The Top 25 Best Destinations in the World

A few days ago a list of the top 25 Best Destinations in the World surfaced. According to Trip Advisor, these are the top 25 travellers’ favourites…. including locations throughout Asia, Northern Africa, The UK, USA, Latin America, and even Australia. But the big question is… how many have you visited!?

1. Marrakech, Morocco

What is there not to love about Marrakech!? This city is an abundance of colours and fabrics, an endless maze of souks, and with many mosques, palaces and gardens to keep you exploring for days on end. Be sure to avoid the warmer months, as Marrakech experiences extremely high temperatures year-round. Watch out for the snake charmers in the Djemaa el-Fna!

2. Siem Reap, Cambodia

As the gateway to the ruins of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap attracts tourists from around the world and has recently become one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions.

3. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul has all the bustling Byzantine romance of the past and all the chaotic charm of the present. You can’t miss these top Istanbul attractions.

4. Hanoi, Vietnam

Now the capital of Vietnam and the countries’ second largest city, Hanoi is often cited as a must visit for travellers making their way to Vietnam. While the streets are busy and often chaotic, there is an abundance of culture to be found in the distinct blend of influences over the years: particularly the Southeast Asian, Chinese and French influences.

5. Prague, Czech Republic

This ‘just passing through’ city in Central Europe has quickly become a favourite for European adventurers. The Czech Republic capital offers visitors great beer, partying, and oodles of sightseeing for the more tame traveller. Be sure to visit nearby Cesky Krumlov (a short 2 hour drive away), as it might just be the most romantic town in Europe.

6. London, United Kingdom

As the world’s most visited city, it is perhaps no surprise that London nears the top of the list for 2015. To discover more of London beyond the tourist attractions, be sure to check out the London contributor’s top tips.

7. Rome, Italy

The eternal city has so many attractions to offer travellers that it is little wonder it scraped into the top 10 of the world’s best destinations. Be sure not to miss anything with this list of the top attractions in Rome.

8. Buenos Aires, Argentina

The capital of Argentina is bursting with Spanish architectural influence and is a modern day hub for business in South America. Be sure to check out this list of the best things to see and do in Buenos Aires so you don’t miss anything!

9. Paris, France

It is hardly a surprise to see Paris on the list – it is after all a WOW reader fave!!! The city of love has so much to offer all travellers – whether you’re loved up or flying solo. If you are indeed loved up and looking for that iconic view of the Eiffel Tower from a hotel balcony, check yourself into the Shangri-La Paris, who arguably have the best view of the tower from their gorgeous rooms and suites.

10. Cape Town, South Africa 

Cape Town is fondly regarded by locals and visitors alike as the world’s prettiest city – all because of that iconic blend of where the city meets the sea, and nature plays a key part in the lives of locals. If you like hiking, you’ll love making your way up the famous Table Mountain and the manyactivities on offer around Cape Town.

11. New York City, New York

A city that needs no introduction – the big apple. Be sure to check out the various New York Neighbourhoods you must visit and for the photograph enthusiasts, here’s a quick list of the best places to take a snap in The City.

12. Zermatt, Switzerland 

And so it goes that if you love skiing, you’ll love Zermatt. This mountain resort town in Switzerland is one of the most popular in all of Europe, so you’ll need to book well in advance if you’re coming in the peak winter season. Also, it won’t come cheap!

13. Barcelona, Spain

The capital of Catalonia is also the capital of GREAT food and captivating architecture. Gaudi’s legacy is to be seen throughout the city, so be sure to take the time to wander through the various neighbourhoods and appreciate the architecture up close.

14. Goreme, Turkey

This little town in Cappadocia is a favourite for travellers visiting Turkey to take flight in the sea of hot air balloons over the area. To find out what the experience is like, here’s one of the best full recounts of the experience: Hot Air ballooning over Cappadocia.

15. Ubud, Indonesia

Well before hollywood caught on (aka Eat Pray Love) to the charm of Bali, travellers have been flocking from near and far to experience the fantastic organic foods, spiritual experience and colourful sunsets on offer. But perhaps no place is as serene and surreal as Ubud, lying in the centre of Bali with its’ pristine rice fields, rolling hills and friendly locals. For the full experience, why not consider a surf + bike + yoga retreat!?

16. Cusco, Peru

Having recently visited the popular (and highly photographed) UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu, I can certainly say firsthand that it is little wonder this is one of the world’s top 25 best destinations. Here’s a guide to help you get the most from Machu Picchu.

17. St. Petersburg, Russia

You’ll love the former capital of the Russian Federation… it’s impossible not to! St Petersburg is charming, cultured, and oozing with history at every turn.

18. Bangkok, Thailand

The Thai capital makes the list thanks to its’ chaotic charm. Bursting with colour and neon signs, Bangkok mesmerises travellers as they pass through the busy city en route to the much more calm shores of Phuket, Koh Samui or other resort towns.

19. Kathmandu, Nepal

Sadly devastated by the recent earthquake, the city of Kathmandu has long been a favourite for the adventurous traveller. While they are still picking up the pieces given the current crisis, now might be the perfect time to visit in a capacity where you can give back on an active and engaging trip away from home.

20. Athens, Greece

Athens often gets a bad wrap for being dirty, unorganised and not tourist-friendly. But the plain fact is that Athens has history like no other – so it is certainly worth a couple of days in your itinerary, if even only en route to the nearby Greek islands.

21. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is commonly cited as one of Europe’s most underrated cities – but I’d say it is probably THE most underrated of the European cities now being discovered by travellers venturing beyond the tradition path in the West.

22. Queenstown, New Zealand

New Zealand’s adventure capital has a lot to offer travellers: bungy jumping, sky diving, mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking are just a few to be named.

23. Hong Kong, China

My obsession with Hong Kong will probably never fade. Having visited the city for up to two weeks at a time on more than 8 occasions, I can safely say that I have a soft spot for this East-meets-West city in Asia. If you’re heading there soon, here’s where you’ll find the best dim sum, what to do in Hong Kong, and a very unofficial guide to Disneyland Hong Kong.

24. Dubai, UAE

The city that emerged out of the desert almost overnight is quickly becoming a favourite for frequent travellers. Its no secret that Emirates is one of the best airlines out there (they seriously offer the most comfortable economy class and a very indulgent business class), so Dubai is becoming a common stopover for travellers flying across the globe.

25. Sydney, Australia

Way over in the Southern Hemisphere lies one of the most popular ‘dream destinations’ – Sydney, the cultural capital of Australia and home to the iconic Sydney opera house and Sydney harbour bridge. If you’ve stepped off a long haul flight to get here, you’re gonna need to knowwhere to get the best coffee in Sydney. You’re welcome.

WHAT A LIST! How many have you been to!?

CULLED FROM: WORLDOFWANDERLUST.COM

Extraordinary Cenotes, Mexico in Photos

Yucatan, Mexico

What exactly is a cenote? It’s a freshwater sinkhole usually connected to an underground river system that flows through limestone passageways in the earth. Cenotes are located all around Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, and a few Caribbean islands as well. It’s estimated that there are well over 6000 of them in the area.

Cenotes come in many different shapes & sizes. Some are completely underground, others are semi-underground with small openings that let in sunlight, and some have no cave ceiling at all — exposed to the outside world.

The water here is crystal-clear and perfect for swimming. Snorkeling and SCUBA diving in a cenote are other popular activities, as there is a lot to see down there. Underwater stalactites, stalagmites, blind fish, cave fossils, and sometimes even ancient human remains are found in them.

These unique water-caves are considered sacred to the Mayan people who believed them to be entrances to the underworld. They were also once used for ritual human sacrifice!

Many of Mexico’s most popular cenotes are located on private land, but you can often visit them for the day after paying an entrance fee of $2-$10 US and create your own memories of Mexico in Photos.

Cenotes are truly magical places, and should be a must-see while traveling through Mexico’s Mayan Riviera. Here are some of my favorite shots of Mexico in Photos, particularly Cenotes. Enjoy

Tree Roots Suck up Water at Samula Cenote

Mexico in Photos – Cenotes of the Yucatan

Cave Divers Prepare to Submerge at Pit Cenote

TOP 10 Most Beautiful Beaches, That You Probably Have Never Seen

1. Rabbit Beach, Italy

Rabbit Beach on the Italian island of Lampedusa is located between Sicily and Tunisia.
Rabbit Beach, according to many experts is one of the best beaches in Europe and one of the must-see places while you are travel Italy. However, it is not easy to get to.  Despite that, you canrent a car in Italy or get a taxi to drive to the beach, the last 10-20 minutes have to do on a winding mountain trail by foot.
The beach sand is white and fine. It is very shallow for over 150 meters from the shores of the sea. But it is great to rent a canoe, explore caves and admire a small tuna following the boat. This place is also excellent for diving. If you are lucky, you could see large sea turtles (Carretta-Carretta), sailing here in late August to lay their eggs. Note, that as long as the turtles are hatching, it is forbidden to visit the western part of the beach.

So if you are planning soon to travel to Italy – be sure to visit the island of Lampedusa with its wonderful Rabbit Beach.

2. Falesia Beach. Portugal, Albufeira

Falesia beach is one of the most beautiful. It is a quiet peaceful place, that has caves and cliffs on the shore. It is a blue flag beach. This international award is presented annually since 1987 for beaches and piers, where the water meets the highest quality standards and is suitable for safe swimming. Translated from the Portuguese “Falesia”- “rocky beach.” It is stretched out along the chain of red rocks. Beach impresses with its colors, shimmers in the sun rocks and ruins of an ancient fortress.

3.  Blue Lagoon Beach. Turkey, Oludeniz

Blue Lagoon Beach is located in the village Oludeniz, that is about 15 km from Fethiye, Turkey. From all sides it is surrounded by mountains. Downhill you can see pomegranate trees. You will like sandy and flat bottom sea, emerald water and a variety of marine life.

4. Sarakiniko Beach. Greece, Milos Island

Sarakiniko is a volcanic white beach. This landscape leaves no one indifferent. A cozy bay with warm turquoise water, an underwater rocks, stone arches, solid white stony underfoot, and the feeling of being on a different planet.
The seabed along this beach is sandy, which makes it possible to dive, watching the beauty of the Ionian Sea. Continental Sarakiniko is a quite place that it is little known to tourists.

5. Porto Pollo Beach. Italy, Sardinia

Porto Pollo is a true wonder of nature with golden fine sand, lapped by the emerald sea. Shallow and sandy bottom. Remote from the crowds, it had become a favorite place for fans of quiet rest and windsurfers. Its length is about 3.5 kilometers. There are many restaurants, bars, some resorts and surfing schools here.

6. Palombaggia Beach. France, Corsica, Porto-Vecchio

The town of Porto Vecchio is conveniently located on the hills with the most beautiful Corsican Palombaggia beach. The veil of pine and juniper aroma, that grows everywhere, accompanies the beauty of the place. Turquoise warm sea and soft, white, clean sand makes Palombaggia one of the most favorite holiday destination of wealthy Italians.

7. Ghajn Tuffieha Bay Beach. Malta

Ghajn Tuffieha Beach will appeal to those who are tired of civilization and a standard beach holiday. Virgin bay, almost untouched nature, golden sand, clear water -you can reach it by foot. It’s worth it. All area is surrounded by lush vegetation, the beach is literally filled with the atmosphere of peace.

8. Playa de Aucanada. Spain, The island of Mallorca, Alcudia

Beach Playa de Aucanada is stretched for many miles. It is good because it gives an opportunity not only to wallow and sunbath, but also to walk with the camera, stopping periodically at an ancient Roman ruins. Velvety white sand, wooden piers, stunningly clear water with shoals of colorful fish make it all a perfect getaway place. Some parts of the beach are blown by strong winds, which is very attractive for paragliders.

9. Bournemouth Beach. United Kingdom, Bournemouth

Bournemouth is a favorite beach of British. It is covered by high cliffs and has a special microclimate. An ideal place for relaxation: the golden sand, the most warm and clean throughout the UK sea water, a special section for those wishing to devote time to water sports, great views of the islands Parbek and White.

10. Barleycove Beach. Ireland, Cork

Barleycove wonderful beach is in the south-west of the country. It won’t disappoint you, even on a windy weather day. Golden sand dunes are washed by clear water. Here you can have fun surfing or kite flying. It is also a blue flag beach.

CULLED FROM: tomvoyage.com

TOP TEN PLACES TO GO FOR HONEYMOON

1. TAHITI

Bungalows located right in the middle of the ocean, are an excellent nest for lovebirds. If you want to spend more privacy  time with your loved one, Tahiti is an excellent choice. Enjoying the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises, you will definitely remember your stunning honeymoon.

2. SEYCHELLES 

An exotic atmosphere, that simply glows with love, will melt even the icy heart. If you want to surprise your loved one, go to the Seychelles, without even thinking. Huge golf courses, spas and tropical cocktails will make you fall in love with this place and come back here again and again. Most hotels in Seychelles offer special deals for those, who want to spend their honeymoon here. This may be a special price room, champagne and fruit on arrival, or spa treatments for two followed by a romantic dinner. Just do not forget to bring your marriage certificate (to be issued no more than six months before the trip).

3. FRENCH POLYNESIA, BORA BORA

The second largest island of French Polynesia after Tahiti. Bora Bora is located 240 km northwest of Tahiti. Bora Bora is called the Pearl of the Pacific, so named because of its pearl lagoon. Bora Bora is exquisite chalets, landscaped tropical parks, blue pools and luxurious restaurants offering Australian, Oriental, French and Italian cuisine. Bora Bora is the perfect place for a splendid holiday. Here, everything is saturated with the spirit of romance: the amazing sunrises and sunsets, azure lagoon, delightful yacht cruises and sophisticated dinners.

4. BALI, INDONESIA

The island of Bali has everything you need for the most romantic honeymoon. Magical landscapes, luxury hotels and unique local culture will forever leave a mark in the hearts of the newlyweds. It is best to complement the vacation with hiking trip through the rice fields, climbing a volcano and possibly a round of golf.

5. MAURITIUS

Mauritius is an unofficial title-holder of one of the most beautiful beaches in the world – no wonder it is called “the pearl of the Indian Ocean”. The island country has centuries of history, will be soothing cradle for any tourist to get to the virgin forests of Mauritius, its turquoise lagoons, golden sands and amazing cliffs. National Park “Black River Gorge” – the main natural attraction of the island. Morne Beach is considered to be the best on the entire island.

All this makes the island one of the most prestigious holiday destinations for people in love. Your honeymoon in Mauritius will become even more romantic, if you order a carriage drawn by horses, candlelit dinner, dance shows or French champagne. Holidays in Mauritius during the honeymoon is an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.

6. SANTORINI

Santorini is the part of a group of Greek islands and is famous for the stunning scenery. Just imagine such a combination of beauty:  a white mansions scattered on the hills like spots of the first snow, and deep turquoise sea. Nature islands’ stunning beauty has fascinating volcanic landscapes, the red and black beaches beckon travellers.

Also special formation of rocks contributes a lot to the development of the tourism industry here. Santorini has many beaches with cosy taverns, noisy bars and excellent service hotels. And the most interesting thing in Santorini is a panorama of a sunken volcano, which has its own special history.

7. PARIS, FRANCE

Paris is simply created in order to hold in its arms loving couples. Paris can offer you the best hotels, food and wine. There are a lot of attractions,  monuments of culture and just interesting and beautiful places to visit. Spend a romantic evening by candlelight with a view of the Eiffel Tower and forget about everything! Excellent choice for your second half is an breathtaking honeymoon trip to Paris.

8. VENICE, ITALY

One of the most romantic and beautiful cities in Italy, is built on water in the middle of the lagoon. The heart of Venice is considered to be Piazza San Marco with its magnificent church. Here you can find a variety of museums, palaces, cathedrals. The famous ride on a gondola is a symbol of romance. Venice is the unique place in the world where the lovers enjoying the incredible atmosphere of love and peace, floating in a gondola.

9. MALDIVE ISLANDS

Wedding tours to the Maldives is for sure a dream of all honeymooners and lovers. Although wedding ceremonies for tourists in the Maldives are now just a solemn ritual, rather than a formal marriage.

You can organize a wedding right on the island, with lush or modest wedding ceremony taking place on the beach, amid the azure waters of the ocean. The Maldives will stay in your hearts forever, if you take a memorable photo in your beautiful wedding dress with exotic landscapes. Perhaps one of the most popular destination of a beach vacation of the Indian Ocean.

10. HAWAII

Hawaii is the most popular destination among honeymooners, especially Americans. Hawaii can offer the most romantic and beautiful vacation you can ever imagine.
Oahu Island is suitable for honeymooners, who prefer to have active fun. Shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs are all here in abundance. You can visit historical places (Pearl Harbor or The Polynesian Cultural Centre) famous Waikiki area or the northern part of the island, which attracts surfers.

Maui  – the second most popular after Oahu due to its wonderful beaches. This magical island is perfect for honeymooners looking for romance and natural beauty. You can admire the sunrise at Haleakala and understand why it is called a “house of the sun”, enjoy a stroll along the coastal region of Lahaina and relax on the beach.
Hawaii is a paradise on earth, which is created for you.

CULLED FROM: tomvoyage.com