For a city like Salzburg, Austria, a weekend is certainly not enough for any visitor to fully appreciate its majestic and breathtaking gardens. It has a reputation for beauty and refinement that makes it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Central Europe. Exploring the city on foot is not too difficult because of its compact layout. The variety of landmarks and buildings also gives it a fairytale-like atmosphere and makes it such a pleasure to explore by walking.

But with all this variety, how much ground can anyone cover if only given a weekend to make the most of what Salzburg, Austria has to offer? Consider these suggested destinations:

• A trek to the historic Hohensalzburg Fortress is a must for any traveler visiting the city for the first time. After all, it is a major landmark that defines the city’s skyline. Within the vicinity of the fortress are a museum and the stateroom that visitors can tour. The city also features a uniquely built area of the Saint Peter’s district that features catacombs, a cemetery, a church and a monastery that were carved out of the Moncshberg Mountains. Those with a passion for classical music can drop by Gertreidegasse, which is world famous for a well-preserved house where musician Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born. To complete a highly cultural first day in the city, visiting more recent repositories of local culture is recommended. The Toy Museum, Museum of Modern Art and the Panorama Gallery are among the best representatives of the city’s more modern artistic movements.

• Admiring the city’s natural wonders is a perfect counterpoint to the explorations of the previous day. Drop by the Mirabell Gardens and relax by its iconic Pegasus Fountain made famous by the film “The Sound of Music.” An afternoon spent walking within the natural wonders of Salzburg Zoo should round up the day’s nature-themed tour of the city followed by a scenic view of the area’s skyline aboard a cable car going up the Untersberg Mountain.

Whether for its buildings or for its natural treasures, first time visitors to Salzburg, Austria can go home made richer by the city’s attractions that can be explored in a single weekend.

Valle Grande is a small town situated in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. It literally means Big Valley. It is the capital of Valle Grande Municipality and Province. It is a small town, which is known as the burial site of Che Guevara, a revolutionary in 1967.

Agriculture is the primary industry in Valle Grande. The town is primarily dedicated to producing grains including wheat and corn. It is also known for producing fruits including grapes, peaches, plums, cherimoyas, apples, and pears. Some other products found in Valle Grande include chamas, wine, fruit liquor, homemade bread, and handmade rugs, among others.

If you are interested in significant historical and archaeological attractions, you can find Rupestrian paintings in Valle Grande. More so, the town is known as a significant place of combat, action, capture, and assassination of Ernest Che Guevara, a Socialist Argentinean-Cuban Commandant. In fact, the most famous place in Valle Grande where no tourist should miss is the tomb of Che Guevara, which was exposed to the international public. The tomb includes the remains of the commandant along with the remains of his companions.

If you visit Valle Grande at the right time, you can participate in its folkloric traditions, which are popular in the community. One of the most prominent folkloric traditions is the El Carnval Valle Grandino.

Consequently, you can reach Valle Grande by land or air. You can take a spur road leading to Santa Cruz to the highway or Cochabamba. You can also make use of the town’s airstrip.

Are you in the mood to put your feet up and dream as you listen to the soothing sound of the waves lapping the shore? Or do you just want to get busy exploring the area and its surroundings? Either way, North Bimini, Bahamas is your place to go.

OK, so when there’s north, there’s got to be south, right? To crash a bit on geography, yes, there is also indeed South Bimini. It has a small airstrip and home to two hotels. It is rustic and silent and tourists go there if they want to enjoy a more private getaway. Now, North Bimini is quite different. This part on the opposite side of the channel is relatively busy and populated. However, people here can easily cross the water and enjoy the quieter south whenever they want to. Needless to say, it’s very possible too, to do vice versa.

North Bimini is just about 48 miles east of Miami Florida but it is not as ultra-modern and hectic. The island has an easy way of life which is very reminiscent of the old days. Spanish galleon ships here make fascinating diving locations and so do the exotic fish, black corals, and mysterious formations of stone which some believe are the lost Atlantis.

Alice Town is how you call the commercial center of Bimini where you can find shops restaurants, and bars. The streets here could get pretty wild especially during the season of fishing tournaments. If you love the nightlife, the bars you shouldn’t miss here are the Compleat Angler and the End of the World.

A couple of horses at the Spanish Riding School.
Photo by: J.harwood , Creative Commons

The Spanish Riding School is a traditional school for horse riding in Vienna which also promotes classical dressage up until today. The Spanish Riding School is known to offer classical riding which is usually described as the art of riding with the horse rather than against it.

The school is located in Vienna near the Hofburg. It is exclusive for Lipizzan horses which are used entirely in the school.

The remarkable thing about the Spanish Riding School is that it is able to maintain the noble horsemanship of the post medieval ages.

The methods used by the Spanish Riding School are said to have been adapted from the French Riding Master, François Robichon de La Guérinière, who is one of the influential riders of the world.

The routine taught in the Spanish Riding School follows the concept of classical equitation, a philosophy that is written by Xenophon, a Greek commander.

The Spanish Riding School had offered performances to the guests of the Court. These appearances were opened to public viewing to provide for the school’s upkeep during the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918.

The performances today have been even more comprehensive. It now shows a demonstration of all the phases of training.

Riders of the Spanish Riding School wear the traditional brown tailcoat, bicorne hat, white breeches, white suede gloves, and black boots. This empire style of clothing has long been the uniform of the school and has remained unchanged for 2 centuries.

The Imperial Summer Fête is a celebration within and around the Spanish Riding School that gives life and color to the summer in Vienna. It is a wonderful show that promotes and allows the Spanish Riding School to open its doors to the locals and the tourists and at the same time breathe life into the festivities while reliving old Viennese traditions.

The African Wilderness, Kayes
Photo by: wiki , Creative Commons

Among the many cities in Africa, the Kayes city is recorded as having the hottest temperature. But this shouldn’t be a hindrance when visiting the city because there are many tourist attractions here. While exploring touring the city, you will be fascinated with its scenery. The city’s landscape is composed of dessert-like lands and red mountains which add to the Moroccan impression of the place. Truly, visiting Kayes city will bring you to the heart of Africa’s wilderness.

While touring Kayes city, make sure to visit the city’s famous places. This includes Fort du Medine, Felou and Goulina falls, Manantali Dam, Magui and Doro lakes and the TaTa of Koniakari. Among the mentioned locations, it is advisable to visit the Felou and Goulina falls. Both falls have spectacular beauty that is truly rewarding to visit. On the other hand, the Magui and Doro lakes are also worthwhile to visit because of the indigenous floras and faunas that can be observed around the lake.

Whenever you want to visit Kayes city, most tourists seek guides for a full tour of the city. The local infrastructures around the town have a unique African style of architecture which reflects the culture of its residents. You can also notice the colorful garments the local residents within Kayes city wear. Furthermore, the surrounding places are very picturesque, so don’t forget to bring a camera with you. Above all, be sure to arrange the whole trip carefully so you can get the best from Kayes city!

Tessalit Cercle, Mali
Photo by: wiki, Creative Commons

The Sahara desert has attracted many tourists from all over the world since it is the largest desert around. But travelling to Sahara is quite harsh and behind this fact, it is good to know that there is a little town in the middle of the desert that can serve as your stopover: the city of Tessalit in Mali. Tessalit is located in the region of Kidal and at the same time, it is the capital of Tessalit Cercle. Saharan travelers oftentimes visit the city in order to supply their needs, but it is also worthwhile to tour around as it is a famous tourist destination.

Since Tessalit is a stopover for Saharan travelers, many shops can be found within the town. The markets are flooded with different products from different places in Africa as the city is used for trading. While visiting Tessalit, it is recommended to tour around the various markets in the city. You can find many good products here and each is depicting the African culture. Moreover, touring around the city will also let you appreciate the beautiful Egyptian-like surroundings, so it is truly rewarding to explore the place.

Whenever you want to take a tour at Tessalit, prepare yourself for the dry hot climate of the town. Bring sun-block for protection for your skin. Most importantly, make sure to arrange your trip thoroughly so you can be delighted to enjoy a hassle-free vacation!

San Andres Island is situated in the Caribbean Sea. It forms an archipelago together with its neighbors, small islands that line the coast. These islands are more popularly known as a single unit, named the Archipelago of San Andres, Providencia and Santa Catalina, with San Andres Isl., Colombia as its capital.

Archipelago of Wonders

The Caribbean Sea is always a great idea for a tourist destination. But the Archipelago of San Andres, Providencia and Santa Catalina offers more reason to visit this side of Latin America, bringing more life to the Caribbean region. Those who are looking forward to diving in crystal-clear water brimming with breathtaking marine life, playing and swimming in white-sand beaches, enjoying an exciting nightlife, and learning a whole new culture will not be disappointed when they stop by in this part of Colombia.

San Andres Isl., Colombia boasts of a rich, colorful, multi-ethnic history, owing greatly to its geographical circumstances. Thus, tourists can expect a vivid cultural experience, ranging from the cuisines embraced (made up mostly of fish and vegetables, with coconut, breadfruit, plantain, and spices as accents) to the languages spoken (mainly different dialects of Spanish and English). And the experience won’t be complete without music. Here, everyone takes it all in with beats of salsa and reggae in the background. Suffice it to say that San Andres, along with all its neighboring islands (including the Bolivar and Albuqueque islets, the Crab cays, and the Alicia and Bajo Nuevo sand banks, to name just a few), offers the opportunity to create fun, lasting memories.

An Array of Activities

There are plenty of things to do when in San Andres Isl., Colombia. For sightseeing, a walk up El Cliff allows for a pleasant stroll for a great view of the coral reefs and the whole town. There are natural wonders to discover, including the El Hoyo Soplador (a sea water geyser that can only be seen under certain conditions), Islote Sucre (a white-sand beach that has tropical vegetation), and the La Cueva de Morgan (a constantly enlarging sea cave). Of course, a trip to the island won’t be complete without water activities. Cocoplum Bay has gentle beach slopes and shallow water perfect for swimming. SpratBright, a tourist favorite, has excellent waters and boat rentals for viewing marine life and exploring nearby cays. Divers can check out the ruins of the sunken ships Blue Diamonds and Nicaraguanse.

A Turtle in Toliara, Madagascar
Photo by: Neil Strickland , Creative Commons

Toliara is one of those provinces in Madagascar that is very close to the country’s ocean borders, so tourists should expect to see a spectacular view of the Indian Ocean. Many water activities also take placer in the area. Toliara boasts of two things –the place itself which is a remnant of a nature lover’s haven, and the accommodating and nice people who live in the towns within this beautiful province. The sea and the mountains surrounding the area are perfect for tourists who would like to make use of their adventuring equipment, including those that are meant for extreme sports.

Moreover, there is a shell market that is located close to the sea. The people in Toliara, particularly the women, love collecting the most beautiful shells on the seashore. Of course, they use this in order to spread the wonderful offerings of the sea.

In addition to the market, one of the highlights of Toliara would have to be its local museum, which displays many things depicting the culture, tradition and history of the place.

Tourists do not want to miss this opportunity of seeing the best of Madagascar, and possibly, the best of Africa.

Enjoying the beautiful Van Dyke Island, British Virgin Islands.

Photo by: nayoungkim , Creative Commons

Known as the Barefoot Island because of its casual and laidback lifestyle, Jost Van Dyke Island, British Virgin Islands is truly the perfect place to relax and unwind. The island has restaurants and bars, amazing beaches, and picture perfect isles that you can visit by boat or canoe.

The island is also called the “New York of the Virgin Islands” because it has numerous bars and a very exciting nightlife. Some of the famous bars that you should visit are the One Love Bar and Grill, Soggy Dollar Bar, Ivan’s Stress-Free Bar, and Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, to name just a few.

One Love Bar and Grill is famous for its very casual decoration which looks as if the place is made up of the beach’s floating junk and debris. But do not be fooled because this place serves ice cold Carib beers and mouth watering lobster rolls.

The Soggy Dollar bar is famous for its original cocktail drink called the Painkiller. This offers dining and resting area for people who want to take a break from an excitingly tiring day. When you get too drunk after drinking too much alcohol, you can sleep in one of their cottages. This is probably the wildest and coolest bar in Jost Van Dyke Island, British Virgin Islands.

If you want a calmer and more stress-free atmosphere, you should head to Ivan’s Stress-Free Bar. The vibe in Ivan’s tends to be mellow. You can eat barbecue and prepare your own drink behind the bar. The Foxy Tamarind also has a cool ambience and offers eat all you can ribs, fish, and chicken and very strong drinks.

Entrance to Port of Kos
Photo by: bazylek , Creative Commons

Kos, Greece is near Turkey and is known for its tourism. Its population is roughly around thirty-two thousand. It has long, pristine beaches and bountiful crops, such as almonds, grapes, figs, corns, wheat, tomatoes, and olives. It is also well organized. To get there, the tourists can book flights in Athens. But on May through October, airlines directly fly from European airports to Kos. KSG or Kos Island International Airport offers a broad range of flights from the European countries. Tourists can also ride domestic or international boats. In the summer, there are weekly ferry services from the town of Kos to Thessaloniki and Samos. Everyday excursions are also done from the town of Kos to Turkey.

Kos also has a Mediterranean climate. It has mostly warm and dry summer days, and wet yet mild winter days. The summer season starts in June and ends in September. The temperatures during these times normally range from twenty-eight to thirty-two degrees Celsius; with night temperatures of about twenty-four degrees Celsius. The winter season, on the other hand, lasts from December until February. The days during winter average around fifteen degrees Celsius while the nights average around ten degrees Celsius. Many sights and great activities are common in Kos. The Nerantzia Castle, the White Stone Cave, and the ancient Roman Oldeon ruins are very nice tourist attractions. The Archaeological Museum and the Kos Waterpark are nice places to visit, as well. In addition, the beaches of Tigaki, Kefalos, and Mastichari are cool places to hang around too.

Many restaurants are also available to tourists such as the Mastichari which is a good place to eat, relax, drink, and enjoy; and the Petrino, which has a unique wine collection. The Tigaki restaurant is another good place with a variety of Greek, Indian, Italian, and other international cuisines. It was first established in the late 1980’s and has been a favorite restaurant of many people. It also has a great menu of vegetarian dishes. And whenever tourists want to dine near the historical castle, they can go to the Platanos restaurant. Its café also serves exceptional desserts. Moreover, other fine restaurants like Stadium and Valia’s Place are accessible, as well. And when it comes time to rest and relax, tourists can check in Sunny Days Hotel or at the Artemis Hotel Apartments for a good nights sleep. But they can also go to Imperial Hotel or to Continental Palace Hotel.

Plaza Genoa, Italy
Photo by: sergemelki, Creative Commons

Genoa, Italy is the capital of the northern Italian Region of Liguria and considered a historical port city. It may be reached from other Italian cities, such as Milan, Turin, Rome and Tuscany by riding the train that has two main stations in Genoa, one in Brignole and another in Principe.

An airport in Genoa, the Aeroporto di Genova, on the other hand, caters to several daily flights to and from London, Munich, Paris, Madrid and other major European cities. Euroline coaches also service those who would like to travel to Genoa from other nearby countries in Europe. Getting around Genoa, Italy is also easy as cars are readily available. If you prefer to travel by boat, many ferry services are available in the port of Genoa. One offers rides from Barcelona, which takes about 18 hours, and from Tangiers that takes around 46 hours.

When you get to Genoa, Italy, you will be treated to a wide array of museums and historical sites. Among these are the Sea and Naval Museums, the Museum of Modern Art, the Ethnographicla Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, the Chiossone Museum of Oriental Art, which houses the largest oriental art collection in Europe; the Doria Museum of Natural History, the Cathedral Museum and the Ligurian Archaeological Museum.

Genoa, Italy is also where the Museum of St. Augustine is located. This is a convent that has an extensive collection of beautiful medieval artwork. The Luxoro Museum, on the other hand, has a private collection of not only art pieces but also furniture or artistic value.

Right at the heart of Genoa is the largest historical center in Europe that is made up of small streets and alleys called Caruggi. A walk along these streets will take you back in time and give you a feel of the old city and its rich history.

And speaking of historical tidbits, you may want to visit the house where Christopher Columbus was said to have been born in Piazza Dante. And then you may ask your tour guide to take to the oldest European lighthouse, the Lanterna, which is also a popular symbol of Genoa.

Churches also abound Genoa, Italy and each of these architecture are very-well crafted and has a great history behind it. Among these are the churches of San Giovanni di Pre’, San Donato and Santa Maria del Castello.

With all the breathtaking sites to see and things to experience here, you are guaranteed to have a grand time in Genoa. So hurry and book your vacation to this amazing Italian city now.

Marcus Square, Newry
Photo by: wiki , Creative Commons

The fourth largest city in Northern Ireland, Newry, is popular for its historic border, 67 miles from Dublin, and the center of transactions in Ireland. Located at the Gap of the North, it first became a port until it was made a city in 2002. Since then, it has gained popularity because of its provincial shopping-towns that are at par with the best. The Buttercrane Center and the Quays are worth a visit if you are visiting Newry, Northern Ireland. Even people from Cork, a distant local city, are attracted to these centers due to their attractive prices. Cheaper goods call the attention of shoppers, even making them cross borders.

Because of the expanding popularity of Newry there has been an increase in housing prices throughout the city, with a remarkable increase of 371%. Moreover, its unemployment rate has decreased progressively.

One of the favorite tourist destinations is the Cathedral of SS. Patrick and Colman on Hill Street, which was built in 1829. It is considered as the city’s greatest architecture. The town hall is also a must see, for it has been built over the River Clanrye, a historical boundary that separated Down and Armagh. A museum and arts centre has also held several galleries to prove the eloquence of the arts in the city. The Craigmore Viaduct is an important bridge that is often studied by architects for its construction. The bridge has eighteen arches, the highest of which is 126 feet, stealing the record in all of Ireland. Local granite was the main component of the bridge, expanding to a quarter of a mile.

As a tribute to Saint Patrick, the most important saint in the country, Saint Patrick’s church, the first Protestant church in the area, has been built and been frequently visited ever since. There is also a Roman Catholic Cathedral situated near it bears neo-Gothic architecture. As if to prove the point that Ireland is religiously affiliated, there are many churches in the city that are the subject of tours and crusades.

The River Newry is the most important aspect of the city, with the port and industrial town lying in this area. Much of the transactions happen in the ports, and the business establishments are usually related to the ports. However, the area of industry and architecture are not the only forms of livelihood in the area. There are also sufficient jobs that lure tourists and investors to the area.

Market Place in Garoua, Cameroon
Photo by: Wiki Commons , Creative Commons

Summer is the perfect time to pack your bags and head off to the city of Garoua, Cameroon. Here you will be filled with endless opportunities to commune with the extravagant and lush scenery they way it was supposed to be seen – when the sun is fierce and the soil is dry.

Garoua, Cameroon is indeed the newest place to consider when you are traveling to Nigeria. More and more tourists have been discovering this wonderful place and came back with a promise of returning once again after the rainy season. So what are the sights to consider in Garoua, Cameroon? Two places that are most popular in Garoua are the Waza National Park and the Bouba-Ndjida National park.

When you visit the Waza National Park, you will see animals that will make you think if you are in a small zoo. That is how carefree and safe these animals can get. As long as you do not feed them or pet them. Remember they are not domesticated. Just imagine elephants, rhinoceros and even cheetahs roaming around. They are lovely to look at and photograph.

View of Great Orme and Llandudno Bay
Photo by: erwlas , Creative Commons

If you are up for a holiday of sheer relaxation, visit Llandudno in Wales. This is deemed to be Wales’ finest and biggest resort town. It is cradled by both the Great and Little Ormes, two headlands made of limestone. The Queen of Resorts, as it is well-known, is home to parks, gardens, theaters and beaches. If you are planning to spend your holiday in Llandudno, you are bound to find an activity that you will enjoy.

Llandudno Festivals

You may want to visit Llandudno when the town and its environs are further spiced up with a festival. This way, not a moment is wasted during your visit. There are several music and art festivals in North West Wales, such as Bangor New Music Festival in March. The Colwyn Blues Festival is in May. Holyhead Festival in July is not really religious. It is a festival that features classic cars, craft stalls, boat rides and again, music. If you want to see people play dress up, you may want to visit in May for the Victorian Extravaganza.

The Victorian Pier

The Victorian Pier is a must-see because it is Wales’ longest pier, at 2,295 feet. This pier is not only used as a landing area of steamers and boats. It is also a place for several recreational activities.

Things to Do in Llandudno

Speaking of recreational activities, there are many other things to Llandudno. These other activities are not related to the festival or the pier. Of course, festival activities are much fun. You get to share the culture of the people of Llandudno. You may also visit gorgeous gardens and visit parks and farms. You can go for physical activities, such as walking around pathways and cycling through designated routes. You can go to the beach to swim or surf. As mentioned earlier, Llandudno is also a great place for visiting the theater and going shopping. The main shopping street, called the Town Library, is a great place to explore even without the shopping. You may simply take photos of interesting sites, such as Deganwy Castle, the Happy Valley and the Haulfre Gardens.

Visiting Llandudno may seem like traveling back to the time because of some quaint-looking buildings and historic reserves. However, Llandudno can definitely respond to all your modern needs. For 150 years, the town has been a tourist getaway spot. Because of this, tourism councils are knowledgeable about how exactly to please the visitors through the years.

The Amazing Kariba Dam
Photo by: wiki, Creative Commons

In the southern province of Zambia, you will find the second largest tourist destination – the town of Siavonga. This is also often referred to as the Riviera of Zambia because of the magnificence of the Lake Kariba. The Kariba Dam is also a magnificent sight that should not be missed.

The Lake Kariba in Siavonga is known to be the home to different species of animals that include mammals, fish and birds. It is unfortunate the most of the large games have already disappeared from the haven of the lake. However, there are still great birds and varieties of fish to see along the banks. The beautiful scenery is something that is hard to erase from memory as soon as it is seen.

As Siavonga is known to be one of the world’s best tourist destinations especially for those who would love to experience the breathtaking platter that nature has to offer, there are many commercial establishments around the town to cater to travelers. There are hotels, rooms, resorts and lodges that offer all the comforts that travelers need and want. The town also hosts a number of different other attractions for tourists. These would include activities such as sunset cruises, canoeing, bird watching, fishing, boating and cultural village tours among others. There is much to do as much as there to see in this town in Zambia. It promises to truly be one of the most memorable places that you could ever set foot at.

Kampot Cambodia is widely known for its Pepper Plantations and Durian farming. This province is located on both sides of Teuk Chhou or Prek Thom River, which is very close to Vietnam Ocean. Three different bridges connect the whole Kampot province where local famous restaurants, markets and guesthouses can be found. Kampot town is the capital of Kampot province that offers the best starting point for trips to Bokor Mountain. Kampot province also offers a great and relaxing escape from the rest of Cambodia. Its riverfronts and mountains are fairly quiet and offer a majestic ambiance.

There are many attractions and activities that can be done in Kampot Cambodia.

• Aside from its riverfronts and mountains, tourist can also rent bicycles and wander around the central city, visit small caves near Buddhist shrines and even watch football games
• The eastside of Kampot facing towards the ocean is also a good place to visit where Cham Muslims communities can be found.
• Tourists can also visit the Buddhist Temple, which is located right across the Kampot River. This place is very rich in Kampot history which is open to tourists.
• Right next to the temple, past the salt field, Kampot’s famous black pepper and durian farming can be found. Kampot became very popular because of these products. The Durian plantation produces Durians which is one fruit that is worth trying. Although this fruit throws in a very foul odor, its taste is remarkably great. Eating this fruit definitely is one activity you shouldn’t miss when visiting Kampot Cambodia.

Sabha map
Photo by: Wiki Commons, Creative Commons

In southwestern Libya, the famous city of Sabha can be found. It was the capital of the Fezzan region in the past but now it is the capital of the Sabha Region. Tourists often describe it as a city that lies on a sandy plain with a magnificent lake to its side. The Sabha city has progressed into a developing urban landscape. The city has many picturesque areas, highlighted with many palm and date trees.

Sabha city is famous for providing a well rounded trip for tourists. They provide experiences that are culturally related, like touring around the city while riding a camel. Camel riding is still widely utilized by the locals as their traditional means of transportation. Jeeps are also very popular means of transportation. The most famous landmark in the city is Fort Elena Castle. The castle is widely honored in Libya as it is the image pictured on one of their bills. The castle was built during the Italian colonialism of the country and it depicts the long history of Libya during the colonialism era.

So if you are spending your vacation in Libya, make sure to visit the Sabha city! This city will bring you back to the historical past of Libya, so try to have a worthwhile tour around the city.

Edinburgh Castle from the Park
Photo by: randysonofrobert, Creative Commons

One of the jewels of the United Kingdom is the city of Edinburgh which is the capital city of Scotland and is considered as the most desirable city to live in this country. It is also one of the most picturesque cities of Europe because of its spectacular setting and Medieval and Gothic architecture which attracts millions of tourists yearly. Next to London, it is the most visited city in the whole of the United Kingdom.

Edinburgh is referred to as the Athens of the North because it is one of the seats of the Enlightenment, comparable to the Greek city of Athens. Every street of Edinburgh speaks of its rich history and heritage that is perfectly combined with the contemporary tastes of Europe. As such, every step through its beautiful landscape is a treat for the senses.

The best time to travel to Edinburgh is during springtime when the assortment of colors cast a dreamy glow over the city. Climate is can be unpredictable but usually is pleasant and ideal. Like its vibrant colors, the people of Edinburgh are lively, fun-loving and very welcoming.

Tourists flock to this beautiful city because of the historic towns and scenic villages that are scattered throughout. The heart of Edinburgh’s attractions is Edinburgh Castle which is located in an extinct volcano and houses buildings that have been built as early as the 12th century. This is where the famous celebration of the Military Tattoo is held.
The palace of Holyrood House, home of the famous Mary the Queen of Scots, is another must-see in Edinburgh. It is the official Scottish residence of the royal family and boasts decorated rooms that depict the tastes of its previous and present occupants.

Visitors also do not fail to visit the Royal Botanic Garden which is famous worldwide for its variety of flowers that are found all over the world. Other beautiful sights include the National Gallery of Scotland and the Edinburgh Museum which is home to the cultural heritage of the Scots. Another popular spot is the Edinburgh Festival Theater, where the Edinburgh International Festival is held and most of the theatrical and musical performances take place. A succession of beautiful streets compose the main of the Old Town with the Royal Mile is the busiest tourist spot in the Old Town.

To really cover the best of Edinburgh, tourists usually take guided tours that include food and transport where they are taken to the beautiful attractions of the city. With the beauty and diversity of Edinburgh, a few days are not enough because one can never get enough of this picturesque Scottish city that has captivated millions of tourists worldwide.

Fountain in Telavi, Georgia
Photo by: mrubov , Creative Commons

Telavi, Georgia is a historical area in eastern Georgia that is located in Kakheti. A visit to Telavi can be a fascinating experience because of its beautiful mountain landscapes, stunning regions, ancient world temples and monasteries, picturesque valleys and rivers and home to amber grapes that grows under the warmth of the sun. Telavi is not only famous as a tourist destination, but it is also locally recognized as Georgia’s centre for winemaking. A city that is located at 490 meters above sea level, Telavi is open to fresh and pure air because of this.

Telavi, Georgia is considered as Georgia’s most ancient city together with Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Mtksheta. A place that is very rich in history, many important cultural monuments can be seen in Telavi that still survive.

• Tsinandili – Tsinandili is situated 10 kilometers from Telaviri. This is a very large village that is well known for its wine settlement and wine production. A wine growing settlement where the patrimonial estate can be found, this museum which now serves as a palace was once heavily furnished by Princess Chavchavadze’s personal belongings.

• Nekresi – Nekresi is an old monastery which consists of several cult structures. Fragments of Dzveli-Shuamta and Akhali Shuamta monasteries can be seen in this area where their old architectures are noticeably different.

• Batonis Tsihe – Batonis tsihe served as a fortress before and is very rich in Telavi history. Batonis Tsihe locally means the Masters Fortress and was once occupied by Kakhetin tsars during the 17th century.
Telavi Georgia today is now a large modern city. Tourists will surely enjoy their stay in Telavi because of its wide variety of historical attractions located here.

If you look at the world map, you will find that Easter Island is just a small piece of land resting near a huge mass that is called Chile. But despite its size, some people would still put them on top of their list of places to visit when they go to South America. Why so?

This is because the place holds one of the greatest wonders of the world – the moais. For those of you who do not know, moais are huge human statues that are carved from a single rock. They are known to stand over 13 – 14 feet and they can easily weigh nearly a hundred tons. But their height and weight are not the only things that make them special. What makes them more interesting is the fact that the things that we’re seeing now has existed since 1250 to 1500 or maybe even earlier.

So to give recognition to these historical landmarks on Easter Island we will provide you some interesting information that you may want to know about.

• Despite their size and weight, those moais were built where they are standing now. Some archaeologists actually believe that they have been moved from the mountains to near the shores of the island. For some reason, no one has actually figured out how the early residents of Easter Island managed to even budge the monstrosities.

There are theories but they are not really believable because most of them include intervention of aliens.

• If you look at the statues, you would notice that most, if not all of them have extremely large heads. Note however that this proportion is not done for aesthetic purposes only. They are made to look like that because they embody the patriarchal society that was strongly prevalent in that era.

• Currently, there are 15 moais that are restored to their old positions before they were either knocked off by an earthquake or tidal wave. But apart from those, there are actually a couple dozen more moais that are scattered around the island. Some can even be found on the slopes of the mountains where they are supposed to be carved out.

Why were they left unfinished in the first place? No one seems to know why. It’s just that for some reason, the carvers have suddenly stopped and magically disappeared.

Now, after all of those facts, do you still wonder why a lot of people are drawn to Easter Island? Hopefully not.

The Nesbitt Castle, Bulawayo
Photo by: Wiki Commons, Creative Commons

Bulawayo is the second largest city in Zimbabwe. It may not be the most popular tourist destination in the country, let alone the world, but there are some places tourists find interesting to visit. Before heading anywhere in Bulawayo, you should take proper care of your belongings. Due to the horrendous economic policies by the present administration, Bulawayo (like the rest of Zimbabwe) and its citizen’s have been suffering. Do not trust people too easily and always secure your valuables.

Places to visit:

If you’re a fan of art, you’ll love what Bulawayo has to offer

• Amakhosi Theater – It is the country’s pride when it comes to performing art. The Amakhosi Theater is the most prestigious stage in the country and being able to perform in it is considered both an honor and a pleasure. Before a show can be performed in the Akahosi Theater, it will have to undergo careful and meticulous review. You can be sure that only the finest works can be seen performed on this stage.

• Museum of Natural History – It is considered the second largest museums in the southern hemisphere. The Museums of Natural History contains more than 70,000 specimens of wildlife and insects. There is also a collection of mining displays and, of course, historical exhibits.

• National Art Gallery – Like other places in Zimbabwe, Bulawayo has a branch of the National Art Gallery. It contains a collection of both the traditional and modern art in different media such as paintings and sculptures. You can buy authentic tribal artifacts and other artworks in a shop located in the gallery’s building.

A view of the famous Melk Abbey in Austria.
Photo by: jay8085 , Creative Commons

Located on the bank of Danube River, the Melk Abbey is a majestic Baroque fortress that is a world renowned monastic site. It stands magnificently overlooking the river and watching over Melk.

The Melk Abbey is a fortified castle that is home to the Babenbergs and is later a Benedictine monastery under Margrave Leopold II.

During the 12th century, a school was connected to the monastery and has been the center of learning where a number of important manuscripts have been made and organized. It is home to the most brilliant and artistic minds and its members were regarded highly in the areas of natural science and the arts.

It is the place where the birth of the Melk Reform Movement had sprung. The Melk reform is valuable for its connection to the Humanists at the University of Vienna.

The highlight of this area more than its splendid history and its wide contribution to spirituality is the majestic Baroque building that stands in spectacular grace.

It is the location of the New Abbey Museum which gives a narration of Melk Abbey from its humble beginnings to its present splendor. The architect of the exhibit is Hans Hoffer, who is also the designer of the Klangtheater Ganzohr in Vienna.

The architecture of Hoffer allows for a powerful and effective presentation of the Benedictine history in Melk through innovative presentation mostly because of its emphasis on the artistically important objects in the Abbey.

You can also participate in educational museum tours which highlight the story of the Benedictines, more particularly the story of St. Coloman.

The Melk Abbey is not only popular for its history but also for the deep spirituality of the place that is unique to it. Visiting the Abbey will prove to be a hearty experience that will make you appreciate the beautiful Baroque fortress and the spirituality and culture of Austria.

Nottingham Council Hall
Photo by: jonathangill, Creative Commons

Nottingham, England, just the mention of the name will definitely conjure up images of Robin Hood and his merry men in your head. This city on the British east midlands region has definitely come a long way from the time when Robin Hood was said to roam its forests. Today, you’ll see that this is where the medieval and the modern collide to give you a feast for the senses. Take a closer look for yourself and you’ll discover ancient landmarks amidst the bustling businesses on its modern streets. There’s always something you can discover in Nottingham.

One of the most fascinating places in the city is Nottingham castle. This museum will provide you a very interesting look into the history of Nottingham. With a beautiful art gallery and a scenic garden, it’s the perfect venue for an afternoon walk for you and your family. But if you’re looking for a more contemporary look into their art scene, you might want to visit the Angel Row Gallery to see their extensive collection of provoking and bizarre art images.

No visit to Nottingham will ever be complete without a trip to the Sherwood Forest Country Park. Here you can relive the glory days of Robin Hood and his famed exploits. Make sure to visit the huge oak tree called the Major oak, which is said to be Robin Hood’s favorite hiding place. Be amazed by the sheer grandeur of this 800-year-old tree. If you happen to come around during Robin Hood Month, make it a point to stay for the festivities as both young and old alike will be fascinated with the events that the Sherwood Forest Park has on offer.

If you’re more fascinated with the alternative fashion and music scene, then let Nottingham satiate your cravings for the obscure and eclectic. Hockley village has many interesting shops that you should definitely visit. From one-of-a-kind items in the gift shops to shocking yet stunning fashion pieces, you’ll find that there’s something for anyone and everyone in this unique shopping district.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning for your Nottingham holiday today. As there are countless points of interest scattered throughout the city, make sure that you plan ahead so you can explore and experience the city first hand. Since the city is easily accessible by plane, bus or train, do try to drop by, even for a day tour, if ever you’re in the surrounding cities. It’s definitely worth it.

A view of the skyline in Barranquilla, Colombia.
Photo by: wiki, Creative Commons

Colombia had been plagued by civil conflict for many decades. The country’s tourism industry suffered significantly during the lengthy war-ravaged times, but all those are things of the past now. Today, Colombia stands proudly in the Caribbean region as one of Latin America’s most prosperous, most promising, and most beautiful nations. Its tourism has greatly improved since the republic’s restoration; many people from all over the world come and visit Colombia and the different wonders it offers.

One of the infinite things that astonish tourists once they are on Colombian soil is the highly noticeable diversity of the country’s very vivid culture. With a past that’s as rich as their coffee plantations, it is not hard to understand why many tourists fall in love with the country and extend their vacations for an indefinite period of time. There are just so many places to see in Colombia, so many things to do and try, that it could get quite difficult to leave. This explains the continuous building of upscale hotels, quaint inns and hostels all over – indeed, the country’s tourism industry is enjoying significant improvement.

One of the places that must be visited when traveling in this lovely country is Baranquilla, Colombia. Baranquilla is lovingly known throughout the Caribbean as Curramba, La Bella – and rightly so. Music is one of the city’s greatest offerings, and notable musicians hail from here, including the Billboard award-winning rock band The Monas and Grammy award-winning solo act Shakira. There are several music festivals worth attending, including the Baranquijazz (for jazz enthusiasts) and the Miche Rock Festival (for lovers of all things rock and roll, including punk, pop, and metal), both of which have enjoyed stellar audience clamor for the past years. Back in the day, Baranquilla, Colombia was greatly responsible for spreading salsa in the Caribbean region. Today, it is an amazing mecca of traditional Caribbean rhythms and the birthplace of new sounds, including raspacanilla, mecumbre, and porro.

All throughout the city are bohemian hangouts where artists meet, converse, and create masterpieces. Nobel recipient Gabriel Garcia Marquez once lived in Baranquilla (early on during his career as a journalist) and has confessed the city’s substantial role in his literary production. His old hive, La Cueva, has been properly restored and is now open to the public as a charming art bar. Meanwhile, the Museo de Arte Moderno de Baranquilla has artworks by contemporary artists. The city also attracts more tourists during April with the Carnaval International de las Artes, an international arts festival. Indeed, to this day, Baranquilla, Colombia offers beauty that inspires.

Far northwest in Uganda lies the small town of Arua which is virtually cut-off from the country’s capital city Kampala due to its sheer distance. Even so, the town of Arua still remains to be a critical local commercial center for trade with neighboring nations Sudan and Congo. It is also home to the Arua Airport, the next busiest airport to the Entebbe International Airport. You can find an assortment of goods and wares sold by petty traders in this town of Arua. Tourists looking for souvenir shops in Arua are not likely to find one. But, there are locally made crafts peddled in the town’s main market. There are over thirty establishments in Arua offering board and lodging to tourists and locals alike. Among the most popular hotels in Arua include the Pacific Hotel and the White Rhino Hotel. From the town’s center, tourists can begin their exploration of the natural and cultural wonders held by this small town of Arua.

In the Ajai Wildlife Reserve located along the Albert Nile, you can find a vast number of white rhinos, Columbus monkeys, baboons, leopards, and some bird species. There are campsites off the banks of the Nile at the Tangi Gate where tourists can stay to commune with nature. Also, flowing into the Albert Nile are the waterways of Ola River, Kochi River, Acha River and Enyau River. Here you can find various fish eating bird species. You can also visit the scenic fishing villages at the river junctions. At the Kei and Wati Mountains, tourists can go for a hike and enjoy the mountain scenery.