many artifacts that have been left behind from foreign cultures. These would include the elaborate wood carvings coming from Arabian roots, the numerous streets and alleys mingled with the ancient appearances, and the ornate brass finishing in many of the doors used for the houses. The intricate designs most of the Muslim’s ancestors had created are still alive here, including their old mosques and other interesting buildings. No wonder Stone Town is chosen by UNESCO as a member of the World’s World Heritage Sites. On that note, many architectural and historical students would indeed love to witness the rich and abundant evidences of the ancient world’s beauty and grandeur.

Other things to experience are the lively bazaars that feature some of the most exquisite rituals and dances popular in Tanzania. Usually, these celebrations are accompanied by the Taarab music endemic to the island, thus further enhancing the culture of this tourist spot you will surely want to experience.

San Juan, Puerto Rico
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San Juan, Puerto Rico is the largest city and capital of Puerto Rico. It was named after the famous Bible character San Juan Bautista or Saint John the Baptist in English. In the year 2000, it ranked as the 42nd largest city under the United States’ Jurisdiction. In 1521, Spanish colonists founded the city and named it Ciudad de Puerto Rico. Today, San Juan, Puerto Rico is considered as one of the most significant seaports and source of financial, manufacturing, tourism and cultural center in Puerto Rico.

San Juan, Puerto Rico has a tropical wet climate. They enjoy an average temperature of 28 degree Celsius throughout most of the year.

San Juan has numerous numbers of museums, hotels, restaurants, historical buildings, shopping centers and beaches. They are also popular for their famous attractions such as Isla Verde, Ocean Park, Condado and Old San Juan. The Old San Juan promotes the historical nature of their place by preserving narrow streets made of adoquine, defensive forts and walls and colonial buildings. The University of Puerto Rico was the oldest university and promoted as one of their most historic places.

San Juan is also the birthplace of some of the well-known musicians and artists. The musical side of San Juan has been heavily influenced by Afro-Caribbean style of music. Artists like Justino Diaz, Ricky Martin and Raymond Ayala were all from San Juan.

Havana, Cuba
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Havana, with a population of 2.4 million, is the capital of Cuba. It is not only Cuba’s largest city, but it also serves as the center of commerce and major ports. Government offices, ministries, large firms are all based in Havana, Cuba. Fruits are abundant in Havana because of its tropical climate. The average temperature in this city ranges from 28 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius.

Havana is a three in one city composed of Old Havana, Vedado, and New Havana. Old Havana gives the tourists a taste of Cuba’s rich traditions, especially seen in the residential houses lining the narrow streets. But it is also the center of industry. The Vedado district is lined with shopping arcades. Centro Habana, a part of Vedado, is where the working class mostly stays. Lastly, the new Havana is where the affluent people are found. Most tourists can be found in this area occupying shops and country clubs.

Havana is a city rich with historical landmarks. Fortaleza San Carlos de la Cabaña is a fortress built during the colonial times in the 18th century. El Capitolio Nacional is not just a colossal structure where the Senate and House of Representatives are; it also houses the 3rd largest indoor statue in the whole world known as the La Estatua de la Republica. El Cristo de la Habana is a marble statue of Jesus Christ intricately carved by Jilma Madera. Havana’s rich culture can be seen in the Great Theater of Havana which hosts several local and international performances.

Ixtapa, Mexico
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This majestic city is a beach resort in Zihuatanejo de Azueta, Guerrero. It’s located 240 km northwest of Acapulco. The city itself became a main stop for cruises and the beaches became one of the major attractions. If you’re planning a vacation to this tourist spot, consider staying in a hotel or resort that offers all-inclusive packages that will help you lower the cost of your expenses. Here are some of the hotels where you can stay, NH Krystal, Emporio Ixtapa, La Brisas Ixtapa (formerly the Westin,) Melia, Holiday Inn, Park Royal, Capella Ixtapa, Hotel Ixtapa Palace Resort & Spa and Club Med.

The best time to visit Ixtapa is between winter and spring which starts in November and lasts till May. During the summer, June and July are hot and humid. May thru October is the rainy season.

If you are looking for more activities and fun, Ixtapa is the best destination. You will not find any museums, just gorgeous beaches along the Pacific coastline. For snorkeling and swimming, go to Isla Ixtapa – a small island with quiet beaches and palapa restaurants. Water taxis are a popular mode of transportation in this wonderful island leaving regularly from Ixtapa’s Playa Linda and Zihuatanejo (the main pier). Check also Playa del Palmar – Ixtapa’s main beach. Petacalco beach and Troncones – best for surfing.

Here are some activities you can do while enjoying the sand and gorgeous beaches of Ixtapa:
・ Swimming
・ Surfing
・ Deep-sea fishing – VIPSA, an outfitter with an affiliation with Hotel Las Brisas offers boats for four or six people.
・ Scuba lessons and expeditions
・ Golf

After a day of fun and activity, don’t forget to eat the famous “pozole.” This is a delicious pork and hominy stew dressed with numerous sides such as, shredded cabbage, radishes, onions, oregano, lime, chile, tortilla chips and fried pork skin (chicharron). Tamales y Atole Any (pronounced “Annie”) is the BEST pozole restaraunt located in Zihuantanejo.

Here are some restaurants that you can dine in on your stay:
・ Casa Morelos – famous for its breakfasts
・ Beccofino – for a fanciful Italian dinner near the Ixtapa marina
・ Kau-kan – for breathtaking bay views
・ La Casa Que Canta – for breathtaking bay views
・ Il Mare – casual spot for pasta and seafood dishes

End your travel with some local shopping. You will find the best crafts from aroound the country like fanciful wood and papier-mache sculptures, hand-painted ceramics, tin-framed mirrors and sophisticated embroidered clothing.

Szczecin in Poland
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Szczecin used to be Europe’s centre for transit routes which lasted for centuries and came from all directions. It is Western Pomeranian Province’s capital and has 400,000 residents. This city is very rich in tradition, having more than a thousand years of history many of which are quite turbulent. This city used to be one of Germany’s most powerful trade centres and ports.

Szczecin used to be under the rule of several countries including Prussia, Poland, Denmark, Germany and France. It was in 1945 that the Polish administration took over the city after it was conquered by the Russian army. The Germans were driven away from the city and in their place, the Polish settlers took over.

This city is also very rich in environmental assets and was thus called “green city.” Szczecin is one of the cities in Poland that is rich in vegetation as well as the water that is needed by such vegetation to survive. The climate conditions this city has are very ideal for both tourism as well as residence. It comes as no wonder why many tourists and foreign visitors eventually decide to live in Szczecin permanently.

Another reason why many tourists desire to visit this city is its proximity to many world renowned resorts such as Międzyzdroje, Dziwnów, Świnoujście and Rewal. Also, the location of this city is considered to be one of the most attractive there is in Poland making it a great choice by tourists. It is surrounded by huge forests as well as hundreds of clear lakes making it very picturesque and great for water related sports such as yachting. On the other hand, the forests are able to accommodate visitors for a fun walk or hike on the trails or simply by picking berries or mushrooms and bird watching.

Other famous spots that you may want to visit in the city of Szczecin are the various museums, the 17th century houses teeming with history, the St. James’ Gothic Cathedral, the Baroque Palace, the 14th Century Church and the 11th century Pomeranian Knights Castle. To get more details about each of them and to find out what package you can get for a visit in this city, you can simply log on and browse various travel websites online.

Varadero, Cuba
Photo by: ajawin, Creative Commons

Varadero, Cuba is the perfect spot for beach lovers. With more than 20 kilometers of fine white sand beach, there is always a place for everyone. Because of the breathtaking beaches in this area, it has been called Playa Azul- which means blue beach in the Spanish.

Varadero is located in Matanzas- a province in Cuba. It is one of the largest resort-towns in the whole Caribbean. Geographically, it is part of the Hicacos Peninsula. As an extension of the mainland, it is only about 1.2 kilometers wide. But true enough, this small strip of island is far from being “small” in terms of the number of tourists who visit the area.

Every year, the island welcomes more than 500,000 visitors. Tourists mainly enjoy water activities such as scuba diving, yachting, fishing, water sports and snorkeling. But aside from its excellent beaches, it is also known for its natural caves and historical sites. The Cave of Ambrosio which measures 250m is a must see for adventure lovers. On the other hand, nature lovers should take a look at the wildlife of Lake Mangon. The ruins of La Calavera are also on the list of sites to visit.

In terms of demography, the island is occupied by only 20,000 people. Tourists can enjoy absolute relaxation and privacy because it is not crowded like most world class beaches. Although, it is a small town, the city is quite developed but not to the extent of having commercial infrastructure that would destroy the natural beauty of the island

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Photo by: Ulises Jorge, Creative Commons

Santo Domingo is teeming with culture and history and it is one of the top destinations for tourists visiting the Dominican Republic. This is the most ancient city in the New World where American communities were founded. This is where the first cathedral and the first hospital can be found. Feel what life is like back in the 1600s by wandering through cobble stone streets while gazing at Spanish colonial architecture. This is the most diverse city in the Caribbean where a variety of restaurants and nightlife converged. Great restaurants are everywhere and even local residents find it hard to avoid them.

Santo Domingo is a bustling city where activities go on day and night. It is a spot to meet new acquaintances. In fact, many singles who visited the place find a lifetime partner before departing the city. Shopping is not a problem in Santo Domingo. Popular shops around the world have extended their branches here and more will be coming in the future. There are even discount stores here where for less money you can splurge until your heart’s content. There are clearance sales held all year round while the more discerning tourists can go to shops that offer exclusive wear.

Santo Domingo can be found in the south area of the Dominican Republic. Tourists can get there through chartered busses. If you don’t have any company, you can get there by taxi from the airport. Search for the appropriate fares that are posted on the airport and make sure that you negotiate the pricing before you board the taxi. You can also rent a car to get to your destination. It is not hard to locate the city since the route is simple. You only have to travel through the Americas Expressway to Duarte Bridge past the 27 de Febrero overpass. But if you want to save money, public busses are cheaper then taxi’s to take you to the city.

Punta Cana City, Dominican Republic
Photo by: Ted Murphy, Creative Commons

Punta Cana is known for its beautiful beach strip. Many honeymooners choose this place as their love nest due to its pristine white sand beaches and its private location. If you want nothing of the city noise and crowded places, this is definitely the place to go. Punta Cana is populated with enormous all-inclusive beach resorts where tourists are mostly families or couples on their honeymoon. Sports are the main attraction for most resorts. Other resorts concentrate on giving couple and family entertainment packages. During spring break, when college students flock to the place, larger complexes are opened to give way for a more exciting night life, entertainment appropriate for this age group.

If you want to explore the nearby areas, you have to rent a car so you can visit wonderful caves, mangroves, and the exclusive resorts in the neighbouring provinces. Other tourist destinations like Saona and La Romana are only a few hours’ drive. The different resorts in Punta Cana are intent on giving their guests everything they need, from entertainment options to different relaxation facilities, so one doesn’t have to go outside for these necessities. The area around Punta Cana is a long stretch of empty countryside and it is ideal for long walks and solitary thinking.

The nearest city is Higuey and El Cortecito is also nearby. One of its neighbouring tourist attractions is the Manatee Park, a flora and fauna ecological spot. If you want a taste of what life is like in a tropical paradise, you can go to Ponce de Leon house, which is located close to Boca de Yuma, for a feast of fresh fish lunches with the fresh salty air as your company. There are also unlimited handicraft items you can bring home with you as souvenirs since vendors are there day and night selling their crafts.

Nazare City in Portugal
Photo by: Fotos dos Ornelas , Creative Commons

The town of Nazare is located in Central Portugal. It is a small town with a population of 14 thousand inhabitants in an area of about 80 square kilometers. Although the town lacks the grandiose and old world charm of architectural structures found in many larger cities like Portugal, Nazare boasts of its picturesque sea side attractions that many tourists visiting the area find so appealing. The place has been considered a great get away for people to take a break from the bustling and busy city life and embark on a journey of soul searching in the quiet and sunny sea side offered by Nazare.

Established as a fishing village, the town facing the Atlantic Ocean has been popular to many visitors because of its sunny weather as well as the long sandy beaches perfect for swimming and sun bathing. Many consider Nazare as the best beach destination in Portugal.

Aside from the general activities one can enjoy while visiting the beach, one will enjoy the customs and traditions as well as the warm welcome by the people of the town. The local costume which is still traditionally worn during special occasions include the colorful apparel of fishermen as well as the aprons and headscarves worn by women which are colorfully embroidered in patterns distinctive of their culture.

Upon visiting the town, tourists will have the choice to see three portions of the town. The picturesque Ositio or town situated in a hill, the Apraia or the beach and the Pederneira, which is a very old town. In Ositio, the Capela de Memoira is a commemorative church built to thank the Virgin Mary for saving a knight from falling off a cliff.

The Avenida Marginal on the other hand is a stretch of shops and restaurants catering superb dishes offering fresh seafood catch from the town. For those who would like to purchase souvenirs, this is the place to go to when buying unique items found here.

The sunny and quaint little town of Nazare is a perfect beach getaway for those who would like to experience the warm coast of Portugal.

Riquewihr
Photo by: Russ Bowling , Creative Commons

One of the most popular tourist destinations in North-eastern France is Riquewihr. The land area of the entire locale is about six thousand square miles. It is so well preserved that it is known to look the same way it did back in the 16th century. It stands only a few minutes away from other Alsatian communes or villages. This small village has become quite popular for its production of great wines. This is the Riquewihran forte – especially when it comes to Riesling. Back in the 1600’s, this place was referred to as the Winzerdorf or better known as the “wine village”. German and Alsatian wines were traded in this place back then.

The way this village has been preserved is quite impeccable. Among the museums that you will find here is a castle. It has once housed the Dukes of Württemberg who originally owned the lands. This particular castle now houses artifacts and a number of significant pieces which represents the culture and historical memorabilia for the village. The castle overlooks a number of medieval fortifications all around the commune which was built during the same era.

As the years have passed and World War II spread havoc to the world, Riquewihr was fortunate to be among the very few towns in the region to be spared from much destruction. Though it received its share of damages, it was able to retain its formidable structures. And to be able to commemorate those days, you will be able to find a museum about Alsace during the period in history. You might also fancy visiting La Salle de torture or the torture chamber.

These days, as you walk towards the Main Street, you will feel as if you were taken back to the early 1600’s. Each structure looks practically the same way it did in the past. Houses and arches as well as the Dolder Tower have always been spectacular sites for tourists to visit.