Mount Kilimanjaro
Photo by: stignygaard, Creative Commons

Mount Kilimanjaro attracts a lot of trekkers who walk and reach the summit to see the rising of a new day, symbolizing the rebirth and renewal of life.

Mount Kilimanjaro is an inactive strato-volcano with three volcanic cones: Sira, KIbo and Mawenzi. It is the highest peak in Africa today granting that it is 5895 meters high. The origins of the mountain’s name remain unknown until today- but of course people have some few hypotheses. Myth number one states that it came from two Swahili words: Kilima and Njaro. Kilima is Swahili for hill while Njaro was supposed to be some ancient term for shining. Another theory is that it came from the words Kileajao and Kilmanare. However, there are a lot of loopholes and unanswered questions tailing these intelligent guesses that they could not come up with a concrete answer.

The inactive volcano holds some unusual vegetation around its lower half, namely the water holding cabbage. It also has 1200 species of vascular plants. Unlike the other mountains on east Africa, this famous mountain has no bamboo growing around it. Mega-herbivores reside on these dry slopes without bamboos. On its southern part which is a bit- more moist compared to the northern part, contain plants and trees such as junipers, olives and podocarpus. You can also find giant ferns, vines, figs and a vast number of flowers in the clearer parts of the mountain. There’s also a variety of colorful birds here which makes the overall ambiance more soothing and appealing to the eye. Some of the birds that usually fly around here are the turaco and the hornbill. There are also blue and colobus monkeys roaming around here, as well as Leopards and antelopes.

Funchal in Portugal
Photo by: grilledahi , Creative Commons

For visitors who have already frequented many key destinations in Portugal and still can’t get enough of it, Funchal on the island of Madeira is a great place to visit. Funchal is the capital city of the Island of Madeira and geographically compared to a natural amphitheater because of its slopes. The city has over 150 thousand inhabitants that dwell in this panoramic and cosmopolitan city with great amenities for modern living such as shops, hotels, parks and museums. The port of Funchal is only second to Lisbon for being the busiest port in the country and has become a host to yachts and other ships.

The city is named because of the presence of numerous fenne in the area which in Portuguese is called funcho. The climate is a characteristic Mediterranean type. The city is accessible using its Port and Funchal airports. Developed to accommodate the needs of its growing tourism industry, Funchal is equipped to entertain many tourists who frequent the area during vacations.

Funchal has numerous city attractions catering to the different tastes of people who would like to visit the area. For people interested in the arts or who would like to explore the collections of Funchal, numerous museums and tourist destinations can be visited. The Bishop’s Palace is famous for paintings and art collections. The Cais on the other hand is a nautical museum as well as the Antiga Alfandega and Harbor Promenade. The Municipal Museum of Natural History and Vicentes Photography Museum which showcase photo exhibits are both interesting places to visit. In Funchal, the Madeira Botanic Garden has been top rated by many tourists as a great destination because of the flora collection and the terraces which overlook a breathtaking view of the scenery.

Aside from a tour of Funchal, the Laurisilva forest which is a UNESCO Natural Site, is worth visiting. People interested in romantic gondola rides can likewise enjoy the Funchal Passenger Ropeway which transports people to Monte.

Matmata in Tunisia
Photo by: francesco sgroi , Creative Commons

If the name of the place sounds weird to you, visiting and seeing the actual landscape of the place will blow you off your feet. This secluded town is located in a serene mountain side, with houses made with extraordinary style. Every family shelters in an underground cave, creating a lunar look in the town much of an alien appearance rather than an Earthly one. Unlike the traditional households you have grown to love, the homes in Matmata can be likened to little holes scraped from the mountain. This exemplary style of living is called the Troglodyte architecture, wherein tall walls of thick and solid mud are formed into having small openings in its façade. In these homes, at most 5,000 dwellers live.

Visiting the town will remind you of Star Wars, since Matmata was the actual location for filming of Sidi Driss, the place where Aunt Beru and Uncle Owen lived with Luke Skywalker. Since the production of the film, nothing has been changed in any way, since the place already looks more like a foreign village than a town. This attracts many tourists, and since the actual Hotel Sidi Driss still exists in Matmata, many Star Wars fans have experienced for themselves how it feels to be on planet Tatooine.

Also, the Berbers, or the locals living in Matmata, are very hospitable and friendly toward guests and tourists. You can readily feel their warm welcome once they have seen you. Many even suggest tips in finding reliable tourist guides for you. In that way, you can steer away from the scam fake guides often schemed for newcomers like you.

Overall, Matmata is a unique and exciting place to have on your vacations list. Visiting this place can be your moment to leave Earth without actually being in space!

Zanzibar Coral Reefs
Photo by: Zé Eduardo , Creative Commons

The continent of Africa can truly amaze many of us with its vast forests, breath taking sites and interesting collection of endangered and wild animals. As many travelers have believed, Africa is Nature at its boldest form.

If you are planning to pack your backpacks and spend your vacation on this marvelous continent, remember to include on your list of must-see attractions the Zanzibar Coral Reefs of Tanzania. Praised because of its ability to engulf urban settlers into a new perspective inclined towards Mother Earth, Tanzania is a place you will never want to miss.

Zanzibar is originally from mainland Tanzania, but was broken apart by long ago violent geological activities. Now, the two small islets comprising Zanzibar is a new tourist spot for many travelers. As an archipelago, the whole area of Zanzibar is bounded by wide beaches with growing coconut trees. Also, a vast collection of coral reefs surround the whole location, making it ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. In that case, for you to actually understand the grandeur of Zanzibar Coral Reefs, you might also want to bring with you your diving suits and goggles.

Historically speaking, Zanzibar was formerly called the Prison Island. The reason was because many unjust rulers imprisoned their slaves on this island. However, the former prison now is the center of tourism in Tanzania. In its coral reefs, Zanzibar serves as the home for a large family of giant tortoises. The coral reefs successfully attracted those tortoises believed to have dwelt originally from Seychelles.

Inspired by the oceanic aura, restaurants across the island also offer fish and chips in their menus, side by side with their organic salad. With that, visiting Zanzibar Coral Reefs is truly time well spent.

Bialystok in Poland
Photo by: Iwona Kellie, Creative Commons

Not only is Bialystok Poland’s centre for academic, administrative and economic fields but also its Green Lungs. This prestigious title is given to it mainly for its very rich natural and environmental resources. This is the very reason tourists do not only enjoy visiting this city but also decide to stay and live in this clean region. With only a population of 300,000, it can very well accommodate more dwellers who would want to partake in the environmental assets that make this city an ideal place to live in.

Today, the city of Bialystok in Poland has become a hub for various nations, cultures, customs, religions and traditions in this melting pot. People from all over the world have come together in this city. You will find different nationalities here, e.g., Jews, Germans, Poles, Lithuanians, Tartars, Byelorussians and Russians. The universal language “Esperanto” of Ludwik Zamenhoff was the result of the multienthnicity in Bialystok. This is made even possible by the location of this city which is actually near the borders of many other countries such as Russia, Lithuania and Belarus. Other reasons are the availability of transportation links easily connecting these places as well as the enticing conditions in Bialystok that makes it ideal for cultural and economic development.

There are many buildings in Bialystok that have great cultural value in them, around 143 in all. Most of this number managed to earn a place in the city’s register of historical monuments. One of the best and most valued is Branicki palace garden complex, which is also a popular spot for tourists. The shape of this complex is attributed to the Grand Crown Hetman, Jan Klemens Branicki. This palace is surrounded by a well preserved Baroque garden. The site is also referred to as the “Polish Versailles.”

A visit to Bialystok, Poland will definitely be a memorable experience especially of you are able to visit their famous other sites such as the churches, parks, forests, museums and many other relics from the past. Many activities can also be done while here. To ensure a thorough appreciation of the city, have a professional tour guide show you around.

Lisbon City in Portugal
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Are you looking for a different place to visit? Why not try Lisbon in Portugal? To start off your Portuguese adventure, try looking for a great experience at the heart of the country. The city is special and it belongs to the list of global alpha cities. With 2.8 million people inhabiting the metropolitan area of Lisbon and its economic importance, the city is one of the most significant areas in the Iberian Peninsula. Lisbon is also the seat of government and has a GDP higher than the European average.

Lisbon is also the westernmost capital of the European mainland and is close to the Atlantic Ocean. The Monsanto Forest Park occupying 10 km is located in the city. The park is one of the biggest there is in Europe.

The vibrant city has a very temperate Mediterranean climate, one of the nicest climates on the European continent with a lot of sunshine. The months of May to September are the best for many tourists because the skies are generally clear and blue with little to no rain.

For people who are interested in culture and arts, the city is teeming with historical structures designed in Modern, Post-modern, Baroque, Romanesque and other architectural styles that will surely satisfy the intellectual curiosity of visitors. Furthermore, museums in the city hold large collections of artifacts with some of the popular museums being the National Museum of Ancient Art and the National Museum of Costume and Fashion.

If you would like a taste of the modern life, the Bairro Alto is the heart of the city’s nightlife. It is colorful, entertaining and will surely cater to the needs of its visitors whether it is for shopping or other entertainment activities.

For a one of the kind vacation that offers adventure in everything to arts and tradition, culture, and romance, visit the city of Libson.

Algarve in Portugal
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Algarve is located in the southernmost part of Portugal and has an area of about 5 thousand square kilometers. It has a population of 4 hundred thousand people and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Portugal. This is probably due to the fine weather ideal for water sports as well as golfing thanks to the hills that shield the place from extreme winds. Algarve is now quite easily accessible thanks to the Algarve airport. During summers, the population almost doubles due to many visitors who would like to taste the wonderful charm offered by Algarve.

Aside from tourism being the source of economic progress, the region is also a major agricultural source being both a crop producer and seafood source for the country. Figs, carob beans, almonds as well as oranges are some of the agricultural products grown in the area.

The region’s geography is very hilly with post card perfect grottos and limestone caves which can be visited using powerboats. Islands as well as islets are likewise accessible to tourists. Visitors will be most welcome with world class resorts and luxury hotel spas which attract many tourists annually. Aside from high class hotels, others can opt to stay at guest house villas operated both by the locals and people of different nationalities who chose to purchase properties in the region due to lower cost of living and the Mediterranean climate.

For those who would like to indulge themselves in dining adventures, Algarve has many delicious cuisines and delicacies to offer its tourists. From international cuisines offered by the luxury hotels and restaurants to the local dishes, one can choose from different foods offered by the place. Must try dishes include seafood options such as oreno snails, clams, grilled Lagos style octopus and clams. The pastries are also well known ranging from figs to marzipan delicacies. Wines from Tavira and Lagos are exceptional. Algarve’s love for food is shown in the many festivals and happenings dedicated to its crops.

Algarve is definitely the ultimate tourist destination for those who would like to unwind and enjoy their vacation. One can never go wrong with visiting Algarve.

Coimbra in Portugal
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Coimbra in Portugal is one great historical city located about 195 km north of Lisbon. With a population of approximately 100 thousand people in the city proper and occupying 300 or so square kilometers, the city was once the capital of Portugal until it was transferred and relocated. Until now, the city has played significant in Portugal’s development being a center of urban development next to Lisbon. The city is also where the University of Coimbra, which is one of the oldest institutions in Europe, is located.

The temperature of Coimbra is generally cool in January with an average of 15 degrees Celsius and hottest during July and August with the highest temperatures reaching 29 degrees Celsius. During December, records of high precipitation are observed averaging to about 140 mm of rainfall.

Aside from the famous artifacts containing old structures, the city is world famous because of its activities including a vibrant night life, rich culture, monuments, museums, churches, shopping amenities as well as the superb healthcare it provides. The key feature which is the presence of the University of Coimbra, has also generated a strong activity in the arts, and attracted a strong presence of artists, writers and an academic community which led to the city being called as the Lusitanian Athens.

The city can be located over a hill and majestic structures stood waiting to be explored by curious visitors. Famous landmarks of the place include the Santa Cruz Monastery, Coimbra’s old cathedral, the new Cathedral of Coimbra, Machado de Castro Museum and many others. Furthermore, its booming economy enables shopping centers and other forms of luxuries while maintaining the old feel of the city as evidenced by coffee shops and specialty stores situated in charming old architectural buildings.

The promise of cultural enrichment, endless sun and amazing sights await tourists who decide to visit the great city of Coimbra. So, wait no more and book your tour to Coimbra on the next vacation and you will surely enjoy your stay with family, friends or even your lover.

La Sainte-Chapelle
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One of the most priceless tourist destinations in France is The Holy Chapel – or otherwise known as La Sainte-Chapelle. It is located right in the heart of Paris. It’s a great place to visit for Catholics and those who appreciate fine architecture. This is a Gothic chapel and is probably one of the finest, if not the highest points of Gothic architecture created during the rayonnante period.

According to history, this is practically one of Louis IX’s greatest achievements. He was able to collect over thirty relics of Christ back in the early 1200s. The chapel has received its share of damage from all the wars and revolutions throughout the years. What you will see standing this day will be much restoration. Experts have strived to restore it to its original glory. Any person who decides to visit this place will be taken in awe. Every single inch of this chapel is a marvelous sight. About two-thirds of the windows are still authentic while the rest have been recreated.

The sights which draw great attention are not limited to the holy place and the relics it holds. Both the lower and the upper chapels are magnificently built. The ceiling is splendid. Built with artistic arches and beams and have been crafted and finished with much elegance. The windows are all made of stained glass. The detail is impeccable. There is the rose window and the sculptures are truly an amazing piece of art you can not miss to notice. And if you happen to be in Chicago, Illinois, you will be able to find a replica of the La Sainte-Chapelle; the St. James Chapelle of Archbishop Quigley Preparatory Seminary.

Paris Famous Landmarks

Warsaw
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You may see Warsaw as a city beset in past wars, with its people butchered and brutalized by the Nazis, almost blowing the city into smithereens. All of this tragedy happened before 1944. After Warsaw’s uprising however, a new spirit gave life to its people and they began to rebuild their ruined city. Despite the many reminders of the war that still exist, much development continues to take place in Warsaw.

Today, Warsaw proves to be one of Poland’s fastest developing cities. Its democracy is rapidly developing and the free market is emerging, allowing for unique and numerous opportunities for its people. The city is turning out to be one huge construction site where you can see the investment boom everywhere you look.

Warsaw’s population is about 2 million people. It is the location of Poland’s largest university and home to tens of thousands of businesspeople and professionals recognized the world over. It also caters to many foreign professionals who loved the city’s working conditions as well as the people in Warsaw.

Today, you can visit the city and enjoy the designer hotels and sushi bars, the lounge bars as well as the brothels, the clubs, restaurants, hotels and many other spots that will bring you both tradition as well as modernity in this city teeming with a rich historic past. You can visit the countless buildings that still have its reminders of what have transpired when it was still in war. You can then immediately change the mood by drowning yourself with the modern metropolis that offers many enjoyable and modern attractions for tourists. You will surely enjoy the internationally renowned concerts and cultural events held regularly in theaters and cinemas.

If you visit the city, the best place to start with is the Old Town, where the city’s historic center has been rebuilt. You will also find various churches such as St. John’s Cathedral which contains various tombs of eminent citizens, knights and regents, as well as many of Wit Stwosz’ gothic artworks. You will also love the Royal Castle, the King’s chambers and apartments, St. Anne’s Church and of course, the New Town. You should not miss the Warsaw Uprising Museum which is Poland’s best museum. There are many other locations that will surely take your breath away and bring you back many years in the past when the city was still struggling with the war.

Taroko
Photo by: jiashiang , Creative Commons

Literally translated as magnificent and beautiful, Taroko was the first word out of a certain tribesman’s mouth after being mesmerized by the magnificence and beauty of the place.

When Taiwan was still under the reign of the Japanese, The Taroko Gorge was established as its national park and it is until today, one of the top destinations for tourists in the island. It is known as the Ihla Formosa or “beautiful island.” There are many sites to explore within the vicinity of the park. In the canyon, there are hiking trails where you can go and have some bonding time with nature along with your family and friends. The gorge also offers a large variety of animals for people to observe.

You can find 144 kinds of birds and 30 species of mammals. There are 32 reptilian species and approximately 18 known species of fish. There are also 251 kinds of butterflies flying around the place. The island generally, is a mild, subtropical place which means that raining year round.

The most bedazzling part of the park is its coastal cliffs and its subtropical forested canyons. The tallest peak in Taiwan is about 3800 meters high. It is widely known for its gorgeous mountain sceneries, grottos of the swallows, springs, and other more extravagantly beautiful sights. This is a great site for recreational activities.

The word Taroko is a word that was derived from the term “truku” of the Truku tribe. It was established first as the Tsugitaka Taroko National Park in 1937 and was destroyed in 1945 after the Second World War. The park was re-established in November 28, 1986 and was renamed in what we now know as the Taroko National Park- The beautiful Island of Taiwan.

The Gorges du Verdon
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The Gorges du Verdon or the Verdon Gorge is one of the most attractive places to visit in south-eastern France. This is a river canyon which can be considered as one of nature’s finest works of art and is formed by the Verdon River. The entire canyon spans at approximately twenty-five kilometers long and goes down to about seven hundred meters in depth. When a person stands on one edge and looks at the entire place, they will be able to see how marvelous nature is. But it does not stop there. The Verdon Gorge has much more to offer its visitors. In between the span of the entire gorge lies five dams which hold back the water from five reservoirs.

There are two key-entry points to this place for those who wish to visit. There is the northern rim and the southern rim. This canyon can be considered to be much of a paradise, especially to rock climbers. There are over fifteen hundred different climbing routes with varied heights set on limestone rocks.

Hikers can also find safe havens of scenic paths through the different areas of the canyon. Some of the paths are short and can be toured in a short period of time; other paths can require average hikers to travel for about twelve to thirteen hours to make a round trip.

This is a very famous tourist destination in France, and those who wish to drive around to appreciate the view can use the roads surrounding the rim of the gorge. Apart from rock climbing and hiking, other sports such as canoeing, rafting and paragliding are also being offered to visitors.

Selous Game Reserve
Photo by: Explorer Travel , Creative Commons

Selous Game Reserve is one of the largest reserves in the world. Visiting this African game reserve will give you a bewildering sense of forest virginity. This reserve helps protect a large quantity of the animal species. You can also find 350 different species of birds. Some of the mammals include a hundred thousand buffalos, a hundred and fifty thousand wildebeests and a huge population of giraffes. It also contains at least 50 thousand impalas.

One of the best features of the Selous Game reserve is the Rufiji River. It is a hundred meters deep and a hundred meters wide. There are five lakes connected by the Rufiji. You can venture into the heart of the jungle by boat. In the river, you can probably see yundus.

Medenine
Photo by: Wikimedia Commons , Creative Commons

Visiting ancient ruins of former great cities can truly be a splendid idea for tourists. Medenine of Tunisia will make an excellent vacation to see ancient buildings and structures.

Although many tourist guides neglect this great site as a must see for the interested people seeking leisure, Medinine is a good choice for you. Why? Well, the structures in the ghorfas villages are of optimum importance to the agricultural aspect of Tunisia. Ghorfas are grain storage houses that shelters many of the crops the Tunisians in Medenine have gathered throughout the summer. You will surely love its distinct appearance. The building is made from 100% clay and mud, ensuring the cool temperature inside without creating the destructive moisture than can spoil the grains. Many caretakers of the storage houses allow tourists to see and witness how the grains are stacked inside the attention-grabbing forms of the ghorfas.

Moreover, to add color to the already interesting collection of ghorfas, a series of stores selling colorful carpets are seen around the village. Most of the time, the businessmen even parade their designed carpets outside their stations, making the whole area more attractive and lively. You can also find these carpets as a great souvenir item, both for you and for your loved ones. Tunisian carpets are known for its intricate appearances and ethnic styles. This would definitely adorn your floors. For functionality, these carpets can effectively insulate the chilling temperature of winter.

Truly, having an experience of seeing this one of a kind cultural place can be a very fulfilling experience.

Murchison Falls National Park
Photo by: sarah_mccans , Creative Commons

If your vacation period is nearing, you might be interested in visiting the Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda, Africa. You can perfectly hope for a relaxing experience in this part of the vast forestry of Africa. The whole park is halved with the Victoria Nile River, running for the first 40 meters in a bulleting speed and then ending into the grand Murchison Falls, the central attraction of this park. Aligned on both sides of the river is a thick group of trees and other shrubs and plants.

Of course, a National Park wouldn’t be complete without the varying animals living in its sheltering arms. Included among the animals living in this vast wet land are 450 species of birds and 76 kinds of mammals, such as elephants, giraffes, hippopotamuses, warthog and the Uganda kobo. Also, the river hosts the largest number of wild crocodiles and other reptile species, making this forest a good source of curiosity and interest. The good part here is you can actually see these animals roam around the forest.

Also, if you visit the Murchison Falls National Park, you can be on the same list of personalities who have also enjoyed the company of the Uganda animals. The members include Winston Churchill, Theodore Roosevelt, and Ernest Hemmingway. Movies requiring forest backgrounds have also been filmed here, like the famous African Queen.

Medina of Sousse
Photo by: snake3yes , Creative Commons

If you are in the mood to spend a few weeks of vacation in the lovely country of Tunisia, do not forget to drop by the prominent Medina of Sousse. Truly, your visit in Tunisia is never complete without even experiencing this World Heritage Site chosen by the UNESCO foundation.

The best part of Medina of Sousse is its vast market. Even from its historical roots, Medina of Sousse is already known as a junction of markets and bazaars. Aside from being a business-oriented town, Medina of Sousse is also considered as a military port. Thus, you can also see in this town the numerous signs of ancient wars between varying expeditions with missions to conquer Africa. If you have a chance to see this place, it will be like having economic and historical lessons all in one vacation.

However, it’s best advised for you to know at least the basic words and replies in their language. Many Tunisians are incapable of understanding and speaking English, so you will do yourself a favor by educating yourself first. Remember that business transactions, especially in Tunisia, require a lot of bargaining. Although the general prices of the souvenir items here are at most half the price of other souvenir items from other famous tourist spots, you will still lower the prices if you can effectively bargain with the vendors.

All in all, Medina of Sousse is a very ideal place for you to visit. If you are looking for an affordable vacation, this should be one of your priority places to witness. In addition to the affordability of the items, the overall response of Tunisians to your visit is a warm one.

Taipei
Photo by: tylerdurden, Creative Commons

The story of Taipei began when the Han Chinese stayed in the basin of Taipei in 1709. It was caught between colonial politics. Though there is insufficient knowledge about its earliest inhabitants, human life started here about 5000 years ago.

A Portuguese writer once called this “Ilha Formosa” or beautiful island when translated in English. The Dutch were the first ones to colonize this land where at that time, a few Chinese fishermen inhabited the land. Spanish red beards claimed Dan Shui in 1626. The Dutch managed to chase away the Spaniards in 1641, but its rise to power didn’t last upon Koxinga coming to the scene.

He was a loyal Ming follower and also the son of a merchant in China. When the Ming Dynasty fell, Koxinga was forced to get out of China because of his refusal to pledge his loyalty to the Quing. Koxinga made Taiwan his base of operations regarding the rebellion against the Quing. After getting rid of the Dutch, he and his approximately 30,000 men went on to war against the Quing, where they unfortunately lost the battle. When the French occupied Taiwan in 1884, it became the province of China. In 1895, Taiwan was handed over to Japan at the end of the war.

Japan was overthrown after World War II and Taiwan was again under China. When the Qing died, Sun Yat Sen established the republic of China.

Taiwan’s government underwent a vast transformation after the Martial Law Ended. It started and lasted for 40 years after the mainland lost the war to Chiang Kai-Shek. Many treasures were taken away from the Forbidden City. There was also a prior massacre which killed many innocent people.
The Democratic Progressive Party was established in 1986. The citizens were allowed to send letters through mail and get travel permits for the first time in 40 years.

Desert Castles
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If you enjoy visiting historic destinations, then Jordan might be a possible location for you. Why not go to a side trip to the Desert Castles situated near the capital Amman? The Desert Castles are marvelous for sight seeing and on the architectural aspect, it represents the impressive style of Islamic architecture and art. Thus, the tour will certainly make you appreciate the beauty and charm of Islamic art through the castle structures.

If you wonder what the Desert Castles of Jordan where built for, scholars say that these castles where probably constructed for agricultural, defensive and trading reasons. The castles where built between the 7th and 8th century. Although many of the castles have already been destroyed through time and the difficult desert conditions, there are still many well preserved and restored castles which you can visit. Some of these include Qasr Al Castal, Qsar Mshatta, Qasr al Hallabat, Qasr ‘Amra and other castles scattered throughout the area.

One of the most popular among the castles is the Qasr Azraq also known as the blue fortress. Its charm to visitors is probably because it was T.E. Lawrence’s headquarters during his campaign in 1917-1918 and the fact that it became known in his book the Seven Pillars of Wisdom as well as his popular nickname Lawrence of Arabia.

The Qasr Amra is the best preserved and the most eye catching among the castles. The castle is built to serve as bath house for important people. Another interesting attribute of the castle is the mosaic art on the walls and the intriguing art depicting important people despite the fact that Islamic art prohibits depicting humans.

So if you would like to travel to a new destination, include the Desert Castles in Jordan to your list and you would surely have an enjoyable experience.

Antigua Guatemala
Photo by:
Mike Murga , Creative Commons

Antigua Guatemala has always been one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Latin America. A proof of its tourist-wise stellar power would be the fact that it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not only does this city in the beautiful country of Guatemala boasts its different attractions, but also the rich and colorful culture that is imbibed in the society that inhabits the site.

One of its numerous historical places would be Saint Joseph Cathedral or Catedral de San José, which withstood the biggest earthquakes in the country and is still standing despite partial renovations. The church is still the face of how much Christianity has spread throughout Guatemala in times of Spanish pre-occupation.

Vólcan de Agua or the Volcano of Water can be seen from the busy streets of Antigua Guatemala. Although the volcano does not really bring water out of its mouth, the volcano is famous for its scenic view behind the clouds and the tradition of the people to lay out a carpet pointing to the volcano during Easter.

The Central Park in the city is considered the main gathering spot for the townspeople. On special occasion, presentations and celebrations are held there.

As mentioned earlier, the rich culture and traditions of the people residing in the city makes Antigua Guatemala a worthwhile place to visit. Festivals of saints are held frequently in the city, where colorful costumes are worn by people depicted in plays. Spanish language teaching here is also recognized as one of the most comprehensive courses. Foods made from different herbs and spices are also must-tastes for the visitors.

Someone planning to visit a particular city in Latin America should never pass on the chance going to Antigua Guatemala. Everything and everyone in this wonderful city is surely a site to behold.

Nuku Hiva
Photo by: Poverarte, Creative Commons

In the French Polynesia territory of France is the largest island of the Marquesas Island, Nuku Hiva. This is an overseas territory by the Pacific ocean. It is sometimes called Nukahiva or Madison Island. While the majority of the locals are Polynesian, there are also a significant number of European residents. Getting to this place is not much of a problem. It has a single-strip runway airport which caters to travelers.

Retreating to an island such as this for a vacation or for a special occasion is a great idea. The view and the different areas within this place are astounding. There are valleys all around the western coastline of the island. There are no inhabited villages on this area. The northern and southern coastlines of Nuku Hiva have bays all around them and the two largest bays are found on the northern area. If you seek a wider place to wander off, the center of the island is a plateau which is covered by tall grass. Here you will be able to find a prairie where they now raise cattle. The highest peak is found at the western area of the plateau. This is where most of the rain water is caught and collected. The area is covered by pine tree plantations and is where you can find a three hundred and fifty meter high water falls called the Vaipo waterfall.

Apart from hiking and sight-seeing, there are more activities you can do in this island. There are festivals which are held for various occasions and as this is an island surrounded by the ocean, there are water-related activities to experience and enjoy. Some of the resorts offer services and facilities for snorkeling and diving. Shopping and dining are also common points of interest as the locals offer an array of specialties for their visitors.

Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela
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The Rock-Hewn Churches located in Lalibela, Ethiopia is an outstanding work of architecture for early times. The series of churches was built under the order of King Lalibela, who planned to transform the city of Lalibela into a New Jerusalem, as Muslims mainly occupied the old Jerusalem in Israel. A series of monolithic churches were built around 12th and 13th century and until now, the Rock-Hewn Churches still stand firm to continually amaze tourists around the world. It was honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1978.

In total, there are thirteen churches in the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela and these are grouped in four:

Northern Group

– Bete Medhane Alem, wherein the Lalibela Cross can be found.

– Bete Maryam, the church believed to be the oldest among the Rock-Hewn Churches.

– Bête Golgotha

– Selassie Chapel

– Tomb of Adan

Southern Group

– Monastery of Ashetan Maryam

– Yimrehane Kristos

Western Group

– Bete Giyorgis, acclaimed to be the best well-preserved church among the series of churches.

Eastern Group

– Bete Amanuel, believed to be the royal chapel.

– Bete Merkorios,

– Bete Gabriel Rufael

– Bete Abba Libanos

The city of Lalibela is a frequently visited tourist attraction. An airport, a hospital and several markets can be found within the place. While visiting the Rock-Hewn Churches, it is advisable to wear the most comfortable shoes as venturing throughout the churches can be quite tiring. There are many local tour guides and helpers around the place and it is recommendable to appoint one. The local tour guide will help you navigate around the churches; moreover, the helper will take care of your shoes as you enter the church because shoes must be taken off before going in. Inside the churches, different religious items can be found, including the wall paintings, swastikas and crosses. You will absolutely be amazed at how the rocks were cut and curved; so pay a visit at the Rock-Hewn Churches and be dazzled with its amazing beauty!

The Ilulissat Icefjord
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One of the largest and most popular tourist destinations in Greenland is the Ilulissat Icefjord. To the Greenlandish language, the word Ilulissat literally means icebergs. It has been recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is a place of sheer brilliance and significance to every person on the planet. Here in Ilulissat Icefjord you will find much information and proof of global warming.

While this is a place which is most focused on the studies and research of the effects of global warming to ice lands such as Ilulissat, tourists and other curious visitors are most welcome. This is actually a place which is often sought out by people who would wish to see the majesty of Greenland. And for visitors to be able to truly appreciate this place there are a number of different activities and services offered. There are some places in this area which offer programs of day trips around the glaciers. Some offer hiking trips which may last for hours or even overnight. There are also boat rides and sailing trips which are not only relaxing and enjoyable but are highly informative as well. To others who would seek a grander view of the glaciers, they can take helicopter rides which will take them around the ice caps and glaciers to be able to marvel at the splendor of the ice.

The greatest aim of the Greenland Government and other global organizations is to promote awareness. As you embark on a journey to Ilulissat Icefjord, you will be able to understand the grand effects of climate change. The small things that we may barely notice at home are experienced at a much grander scale in other places such as this. There is much to see and appreciate in this land; so much of nature which we rarely see and experience. It is a side of the globe which has much to offer and welcomes visitors with open arms.

Museum d’Orsay
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Want to be awed by fabulous art in a museum that stands on what used to be a train station? The Museum d’Orsay or Musée d’ Orsay, situated in the old Gare d’Orsay, is one of the must-see spots if you’re in France. Besides showcasing to appreciative crowds the astounding Impressionist paintings by the masters, furniture, photographs, and 19th century sculptures & curios, Musée d’ Orsay is an architectural marvel.

The stone façade of the former Paris Gare d’Orsay was created by architect Victor Laloux. The train station was completed in 1900 in time for a world fair held in Paris. Decades years later, the train station became dilapidated and was used as a backdrop for celebrated movies such as Franz Kafka’s The Trial. During the late 1970s, the railway station was converted into a museum.

Even with the conversion of Gare d’Orsay into the Musee d’ Orsay, it retained Laloux’s architectural vision but reinterpreted the structure’s new function. The splendid art nouveau glass awning was turned into the museum entrance. In the 1980s, additional floor area was added to be able to house vast art collections. Today, the Orsay museum, which houses thousands of art works, is among the most popular locations that people from all over the world come to see. It’s an amazing architectural showcase. It even has a glass walkway (part of the original train station), and also has a restaurant-café, auditorium, bookstore, and gift shop. The interior design of the museum, which Italian designer Gae Aulenti spearheaded, sparked some controversy. Detractors have decried some of the museum’s features as “mussolinian” in terms of style. Whether you’re an art aficionado who looks forward to viewing French masterpieces created between 1848 and 1915, or someone who loves seeing architectural wonders and enjoying a piece of history, the Musee d Orsay is well worth including in your itinerary.

Paris Famous Landmarks

What is attracting more and more tourists to Antarctica? The temperature is so cold that it is difficult to find a reason behind their expeditions. They want to visit the Jagged Mountain. Make sure to include this in your schedule when you visit Antarctica.

The Jagged Mountain is such a breath-taking view especially for tourists who love to take beautiful pictures as well as those who would want to climb the rough terrains. What will you see during your stay at the Jagged Mountain? Well for starters, there is the Nunataks. They are not abominable monsters they can sometimes appear to be. They are called Jagged Mountain since they have peaks that jut upwards as high as any tall building.

The next natural phenomenon would be the Razor which happens to be a vertical rock wall that stands a whopping 2,000 feet. Did you know that it remained unscaled for years until someone broke the record in 1996? There is so much for you to see in the Jagged Mountain and you definitely need your hiking boots and extra food. Keep in mind that any travel across continents does come with a hefty price. Antarctica is not an inexpensive trip, so better save up!

Since the Razor was already scaled or someone climbed it already, there are still virgin summits waiting for you at the Jagged Mountain. As every tourist should always keep in mind, never forget your gear. Not all places are complete with stores for you to go for if you need additional supplies. So pack up and prepare yourself for the worst case scenarios that can possibly take place like sudden snowstorms, avalanches or even shortage of food. Even though, this is a remarkable tourist destination, it pays to always be prepared.

Santo Tomás Chichicastenango
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Santo Tomás Chichicastenango or simply Chichicastenango is one of the most visited towns in the country of Guatemala. Popularly known for its cultural K’iche’ Maya way of living. Besides its quite complex yet catchy name, Chicicastenango is more than just a tourist spot remembered for its name.

What makes Chichicastenango a great tourist attraction is that it has market days where vendors sell different items that are natural and handmade. Besides the food that is mixed with Guatemala’s most exquisite herbs and spices, wild flowers, uniquely-designed pots, medicinal herbs, cultural incenses and domesticated animals are also sold here. Tourists are definitely in for a delightful treat. Festivities are also held in the square. Dances and rituals are done, as well as the serving of different delicacies.

Tourists can do their sight-seeing right after shopping because the church of Santo Tomás is just beside the central market. The church is already 400 years old, which makes it one historical church and a witness to the town’s significant events. Rituals are held here by K’iche’ Maya priests.

Lying beneath the historical cathedral is the Chichicastenango Regional Museum or Museo Regional. The museum still has the most precious ancient artifacts and materials. Some of these artifacts are made of precious stones like jade and ceramic. Spears and arrow heads are also present in the area, which attests to the fact that it had been a witness to the bloodiest wars during the early times of the town. The museum is frequently referred to as Museo Arqueológico Rossbach. This is because a large portion of the collection and artifacts were donated by Idelfonso Rossbach – a German Franciscan priest who held masses and lived in the town during the 1900s.