Salar de Uyuni Tourist Guide
Photo by: funkz, Creative Commons

Salar de Uyuni provides tons of surreal and amazing views that you can see for yourself through several days and nights of touring in Bolivia. You will surely be amazed to witness for yourself the largest salt flat in the world that is actually blinding during the daytime.

Salar de Uyuni can be easily accessed through taking a tour to Southwest of Bolivia. Usually, these tours will last for four to seven days depending on the type of tour you will be choosing and also the attractions that you will be planning to see for yourself.

What You Should Not Miss

The vast expanse of salt in Salar de Uyuni will definitely leave you amazed by its beauty and its mere existence. Salt can be as thick as ten meters in the center and during wet seasons, the vast expanse will be covered with water.

Most tours that include Salar de Uyuni will also offer you other various attractions that are also breathtaking. Another common attraction that you can also see when going on tour is Laguna Hedionda and Isla de Pescados which are both spectacular.

What You Should Know

Going on tour to Southwest of Bolivia can get really cold. Wearing thick clothes will help you keep warm during the nights. Stocking up with food and warm water is also an essential especially if you are planning to take the tour on a rented four wheel drive.

Prepare yourself with coins and extra money when travelling since most bathrooms available have fees. Food and other commodities are also available for a much higher price so it is better to prepare the things that are needed while still on the city.

There are several tour options you can choose from when planning to go to Salar de Uyuni. Make sure that you take advantage of different packages available and also choose a package that will include a tour on other spectacular places that you also wish to see.

Indian Museum in India
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Anyone with the smallest curiosity of India, its history, and with anything old enough to be in a museum shouldn’t miss a chance to visit the Indian Museum in India in the city of Kolkata. This museum is the largest museum in India, the oldest museum in the Asia Pacific region, and the ninth oldest regular museum in the world. Founded by the Danish botanist Dr. Nathaniel Wallich in 1814, it was originally located at the premises of the Asiatic Society. Since 1878, it has moved to its present location, a majestic mansion at Jawaharlal Nehru Road, around the corner of Sudder Street.

From two galleries in 1878, the Indian Museum has grown to over sixty galleries encompassing the various disciplines of Art, Archeology, Anthropology, Botany, Geology, and Zoology. The museum is a ten thousand square foot area of heaven with more than a million artifacts on exhibit for those who are into history, culture and art. In just one place, one can see dinosaur and mammoth skeletons, an Egyptian mummy that’s 4000 years old, Shah Jahan’s emerald goblet, the Buddhist stupa from Bharhut, an urn that is said to contain the ashes of Buddha, a meteorite collection, and other very rare antiques and art pieces. No wonder that the locals call it Jadu Ghar, which means, the House of Magic.

For a nominal fee, students are permitted to sketch the objects displayed in the galleries. Other visitors can take photographs though the use of additional lighting and flash is prohibited. The use of a tripod is allowed but one will have to pay a higher fee. Those who forgot to bring their cameras can avail of the services of the museum’s photo unit. For other souvenirs, there is the bookstore where plaster replicas of some displayed objects are being sold.

Jain Temple
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India boasts of many temples of the Jain faith. These temples are not only places of worship for those who practice the Jain faith, but they have also become tourist attractions because of their exotic architecture. Many temples are actually located in a pilgrimage site and people regard the whole area as a sacred place. The more prominent temples are located in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Gujarat.

The town of Hastinapur is considered to be one of the Jain religion’s most elaborate pilgrimage sites. In the town itself, there are at least twelve Jain temples. What sets them apart from most Jain temples is the simplicity of their architecture, a testament to the Jain qualities of prudence and integrity. Many believe that the temples here are the closest when it comes to perfection in architecture. The most popular Jain temples in Hastinapur include the Bada Mandir, where you can find an elaborate image of Bhagwan underneath the temple’s central dome. A more recent addition is the Lotus Temple, which was only completed in 1989. This small house of worship is located in a beautiful courtyard of yet another temple, the Jambudweep. There are facilities in the area for worshipers preparing for puja (prayer offering ritual).

The temples in the state of Jharkkhans are located in the picturesque and hilly pilgrimage site of Shikharji or Parasnath Hills. Most common to the temples here would be their chaumukh, or four-faced structure. Lastly, temples in Gujarat are situated in the religious town of Palitana. At least 1,300 temples are in this town, majority of them made out of marble. The collection of these small yet ornate temples is simply a site to behold.

There are only very few guides in these temples so you may just want to explore the sites by yourself. Make sure to be very respectful though and avoid going into areas without permission.

Charles Bridge, Czech Republic
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If you love Gothic bridges, there is one place in the Czech Republic that has climbed up the charts in every tourist’s list – the Charles Bridge. This bridge connects Prague Old Town with the Malá Strana. Commissioned in July 9, 1357 by the Czech King and the Emperor Charles IV, the bridge started its construction at precisely 5:31 in the morning. It was even given some odd explanations to the sequence of numbers it had which was 1357 9 7 531. This is revelation has indeed attracted millions of tourists to the landmark since you could get to a certain part of the bridge where you will find a plaque on the 16th statue.

To tell you, there are 30 Baroque statues that were erected throughout the whole stretch of Charles Bridge. The 16th statue is flocked by tourists since it is believed that by rubbing on the plaque, you shall be given luck and assurance of your safe return to your homeland. Aside from that, you will be granted another safe entry back to Prague. So do bring along all your precious rolls of film when you visit the Charles Bridge or better yet, carry numerous memory cards for your camera to capture the places and people.

What makes it a worthwhile trip to the Czech Republic is that this national monument comes alive at sunset. Witness the amazing lights that brighten the sky when you fix your eyes on the Prague Castle. It’ll be safe for you to just wander around and not worry about cars or trams that used to come whizzing by, for the Charles Bridge was declared off limits to vehicles. Now, you will just be among the hoards of tourists who come alive for the romantic mood of the Czech Republic.

Prague Famous Landmarks

Royal Palace in Amsterdam, Netherlands
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The Royal Palace in Amsterdam is known as Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam or Paleis op de Dam. It is one of the four places in Netherlands which is at the disposal of Queen Beatrix by the Act of Parliament. The palace was built to serve as a city hall during the Dutch Golden Age back in 17th century. The place became the palace of King Louis Napoleon and later became the Dutch Royal House. The Royal Palace is located in the west side of the Dam Square which is in the center of Amsterdam.

The Royal Palace in Amsterdam was build by Jacob van Campen. He took control of the whole construction project back in 1648. Marble was the chosen material for its interior design. It was said that 13,659 wooden piles was use to build this place which amounts to 8.5 million gulden.

The central hall is 120 feet long, 60 feet wide and 90 feet high. On the marbled floor you can see two maps with celestial hemisphere. Both western and eastern hemispheres are shown on the maps.

A large domed cupola sits at the top of the palace. Just underneath the dome are a few windows. Here, you can perfectly see if a ship arriving and departing in the harbor.

Works done by Govert Flinck can be found in the palace. Flinck died before he was able finish his work. Other works includes paintings of Jacob Jordaens, Jan Lievens and Ferdinand Bol.

Queen Beatrix decided to use the palace for entertaining and official functions, purposes like state visits or other official receptions such as award ceremonies of Erasmus Prize, The Royal Awards for Painting, and the Prince Claus Award.

The balcony of the Royal Palace in Amsterdam serves as witnessed when Queen Juliana announced the new queen to the people. This is where Prince Willem-Alexander kissed Princess Maxima on their wedding day.

Amsterdam Famous Landmarks

Vlkolínec
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Slovakia is a small nation in Central Europe and is a member of the European Union. It has the fastest growing economy in comparison to other members of the European Union. Vlkolinec makes for an exciting attraction for people who want to experience what there to see in Slovakia.

Vlkolínec is a village in the town of Ružomberok. This village has well preserved houses and buildings that clearly depict the kind of architecture and design that people in this place utilized during old times. It also features the great culture of Slovaks in the old days. That is why this place is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

UNESCO World Heritage sites are places that are preserved and maintained by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. Vlkolínec is a place that outstandingly exemplifies a place that illustrates a significant stage in Slovakian history as well as a good illustration of the kind of culture that people in those days enjoyed.

The village is very much intact and well preserved considering the length of time it has been around. It is located in the middle of Slovakia and has more than 45 traditional log houses. Each house contains two to three rooms each. One can also see an 18th century wooden belfry and a baroque chapel in the village that has been very well preserved.

Two houses, specifically houses number 16 and 17, have been transformed into a folk museum. The museum depicts the way life took place in that village. Instruments used by folks who used to live in the village are displayed in the museum.

If you’re a history buff and into exploring cultures of other countries, then going to the village of Vlkolínec is a definite place to visit.

The Raffles Hotel
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When one goes to Singapore, one would of course have to look for a place to stay. If one would like that stay to not only be enjoyable but be filled with a historic feel, than one should consider staying in the Raffles Hotel found in Beach Road, Singapore.

The Raffles Hotel has been around Singapore for more than 120 years now. Put up in 1887 by four Armenian brothers and named after Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore, started as a 10-room colonial bungalow. At that time it was one of the most modern buildings in Singapore. As time went by, more buildings were added expanding the hotel to accommodate more guests and add additional facilities.

Before the 1930’s, the hotel didn’t accept Asian guests. The Japanese occupation devastated the hotel. At the end of the Japanese occupation, 300 Japanese soldiers took their lives in the hotel with the use of grenades. After the devastation that World War II brought and the hardships that followed, the hotel was able to rebuild..

In 1987, on its 100th year, the hotel was declared a national monument. Two years later, the hotel closed down for renovations. In 1991, the hotel reopened after extensive renovation costing160 million Singaporean dollars. In addition to the renovation, an extension that housed more rooms and a shopping arcade was built.

Historic events connected to the hotel include the invention of the Singaporean Sling, a famous cocktail in Singapore, and the killing of the last Singaporean tiger on its premises. The Long Bar, the hotel’s bar and steakhouse, has been featured as one of the top ten bars in the world. There is also a museum that can be found on the third floor of the arcade. The Raffles Hotel Museum and Jubilee Hall features the history of the hotel.

Stirling Falls at Milford Sound
Photo by: Greg O’Beirne, Creative Commons

Photo by: Oliver Leimig, Creative Commons

Milford Sound Fjord is found southwest of South Island, New Zealand. It is perhaps the country’s most visited tourist destination, recording approximately 550,000 visitors every year. Milford Sound runs 15 kilometers inland from the Tasman Sea. It is nestled amidst cliffs and rock faces on either side that stand up to 1,200 meters high.

A part of Fiordland National Park and the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage, Milford Sound had been a long-hidden wonder before its magnificent interior bays started attracting millions of people from around the world. European explorers did not venture into the fjord entry until the 20th century. Tourists will be surprised to see that the narrow entry, with waters as shallow as 27 meters, actually leads to a 22km long fjord.

Despite Milford Sound’s remote location and the long journey by boat it takes to get there, New Zealand visitors make it a point to see this natural wonder. The Milford Sound Visitors’ Centre offers boat tours that last from one to two hours to those who wish to see the fjord. Tourists can also opt for extended overnight cruises or overnight boat trips at Milford Sound.

Milford Sound also features fascinating wildlife and marine life. In one of the bays, you will find an underwater tourist observatory wherein black corals and other marine life can be viewed. Fjord visitors have also told of having experienced seeing dolphin, penguins, seals, and even whales. Meanwhile, water activities like tramping and canoeing can be experienced at the visitor center.

Rainfall is common in Milford Sound Fjord, which is considered to be one of the wettest places in the world. It is a rare occasion to be able to go sightseeing without being rained on. Milford Sound is about four hours’ drive from Queenstown. Thus, tour operators leave very early in the day to give more time for visitors to enjoy the fjord. Milford Sound can also be reached on foot as the ultimate destination of Milford Track, which lasts several days.

La Gran Sabana, Venezuela
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Luis Linero, Creative Commons

La Gran Sabana is another immensely popular tourist attraction in Venezuela because of its beautiful flora and fauna and amazing natural wonders that most tourists are in search for. Located just outside Canaima National park, La Gran Sabana is where you should be heading for if you want to organize trips around Gran Sabana or in Canaima National Park.

On the road to La Gran Sabana is El Dorado which is a small town made popular through literature. The town’s road leads to Brazil and to La Gran Sabana itself. The town was once a booming mining industry however it was crippled and was eventually stopped.

What You Should Not Miss

Spectacular waterfalls are everywhere in La Gran Sabana especially during the rainy season. A tour to the Angel Falls can also be done from La Gran Sabana and on to Canaima National Park for a certain fee. Also, trekking around the Tepuis is something that you should not miss if you want to explore beautiful tropical wildlife.

What You Should Remember

La Gran Sabana is officially under protection by Canaima National Park. All tours done should be guided and they should have permits from the officials to avoid having any problems.

Before getting into La Gran Sabana, it is advised that you stock up on essential needs like food and other materials since most items sold in Gran Sabana are either too expensive or unavailable. From the Orinoco towns, you can ride buses that regularly have trips to Canaima and La Gran Sabana.

Before taking your trips, it is advised that you consult weather forecasts to avoid getting too wet. From May to November, you can expect more waterfalls and more rain but it is still advisable that you still travel at this span of time if you want to see the surreal beauty of La Gran Sabana.

South Pole
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Have you ever wondered why Santa Clause is so mysterious? Ít’s because he lives in a very isolated and almost forgotten place called the South Pole. Let this realization not hamper you from visiting since even though only a handful of tourists include this in their travel schedule, it is the one place that really needs to be visited and appreciated. It’s so awesome to actually be in the South Pole that it’s like being on another planet.

One special experience you can get from your South Pole adventure is that you can actually say that you have traveled the world not in eighty days but in a couple of seconds. All because there is this particular marker that is laid down in the South Pole where you can walk around and follow the trail. It does go through different time zones much like the international dateline. Since you are all fired up and ready to experience such a freezing adventure, do find time to get all your gear packed and all your heavy and thick clothes available. Keep in mind that the temperature can actually dip as low as -89°C or 129°F.

They say that once you have conquered the South Pole, you have indeed conquered the world since this place is known to have powerful winds that exceed the power of hurricanes. Scientist who keep track of the weather changes in the South Pole classify it just like Gale. The trip is not very expensive and the memories can last a lifetime. Remember to be safe and steer clear from accidents as soon as you enjoy your visit to the Ice Capital. It may indeed be the greatest adventure of your life!

Chasing a manta ray for a photo shoot at Tubbataha Reef, Sulu Sea Philippines
Photo by: Jayvee F., Creative Commons

The Tubbataha Reef Marine Park, located in the Philippines, is truly an example of nature’s beautiful creation one shouldn’t miss in their lifetime. It is one of the rare atoll reefs that provide life for a variety of marine species as well as magnificent corals. The park is 33,200 hectares covering the North and South Reefs. The Northern part is also a nesting ground for marine turtles, as well as a variety of tropical birds.

Tubbataha Reef, although a great wonder on its own, is a newcomer to the world of tourism. Actions have been taken to make local Filipinos and the world aware of this special gift of nature. Many people travel across the globe to catch sight of this reef. Without immediate measures of preservation, the rare marine life found in Tubbataha Reef might not last for long.

There have been numerous attempts of illegal fishing in this area. The good news is there is an increase in awareness and protection. The area provides the main livelihood for many municipalities. But they now understand how important it is to preserve the marine life in this area. The reef is now a World Heritage site and is helping many local businesses develop new revenues from their livelihood. There is even a possibility of expanding the park. The management is continually making progress.

Tubbataha Reef is now a famous tourist destination. And the proceeds go to its preservation and development of the community. It is a perfect place for all you divers and nature lovers. It also makes for an idealistic sea adventure and a great way to get a close observation into the wonders of marine life. The locals are warm and hospitable. If you want a place to breathe the fresh air and gaze at the beauty of the sea teeming with marine life, Tubbataha Reef is the place to be. You would also be helping the conservation of nature.

Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Africa
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At 1,372,625 hectares, the Okapi Wildlife Reserve covers around one-fifth of the Ituri forest in the northeastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The reserve was established to protect the high diversity of species, especially those endemic to the Ituri forest. The animal from where it derived its name, the okapi (Okapia johnstoni), is the only living relative of the giraffe. It looks like a stumpy short-necked giraffe and has stripes on its rear legs similar to those of the zebra’s. The reserve is home to around 5,000 okapis. The reserve was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

Aside from the okapis, the Okapi Wildlife Reserve is also home to around 4,000 elephants, 2,000 leopards, 300 species of birds, thirteen species of primates including chimpanzees, three species of crocodile, and other animals of the rainforest like the forest buffalo, water chevrotain, forest elephants, insects, and antelope. It is in fact also one of the important sites in mainland Africa dedicated to bird conservation. Its human inhabitants belong to the Mbuti and Efe pygmies who are considered to be one the few remaining “forest people” of the world.

Other than witnessing the culture of these people and seeing the wild animals in their natural habitat, visitors to the Okapi Wildlife Reserve can expect to witness dramatic sceneries such as the Nepoko River in the north and the Ituri River in the south. There are also waterfalls and the majestic Mbiya Mountain situated at the edge of Epulu, overlooking the village. As the reserve is in the middle of the forest, it is a relatively calm and safe place where one can breathe in the fresh air and commune with nature. Camping and jungle activities may be arranged with the reserve’s administrators. As this is still part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, one should still consider taking the necessary safety precautions when traveling.

Christ the Redeemer
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The statue of Christ the Redeemer of the Andes is a monument erected to celebrate the peaceful resolution of a border dispute between Argentina and Chile. It is located at the La Cumbre pass, which is the highest point on the road between Santiago de Chile and Mendoza in Argentina. La Cumbre pass is also called Iglesia Pass on the Chilean side while in Argentina it is referred to as Bermejo Pass.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Argentina and Chile were close to war with each other over the location of the border. As a reminder to both nations of Christ’s message of peace, the bishop of Cuyo promised to erect a statue of Christ the Redeemer at the disputed area. The sculptor Mateo Alonso was commissioned to build the seven-meter high bronze statue. It was unveiled to the public on the 13th of March in the year 1904. In 2004, the statue’s centenary was celebrated by the reaffirmation of the friendship between Argentina and Chile, with Argentina declaring the statue as a National Historic Monument.

The best time to visit the statue is during the summer as winter temperatures can drop to as low as thirty degrees below zero. Ít’s much safer since the sinuous road is not safe when there is snow.

Visitors can stay in the town of Uspallata when planning a trip to the statue. This little town is popular as a base for skiers in Los Penitentes. Horseback riding, fishing expeditions in the countryside, and treks in the surrounding mountains are other popular activities offered by this town. Check with the town’s tourist office for maps and detailed information on the sights and activities.

Ardennes, Belgium
Photo by: Ric Martins, Creative Commons

If you’re in Belgium and looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of cities like Ghent and Brussels, the Ardennes is a clear answer to your wishes. The Ardennes, a part of Wallonia, is a chain of rolling hills and sprawling forests that extends from Belgium and Luxembourg to the outskirts of France. Aside from having an abundance of greenery, it is also a hotspot of natural reserves and rivers.

Ardennes is also an appealing tourist destination for the adventurous types. The vast forests offer hunting, while the hills are suitable for cycling and trekking activities. If you’re in for a short and pleasant walk, you can visit the Parc National de Furfooz. The 4-km circular walk through the park leads you to a scenic view of the town and to several Roman architectural remains. The choice of sports activities does not slow down even in the cold Ardennes winter, where guests can enjoy a little skiing and snowboarding as well.

The Ardennes also holds a part in history. In World War II, the town bore witness to the Battle of the Bulge, a surprise attack by the Germans on the British and American forces. Story has it that they only got as far as Dinant, the fortress of the Allied troops. You can tour the Citadel of Dinant during the day, an enormous WWII fortress perched high above a cliff. Because of some unrestricted sites, most guests are advised to join a tour group, instead of venturing in the citadel alone. The Ardennes American Cemetery also lets you absorb Ardennes’s rich WWII history. The cemetery has a carillon that plays the US National Anthem every day, as homage to the fallen comrades who had been buried there. If you’re quite the patriot, it would prove to be a truly emotional experience to visit this one-of-a-kind resting place.

Whether you’re longing for the crisp air outdoors or for the awe of historical landmarks, Ardennes more than satisfies both of your wishes. A tiny respite from the gray inner cities, Ardennes offers a little peaceful recreation to tourists and natives alike.

Bermuda, Caribbean
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An interconnection of small islands, Bermuda boasts of its quasi-tropical climate that is suitable for touring around the twenty one mile long island which is a self governing British overseas territory. Although located in near North America, the influence of British rule and the implementation of rules and regulations similar to the British government are very apparent. In total, Bermuda is composed of one city and one town that are both officially considered as incorporated municipalities. Moreover, there are also two additional municipalities present in the island.

The nine parishes that divide the island hold vital attractions to both tourists and also to the locals of Bermuda. These nine different parishes all show the different faces of Bermuda including its rich history and its present developments. St. George Town is one attraction that you should not miss when visiting Bermuda since it is considered one of the oldest heritage sites by UNESCO. The well preserved architecture and the layout of the town with winding streets and cobbled plazas will make you feel as if you’ve travelled back to time.

The Bermudan dollar is the island’s currency and its value is the same as the US Dollar. Both the US and Bermudan dollars are widely accepted in the island so there will be less hassle when it comes to making purchases.

If you want to go shop and find items that are unique or name brand, the Front Street in Hamilton is the place to go. The place is easily accessible by foot and you won’t have any difficulty walking around the stores and finding unique and interesting items. Due to the islands quasi-tropical climate, having a bottle of water is essential when taking a tour during the day where it might get quite hot for you.

Xunantunich, Belize
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If you think of Belize, you might imagine scuba diving in the Belize Barrier Reef or just lounging about the white sandy beaches. What you may not know is that this beach hotspot is also the home of one of the most significant Mayan sites in South America called the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins.

Although the Xunantunich ruins are not the largest of the Mayan settlements, it certainly has its interesting features. Probably the most popular is the El Castillo, the tallest structure in Belize. Perched on a limestone cavern at 135 feet, the El Castillo gives you a panoramic view of the entire Xunantunich ruins and the Belize jungle. From down below, you can also observe the banded decoration which used to outline the perimeter of the El Castillo.

To start your trek through the ruins, it is recommended that you visit the museum first. The museum contains a 3-D model of the whole ruins and also gives you an insight on the history of the Mayan civilization. It also houses a few important relics that have been preserved and protected from the elements. After that, you can start exploring the area before heading off to El Castillo. A path for tourists has been cleared at the front and side of this Mayan ceremonial site. If you’re lucky, you may find a Mayan believer meditating harmoniously with the forces of nature and the Xunantunich gods.

Because of their short-lived existence, the Mayan civilization has been a mystery to present generations. By opening the Mayan settlements to the public, such as in the case of the Xunantunich Ruins, you can get a glimpse of the impressive structures and traditions that mark this fascinating and enigmatic culture.

The Royal Palaces of Abomey, Benin
Photo by: Wikimedia Commons , Creative Commons

Amidst the monarchies of England and France in the 17th to 18th century, little has been known about the kingdoms and fiefdoms in Africa. But, if you get the chance to check out Benin in West Africa, you will find the center of one of the most powerful kingdoms in African history, the Royal Palaces of Abomey.

The Abomey Royal Palaces were constructed by the Fon people between the 17th and 19th centuries. These structures served as lavish dwellings to the twelve successive rulers of the kingdom of Abomey, formerly known as Dahomey. Because the Royal Palace was practically the seat of power in Abomey, it was protected by a mud wall with six guarded gates and surrounded by prickly acacias, a common method of defense in African strongholds. It’s rumored that the sturdiness of the mud walls are because they were made from the blood of human sacrifices to the tribe’s ancestors. During this period, the kings held absolute power over everything in Abomey, even its residents. They enjoyed a life of luxury and prosperity. However, in the 1890s, the Fon people were engaged in a war against the French. France eventually overcame the kingdom and destroyed most of the Royal Palaces of Abomey.

Just like the ones destroyed by the war, the two remaining palaces are simple brick houses with large courtyards. The main attractions for visitors are African artworks, called bas-reliefs, which are on display inside the compound. It is unfortunate that the harsh African weather is slowly contributing to the destruction of this World Heritage Site. Efforts have been extended to preserve the palace buildings, not only for the past they represent, but also for the cultural traditions that they help sustain.

Virgin Gorda
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Measuring just eight and a half miles long, Virgin Gorda is the 3rd largest island in the British Virgin Islands and the 2nd most populated. Its location is roughly eighteen degrees, forty-eight minutes north, and sixty-four degrees, thirty minutes west. Its area covers about eight square miles or twenty-one square kilometres. It is believed that Christopher Columbus gave the name “The Fat Virgin” to the island for the reason that its outline on the horizon seems like a fat lady reclined on her side.

Virgin Gorda’s main town is the Spanish Town, which is located on the southwest area of the island. The island is surrounded by a lot of deserted beaches and by mid-morning, the sun worshippers will populate either, Handsome Bay, Big Trunk Bay, or Savannah Bay. Virgin Gorda’s pace of life is rather slow. However, if you prefer not to spend your whole day on the beach, there are many other things to do. You can travel around The Baths, where massive rocks look as if they have been arranged by a good-natured giant in order to create a multitude of boulder pools, furtive beaches, and trail ways. This unique geologic arrangement found on the southern tip of the island is what makes the Virgin Gorda one of the British Virgin Islands’ main tourist attractions. You can have a stopover at the Copper Mine placing guard alongside the blue Atlantic. Or simply spend your morning at a restaurant on a hillside cooled by mild breezes while you look at the ferries crossing the North Sound way below.

Spectacular slopes sink from the Gorda Peak into the turquoise streams way below. Not a lot of islands can provide the variety of elite resorts. There are even some resorts that are only reachable by boat.

Okavango Delta Game Reserve, Africa
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Touring in the Okavango Delta is comparable to witnessing how the earth has formed for millions of years. Okavango, compared to other parts of the world has remained virtually unchanged for more than sixty five million years which means that the delta is a remnant of the earth’s formation and existence for millions of years.

Witnessing the beauty of the delta and the availability of different kinds of species that inhabit the place is a very rewarding and amazing experience. Being able to see for yourself the beauty and the presence of the great diversity available is a lifetime experience that you could never forget.

What You Should Not Miss

Touring around the delta is a must in order to fully appreciate its beauty and also in order for you to be amazed by how it remained unchanged for millions of years. The vastness of the delta will surely leave you speechless with amazement.

The Okavango River is also another spectacle that you should not miss. The river can either be accessed by boat, by plane, or even by mokoro. The Tsodilo Hills are also a must see when in Okavango Delta. The site which is adorned with more than four thousand paintings has been declared as a UNESCO world heritage site.

What You Should Know

One of the easiest ways to access the Okavango Delta is to get on a safari tour on Moremi Game Reserve. Other tourists rent their own cars and hire an experienced driver to take them from Maun to the Okavango Delta but this will be more expensive.

Staying safe is very important while in Okavango Delta. Follow your guide’s instructions and make sure you protect yourself from mosquitoes since malaria is prevalent in the area. It is also important to stay well hydrated while on tour so bring lots of water stored preferably in a canteen.

Pyramids of Meroe, Sudan
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When one thinks of pyramids, one thinks of Egypt. But Egypt’s influence does not only stop at its borders. A few of its neighbors have been influenced by their culture. One such place is a city named Meroe in the country of Sudan.

Meroe is a city on the east side of the Nile River and was the capital kingdom of Kush for sometime a few centuries ago. The city can be easily recognized due to the presence of more than 200 pyramids that are divided into three groups.

The pyramids found in the city are also called Nubian Pyramids. Nubian pyramids are pyramidal structures that were built on a region called Nubia, an area on the Nile valley, in the present day country of Sudan. This place was ruled by Egypt for some time and greatly influenced the culture of the people who lived there especially in the art of pyramid building. Nubian pyramids are significantly smaller in size than those that can be found in Egypt. They stand at a range of six to thirty feet in height and a base that didn’t exceed much beyond eight feet making the pyramid look tall and the surface walls slant to about seventy degrees.

Many of the pyramids in the city of Meroe are in ruins. Mainly due to the harshness of the climate and lack of ability to maintain the structures throughout the centuries, there are only very few pyramids that are still intact and well preserved. There have been indications that the pyramids were ransacked and plundered of any valuable jewelry that any royal family members entombed in there might have had.

If one enjoys seeing the majesty of the architecture and culture of ancient civilizations, especially those of Egyptians and their influences in neighbouring areas, then the Pyramids of Meroe is a place to see.

Canaima National Park, Venezuela
Photo by: Aeruginosa , Creative Commons

Canaima national park is immensely popular for its amazing natural wonders. The lush tropical habitat is home to a wide variety of plants and animals.

Amazing natural wonders like table top mountains known as tepuis can be seen here. Most waterfalls can be easily found which you can climb and explore making it possible for you to get behind the water curtains.

What You Should Not Miss

A trip to the world’s highest waterfalls should not be missed by every tourist who visits Canaima national park. Isla Anatoly is also what you should not miss since it is very near Canaima Village. Other waterfalls are also present in Canaima national park like Salto Sapo which is just in a nearby valley.

A trip to the Auyan tepui should also not be missed when at Canaima National Park. You can secure a permit to trek at Ciudad Bolivar and you can easily get a local to guide you there for a fee.

What You Should Know

The tour to Angels falls will last for three days and two nights and it is actually done by plane, by foot, and through a five hour canoe ride. All tours at the Canaima national park are guided to ensure that you will be safe.

Frequent rainfalls will occur from May to November; however, the dry season from December to April is not an advisable time to visit if you want to see more waterfalls. Consulting weather forecasts for an entire week or an entire month will help you determine whether the weather is suitable for exploration.

Upon arrival at the airport in Canaima, you will need to show proof that you have received vaccination for yellow fever. If not, you will need to pay an additional fee for the shot together with the entrance fee at Canaima which is worth four dollars.

Merida Cable Car, Venezula
Photo by: Blmurch , Creative Commons

The Merida cable car is the highest and longest cable car in the world. With a length that spans up to more than twelve kilometers and with an altitude that reaches up to almost five thousand meters, visiting the Merida cable car in Venezuela is something that every tourist should not miss.

Different stations are named after the views and the natural wonders that you will be seeing while riding the cable car. Be physically and emotionally prepared as you will definitely be left breathless once you see the majestic wonders in each station.

What You Should Not Miss

Each station in the Merida cable car is something that you should look out for. From Barinitas, La Montana, La Aguada, Loma Redonda, to Pico Bolivar, the view and the natural formations should not be missed as these are exotic wonders made by nature.

The Virgen de Las Nieves or the Virgin of the Snow is one attraction that you should not miss. From here, you can actually see the highest point which is Pico Bolivar if the weather is not that foggy. Pico Bolivar might seem that close when seen from Virgen de Las Nieves, but it still is actually a six hour trek away.

What You Should Remember

You can actually choose to trek from a station or two but you should be physically prepared for the challenges ahead. Hiring a guide for your trekking expedition will help in ensuring safety and also in making sure that you are on the right path. Also, when walking from one station to another, you will need a permit that you can get from the officials.

Suitable travel time will be from December to February to avoid seeing fog instead of the beautiful scenery. It is also advised that you take time exercising and practicing long walks since the place will require serious physical activities that will easily exhaust you if you are not ready.

Bhutan Mountain Biking
Photo by: Owner , Creative Commons

The mountainous terrains and the breathtaking views available makes Bhutan a mountain biking haven for biking enthusiasts from different parts of the globe. The experience felt while biking along the highways and paths of Bhutan that shift in altitude and in temperature will definitely be like no other.

There are three popular Bhutan mountain biking tours available nowadays which are offered to tourists who want to feel the adrenaline rush brought about by the paths. These tours are also offered to tourists who want to see the beauty of the mountains in Bhutan while effectively doing physical exercise through mountain biking.

What You Should Not Miss

Mountain biking across Bhutan is a rewarding tour that you should not miss if you want to explore Bhutan and get to see what it has to offer. Through biking across Bhutan, you get to see famous and historical attractions like the Pelela pass which is more than three thousand meters long and also the Yotola Pass which is three thousand six hundred meters long.

The unique wilderness of Bhutan is also something that you should not miss when mountain biking. Make sure you get to take the Dochula pass when going Trashigang if you want to see for yourself the majestic beauty of high mountain passes in the land.

Western Bhutan is also another path that you should not miss when on a mountain biking tour. The shifting vistas and views offered when taking the path to Western Bhutan is definitely very rewarding that is why you should not miss it.

What You Should Know

These mountain biking tours will last for approximately seven to eighteen days depending on the path that you choose to take. It is advised that you equip yourself with the proper gear and you have physically prepared yourself for the oncoming physical challenges that you will be facing.

Lake Maracaibo, Venezuela
Photo by: Jabbusch , Creative Commons

Lake Maracaibo has been a favorite destination by both locals and foreign tourists. The development of Maracaibo has made the lake a much accessible tourist attraction which is why more tourists are visiting the western part of Venezuela.

Lake Maracaibo is situated near the center of the city where parks and buildings are situated. The rapid development of the city where big shopping malls and buildings are rising made Maracaibo a very important city in Venezuela. Though Maracaibo is already well developed, you can still enjoy some natural wonders that are still present.

What You Should Not Miss

The Bridge over Lake Maracaibo is something that you should not miss when visiting Lake Maracaibo. The bridge which is the largest concrete bridge in the world was built in 1957 and is recognized as one of the most impressive structures in Venezuela.

You should not forget to visit the Palafitos in Santa Rosa de Agua which is located up north of Maracaibo. The buildings which are constructed by native Venezuelans are made from wood. These buildings are impressively constructed on top of water.

Visiting the Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Chiquinquira is something that you should not miss. The Basilica is located at downtown Maracaibo and is also another popular tourist attraction situated near Lake Maracaibo. The Basilica was built in dedication to the apparition of the Virgin Mary to a Native Venezuelan back in the colonial era.

What You Should Remember

Travelling to Maracaibo is very easy nowadays since flights from Florida and other parts of the United States to Maracaibo airport are scheduled daily. From La Chinita Airport, taking a taxi will be an easy and a cheap way to get into a hotel.

Malls and parks are abundant in Maracaibo. If you are planning to visit other attractions in Venezuela, you can make your preparations in Maracaibo through acquiring tour packages and exchanging your money to the local currency.

Photo by: Fernando Dall’Acqua, Creative Commons

The São Paulo Museum of Art, also called Museu de Arte de São Paulo in Portugese, is a museum of art situated on Paulista Avenue in the São Paulo city, Brazil. It is widely popular for its control centre, a 1968 glass and concrete composition designed by Lina Bo Bardi. The focal body is held up by two side beams over a 74-metre self supporting space. It is noted as an attraction of the city and a chief symbol of contemporary Brazilian architecture.

The São Paulo Museum is a non profit private foundation. It was initiated in the year 1947 by Pietro Maria Bardi and Chateaubriand. The museum made a distinction from other museums for a lot of significant schemes involving art education and musicology in Brazil, and also for its initiative position as a cultural centre, too. It was also the first Brazilian museum that showed interest with the artistic propensities of the Post World War II.

The São Paulo Museum is globally known for its collected works of Western art, which is said to be the greatest in Latin America and in the whole Southern Hemisphere. It also serves as the home of categorical collections of Brazilian art, drawings and prints, as well as tinier collections of Asian and African art. The whole collection of art work is recorded as a Brazilian National Heritage. Among the most notable and significant art works are paintings by Goya, Rembrandt, Matisse, Renoir, Van Gogh, Modigliani, Monet, Dali, and Picasso. Among the best sculpted works are an atypical Renoir, and works by Rodin and Degas. The museum also includes a cinema, a restaurant and an auditorium.