Mustang Kingdom, Nepal
Photo by:
Librex , Creative Commons

Mustang or Mun Tan means fertile plain. It is the former Kingdom of Lo, the place measures roughly 80 kilometers ling (north-south) and 45 kilometers at its widest. It is at an elevation of roughly over 2500m. Mustang is also called as Tibet. Mustang Kingdom survived the Chinese invasion back in 1951 and hence it was able to foster its original Tibetan Culture.

Currently, Mustang is politically part of Nepal. Mustang people do animal husbandry and trade as their source of income. The region is very accessible from Himalayas. Because of its strategic location, it has gone through many wars and sometimes even serves as a battle field. Various culture and religion practices and beliefs thrived in Mustang. The place is largely dry and arid due to its geographical location.

The people in Mustang Kingdom either belong to the Thakalis or Tibetan origin. Most people lived near the river. The site is roughly 2-3,000m above sea level but for tough conditions they are force to vacate and transfer to a lower region of Nepal. The kingdom opened its gate to the world in 1970s.

Even though foreigners have been currently allowed to enter the kingdom since 1991, tourism to the upper Mustang is still regulated. Foreigners need to secure a specific or special permit to enter the kingdom. It roughly costs five hundred U.S dollars for a person to stay in Mustang for ten days.

Mustang Kingdom was once a very independent kingdom. Language and culture are closely similar to the Tibet’s. Back in fifteenth century to seventeenth century, due to its strategic location, Mustang had an advantage to control trade between Himalayas and India. By the end of eighteenth century, the kingdom was controlled by Nepal already.

Back in 2007, a shepherd in Mustang discovered a collection of 55 cave paintings depicting the life of Buddha.

Grand Place, Belgium
Photo by: Manza, Creative Commons

If Brussels is the capital of Belgium, then Grand Place has got to be the capital of Brussels. Situated at the center of the most significant city in all of Belgium, the Grand Place is an imposing town square with an area of 68 by 110 m. It is associated with the country’s seat of power because it is outlined by two equally imposing structures: the Brussels City Hall and the King’s House, presently called the Breadhouse.

The architecture of Grand Place is like nothing you’ve ever seen. The row of shops are seemingly knitted together to form an overall look of a picturesque middle-age town square. To the south of Grand Place, you will find the Brussels City Hall. This symbol of municipal power was erected in the early 1400’s. Right across it is the King’s House, although no king has ever resided in it. In the early 1500s, the Duke of Brabant built it to represent ducal power in the city. Merchant shops and guilds fill the spaces between these two significant landmarks. Despite having been erected at different periods and under different architectural influences, the buildings surrounding Grand Place seemingly mesh together to form a landscape that is worthy of a portrait. Moreover, if your timing is right, you can experience the Flower Carpet that covers the Grand Place in August of every other year. During this time, the Grand Place is adorned with an intricate and colorful pattern of begonias, a native flower in Brussels.

As significant as Grand Place, it is but a mere iceberg’s tip of the culture and history that Brussels has to offer. But, many people begin their adventure through Brussels at Grand Place, more preferably through bike tours or walking tours. Starting from the grandeur of this impressive town square, you can then discover the fun and interesting things that Brussels has in store for you.

Orange Roman Theatre
Photo by: Allie Caulfield , Creative Commons

If the thought of visiting one of the best preserved Roman monuments in France thrills you to no end, then you won’t go wrong traveling to Orange, France. This is where the Orange Roman Theatre, which is testament to the pomp and splendor of the Roman Empire (having been built in the first century AD under Emperor Augustus,) may be found. Visiting the popular tourist spot is like taking a trip back through time.

Unlike Greek amphitheaters nestled on natural slopes, Roman theaters were reinforced by a framework of piers and vaults. They were therefore constructed right in the heart of the city.

The Orange Roman Theatre in Rhone Valley reaped the distinction of being among the World Heritage Sites designated by UNESCO. Reading about Roman monuments is riveting enough, but seeing massive theaters up close is awe-inspiring. An imposing structure that served as venue for entertainment for the masses and as an arena for political rhetoric or even propaganda, the ancient theaters at the town center of Orange was built to serve its Roman patrons, who sought to gain control of conquered territories.

Orange Roman Theater’s stage wall measures over 100 meters long and about 37 meters high. Niches, colonnades and statues comprise the stage wall’s facade, which aided in delivering great acoustics. Orange Roman Theater’s stage wall measures over 100 meters long and about 37 meters high. Niches, colonnades and statues comprise the stage wall’s façade, which aided in delivering great acoustics. The structure underwent restoration in the 19th century.

The ancient theater which drew a huge audience during Roman times continues to buzz today with musical events. When planning to watch special events at the theatre, you may opt to get settled at a charming hotel brimming with character nearby, before hieing off to the famous landmark and reminiscing about the golden years of the Roman Empire.

The Wadi Rum
Photo by: Paul Mannix , Creative Commons

The Wadi Rum of Jordan is a valley which has been cut and shaped from the granite and sandstone in the southwest area in the country. It is also the largest one in Jordan and accordingly the name Rum comes from an Aramaic word which means elevated or high. Historically, the place has also become the base for the campaigns of British adventurer T.E. Lawrence, also known in popular culture as Lawrence of Arabia. Incidentally, many Hollywood films have also been filmed in the area.

At present the moment, the place has been considered as one of Jordan’s key tourist attractions and gets increased numbers of tourist annually. Most people who visit the wadi are trekkers, mountain climbers, and day trippers, as well as people who have arranged for horse and camel safaris. If you plan to visit the area, the activities which you can opt to do include hiking, challenging yourself to difficult rock climbing in the unfamiliar trek, and camping during the night for thrill seekers. A high peak in the area is popular for mountain climbers because it is so high it can be covered by snow. The highest peak in Jordan is also in the area where the Saudi border and the Red Sea can be seen during a sunny day when the sky is clear.

The place has generally become wealthy and access to modern equipments such as wi-fi, mobile phones and other communication tools are available. Four wheel drives can also be rented to explore the place. Because of the influx of tourism, the place has become fairly developed and can supply modest necessities for tourists and visitors. For people who would like to arrange their visit, the locals are readily equipped to give the best service they can provide.
So if you plan to embark on another adventure, don’t forget to visit the Wadi Rum and you will surely have an experience of a lifetime.

Los Glaciares National Park
Photo by:
Ricardo Martins , Creative Commons

Los Glaciares National Park is the second largest national park in Argentina. Declared a national park in 1937, it’s also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981. Its name is derived from the giant ice cap in the Andes mountain range. This ice cap is the largest in the world excluding the ones found in Antarctica and Greenland. There are two lakes situated in the park – Lake Argentino and Lake Viedma. These lakes feed into the Santa Cruz River, which in turn flow into the Puerto Santa Cruz on the Atlantic.

The northern part of Los Glaciares is entered through El Chalten. People visit this side of the Los Glaciares mainly for the trekking and hiking. The mountains of Cerro Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre are the most popular among climbers. The gateway to the southern part is El Calafate on Lago Argentino. On this side of the park, visitors can ride boats and go sight-seeing among the glaciers of Perito Moreno, Upsala, Spegazinni, and Onelli. While Perito Moreno can also be accessed by land, the last three can only be reached through motorboats.

Travel between the northern and southern parts is also an adventure. Hardy tourists can soak in the scenery while roughing it out on a four-hour drive over gravel and dirt roads. There are several tour operators who offer rides to make this trip but more adventurous travelers can opt to rent a vehicle and drive themselves. It is important to have sufficient gas, experience in driving on all-weather roads, and knowledge of vehicle maintenance if you wish to take this trip. There is only one stop between El Chalten and El Calafate, so proper preparations must be made. The best time to visit the park is from October to March.

Pont du Gard
Photo by: Jeff Dlouhy , Creative Commons

Ever thought about traveling off the beaten path along the back roads of the breathtakingly beautiful countryside of Provence, France?

A must-see monument is the Pont du Gard, which was constructed by the Romans in the late 1st century BC in order to redirect water from a spring 50 kilometers from Nîmes. You’d be blown away by the structure’s sheer size and historical background. It also happens to be an amazing engineering feat. You’d think that after 2,000 years, buildings & structures categorized as Roman ruins would have been destroyed or supplanted already. Not with the Pont du Gard. The stable monument is partly due to the massive stones used in its construction. Built completely without mortar, the structure is held together by six-ton stones with iron clamps. The postcard-perfect bridge may look delicate but it’s robust, as proven by its long existence. Pont du Gard, which stands proudly above the Gard River, towers above all Roman aqueducts. It consists of three tiers of arches and at the top is the aqueduct itself. The bridge has a well-proportioned triple tier design and beautiful woodland setting.

Certainly one of the best-preserved showcases of Roman architecture in France, the Pont du Gard joined other awesome destinations designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1985. Today, millions of tourists flock to see the Pont du Gard annually. It’s only 25 kilometers from Nimes. Up close, the monument amazes many travelers who highly appreciate technical and artistic works of architecture.

Recent years have seen enhancements that lure even more visitors to the scenic spot. Pont du Gard is an amazing setting for multimedia exhibits highlighted by high-tech images & sounds. Situated on the left bank of the river is a national park. Climb the steep stone steps to marvel at the fantastic view from above. Others find the spot ideal for cycling and horseback riding.

Cartagena Old Town
Photo by: Plexuz , Creative Commons

Cartagena Old Town is the fifth largest city in the country of Colombia. It is regarded as one of the safest and colonial-inspired towns in Colombia that its downtown. It is greatly influenced by colonial architectural style. In the pre-Columbian era, the old Cartagena is said to be the first documented town to gain inhabitants in the land.

Exploring this beautiful city will require some familiarization. If you’re planning to go to Cartagena Old Town, you might want to take a look at what many tourists have to say about this special place:

1. Cartagena Old Town is not like the rest of Colombia – Contrary to what is perceived about Colombia as the land where major crimes, trafficking, and narcotics prevail, this side of Colombia has more to offer. The town nestles hundreds of colonial residences, leisure parks, churches, and many more. The town being the location of the Unesco World Heritage ensures visitors a place where warm and friendly people reside.

2. The Santo Domingo Church – This is one of the famous religious temples in the town of Cartagena. Created by Colombia’s well known artist, Fernando Botero and can be found just across the Santo Domingo Square. If you want to catch a glimpse of both art and religion, the Santo Domingo Church is a must.

3. The Bocagrande – Your Cartagena Old Town visit will never be complete without stopping at the BIG MOUTH, one of Bocagrande’s most famous attractions. Here, you will be welcomed with a lot of shopping malls, art galleries, restaurants, resorts and beaches. The Bocagrande is just nearby the Cartagena bay and area’s central district, the Avenida San Martin. Traveling to the shore of the Caribbean is just 7 minutes away by boat, so for those who want to have an almost Caribbean feel, the beaches of Bocagrande is a sound entry point.

Deception Island in Antarctica
Photo by: 23am.com , Creative Commons

Mystery and adventure awaits you in Deception Island. Located in Antarctica, this island is one of the places most tourists love to visit. There are many things to do during your stay here and the first stop would be to say hello to the chinstrap penguins. They are such cute animals most especially when you see them burying themselves into the sand. They love both the water as well as land.

Tourists swear by the landscape view of the steaming beaches. But do you know the main reason why they are steaming? It is because it is within close proximity to an active volcano. Usually the water is indeed scalding but there are portions where the water has a mix of hot and cold just like what you have in the shower. What is great here is the presence of sulfur being emitted from the volcano. It has medicinal properties that cure skin ailments like Psoriasis.

Deception Island is indeed the destination to be since here you could very much commune with nature. The mystery is behind the geothermal activities that are happening within the city and the animals that freely roam there. There are whales too to further heighten your nature expedition!

Just make sure to know some mandatory guidelines when you visit Deception Island. They are many rules for tourists who tend to go on their own adventures and leave the group. Since there is an active volcano present, better check if there are any recent eruptions or even what kind of clothes or protection you need to wear should you take a dip in the water for you can suffer 3rd degree burns. Make sure not to bring home any plants no matter how pretty they are – it’s prohibited by the law.

Rila Monastery
Photo by: kevinzim , Creative Commons

The Rila Monastery, which is also known as The Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila, is the largest and most popular monastery of Eastern Orthodox in Bulgaria.

How the present-day’s monastery edifices look like was set by Aleski Rilets, the first Bulgarian architect. He planned the architectural design and led the creation of the north wing with its well-known monastery kitchen, the eastern wing and the western wing. This is portrayed by 3 plaques above the mill’s doors, the Dupnitsa and the Samokov entrances. Aside from his name, the plaques also include the names of Teodosii and Father Superior Yosif. Subsequent to the upsetting fire that took place in the year 1833, Aleksi Rilets guided the reconstruction of the wrecked wooden parts of the monastery with help from three thousand master builders, who were able to get it done within just ten days.

The whole complex is rather remarkable for its dimension. The residential part of four floors is consisted of not less than three hundred monks’ cells, four chapels, one abbot’s room, one kitchen, one library, and a couple of guest rooms for the donors. The kitchen in particular is really interesting because of its large cooking tools. The outside of the monastery is also as intriguing because of its harsh and high stone walls incised through by little windows, giving us a more military fort feel than a monastery.

If you happen to get inside the complex, visiting the monastery museum is highly suggested. It holds a special work of art called The Raphael’s Cross. This cross is named after its artist and is actually made of one whole piece of wood. The monk made use of a magnifying lens, little knives and fine chisels in order to carve 650 tiny figures and 104 spiritual scenes into the cross.

Osorno Volcano
Photo by: Bitterroot, Creative Commons

Osorno Volcano is said to be a replica of Mount Fuji especially when the aspect of appearance surfaces. It is also renowned as one of the most active volcanoes in the country of Chile. The volcano has reached its 11th eruption during the 15th and 18th centuries. But even if the volcano is anticipated to spew out its rage anytime, there are still loads of visitors coming in this Southern Side of Chile to experience first hand great adventure and fun.
Like any other active volcanoes around the globe, Osorno Volcano is dangerous with evident traces of eruption near its vicinity. Apart from this, slopes in close proximity to the volcano are still devoid of vegetation up until now along with other plant life. But what makes this volcano an interesting and special place to visit? Let’s try to find out what it specifically offers in the words that follow:

1. A close-up view of the volcano – As it is once said, the closer you get to your subject, the more you appreciate its beauty. And, you’ll only get to appreciate the beauty of the Osorno Volcano if you catch a close glimpse of it.

2. The ski lift part – You may have experienced riding on a ski lift countless times, but riding on it with the volcano as the background is another story. The thrilling experience it provides is incomparable and you are sure to crave for more rides to take.

3. Sit, relax and enjoy – The idea may stand out against the picture of the volcano in mind, but the setting changes into a more relaxing one as you allow yourself to just sit for an afternoon delight with a buddy and a drink in hand. The entire atmosphere is even heightened as you get a good view of other lakes like Puerto Vargas and Lake Llanquihue.

Lumbini, Nepal
Photo by: Argenberg, Creative Commons

Lumbini is a Buddhist pilgrimage site located in Kapilavastu a district of Nepal. The area is situated near the Indian border. Queen Mayadevi was said to have given birth to Siddhartha Gautama in this particular place. Siddhartha Gautama was the one who gave birth to Buddhist tradition.

Lumbini lies at the foothills of the Himalaya where the Buddha is said to have lived until the age of 29. Lumbini has many temples. In Puskarini or Holy Pond is where the Buddha’s mother took her ritual bath prior to her delivery and Buddha himself had his first bath in that very place.

In Buddha’s time, Lumbini was known to be a park located between Kapilavastu and Devadaha. Buddha was born there and pillars are made to mark the very spot of Asoka’s visit and Asoka’s gift to Lumbini. The park was previously known as the Rummindei. In 1896, Nepalese archeologists discovered a great stone pillar at the very site, it was believed that this pillar was created in honor of Emperor Ashoka.

As of 1997, Lumbini is known as UNESCO World Heritage Site which was specifically nominated for the International World Heritage Program. The holy land of Lumbini is bordered and protected by a big monastic zone law. Which no shops, restaurant, bars or hotels can be build in the said zone only monasteries are allowed.
There are actually two monastic zones: the eastern zone known as the Theravadin monasteries and the western zone known to have both Mahayana and Vajrayana monasteries.

The holy place of Lumbini includes ruins of ancient monasteries such as the sacred tree called the Bodhi tree, the ancient bathing pond, the Asokan’s pillar and the Mayadevi temple. Mayadevi Temple is the precise birth place of the Buddha. From early morning to early evening, various people came and visit this place to perform their meditation.

The Reims Cathedral
Photo by: Chi King, Creative Commons

Visiting a cathedral where kings have been crowned can be a unique experience.

The Reims Cathedral, which was built in 1211 and completed in 1311, stands today as one of the most remarkable architectural and artistic monuments. Architect Jean d’Orbais was the initial designer, while Robert de Coucy lent his expertise during the completion stage. The Gothic cathedral’s west front (which was added during the 14th century but inspired by 13th century design) has three portals with medieval statues, and highlighted by sculptured arches, classic rose windows of stained glass, and a couple of matching towers surrounding it. Two enormous bells can be found at the south tower.

In 1875, funding for the wide-scale repair of the façade and balustrades was approved. The end result was a beautiful façade which emerged among the most striking masterpieces of the Middle Ages.

There are many things a reflective traveler may find splendid when visiting Reims Cathedral. Some find viewing Russian painter Marc Chagall’s masterpiece a wondrous experience. Other people, who may be fascinated with the stories of French monarchs, will be delighted seeing stone effigies of France’s 56 kings at the Gallery of Kings at Reims Cathedral’s western façade. Reims had actually served as the site where the kings of France were crowned.

Also worth checking out is the Palais du Tau, which served as the archbishop’s home. Royal banquets for future kings were held at this palace just before their coronation. There’s also a museum that houses medieval works of art & carvings.

One has to behold the beautiful tapestries, the rose windows, the detailed sculptures, and the harmonious Gothic interiors to see just how breathtakingly beautiful they are. Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, the former Abbey of Saint-Remi and the Palace of Tau were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1991.

Aalsmeer Flower Auction
Photo by: Tracy Hunter , Creative Commons

Netherlands equals tulips, right? But do you know that 10 miles from Netherlands you can find a small town called Aalsmeer. This place holds the largest flower auction in the world known as the Aalsmeer Flower Auction. The building is said to be the second largest building in the world. It covers a floor space of 10.6 million square feet. You can find different kinds of tulips, roses, lilies, daisies and many other kinds of flowers being traded daily in Aalsmeer facilities. These flowers came from different parts of Europe, Ethiopia, Columbia and many more.

Aalsmeer Flower Auction is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 11:00am. Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays are when the auction is most active. 6:30 am is the suggested time to visit because this is where the action starts.

Catch a bus in front of Central Station. Choose bus 172 because this bus will bring you straight to the flower auction’s gate. You can purchase your bus ticket directly from the bus driver.

Above the main flower market is a walkway for visitors. You can see 13,000 types of flowers being assemble and loaded into little motorcycles. Take your time. You can even take pictures up there. It’s like you’re in a flower haven.

You can see large picture windows along the walkway. Take a peek into the auction rooms. You will find flower buyers sitting in a row and entering their bids electronically. Take note: Most Aalsmeer buyers are men.

Dutch auction is far different from the traditional auctions. The trick is to get the flowers at a good price. The bidding is done on decreasing amount basis. The auctioneer calls out the initial amount and the price automatically goes down until someone bids for the flowers.

An amazing piece of trivia about the Aalsmeer Flower Auction is that it is known to sell 20 million flowers every single day.

The Jokulsarlon
Photo by: moohaha, Creative Commons

The Jokulsarlon is the most famous glacial lake in Iceland. It is also the largest among the numerous glacial lakes in the country. The Jokulsarlon or the Great Lagoon is so famous that several Hollywood movies were shot in this magnificent place. These movies include Tomb Raider, Batman Begins, and two James Bond movies, Die Another Day and A View To Kill. The lagoon was formed around 1984 when the Breidamerkursandur started retreating quickly. The 15-km lagoon in 1998 was originally 8 km in 1975. The glacier is still retreating.

The Great Lagoon is just filled with magnificent icebergs due the breaking off of the Breidamerkursandur, which is a part of a large glacier Vatnajokull. These blocks of ice are carried to the sea via a short river. What people can actually sea above the water surface is just an astonishingly one-tenth of the total size of the whole iceberg. These icebergs are constantly eroded by tides and winds until it can actually float on the ocean. Boat trips or cruising is the most famous activity to do in this place. This gives the tourist the opportunity to take a closer look and take pictures of the wonderful sight. Cruising between the white to crystal blue icebergs gracefully floating on the soft, cold water just makes every moment worth capturing. People can actually go near the ice bergs and even witness its calving off.

Jokulsarlon is also one of the favorite places of the skuas or big seagulls to visit. They are often seen during the summer where they build nests on the dunes around the area. Seals often swim in the cold water or play on top of the icebergs. One can never feel wrong with the majestic sight of the gigantic glaciers calving off to make another magnificent iceberg on the water, while seagulls, busy with their nests, and seals, enjoying diving, brings more life to what already exists in the Great Lagoon.

Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal
Photo by: Rick Mccharles , Creative Commons

Sagarmatha National Park is found in the eastern part of Nepal. It has both parts of the southern half of Mount Everest and of the Himalayas. The park was established July 19, 1976 and was inscribed as a National World Heritage Site in 1979. Sagarmatha originated from the Sanskrit word sagar which means sky and matha which means head or forehead. Currently, the famous Sagarmatha is known as the Mount Everest.

The area covers roughly around 1,148km square and ranges an elevation from its lowest peak of 2,845 at Jorsalle to 8,850m or 29,035 feet at the Everest Summit. Barren is a land 5,000m or 16,400feet. It is composed of 69% park, 28% grazing land and 3% forest. Because of the rising altitude, this park can be divided into four climate zones namely forested lower zone, alpine zone, the upper alpine zone which includes vegetation growth and the Arctic zone where no plants can live or survive.

The park visitor center is seen at the top of the hill located in Namche Bazaar the same place where Nepal Army is stationed to protect the park. The southern entrance can be found a few hundred meters north of Mondzo. Roughly around a day hike from Lukla.

Sagarmatha National Park is known to be the highest national park in the world. Located nearby are peaks of Lhotse, Thamerku, Ama Dablam, Kwangde, Pumori, cho Oyu, Kangtaiga and Gyachyung Kang. It was reported that more that 118 species of birds and 26 species of butterflies resides at this place. Among the endangered species that can be found or seen in this place are Wild Yak, Musk Deer, Snow Leopard, Red Panda and the Himalayan Black Deer. The best seasons to visit this place are during the month of October to November and December to February.

It was said that nothing can match the walker’s sense of thrill and excitement when they explore Sagarmatha National Park by foot.

Rameswaram Temple
Photo by: Creative Commons , Creative Commons

The temple at the core of the town of Rameswaram is called the Ramanathaswamy Temple. It is one of the most important temples in India being the second holiest place for Hindus after the Varanasi. Due to its importance, the town carries with it a carnival-like atmosphere due to the daily influx of domestic pilgrims and tourists from all walks of life. The presiding deity of this temple is in the Linga called Sri Ramanatha Swamy. The temple is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. It is said that the god Rama prayed to Shiva here to wash away the sin of Brahmahatya or killing of a Brahmin that he may have committed during his battle with Ravana, a demon king.

The Ramanathaswamy temple is a showpiece of South Indian architecture. Built during the twelfth century, it boasts a corridor that stretches 1,219 meters and is flanked with richly carved, 3.6-meter high granite pillars. There are around 1200 pillars in this corridor that is reputedly the longest in the world. The temple is also known for its twenty-two wells that is said to have waters that taste different from one another. Similar to other ancient South Indian temples, the temple in Rameswaram is surrounded by a high compound wall on all sides, with huge towers or Gopurams at the east and west, and gate towers at its northern and southern sides.

Another interesting part of the temple structure is the chess board-like section called Chokkattan Madapam. This is where the Utsva deities are kept and adorned during the Spring Festival or Vasntotsavam, and the Masi and Adi festivals as well.

It is a long drive to Rameswaram but the scenery during the drive and the experience at the destination is worth it. Rameswaram is connected to mainland India at Mandapam via the Indira Gandhi Bridge.

Ski Portillo Chile
Photo by: bojangle , Creative Commons

For the best ski resort to go to this winter season, considering Ski Portillo Chile or simply Portillo is deemed as a perfect spot for those skiers aiming for some quality skiing experience. One good reason why you should go and visit this ski resort is that this is the exact place where the 1996 Alpine Skiing World Championship was held. The place boasts of 23 ski trails and 12 lifts ideal for some ski actions and demos.

The best thing about Ski Portillo is that they offer beyond expectations, whether it is adventure, food, lodging, night life and more. For hotel accommodations, the place has three major hotels (Octogon Lodge, Hotel Portillo, and Inca Lodge) to choose from. Each hotel has varying rates, but regardless of the type of accommodation and rates you prefer, each one of them offers first class amenities for visitors, four meal servings, and complimentary use of other facilities the hotel offers. Indeed, the resort visit isn’t just meant for skiing alone, but also for other indoor and outdoor activities that await every person visiting the place.

Another great thing about Ski Portillo is the socialization factor. The Chilean atmosphere is ideal for social events, family gatherings, and parties. The ambience and entire setting paves the way for every guest to socialize and make friends in its real essence. If you’re coming to visit the place with your entire family, you will be welcomed with so many activities meant for every family member to enjoy. Some of the activities to take advantage are as follows, Kids camp for the young ones, ski school for children and adults alike, ski slopes, card games, and movie watching for everyone to enjoy.

Truly, the ski Portillo resort is both a combination of old and modern world elegance with guests only limited to 450 a week. With this kind of system, you will get loads of time to enjoy the entire place and might even want to come back for more visits in the future.

Photo by: Stefan Bauer, Creative Commons

Listed as one of the largest castles in the world and officially the largest medieval castle complex found in Europe, the Prague castle is an architectural wonder that has been part of a rich history dating back from the ninth century.

The Prague castle has already been through several fires and wars so many parts have been renovated. Nevertheless, the castle grounds still hold the wonders that have been formed through centuries of development.

Attractions You Should Not Miss

The Czech crown jewels are one of the prized possessions that are kept in the castle grounds. The Royal Apple and the St. Wenceslas crown are two of the prized possessions that are displayed and preserved for tourists to admire.

The Prague Castle is rich in the variety of architectural styles which makes it a haven for architecture enthusiasts. From Bohemian, Romanesque, and even Gothic influences, different shrines and architectural structures grace the castle grounds.

“The Story of Prague Castle” is a long tour held for tourists that you should not miss. It portrays the exhibits of paintings about the history of Prague, its developments, and its influences in the arts and in different styles that are still being celebrated at the moment.

What You Should Know

You are allowed to bring cameras to take snapshots along the tour but you will be prohibited to use tripods and flash for your camera. You will not be allowed to take pictures inside the permanent exhibitions and inside the convents.

The castle is open on summer and winter seasons however some attractions might be closed on certain seasons. The deer moat, the castle gardens, and the riding school terrace are only open during summertime in Prague which spans from April to September. The winter season in Prague spans from October until March; the complex is open from six in the morning until eleven in the evening.

Prague Famous Landmarks

Ghent, Belgium
Photo by:
D3 San Francisco , Creative Commons

Situated between Brussels and Bruges, the city of Ghent is another charming city in the country of Belgium. Like Bruges, it also boasts of a few choice pieces of medieval architecture. Ghent offers a lot of interesting things that you can’t find anywhere else in the Belgian landscape.

Situated in between the rivers Scheldt and Lys, Ghent started out as a settlement in the middle ages before slowly progressing as one of the largest and most popular cities in the European continent. It holds many old landmarks such as the Saint Bavo Cathedral, the most famous tourist destination in this quaint Belgian city. Spend a couple of hours in the Cathedral and soak in the history of this marbled cathedral. The 13th-century crypt, which used to be the original church, and the famous “Mystic Lamb” by Jan van Eyck are must-sees in this architectural gem. Many recommend joining a tour for a more enriching experience inside St. Bavo Cathedral. Aside from the St. Bavo, you can also check out the Gravensteen, a castle originating from the Middle Ages. Just like the Cathedral, Gravensteen is a site laden with a rich history. Translated as the “Castle of the Count”, this 13th-century castle has served as a courthouse, factory and even a dungeon for prisoners before it was renovated in 1885. Although most of the castle has been refurbished, it is still a place worth checking out. The city authorities have transformed the interior of the castle to showcase a collection of medieval weaponry and torture implements.

After a long day in Ghent, you can sit back and enjoy their interesting cuisine. On Thursdays, the city holds a meat-free day called Veggiedag. This is your chance to taste some vegetarian cuisine in a country famous for its hearty beef stews and soups. Another interesting culinary treat is the mastel, the Belgian counterpart of a bagel. Many call it Saint Hubert bread because of the culinary tradition that surrounds it. It is said that, on the feast day of Saint Hubert, bakers flock to the church to have their mastel blessed before selling it.

Because the center of Ghent is a car-free area, it is recommended to leave your cars in a Park &Ride zone and take the trains or trams. But, to fully absorb the culture of this amazing Belgian city, a leisurely walk around Ghent is the best way to go.

Emperor Penguin in Antarctica
Photo by: ianduffy , Creative Commons

As you think of the places to go to for your extreme weather expedition, find time to visit the Emperor Penguins in Antarctica. Many tourists often visit this magnificent animal since they freely roam in this continent. It is much more fascinating to see them in their natural habitat instead of seeing them locked up in aquariums and zoos in your local area.

As you may already know from watching documentaries about these penguins, the lady penguin lays only a single egg in a year and then she leaves it to the male penguin to incubate it until the egg hatches. Make it a point to contact the local office in Antarctica to learn when eggs are estimated to hatch so you can witness for yourself how magical it is to see thousands of penguins in one place.

Your trip to see the Emperor Penguin in Antarctica is such an unforgettable experience that you may even find it difficult to put in words why you have to always carry your camera wherever you go. See just how fluid they swim in the water and how funny they walk on ice since your photographs can capture thses remarkable moments.

This is the reason why tourists who have already visited this place will recommend Antarctica over and over. One piece of information that often gets passed from one tourist to another is the mating pattern of the Emperor Penguin in Antarctica. The males will commit to just one female penguin for the rest of his life. Filled with curiosity, tourist will surely share wonderful pictures of this place! Since they are accustomed to people and let them get close, beware for they have been known to snap with their sharp beaks.

Kroller-Muller Museum, Netherlands
Photo by: Tizzle , Creative Commons

Kroller-Muller Museum is found in the Hoge Veluwe National Park in Netherlands. The museum opens from 10:00am to 5:00pm from Tuesdays through Sundays except for Mondays and New Years Day. The entrance fee for adults is 12 Euros per person and 6 Euros for children ages 12 and below and if they are younger then 6, they can come in for free.

The museum was designed by a Belgian architect named Henry van de Velde from 1937 to 1938. The museum formally opened in 1938 .Helene Kroller-Muller then displayed and assembled her collection of different art works from 1908 to 1935 and decided to donate the whole museum to the state of Netherlands. The museum was named after her. An extension to the building and renovation was created between 1975 and 1977 by W.G Quist. He carefully designed the place to perfectly match the original layout and landscape. The original design was made out of light brown bricks; he decided to transform the wall into stone and glass.

If you are an art fan, you will surely appreciate this art museum. The museum is known to be the second largest museum in the world that possesses paintings from the very famous painter Vincent Van Gogh. Aside from Van Gogh you will also see the art works of Piet Mondrian, Odilon Redon, George Pierre Seurat, Paul Gauguin, George Braque, Lucas Cranach, Pablo Picasso and many more.

Kroller-Muller Museum is also famous for its large garden sculptures. The forest park area is more than seventy five acres big. The garden reflects a concept of symbiosis between art, nature and architecture. The collection contains both modern and contemporary sculptures. The collection includes the work of Henry Moore, Mark Di Suvero, Lucio Fontana, Auguste Rodin, Jean Dubuffet, Fritz Wotruba, Joep van Lieshout, Claes Oldenburg and many more

Lake District of Argentina
Photo by: Brian Holsclaw , Creative Commons

The Lake District of Argentina stretches from the town of Junin de los Andes in the north to Cholila in the south. As the name suggests, this region has around twenty lakes where the largest is Nahuel Huapi on the shores of Bariloche.

Almost all nature-oriented activities are offered in the towns located in the Lake District. Visitors can go trekking, skiing, kayaking, rock climbing, and fishing. Fishing is especially popular among tourists who go there to for the ultimate Patagonia fishing experience. This is one of Argentina’s most popular tourist destinations with thousands of visitors coming every year.

The towns scattered around the Lake District provide travelers with many options for accommodations and adventures in addition to arranging expeditions for fishing and hiking in the mountains. The largest town is Neuquen. It acts as a hub for transportation in and out of the region. At the town’s outskirts are paleontological sites and wineries. For those who are into outdoor activities, it is best to set up camp in Bariloche. It is also the starting point for those who wish to go further to southern Patagonia and Chile. Backpackers often flock to El Bolson. Nature lovers will feel right at home here as vegetarian foods, sweets, and jams are made from local produce. The lakeside villages of Villa Traful and San Martin de los Andes are also worthy of a quick visit. The northern part of Chos Malal offers visitors the chance to explore volcanoes, lagoons, and hot springs.

Locals visit the Lake District in July and August for skiing holidays, while January is the top month for aquatic activities in the lakes and hiking in the mountains.

Skocjan Caves
Photo by:
Rochester Scouser , Creative Commons

If you’re into exploring caves, then you should check out the Skocjan Caves in the Karst region of south western Slovenia. This system of limestone caves is in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites which means it is a place maintained by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

As a natural geological site, it exudes exceptional natural beauty as well as a very good example of an ongoing natural occurring geological phenomenon.

The Skocjan Caves is made up of several limestone caves, collapsed dolines or sinkholes, underground passages, deep caves, and a number of waterfalls. These caves are well known as a site where one can study the karstic phenomena and Karst topography.

The study of Karst topography is the study of a landscape that has been shaped through the dissolution of layers of carbonate rock, such as limestone or dolomite.

The Skocjan Caves contains five kilometers or about three miles of underground passages. It also contains caves that are about 200 meters or about 656 feet deep.

The Reka River is a river in Slovenia that disappears through the Velika Dolina where the water goes underground through the Skocjan Caves then out the Adriatic Sea. During the rainy season when the river is full of water, the sight of it disappearing through the end of the Velika Dolina is a sight to behold, as well as a sight that would make one’s skin crawl.

The areas in the region of the Skocjan Caves are very rich in archaeology. There have been indications that the place was inhabited since for more then ten thousand years. About three thousand years ago, the caves were a very important pilgrimage site in Europe.

The natural beauty of the place together with the rich archaeological significance of the region makes the Skocjan Caves the place to visit.

Basilica Notre Dame de la Paix
Photo by: stefanmeisel, Creative Commons

Basilica Notre Dame de la Paix, also known as Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yammousoukro is one of the greatest prides of the Ivory Coast. It is considered as the tallest and largest church in the whole world. The basilica is specifically located at Yammousoukro, Ivory Coast. Its construction started in 1985 and was finished 4 years later. It cost $300 million to complete the basilica.

The president of Ivory Coast, Félix Houphouët-Boigny, wanted to venerate himself through the construction of the largest church in the world at his birthplace, Yammousoukro. The president was depicted in a stained glass offering a gift to Jesus with his apostles. Pope John Paul II consecrated the church on September 10, 1990. However, the basilica is not used as the main church of the city. The bishop of the Diocese of Yamoussoukro stays at the not so far Cathedral of Saint Augustine and this place also serves as the main worship place for the people in the area. There exists two other buildings beside the basilica. One serves as a rectory, the other serves as a papal villa. However, the pope visited the basilica only once.

The Basilica Notre Dame de la Paix is designed after Rome’s Basilica of Saint Peter. Its architect, Pierre Fakhoury, and builder, the French company Dumez, designed and built the cross on top to be larger than the dome underneath it. Its height of 158 meters and area of 30,000 square meters gave it the title as the largest church in the world. It has an astounding seating capacity of 7,000 people and an additional standing room capacity of 11,000 people. Fine marble from Italy and stained glass from France are the main construction materials that caused a great deal of controversy. Many groups questioned on how such a great building made from expensive materials could be constructed in such a poor African city.

Fiji Islands
Photo by: slm, Creative Commons

Mention the Fiji Islands and what easily comes to mind is an idyllic tropical paradise that couples visit to embark on their honeymoon. Fiji Islands, a gem in the South Pacific, also beckons adventurers, families or solo travelers who want to commune with nature or enjoy water sports.

The former British colony which is comprised of over 330 islands never fails to mesmerize people who are drawn to the untainted beauty of a lush setting. Indeed, there are so many interesting things to see and do in Fiji. The archipelago is teeming with natural attractions ranging from awesome coral reefs and rainforests to diverse wildlife. The Fiji Islands also offer travelers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to soak up history and experience a unique culture. There are quaint colonial towns, pagan temples, ancient ruins, and extraordinary thatched roof dwellings making up a picturesque village that you may find quite interesting.

Travelers who want to experience a bit of everything in one trip may opt for a guided tour, which will enable them to go sightseeing and explore the most scenic spots. If you have young members of the family in tow, you may choose to visit the Mamanuca Islands off the Nadi coast. A lovely cruise will let you see a multitude of small islands and delightful activities such as watching dolphins. Frolicking in any of Fiji Islands’ beautiful beaches will also add to your memorable moments in Fiji. If you’re with a group of friends who love marine parks and rainforests, you’d enjoy a visit to the Taveuni Island where the Bouma National Park – with its tropical rain forest – may be found. If island hopping is your cup of tea, exploring Yawa Islands’ coral and volcanic isles can be an enthralling experience. Whether you go on an underwater adventure, aerial sightseeing, or land exploration, Fiji Islands will not disappoint.