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Abu Simbel – The Unforgotten Home Of The Temple That Moved

"The grand facade of Abu Simbel temples, with colossal statues of Pharaoh Ramses II, against a clear blue sky.

Abu Simbel is a remote and tiny village located in southern Egypt, quite close to its border with Sudan and hardly has 3000 inhabitants. Then what is so special about this village? Let us dig into some interesting facts.

Why is Abu Simbel Important?

The Egyptian Pharaoh Ramesses II built the massive carved out rock temple in 1244 B.C., bragging about his accomplishments. There are two temples at the site – a larger one and a smaller one. The walls of this temple of Abu Simbel depict scenes from the Battle of Kadesh.

Night view of Abu Simbel, with the temple facade dramatically illuminated against the dark sky. — Witness the stunning illumination of Abu Simbel at night, casting a majestic glow against the Egyptian night sky.

What happened to Abu Simbel?

The Abu Simbel temple had to go through quite a lot. Originally constructed in 1244 B.C., it was previously situated at the west banks of the Nile River, in between the first and second cataracts. The concerned authorities decided to relocate it for a reason – They had to construct a dam (now the Aswan High Dam), while the level of the Nile River was already rising. The goal was to prevent flooding and destruction of the Abu Simbel temple.

It was a tough task – breaking the massive structure into pieces that weighed tons, followed by physical transportation. Assembling the pieces and reconstructing the temple as before was the most challenging, though. It took 5 long years and a good 42 million dollars to secure the temple 200 feet above the original location.

The interior of Abu Simbel, showing intricate hieroglyphics and carvings on the temple walls. — Step inside the Abu Simbel temples to discover the ancient hieroglyphics and stunning wall carvings.

How to get to Abu Simbel from Aswan?

The quickest possible way is by flight – it takes hardly 45 minutes. Nevertheless, you can always consider hiring minibusses or private cars as per your choice.

What to do at Abu Simbel?

The number one priority of a traveler would obviously be to visit these magnificent temples. It is spectacular inside out.

Experience a real life time machine as the melodies in the sound and light shows around the temples transpose you to the time of the Pharaohs.

Another landmark is the temple of Wadi El-Sabua, which is also an ancient ruin.

Explore the banks of Lake Nasser as the Lake Nasser Cruise takes you on a memorable ride.

Tourists taking a guided tour to learn about the history and relocation of Abu Simbel. — Explore the rich history of Abu Simbel and its monumental relocation on a guided tour.

Some lesser-known Abu Simbel facts

The temple complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nubian Monuments.

The deliberate placement of the colossal statues of Pharaoh Ramesses and of his favorite wife, Nefertari ensure that the rising sun rays fall on them on only two days of the year – the Pharaoh’s birthday and his coronation day. Mark the dates – 22 February and 22 September. Do not miss the phenomenon if you visit here around this time.

Jean Louis Burkhardt rediscovered the temple complex in 1813 by a matter of chance after layers of sand had covered it over time.

Lastly, why bother visiting the Abu Simbel temple?

Visit the Abu Simbel temple and see the fascinating history of its temples come to life – watch the engineering phenomenon and participate in the local events. You just can’t make out that this magnificent monument was ever moved. It looks as if it has always belonged there over the rocks.

Where to stay at Abu Simbel?

Stop reading reviews and visit this magical place one and for all. The reality is grander and more majestic than words can capture!

Some of the best hotels near Abu Simbel include the following:

Atacama Desert – See The Most Flattest Place On Earth

A hand in the sand, inspired by the natural surroundings of the Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert is an arid yet cool area, which covers 990-mile long land in northern Chile. It is arguably the driest place on earth and has been widely compared to Mars due to its diverse geological formations. NASA has been using the Atacama Desert as a research area for several years and major movies such as Space Odyssey. Voyage to the Planets have been filmed here.

Let’s explore this wondrous otherworldly region in a little more detail

Where is the Atacama Desert?

The Atacama Desert is present in the western direction of the Andes mountain range on the Pacific coast. More specifically, it is located between the mountains that demarcate the drainage basin of Salado-Copiapó and the southern end of Loa River. While Cordillera de la Costa is present on the desert’s western side, its eastern side has the Cordillera Domeyko or the Andes foothills. The topography of the Atacama Desert mainly comprises salt pans, alluvial fans, pebble accumulations, and dunes.

The vast, arid expanse of the Atacama Desert under a clear blue sky, embodying tranquility. — Experience the vastness and tranquility of the Atacama Desert, a serene escape into nature’s beauty.

Why is the Atacama Desert so dry?

The Atacama Desert Chile is the driest place on earth due to the high-pressure cell in the South Pacific region. The Humboldt or Peru Current also contributes to the hyper aridity by facilitating the upward movement of water from the oceanic depths. This cold water, in turn, results in thermal inversion wherein warmer air is present in elevated areas and colder air is located at sea level. Consequently, stratus clouds and fog are formed without any likelihood of rain.

Silhouette of a deer seen through the fingers of an outstretched hand at sunset in the Atacama Desert. — Capture the silhouette of a desert deer through an artistic perspective with your hand against the backdrop of an Atacama sunset.

Moreover, moisture advection is prevented due to Atacama Desert’s location between two mountain ranges, namely, the Chilean Coast Range and the Andes Mountains. Contrary to popular opinion, however, the Atacama Desert temperatures are quite low, soaring to 19 degrees Celsius in the summer months.

What is the best time to visit the Atacama Desert?

Although the weather at the Atacama Desert is largely determined by the Bolivian Andes, it is an all-year-round travel destination. The sun is bright during the day and the nights are resplendent with sparkling stars.

However, occasionally heavy rainfall is perceived between January and February while snow prevents crossings from the Atacama Desert to Argentina and Bolivia due to snowfall between June and September. So, you might want to avoid traveling to this region during this time period.

Flamingos wading in the Chaxa Lagoon in the Atacama Desert, showcasing the region's diverse wildlife. — “Discover the diverse wildlife of the Atacama Desert at the Chaxa Lagoon, home to beautiful flamingos.

Top 3 Facts about this unique place

Take a look at the top 3 mind-boggling facts about the Atacama Desert:

Archaeological Wonder: The earliest mummified human was first discovered in the Atacama Desert in 7020 BC, predating the Egyptian discovery by several thousand years.

Habitable or Not? The desert aridity does not stop the Atacama Desert from being inhabited by one million people who have established a home base in oasis towns, fishing villages as well as mining regions.

Astronomical Haven: The famous European Southern Observatory is located within the Atacama Desert. The dry weather conditions and high altitude make this desert a perfect place for stargazing.

Now that you are equipped with all the information you need about this unique dessert, start creating your travel plans to Mars on earth already!

Portofino – The fishermen’s city of beautiful pastel-colored houses

View from the sea of Portofino's idyllic coastline, with lush green hills and crystal-clear waters.

The amazing pastel-colored houses of Portofino clustering the quintessential fishing village and stretch its calm bay along the soothing sea. With the sparkling climate and the mesmerizing beauty, this article will take you to the intricate trip of this stunning city.

The perfectly colored houses blended with the irresistible nature and sea is the perfect destination for nature lovers. The astounding pastel-colored houses with the lip-smacking delicacies served here will leave you speechless.

Where is Portofino?

The phenomenal beauty of the sea and the love of the clouds spread to infinity. The popular yachting destination of Portofino is located in the charming region of the Liguria region of Italy, on the bay of the Ligurian Sea. Portofinos beauty, when mixed with nature and the sea, creates a mystical environment all around.

Colorful houses and luxury yachts lining the harbor of Portofino, Italy. — Immerse yourself in the vibrant and luxurious atmosphere of Portofino’s harbor, a must-visit Italian coastal gem.

What does Portofino mean?

Portofino was derived from the Latin Portus Delphini – the port of the dolphins. Still, in the last century, there were many dolphins in this area. Unfortunately, the relationship with the sea acrobats was not always cordial. Because dolphins were killed and eaten in what is now called “Parco Naturale Regionale”.

Fortunately, in Italy today, people no longer depend on killing dolphins and eating their meat. So in Portofino, like everywhere else in the Mediterranean, you can find delicious fish dishes, pizza or bruschetta.

Traditional wooden boats floating in the tranquil waters of Portofino's harbor against a backdrop of colorful houses. — Enjoy the quaint sight of traditional wooden boats in Portofino’s harbor, adding to the village’s timeless charm.

Why is Portofino famous?

The stunningly glittering sea of turquoise-blue water surrounded by the lush green vegetation and the blanket of the clouds up in the clear sky creates the perfect picturesque harbor for tourists.

The city has the most outstanding and historical association, and with celebrity and artistic visitors crowding the city to its peak, the Portofinos is beautiful.

What to do in Portofino?

The perfectly crafted pastel-colored houses along the crescent-shaped peninsula create a mesmerizing and sparkling environment. With so much to explore, and expedite, the stunning city of colors and waters is flooded with a lot to do.

Panoramic view of Portofino from Castello Brown, showcasing the village's picturesque setting. — Capture the panoramic splendor of Portofino from Castello Brown, a viewpoint overlooking the village’s beauty.

The best things to do at Portofino, Italy are:

Visit the Statue of Christ of the Abyss
Explore the Castello Brown
Take a private boat tour
Take a walk among the celebrities’ villas
Hike in the Portofino Regional Park
Expedite the thrilling water sports and outdoor activities
Stay at the luxurious Cervara Abbey
Take a sip of the coffee at Piazzetta
Indulge in some luxurious shopping
Discover the Portofinos terraced gardens
Stay at the cozy Portofino apartments

When to visit Portofino?

With the spectacular beauty of nature spread all around matched with the perfect nature, May to September are the phenomenal months to pay your visit to this awe-interesting city of Portofino.

The spectacular beauty of the sea and the hue of colors spread by the houses on the share, the mystical and magical environment created at Portofino, Italy are just thrilling.

With the opportunity to explore the luxurious boats and galvanizing adventurous outdoor activities, this place is no less than the paradise of colors. To explore the lovely nature and dive in deep in blue, plan your travel to Portofino, today!

Oia in Santorini – The most scenic coastline village in Greece

Iconic view of Oia with its white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Nothing else could be a better holiday or honeymoon destination than Oia, Santorini. Oia is a small coastal village that is situated in Santorini, a Greek Aegean Island. Natives often call it ‘ApanoMeria,’ which translates as ‘the place on top of the world.’

Why is Oia in Santorini a must-visit destination?

Oia, Santorini is known for its fascinating architecture. No words can describe the eternal beauty of this village. Oia, Santorini is a coastal village, 150 meters above sea level. The rugged landscape and breathtaking sunsets as well as sunrise will leave you in awe.

Tiny, domed, chalky white colored buildings with a splash of blue occupy the most of Oia, Santorini. Amidst these, a couple of brightly painted houses are scattered.

There are paths built in between them, and you find churches here and there. The rich history and architecture of this place have inspired many artists, poets, and writers.

Stunning aerial view of Oia, showcasing the unique layout of the village on the Santorini caldera. — From above, the unique layout of Oia in Santorini reveals its breathtaking beauty and charm.

How to get from Athens to Oia on Santorini island?

The quickest and probably the cheapest route is by first taking a flight from Athens Airport to Santorini Airport. Then get on a bus at the airport and head towards Fira. Just another bus ride from Fira to Oia, and there you are.

You may fly to Naxos Island from Athens airport and then take a ferry ride to Oia, Santorini.

As the least preferred option, you can fly to Heraklion from Athens, followed by a ferry ride to Oia, Santorini.

Sunset over Oia, Santorini, casting a warm golden hue over the village and sea. — Witness a breathtaking sunset in Oia, Santorini, renowned for its stunning golden light and romantic atmosphere.

Things to do in Santorini

Below you find a list of activities we recommend to do during your visit in Oia:

First and foremost – watch the sunset
Go out for strolls and roam about in the town.
You may book a restaurant table that overlooks the town
Try a few delicious Greek-style wines in the Santo’s Winery
Take a glimpse into the past – visit the legendary Atlantis
Try some local dishes like the Fava me Koukia
Go to the Akrotiri Lighthouse – It provides wonderful sightseeing
Hike up the volcano in Santorini – a chance to never let go off
Hike from Fira to Oia
Sail around often

If you happen to also be in Mykonos to engage in its mesmerizing nightlife, you may want to try a ferry ride from Mykonos to Santorini Tickets sell too fast though.

The list goes on and on. Take a couple of days off from work and give yourself ample time to explore and live the vibe of Santorini.

Narrow, winding streets of Oia with charming boutiques and cafes, inviting exploration. — Stroll through the charming streets of Oia in Santorini, lined with quaint boutiques and cafes.

Is there a best time to visit Oia, Santorini?

The village is the most welcoming during September – October and April – May, the reason being the scarcity of clouds and warm and enjoyable weather. Make sure to make your reservations beforehand, or else you might miss out on this Greek-style holiday.

The sun setting into the Aegean Sea turning the sky stunning orange, and lighting up the white coastal churches – a sight that is bound to leave a permanent mark on your heart.

Where to stay in Oia, Santorini?

Below we have made an effort and listed some of the best rated Santorini Hotels so that you can enjoy the stunning sunset and also have a view of the famous Caldera of Santorini.

Mount Bromo – Volcano in the clouds

The vast, mist-covered Sea of Sand around Mount Bromo, a unique volcanic landscape.

Mount Bromo in Indonesia is a beautiful active volcano mountain amidst the Sea of Sand and surrounded by vagrant white clouds. It is undoubtedly a distinctive part of one of the most alluring mountain range of Indonesia, named as Bromo Tengger Massif of East Java.

With a height of 7,641 Feets, the mountain is perfect for hiking and especially if you are a travel enthusiast then this is the place for you. Once the tourists successfully climb to the top of this mountain, they are awarded by the impressive and ethereal view of the dusk and dawn falling deep into the horizon displaying beautiful shades of colors in the sky. The view is just soothing to the soul, and is enticing enough to bring you here and embrace it with an open heart.

Here is a trip-guide for the alluring Mount Bromo. Keep reading to find out more!

What is the best way to see Mount Bromo?

Mount Bromo is a sheer description of beauty. It is just beautiful and alluring to see the Bromo Volcano. From viewing the sunrise to sunset, every moment is so precious that you will feel to capture it in your eyes for the rest of your life. The feeling of freedom, the mystic clouds, the beautiful Bromo crater, is just amazing.

Just head up to Mount Penanjakan and blissfully enjoy the beauty of Mount Bromo from there. The scenic view is going to leave you wandering in the clouds and it is hard to just get enough of the beauty.

Surely, you are not going to regret waking up at 4 am in the morning to encounter this beauty, after having a look at the Bromo Volcano.

The rugged terrain and volcanic cones surrounding Mount Bromo under a clear blue sky. — Marvel at the rugged beauty and volcanic cones around Mount Bromo, a stunning natural landscape.

What type of volcano is Mount Bromo?

Bromo Volcano is one of the numerous volcanoes of Indonesia. This is a small but beautifully conical shaped volcano. With irregular eruptions, the volcano is quite safe for tourists to visit.

If you are lucky enough, you would be able to see the Bromo crater with the breath-taking view of the sunrise, during which the rays of the sun fall on this Bromo volcano making it sparkle like gems.

Colorful jeeps, ready to take adventurers closer to Mount Bromo. — Hop into a colorful jeep for a thrilling ride across the Sea of Sand to Mount Bromo.

When should one visit Mount Bromo?

The hunger for adventure has no time! And if you wish to have an adventure, then there is no place better than the Mount Bromo in Indonesia. To catch the hue of dusk, dawn, and twilight displaying red, pink, violet, and orange colors would tempt you to fall in love with this place.

The best time to see the beauty of the Bromo volcano is in the dry months from April to October. And if it rains, the trail gets a bit muddy, but the clouds up get cozier. Don’t forget to pack your jackets and gloves, as it may get cold up on the mountain.

How long it takes to reach the Bromo crater?

A hike of around 2 hours from the foot of the range will take you to the Bromo Crater. The intriguing volcano crater is indefinably worth a watch. From the Luhur temple, reach the slope of Mount Bromo and explore the crater.

The thick sand, ravines, and scattered excrement on the way will act as a challenge, but the efforts at the end will pay off.

The smoking crater of Mount Bromo, an active and powerful natural wonder. — “Stand in awe of the smoking crater of Mount Bromo, a testament to nature’s raw power.

How can you reach Mount Bromo?

The Bromo derived its name from Bramha, the creator. It truly justifies it. To reach here you can go for either option

By Flight: 1.5-hour flight from Jakarta to Surabaya or Malang.

By Train: A train ride of around 15 hours from Jakarta to Surabaya or Malang.

By Road: A road trip of 20 hours from Jakarta to Surabaya or Malang.

You will get various options to reach the Bromo Tengger Semeru National park. You can select one of three routes Probolinggo, Pasuruan, and Tumpang.

For experiencing the true scenic beauty of nature goes for later two. The cost is somewhere between Rp 450,000 to Rp 600,000. So, just pack your back, get a camera, and head towards this beautiful hike trip to Bromo.

Now once you know about Mount Bromo, it is time to book a trip today!

Montserrat Spain – Monastery at the foot of the saw mountain

Sunset casting a golden glow over Montserrat, with the monastery silhouetted against the sky.

The rocky mountain rage popularly known as the Saw Mountain in Catalan, Spain is famous. The multi-peaked mountain range and the beautiful monastery, this place is with a story to tell. Trekking, hiking, and exploring this amazing and wild terrain will take you to one of the most memorable trips of your life.

The Montserrat monastery is a religious pilgrimage with the most unique mountain to trek on. Visiting this place is just bliss and the peculiar rock formations are visible from distance. With beauty at its peak, the Montserrat Spain is just amazingly beautiful

Where is the Montserrat Monastery?

The amazing rocky mountain and the calming religious monastery of Montserrat are located near the beautiful city of Barcelona, in Catalonia, Spain.

With the range of the peaks, Benedictine abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat, and Virgin of Montserrat sanctuary, Montserrat is a perfect place to relax and have some peace of mind. With the highest peak Sant Jeroni that stands at 1,236 meters above sea level, makes this mountain rage even more attractive and lovely.

Aerial view of the rugged terrain and peaks of Montserrat, showcasing its natural beauty. — Marvel at the breathtaking aerial views of Montserrat’s rugged peaks, a testament to nature’s artistry in Spain.

What is there to do in Montserrat Spain?

The Montserrat Monastery is not just high but magical too. With mountain peaks, beautiful trail, and religious monastery, this beautiful place has a lot to do.

The intriguing and amazing things that you can do at Montserrat Spain are:

Visit the Montserrat Monastery
Go for a Cable Car Ride to the Mountain’s Summit – Aeri de Montserrat
Pay your respect to The Black Madonna, the Basilica of Montserrat
Explore the Montserrat Natural Park
Adore the Montserrat Art Museum
Book an Express Tour of Montserrat

Pilgrims and tourists walking through the historic courtyard of Montserrat Monastery. — Join the mix of pilgrims and visitors exploring the historic grounds of Montserrat Monastery.

How to get to Montserrat from Barcelona?

Visiting his place and exploring the untapped and natural beauty is just perfect and bliss. With happiness spread over and the opportunity to explore, Montserrat is perfect for an adventurous holiday trip. To reach this crazy destination from Barcelona is comfortable and quick.

Get a train ticket for R5 line From Placa Espanya in Barcelona to Aeri de Montserrat. Then enjoy the cable car ride from Aeri de Montserrat to the top.
Get a train ticket for the R5 line From Placa Espanya in Barcelona to Monistrol de Montserrat. Then book a ticket for Cremallera, a green railway to the top of the mountain.
Book a train ticket for the R5 line From Placa Espanya in Barcelona to Monistrol de Montserrat. Then make your way by walking through the town of Monistrol to trails up the mountain.

The scenic rack railway leading up to Montserrat Monastery, offering spectacular views. — Ride the scenic rack railway to Montserrat Monastery, a journey with unparalleled views of the Spanish landscape.

What is the Montserrat Spain monastery?

The Montserrat Spain monastery is a beautiful and antique abbey of the Order of Saint Benedict. It is located on the mountain of Montserrat in Monistrol de Montserrat, Spain.

This abbey is a beautiful and amazing creation which is quite famous and enriches the perfect image of Montserrat.

What makes visiting Montserrat worth?

The breathtaking view from the Montserrat Spain monastery and exploring the Spanish touch in the city makes the place worth visiting and exploring.

Montserrat Spain is just adorable. So plan your trip to the rocky saw mountains to experience the calmness and robust mountains!

Where to stay when visiting Montserrat?

In the area around Montserrat, you will find many hotels. Below a few you might consider for your stay:

Niagara Falls – Come and see the most popular waterfalls

Aerial view of Niagara Falls, highlighting the expansive scale of the waterfalls and river.

The Niagara Falls reviews each year top the most popular travel destination charts, and for good reason. Seasoned travelers flock here each year to enjoy the ethereal beauty of nature.

The three massive waterfalls range over the Canadian border and present other famous attractions such as the Observation Tower, Aquarium of Niagara, and the Falls State Park.

How to visit Niagara Falls?

You can reach the falls by taking a flight to Buffalo-Niagara International Airport and then booking a shuttle or taxi to the destination.

If buses are your preferred mode of transport, opt for any of the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) buses that ferry between Buffalo International Airport and the waterfalls every two hours.

Maid of the Mist boat tour approaching the thundering base of Niagara Falls. — Embark on the iconic Maid of the Mist tour for an up-close experience with the mighty Niagara Falls.

The NFTA also has regular train services to the Falls from New York City and Toronto.

How much does it cost to see the waterfalls?

There is no entry fee associated with visiting the Falls. However, the parking fee will be 10 dollars in all the four parking lots within the premises.

The breathtaking view of Niagara Falls with torrents of water cascading over the precipice. — Experience the awe-inspiring power and beauty of Niagara Falls, a natural wonder not to be missed.

What is the best time to visit Niagara Falls?

The best time to visit the waterfalls is during the summer months, specifically between June and August. During this season, the cool breeze and mist make the Niagara Falls weather quite comfortable to travel in. Moreover, attractions such as Maid of the Mist and Discover Niagara Shuttle are also in full swing during the summer.

Tourists avoid visiting the Falls during the fall, spring, and winter due to the dip in temperature. However, there are no major drawbacks to seeing them during this season. The botanical gardens and local wineries make up for the frigid climate.

View from the observation deck overlooking Niagara Falls, offering panoramic vistas. — Take in the panoramic grandeur of Niagara Falls from the observation deck, a viewpoint like no other.

What to do in Niagara Falls?

Though the waterfalls are the primary attraction here, there is more to it than meets the eye. It offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that allow tourists to engage in culture, history, and nature.

Top 3 things to do in Niagara Falls:

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour: Since 1846, this sightseeing boat tour has hosted famous tourists such as President Jimmy Carter and Princess Diana. The journey traverses American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Horseshoe Falls and ends at Niagara Falls State Park.

Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory: Choose a horse-and-carriage tour amidst these gardens and capture photographs of the different vividly colored butterflies.

Cave of the Winds: Exploit the unique opportunity to walk on the wooden walkways to reach Hurricane Deck, which will put you close to the Bridal Veil Falls. Though you will be completely drenched at the end, you will be happier at the end of this experience.

Where to stay in Niagara Falls?

Some of the best hotels nearby include the following:

Vittoria Hotel & Suites
Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa
The Oakes Hotel Overlooking the Falls
Four Points by Sheraton
Sterling Inn & Spa

Stop reading Niagara Falls reviews and visit this magical place one and for all. The reality is grander and more majestic than words can capture!

Milford Sound – Discover the hidden pristine destination of mountains

Majestic view of Milford Sound with towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls in New Zealand.

Milford Sound is a beautiful hidden location in the lap of nature in New Zealand. With some of the most stunning natural attractions, this place is a perfect combination of mountain peaks, dramatic forest-clads, cliffs, and the clean ink-dark water, this place is truly a heaven.

We covered some of the most amazing facts about Milford Sound within this article, continue reading to find out more.

The pristine scenic beauty of this place will leave your dreaming infinitely. With the most amazing fusion of nature and tourism, this place is a perfect holiday destination. It is the perfect destination to spend the holiday and embrace nature.

How to get to Milford Sound?

To reach this amazing place, you need to first reach the Fiordland National Park by approximately going for a 5-hour drive or a 45-minute flight from Queenstown and a 2.5-hour drive from Te Anau. The beautiful and fairyland piece of nature is literally a must to visit once.

Kayakers exploring the calm waters of Milford Sound, surrounded by pristine nature. — Kayak through the tranquil waters of Milford Sound for an unforgettable close encounter with nature.

What is makes this area so special?

With the breathtaking view of nature and awesome climate, this unique place built by mother nature is perfect for strolling in the day and gazing at the stars at night.

With the dark waters, mountain peaks topped with white ice reaching the sky, and waterfalls cascade falling from as high as 1,000 meters, and the untapped rainforest, it is perfectly harmonious with nature and a blend of beauty.

Seals basking on the rocks in Milford Sound, showcasing the area's rich wildlife. — Meet the local seals lounging on the rocks in Milford Sound, a glimpse into New Zealand’s diverse wildlife.

What to do in Milford Sound?

Exploring the natural beauty, clean water, cool breeze, crazy mountains, and love spread everywhere, this place is just bewitching and fascinating. Popularly known as Piopiotahi, in the native language, this place is filled with a lot of activities to do.

A list of the most intriguing things that you must not miss are:

Kayak Milford Sound
Listen to the Bellbird Chorus
See sunrise at Fjord from the shore
Love the Milford Sound Overnight Cruise
Fill some freshwater from the Cleddau river
Explore the rainforest of Tutoko Valley
Hike the icy mountains
Embrace the sunset at Arthur Valley
Love the glow-worms

What is Milford Sound overnight cruise?

The overnight cruise is for you to spend your night on the beautiful Milford mariner and gaze the stars and listen to the soothing sound of the waters. This cruise is relaxing, soothing, calming, and allows plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular and classic waterfalls, rainforest, mountains, and wildlife.

With the beauty scattered everywhere and the amazing climate, it offers the best time with nature. So book your tickets, and pack some cozy clothes to visit this dreamland!

Where to stay in Milford Sound?

Milford Sound New Zealand is a place full of beautiful, comfortable, and cozy hotels. It is some kilometers way from some of the most amazing places.

The places one can stay are:

Milford Sound Lodge – 2 km distance
Knob’s Flat- 54 km distance
Camping Along the Milford Road
Te Anau – 118 km distance
Queenstown – 178 km distance

Downtown Havana – Go on a unique journey to a timeless place

Intricately detailed facade of the Gran Teatro de La Habana in Downtown Havana.

Havana is the fascinating capital of Cuba. After many years of being closed off from other parts of the world being one of the greatest secret cities in the world, Havana Downtown has now become one of the greatest places to visit in the world.

Havana has lots of mysteries and attractions for the tourists who are streaming through its streets in large numbers.

This place is still an incredible time capsule waiting to be discovered. If you have heard of the many wonderful things you can explore in Havana and wants to visit now, here is a perfect guide for you.

When is the best time to visit Havana?

Based on Havana weather, the best time to visit the city is in the dry season between December and May. During this period you can expect dry, sunny, and warm days.

Classic American cars lining the colorful streets of Downtown Havana, Cuba. — Step back in time with the classic cars and vibrant streets on your visit to Downtown Havana.

Between June and November is the wet season. This is not a good time to travel, as there is a high possibility of hurricanes. However, there is an increasing interest in traveling to Havana, and this has enhanced people’s preparedness for the unpredictable weather.

August is known for carnivals with a party atmosphere and colorful street parades. October is known for the International Havana Ballet Festival, which has been a renowned event since 1960. And December is well-known or the Havana International Jazz Festival, an event that features large concerts.

The bustling Malecón waterfront in Downtown Havana, a popular gathering spot. — Experience the lively atmosphere of the Malecón, the heart of social life in Downtown Havana.

What to do in Havana?

There are several interesting things to do in Havana Cuba to enjoy your stay. Here are a few of them:

Take a ride in vintage cars: You probably haven’t driven a vintage car before but have seen several ones in movies. Visiting Havana will give you the opportunity to enjoy a ride in any of those famous vintage cars. Guess what? These cars aren’t just for tourist attractions but are cars used every day in Havana. So, riding in a yellow mustang is one thing you can do in Havana.

Eat at a Paladar: Eating at a paladar is one of the essential Havana experiences. A paladar is an inside house restaurant that will give you an exceptionally personal feel while you eat there.

Walkthrough the Malecón: Havana has sea surrounding it and one of the best ways to enjoy the sea weather is on the Malecon. It is a sea wall that basically surrounds the city, about 8 km in total.

Visit the major sights: There are some buildings and other city features that you must not miss during your Havana tour. Such as Plaza de la Revolucion. Here you can see the monument of Jose Marti and the giant painting of Che Guevara face on the wall of the Interior Ministry. One other is the Capitol Building. Its construction is exactly the same as the US Capitol building, but this one is a little bigger.

Historic colonial architecture in Downtown Havana, showcasing the city's rich heritage. — Explore the stunning colonial architecture that gives Downtown Havana its unique charm.

What to see specifically at Havana Downtown?

There are lots of cultural attractions and unique things to see in Havana. Here are a few top attractions in Havana:

Old Havana to see Plaza de Armas,
Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro
Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, and
El Capitolio (very similar to but bigger than the US Capitol Building)

Why is Havana Downtown so special?

Art lovers will enjoy the large collection of Cuban art available at the Museum of Fine Arts. History lovers will be amazed to find the artifacts available at Museo de la Revolucion. Literature people will find pleasure at Finca Vigia, Hemingway’s previous home.

However, to really enjoy the taste of Havana’s charms, walk around the colorful streets of Old Havana, or have a drink with the local people. Either way, the chances of a great time in Havana are endless.

Where to stay in Havana Downtown?

It is worth knowing that there are a few nice hotels in Havana Cuba to reside during your visit.

These hotels are much better than any average home in Havana and include:

Hotel Florida – located in Calle Obispo, Old Havana.
Hotel Saratoga – features a hip baroque style, and
Hotel Nacional de Cuba – Historic number hotel in Havana

Chichen Itza – Stunning pre-Columbian city in the heart of Mexico

The iconic El Castillo pyramid at Chichen Itza, a marvel of Mayan architecture

Chichen Itza is a breathtaking and large pre-Columbian city built by the Maya people. The amazing piece of architecture is a wildly popular tourist attraction. In this article ahead, we have explained the beauty of this place entirely, read the complete article to find out more about this place. The perfect blend of the Maya and Tolfec culture, this Mayan ruins in Mexico is phenomenal.

This Mayan jungle hidden ancient Maya city is awe-inspiring and breathtaking.

The blend of beauty with the architectural perfection, in the middle of the greenery and beneath the clear sky, makes the Chichen Itza tours pleasant and charming. With the ravishing atmosphere and the uniquely designed structure, it is phenomenal and incredible.

What is Chichen Itza?

The stunning and beautiful pre-Colombian city created by the Maya people and still standing upright with all pride and glory is the Chichen Itza Mexico.

Visitors exploring the Great Ball Court at Chichen Itza, the largest in Mesoamerica. — Walk through the Great Ball Court at Chichen Itza, where ancient sports and ceremonies took place.

With an area of just 5 square kilometers, the site contains many fine stone buildings, some of them are preserved and many are in the restoration stage. With the beauty of the structure, the green grass fluttering, and smiling, the clear sky running above the head, the place will take you to the era of beauty and amazement.

How to get to Chichen Itza?

This glamorous ancient city in the middle of Mexico is phenomenal. Reaching this Pre-Colombian age will need the help of the air.

The best way to reach here is to book a flight from Cancun to Chichen Itza. With a trip of less than just an hour and the amazing clouds in between, the journey will be stupendous.

Sunset casting shadows on El Castillo, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. — Witness the play of light and shadow during sunset at El Castillo in Chichen Itza, a magical experience.

What is so special about Chichen Itza?

With everything so mystical and magical, Chichen Itza is extraordinary. To explore the exotic creation of the humans that stands straight will all its pride even today is alluring. With Mayan ruins, Mexico based rock jungle is just classy.

The things that make it so special and the structure that will amaze you here are:

El Castillo- the Temple of Kukulkan
The Great North Platform
The Ossario Group
The Central Group
The Old Chichenat
The Great Ball Court
The temple of Jaguars
The Caracol
The Sacred Cenote

Intricate stone carvings depicting Mayan deities and symbols at Chichen Itza. — Discover the rich history of the Mayans through detailed stone carvings at Chichen Itza.

The amazing facts about Chichen Itza

With so much to explore and the exotic history trapped in the ruins, this ancient Mayan city is filled with some of the most phenomenal facts to share.

Chichen Itza means the mouth at the well of Itza.
At the time of the Spring (20th of March) and Autumn Equinox (22nd September), sunrays develop a phenomenal shadow across the Kukulkan Pyramid imitating a serpent slithering down the staircase.
Clapping at one end of the Ball court will generate nine echoes in the middle of the court
Clapping in front of the Kukulkan Pyramid will generate a sound similar to the serpent’s chirp.

The stunning and phenomenal city of the past that stands with pride today and is the place adored by the tourists, Chichen Itza is surprisingly curious to explore.

How far is Chichen Itza from Cancun?

Traveling to Mexico and exploring the natural and cultural beauty of the place is breathtaking. With so many astounding places to visit and explore, Mexico is sparklingly beautiful. The beauty of the place can be seen in every city. Chichen Itza as the most famous and stunning archaeological site in Mexico is just 120 miles away from the alluring city of Cancun. Taking a day trip from Cancun to the Mayan ruins Mexico is just splendid.

With the awe-interesting facts and the site-seeing, a day here would be remarkable. Planning a trip of the Mayan ruins Mexico and visiting this place is sure to fill you with amazement.