Safe means protected from or not exposed to danger or risk. Safety is one of the top priorities for nations worldwide, be it in better protecting its citizens on the streets, guarding them against wrongdoing or even safeguarding them against online crime. This report is published annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace, “an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to shifting the world’s focus to peace as a positive, achievable and tangible measure of human wellbeing and progress.” A total of 163 countries are featured in the report. There are 23 different indicators used to determine how safe or how dangerous a country is. Main factors are Number of internal and external violent conflicts, Level of distrust, Political instability, Potential for terrorist acts, Number of homicides, Military expenditures as a percentage of GDP. Based on these factors, a score is calculated for each of the 163 nations featured. The lower the score, the higher the nation is ranked in terms of safety. Here is the list of top 10 safest countries in the world.
Land of ice and fire, better known as Iceland has been voted the safest country in the world 13 years in a row now. The Global Peace Safety index looks at crime rates, the political landscape, natural disasters and health risks. The official categories are social safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflicts and the level of militarization. Iceland is a unique place with a strong yet sensible character. Here air quality is exquisite. Iceland is a Nordic nation with a relatively small population of 340,000.Icelanders feel safe in their country, even if they are in a position of power. Icelanders have excellent English language skills. Here the crime rate is very low. Iceland is not inhabited by mosquitoes, ticks, bears, snakes, poisonous spiders or any kind of other hazardous animals. You can roam around the highlands in berry season. The strict driving regulations in Iceland are yet another overlooked aspect contributing to the overall safety of its citizens and visitors alike.
New Zealand is the second-safest country in the world. New Zealand has a very low crime rate, especially violent crime. New Zealand has no deadly animals, unlike its neighbor down-under, Australia, known for having some dangerous wildlife. Corruption Perception Index ranks us the least corrupt country in the world, equal with Denmark. New Zealanders are by and large open-minded and believe people should be free to live the lifestyle they choose. It’s pretty safe and secure, you and your family can feel free to get out and enjoy everything New Zealand has to offer. We can enjoy New Zealand’s open spaces, discover the beaches, have fun in the playgrounds and parks, picnic, explore the bush, climb mountains and cycle to our heart’s content. We can also expect officials and people in authority do what they’re supposed to do without requiring extra cash, ‘service fees’ or favours. police in New Zealand do not carry personal firearms.
Portugal is the third safest country in the world. Portugal has made an economic resurgence, decreasing its unemployment rate from over 17% to 7%. It is second among the countries of the European Union. The issue of security is far from being a strict law enforcement issue. Today, security is a decisive factor in attracting investment, in attracting tourists that we hope to have again, in order to strengthen the country’s global image easily from countries that have great potential like this, in which insecurity limits economic development, investment or tourism”. Portugal is beaten only by Iceland and New Zealand on this list of the safest countries, and is ranked far higher than neighbouring countries such as Spain and France. Alongside climate, safety is an important deciding factor. An increased police presence has resulted in a decreased crime rate in the country. The sun shines for about 3,000hours a year in the Algarve, and the warm sea breeze from the Atlantic Ocean always feels pleasant on the skin. Political climate in the country has been stable for years and crime rates in Portugal are some of the lowest in Europe.
4.Austria
Austria is the fourth-safest country in the world. Austria ranking comes with developed economies and healthcare systems. Austria has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. But there are still some hotspots where trouble may find travelers. Austria earned low weapon imports. The U.S. Department of State has assessed Vienna as being a LOW-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Austria has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe, and violent crime is rare. Crime rates generally decreased slightly during 2019. Credit card fraud is less prevalent than in the U.S. because Austrians typically purchase goods and services using cash or bank transfers instead of using credit cards. Cybercrime in Austria generally follows worldwide trends. Due to the country’s political instability, social unrest has increased. Austria is a very safe country to visit. Serious crimes are uncommon, although people should be aware of pick pocketers and purse-snatchers.
5.Denmark
Denmark is considered an extremely safe country to visit. It is a country with almost no risk of natural disasters. Everyone in Denmark has access to healthcare with no additional fees to them, tuition-free education, and the elderly are provided at-home care helpers. There are no risks for women traveling solo in Denmark. We can relax, but still remain careful and stay out of dangerous situations such as finding ourselves alone with strange people, or in poorly lit or empty streets. Denmark has recently experienced a rise in gang violence, especially among immigrant groups. Denmark has a temperate climate, which is characterized by mild winters, coldest months being January and February with an approximate temperature of 1.5 °C (34.7 °F), and cool summers, with an approximate temperature in August of 17.2 °C. Denmark has a high level of equality and a strong sense of common responsibility for social welfare.
6.Canada
Canada also ranked as the sixth best country in the world for women, third in business, and second in terms of citizenship rankings. Safety is one of the top priorities for nations worldwide, be it in better protecting its citizens on the streets, guarding them against wrongdoing, or even safeguarding them against online crime,” reads. Canada is among top ‘safe and stable’ countries for international students. Canada has introduced some measures to allow international students to travel to their desired destination. Canada is considered one of the safest destinations in the world. Crime rates are low, police are trusted, easy to contact, and quick to respond. No matter where you travel some common-sense is an important part of personal safety and the security of your property. In Nova Scotia it’s also common to see wildlife along the sides of highways, so pay attention to the sides of the road.
7.Singapore
The city-state is also the second-safest city in the world. Singapore has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, which is due to severe penalties that are issued for even small crimes. Singapore residents felt the highest sense of personal security and have positive experiences with law enforcement. Gross domestic product per capita is high and unemployment is low, making Singapore one of the wealthiest nations in the world. The top three—Singapore, New Zealand and Australia—are able to provide a pre-pandemic quality of life for their populations, with the exception of international travel, which is basically shut down to prevent the virus from slipping back in.” Singapore gained self governance in 1959, and in 1963 joined the Federation of Malaysia. In 1965 it left the federation and became independent as the Republic of Singapore. Safety and security serve as a major point of pride, residents and visitors are subject to harsh penalties. One of Asia’s four economic tigers, Singapore has seen impressive growth in recent years as efficient manufacturing and production practices have made way for free-market innovation in the booming electronics and pharmaceutical industries. Space constraints coupled with rapid population growth contribute to concerns about the rising cost of living and income inequality. Conservation, land reclamation efforts and improved environment-friendly practices amid the urbanization and industrial pollution are also a focus.
8.Czech Republic
Security in the country is a crucial factor for tourism. The Czech Republic excels so well in this respect .Assessment of GPI is based on government expenditure on the military and weapons industry, relationships with neighbouring countries, degree of respect towards human rights, economic and educational situations, risk of terrorist attacks and of course criminality. Most peaceful countries tend to be smaller with a well-developed democratic system and fair economic situation. Crime rates have steadily decreased over the years, especially violent crimes. The Czech Republic also has a low impact of terrorism. Czech Republic is relatively involved high in foreign conflicts, the high ratio of the number of prisoners per capita, and security forces and police assessment. Safety should be one of the factors you consider when choosing a country to study abroad in. the Czech Republic is considered one of the safest destinations. The country’s strongest point was safe communities. The Czech Republic also boasts an efficient health care system – Czech hospitals are clean, the state-run insurance system is relatively inexpensive, and coverage is almost universal. Furthermore, the capital city of Prague is considered one of the safest and most beautiful cities in the world, too.
9.Japan
The ninth-safest country in the world is Japan. Japan is receiving high marks for low crime rates, internal conflict, and political terror. Japan is known for having limited immigration and limited access to firearms. According to the Safe Cities Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit, Tokyo is considered the safest city in the world, ranking first in cybersecurity, second for health security, and fourth for infrastructure security and personal security. The Japanese people are kind, courteous, and respectful, making Japan a must-go for female travelers. Crime is basically nonexistent in Japan. Basically, We can go anywhere in Japan without fear. Japan takes natural disaster preparation very seriously.
10.Switzerland
Switzerland is the Tenth safest country in the world. Switzerland reinvests much of its economic success back into its infrastructure, which translates into dependable and modern transportation, healthcare, communication, and education systems. With its rich green valleys, sparkling lakes, and majestic mountain ranges, Switzerland is not only one of the most beautiful places on earth, it is one of the most safe and stable countries in the world. Switzerland being well-prepared to handle the crisis. Switzerland was able to maintain neutrality through both world wars. Switzerland has so many beautiful, clean, and well-managed cities with extremely low crime rates, many major corporations have their headquarters here. It can boast a low unemployment rate, averaging about 3% over the last decade. This country has effective criminal justice systems and governments that maintain very healthy relationships with their citizens. Switzerland ranked amongst the ten highest weapons exporters per capita every year for the last five years. Switzerland ranks fourth global food security country.
National park, an area set aside by a national government for the preservation of the natural environment. A national park may be set aside for purposes of public recreation and enjoyment or because of its historical or scientific interest. In the national parks, visitors can see glaciers and ice caves, colorful rock formations, waterfalls, pristine lakes and underground rivers. Here is the list of the best national parks in the world in 2021.
Serengeti National Park is a 5,700 square mile park located in Tanzania, Africa. It was created in 1921 to protect the lions in the region. It became Serengeti National Park in 1951. Serengeti National Park is comprised of three regions including the Serengeti plains, western corridor, and northern Serengeti. Serengeti National Park includes grasslands, woodlands, marshes, plains, and kopjes, which make up what is called a savannah. A savannah is made up of semi-arid land. It is famous for its massive annual migration of wildebeest and zebra. The annual migration of zebras and wildebeests draws millions of animals every year. The world is one-quarter savannah. Serengeti National Park has more than 500 bird species and 300 mammal species, including lions, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, giraffe, impala and hippos. There are at least 100 types of dung beetles living in Serengeti National Park. The Maasai call the plains of Serengeti National Park “the place where the land moves on forever.”
The oldest national park in India, Corbett, located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, was established to protect the endangered Bengal tiger. The Park is spread over 520.8 km2 which includes hill, marshy depressions, grasslands, one big lake, and 3 rivers. Jim Corbett National Park has 110 species of trees, some 50 species of mammals, 588 species of birds, and 25 reptile species. Wildlife lovers get chances to perceive and see the beautiful landscape of Corbett Tiger Reserve. Corbett is covered with lush green dense forest which includes sal, mango, peepal, Rohini, and haldu trees. There are 30 jeep safaris in the morning and evening time in the park. The British government was planning to establish it before 1900 after a long time this dream took place in real and the park was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park. After some years of establishing this park got named after Jim Corbett, who was a well-known hunter of men eater tigers and naturalist. Corbett has been the best destination for wildlife lovers but the Corbett administration allowed eco-tourism in only some and selected areas.
3.Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
This reserve is connected to Serengeti National Park at the border between Kenya and Tanzania, and is also known for the wildebeest migration, seen here as they cross the Mara River. It was originally established in 1961 and covering an area of 1,510 square km (583 square miles). The Masai Mara National Reserve is a land of breathtaking vistas, abundant wildlife and endless plains. The quintessential Masai Mara safari delivers many attractions, as the reserve is home to an excellent year-round concentration of game, including the more than two million wildebeest, zebras and other antelopes that make up the famous Great Migration. Other wildlife to spot at the Maasai Mara National Reserve include cheetahs, lions, elephants, zebras and hippos. Leopards are frequently encountered, endangered black rhino hide in the dense thickets and large rafts of hippo and enormous crocodiles are found in the Mara River. The park is also home to over 450 bird species. It also hosts the Great Migration, which secured it as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, and as one of the ten Wonders of the World. Thousands of visitors come to the Mara every year to enjoy some of the most authentic safari experiences in Africa. Tradition continues to play a major role in the lives of modern day Maasai people, who are known for their tall stature, patterned shukas and beadwork. It is estimated that there are approximately half a million individuals that speak the Maa language and this number includes not only the Maasai but also Samburu and Camus people in Kenya.
4.Grand Teton National Park, Wyo.
Grand Teton National Park is a 310,000 acre park located in the state of Wyoming’s northwest region. In the early 1800s explorers met the Shoshone Natives in the area and settlements were built in the Jackson Hole area in the 1880s. In the last 1800s efforts began to protect the region but it wasn’t until 1929 that Grand Teton National Park was established. Grand Teton National Park is named after the mountain Grand Teton. Grand Teton is the Teton Range’s tallest mountain at 13,775 feet. Grand Teton was named after French trappers ‘the three teats’, derived from ‘les trois tetons’. The name ‘the three teats’ was shortened to Teton. Grand Teton is rich with wildlife, pristine lakes and alpine terrain, and has hundreds of miles of trails. It is great for hiking, biking, fishing boating and camping. Grand Teton National Park is only 10 miles south of another famous park – Yellowstone National Park. The fastest land mammal in the western hemisphere can be found living in Grant Teton National Park. It is the pronghorn, and can run as fast as 70 miles per hour. It is home to a variety of wildlife including more than 300 bird species, 16 fish species, 6 amphibian species, 4 reptile species, 6 bat species, 3 rabbit species, 6 hoofed-mammal species, 17 carnivore species, and 22 rodent species. Mammals found here include black bears, Grizzly bears, gray wolves, coyotes, river otters, cougars, martens, elk, bison, and moose.
5.Kruger National Park, South Africa
In 1926 it became the first official national park in South Africa. Kruger National Park is named after Paul Kruger, the president of Transvaal in 1884, who saw a need to protect the region’s animal population from over-hunting. Kruger National Park is a 7,523 square mile game reserve located in northeast South Africa. The South African Republic government began to protect this region in 1898. One of Africa’s largest game reserves, Kruger’s high density of wild animals includes rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants and buffalos, making it a popular safari destination. Kruger is home to 517 bird species, 100 reptile species, nearly 150 types of mammals, multiple archaeological sites. The Big Six Birds at Kruger National Park include the ground hornbill, kori bustard, saddle-billed stork, martial eagle, Pel’s fishing owl, and the lappet-faced vulture. There are more than 27,000 African buffalo, 12,000 elephants, and over 1000 leopards living in Kruger National Park. Vegetation in Kruger National Park includes a variety of trees, bushes, grazing grasses, and shrubs. Today Kruger National Park is one of the largest reserves in Africa. Natural boundaries to Kruger National Park include the Limpopo River and Crocodile River.
6.Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
The 29,692-acre (12,016-ha) Arenal Volcano National Park is located within the larger 504,094-acre (204,000-ha) Arenal Conservation Area, which protects some 16 reserves between the Tilaran and Guanacaste mountain ranges. Arenal is of the world’s most active volcanoes. This national park has two volcanoes – the 5,357-foot (1,633-meter) Arenal Volcano and the 3,740-foot (1,140-meter) Chato Volcano. The Arenal Volcano National Park is popular with birds, as most of the 850 species identified in Costa Rica. The park also has a strong showing of plant life, including orchids, heliconias, ferns, laurel, cirri, guayabo de monte, palms, bromeliads, and strangler figs. The Arenal Volcano is a symmetrical cone-shaped volcano that dominates the fertile landscape of Arenal Volcano National Park. Until recently, it was the country’s most active volcano with an average of 41 eruptions per day. Although the Arenal Volcano is currently in a resting phase, the region offers an abundance of exciting adventures. While you cannot hike up the volcano itself, we recommend hiking through Arenal Volcano National Park with a bilingual naturalist guide in search of old lava flow and wildlife. Slight changes in altitude create unique micro-climates and ecosystems through this region, making it home to a variety of exotic species.
7.Grand Canyon National Park, Ariz.
The Grand Canyon is one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World. The Grand Canyon is in the United States of America. Millions of years ago, instead of a deep canyon, this area was a giant flat slab of layered rock that we call the Colorado Plateau. Rain and melted snow forming the Colorado River have flowed over this plateau for millions of years, cutting into the rock surface and forming the Grand Canyon. Today there are 1, 500 different plants, 355 different birds, 89 different mammals, 47 different reptiles, 9 different amphibian and 17 different types of fish that live in and around the canyon. Animals that live in the Grand Canyon include Coyotes, Squirrels, Raccoons, Bobcats, Mountain Lions, Bald Eagles, Chuckwalla Lizards and the Diamond Back Rattler snake. The first people living in the Canyon were the Paleo-Indian (ancient Native American peoples) 12, 000 years ago. Some are found nowhere else in the world. Being desert country it doesn’t rain a lot. Few plants can live there to keep the soil and rocks in place. When it rains and the snow melts, the water washes away more rocks and soil, making the canyon deeper. As we go down into the Canyon the rocks get older. The bottom rocks are the oldest 1. 84 billion years old (1 864 000 000 years old). The rocks at the top of the plateau are the youngest at 270 million years old (270 000 000 years).
8.Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is located within the state of Utah in southwestern United States. It covers an area of 147,551 acres. In 1909 the park was established. The highest elevation in the park is at Kolob Canyon at 8,726 feet and the lowest is 3,666 feet, at Coal Pits Wash. There are 289 bird species, 8 fish species and 32 species of reptiles and amphibians in Zion NP. The California Condor, a bird considered one of the most endangered species, can be found in the park. There are four life zones in the park including: desert, Coniferous forest, woodland and riparian. There are abandoned cliff houses and rock art in the park that were left behind by the Anasazi people 800 to 1,500 years ago. The Virgin River area was settled in 1847, by Mormon farmers of European descent. This park in southwestern Utah is famous for its steep red cliffs, the Virgin River, emerald pools, and Zion Narrows, where hikers wade the river. The park is great for camping, backpacking, biking and rock climbing. In the desert regions of Zion National Park plants such as sagebrush, rabbitbrush, Indian paintbrush, and prickly pear cactus are commonly found.
9.Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Torres del Paine National Park is a national park encompassing mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rivers in southern Chilean Patagonia. It features a diverse array of sparkling ice fields, blue-green lagoons, golden pampa grasslands, and quiet river villages. Sail on Lake Grey or hike toward the horn-shaped peaks of the Mirador Cuernos. The Cordillera del Paine is the centerpiece of the park. It lies in a transition area between the Magellanic subpolar forests and the Patagonian Steppes. The park borders Bernardo O’Higgins National Park to the west and the Los Glaciares National Park to the north in Argentine territory. In 2013, it measured approximately 181,414 hectares. It is one of the largest and most visited parks in Chile. The park averages around 252,000 visitors a year, of which 54% are foreign tourists, who come from many countries all over the world. They extend up to 2,500 metres (8,200 ft) above sea level, and are joined by the Cuernos del Paine. The area also boasts valleys, rivers such as the Paine, lakes, and glaciers. The well-known lakes include Grey, Pehoé, Nordenskiöld, and Sarmiento.
10.Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Fiordland National Park is a more than 8000 square mile park located on New Zealand’s South Island. The park is made up of mountains, waterfalls, lakes, rainforests, and fiords, which are believed to have been created over the past 100,000 years. A fiord is valley that was carved into a U-shape by a glacier and flooded with water. Milford Sound is the star of glacier-carved Fiordland National Park, providing an emerald green and waterfall-rich backdrop for hiking, biking and kayaking. Because of the preservation of the area there are many plants and animals that are found only in Fiordland National Park. The only flightless parrot in the world lives in Fiordland National Park. It is called the kakapo. The only alpine parrot in the world also lives in the park. It’s called a kea. The kiwi can also be found in the park. In 1986 Fiordland National Park was declared a World Heritage Area, and in 1990 the park became part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site, which includes 4 national parks in total. There was a brief gold rush in the 1890s but no permanent mines were established. There are 14 fiords in Fiordland National Park, which are referred to as sounds or inlets. These include Preservation Inlet, Chalky Inlet, Dusky Sound, Breaksea Sound, Dagg Sound, Doubtful Sound, Thompson Sound, Nancy Sound, Charles Sound, Caswell Sound, George Sound, Bligh Sound, Sutherland Sound, and Milford Sound.
The world is filled with such a wide variety of wonderful destinations and beautiful places to visit, it can be quite difficult to compile a list of the best ones. Thinking about a traveler who, for whatever reason, has never set foot outside his or her home town, where would be the first places they might visit?
The list of the world’s best places to visit has to include great cities, like New York, Paris, London, and so on, each of which is filled with a multitude of individual sites or must-see places to visit. The list also includes specific sites, monuments, and locations, each also worthy of a visit in their own right.
For more ideas on where to go and what to see, read our list of the top places to visit in the world.
Most archaeologists believe that Machu Picchu was constructed as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti (1438–1472). Often mistakenly referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas”, it is the most familiar icon of Inca civilization. The Incas built the estate around 1450 but abandoned it a century later at the time of the Spanish conquest. Although known locally, it was not known to the Spanish during the colonial period and remained unknown to the outside world until American historian Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention in 1911.
Machu Picchu was built in the classical Inca style, with polished dry-stone walls. Its three primary structures are the Intihuatana, the Templeof the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows. Most of the outlying buildings have been reconstructed in order to give tourists a better idea of how they originally appeared. By 1976, 30% of Machu Picchu had been restored and restoration continues.
Machu Picchu built in the 15th century AD and abandoned less than a 100 years later, the remote site continues to amaze with its perfectly joined, mortarless, intricate stonework. Huge multi-ton blocks of stone are perfectly joined with each other, without the use of mortar or cement.
The journey to Machu Picchu typically starts in the mountain city of Cusco, which was the capital city of the Inca Empire. Cusco is a fascinating place to explore-be sure to spend a few days there before or after your Machu Picchu adventure. It’s possible to hike the Inca Trail from Cusco to Machu Picchu.
The Grand Canyon is an awesome place. Its overwhelming size and its intricate and colorful landscape make it without question one of the seven marvels of the natural world.
While it is not the deepest canyon in the world, it is unmatched throughout the world for the vistas it offers to visitors. Geologically it is hugely significant because of the thick sequence of ancient rocks that are beautifully preserved and exposed in the walls of the canyon. These rock layers record much of the early geologic history of the North American continent.
Most of the 5 million annual visitors to the Grand Canyon arrive at the South Rim and experience its beauty from the many overlooks along the canyon edge. There are many miles of paved and unpaved walkways along the rim. The North Rim of the Grand Canyon shares similar outstanding views from a vantage point 1000 feet higher than on the South Rim. Here too are walkways and overlooks that let you take in the grandeur of the canyon.
Strong hikers can climb down to the Colorado River via the Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail. For a less exhausting experience, mule pack trips use the same trails to take their riders down and up canyon.
With geology formed over the past two billion years, yes billion, the 277 mile-long canyon itself is believed to have been started around five to six million years ago. It was formed by the flow of the Colorado River, which still flows through it and continues to erode the geology along its course. The Grand Canyon is up to 18 miles wide in places and up to a mile deep. Imagine standing on the edge, looking down a sheer rock wall almost a mile to the river below.
Most visitors come to the area referred to as the South Rim, and there is a range of accommodations available, from tents to a rustic luxury canyon-side resort built from logs. There are a few accommodations on the remote North Rim, and these are reserved years in advance.
Many visitors access the canyon via the historic Grand Canyon Railway, which runs from the town of Williams, Arizona. The 64-mile rail line provides an entertaining way to get to the canyon with food and live music onboard. For those driving, the canyon is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive north from Phoenix .
The Roman Forum, also known by its Latin name Forum Romanum is a rectangular forum surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings at the center of the city of Rome. Citizens of the ancient city referred to this space, originally a marketplace, as the Forum Magnum, or simply the Forum.
The Eternal City is more like a giant, living museum. Visitors are immersed in and surrounded by thousands of years of history. It include the Colosseum and adjacent Roman Forum; the Pantheon; and Vatican City, a separate country in the middle of central Rome.
Take some time to explore the outskirts of Rome, too. Consider a hike along a tomb-lined section of the Appian Way, the ancient Roman superhighway, and a visit to one of the aqueduct ruins outside the city.
For centuries the Forum was the center of day-to-day life in Rome: the site of triumphal processions and elections; the venue for public speeches, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches; and the nucleus of commercial affairs. Here statues and monuments commemorated the city’s great men. The teeming heart of ancient Rome, it has been called the most celebrated meeting place in the world, and in all history. Located in the small valley between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills, the Forum today is a sprawling ruin of architectural fragments and intermittent archaeological excavations attracting 4.5 million or more sightseers yearly.
Many of the oldest and most important structures of the ancient city were located on or near the Forum. The Roman Kingdom‘s earliest shrines and temples were located on the southeastern edge. These included the ancient former royal residence, the Regia , and the Temple of Vesta , as well as the surrounding complex of the Vestal Virgins, all of which were rebuilt after the rise of imperial Rome.
Other archaic shrines to the northwest, such as the Umbilicus Urbis and the Vulcanal (Shrine of Vulcan), developed into the Republic‘s formal Comitium (assembly area). This is where the Senate as well as Republican government itself began. The Senate House, government offices, tribunals, temples, memorials and statues gradually cluttered the area.
Over time the archaic Comitium was replaced by the larger adjacent Forum and the focus of judicial activity moved to the new Basilica Aemilia . Some 130 years later, Julius Caesar built the Basilica Julia, along with the new Curia Julia, refocusing both the judicial offices and the Senate itself. This new Forum, in what proved to be its final form, then served as a revitalized city square where the people of Rome could gather for commercial, political, judicial and religious pursuits in ever greater numbers.
The island of Maui is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands at 727.2 square miles (1,883 km2) and is the 17th largest island in the United States. Maui is the best island in the world. Travelers around the globe favor “The Valley Isle” so much, they’ve named it a top destination and the best island.
Possessing a luxurious and hip image, Maui hosts world-class resorts, exciting activities and championship golf, all surrounded by staggering natural beauty. The islands’ “aloha spirit” and native host Hawaiian culture provides an unparalleled vacation experience.
In addition to relaxing by the resort pool or on the beach with a great book and the iconic fruity cocktail, visitors can take advantage of activities such as golf, sailing, eco-tours, shopping, ziplining, wine tasting and farm tours plus so much more.
Points of Interest The central Maui town of Kahului/Wailuku is the island’s business center, while West Maui hosts sprawling beaches, upscale hotels of Ka’anapali and the historic whaling town of Lahaina. South Maui is home to a high-end resort district, Wailea plus offers a good spot for snorkeling, diving and wildlife watching. Maui’s best area to explore underwater is the lava rock crescent-shaped Molokini, so take a 25-minute boat ride and explore.
Iao Valley, reposing between the volcanoes near Kahoolawe, is a place the modern world seems to have left behind. There is fascinating and dramatic history here, much of it violent, with the Iao Needle rock pillar having served as a natural altar.
In the case of Hana, the journey may be as important as the destination. With giant waterfalls, artist hamlets and rainbows along the way, make it a day trip and stop for picnic supplies in Pa’ia. The infamous Road to Hana is curvy and minimally maintained. Thank goodness development of this isolated town has been limited so visitor’s can enjoy a truer sense of Hawaii.
This Hawaiian island offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. You can surf, enjoy a meal on the beach at a five-star luxury resort in Wailea, ride a horse across a dormant volcano in Haleakala National Park, or hike through a rainforest in the West Maui Mountains. The natural scenery is amazing-it’s truly one of the most beautiful islands in the world.
When it comes to accommodation, there is something for everyone here, from rustic hippie bungalow bed and breakfasts to five-star luxury resort hotels. Wailea has all the luxury
Maasai Mara is one of the most famous and important wildlife conservation and wilderness areas in Africa, world-renowned for its exceptional populations of lion, African leopard, cheetah and African bush elephant .
Maasai Mara, also known as Masai Mara, and locally simply as The Mara, is a large national game reserve in Narok, Kenya, contiguous with the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. It is named in honor of the Maasai people, the ancestral inhabitants of the area, who migrated to the area from the Nile Basin. Their description of the area when looked at from afar: “Mara” means “spotted” in the local Maasai language, due to the many short bushy trees which dot the landscape.
Kenya’s Masai Mara is an incredible bio-diverse area and a popular safari destination. It’s an opportunity to see the “big five” animals (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) all during one trip .
The Greater Mara ecosystem encompasses areas known as the Maasai Mara National Reserve, the Mara Triangle, and several Maasai Conservancies, including Koiyaki, Lemek, Mara North, Olkinyei, Siana, Maji Moto, Naikara, Ol Derkesi, Kerinkani, Oloirien, and Kimintet
The protected Masai Mara National Reserve park area is huge, over 1,500 square kilometers of mainly grassland, extending all the way to the Serengeti plain of Tanzania. The popular times to visit are during the twice-yearly migrations, the main one being in July and August. Over a million wildebeest and other animals cross the area in huge groups to go from one feeding area to another. Most visitors fly into Nairobi, then take a small bush plane to the Mara.
Montreal is the second largest French speaking citiy in the world, after Paris. However, most Montrealers – especially in downtown – are bilingual. Many more speak a third language. In downtown stores, shoppers are greeted with a confident BonjourHi, a term which is becoming more and more popular, indicating bilingualism.
As you listen to the sound of French being spoken around you and explore Old Montreal, wandering down its narrow cobblestone streets-you might think you’re in France. The historic area is filled with quaint shops and cafes; this Canadian city can be a chance to experience a bit of Europe in North America.
The city also has a thriving food scene, with several popular farmers markets, including the Atwater Market and the Jean Talon Market. It’s also known for its bagels, cooked hot and fresh by several iconic must-visit bakeries.
Be sure to visit the beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica and take a drive up to Mount Royal, the big hill (or low mountain) the city is named after. You’ll be rewarded with some amazing views extending all the way to the port.
Montreal has the highest number of restaurants per Capita in Canada and the second in North America after New York. Montreal’s restaurant scene is very cosmopolitan with menus from literally around the world, with an often added French touch.
Montreal is the first North American city to have been designated UNESCO City of Design by the Global Alliance for Cultural Diversity in 2006. With this honor, Montreal’s effort and enthusiasm as well as the city’s potential for economic and social development in the field of design is recognized.
Montreal is build around Mont Royal, from where the city received its name. Mont Royal Park, located on the mountain, was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same person who designed New York City’s Central Park. No building in Montreal can be taller than the famous Cross found on Mont Royal!
Montreal has an Underground City, which is a series of interconnected tunnels beneath the city that run for over 32km. The tunnels connect shopping malls, over 2000 stores, 7 metro stations,universities, banks, offices, museums, restaurants and so on. Unlike what is commonly believed, Montrealers use the underground tunnels mostly in the heat of the Summer rather than to escape the cold in Winter!
Auckland lies between the Hauraki Gulf to the east, then extending in Hunua Ranges to the south-east, the Manukau Harbour to the south-west, and the Waitakere Ranges and smaller ranges to the west and north-west. The surrounding hills are covered in rainforest and the landscape is dotted with 53 dormant volcanic cones. The central part of the urban area occupies a narrow isthmus between the Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea and the Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific Ocean. Auckland is one of the few cities in the world to have a harbour on each of two separate major bodies of water.
The isthmus on which Auckland resides was first settled c. 1350 and was valued for its rich and fertile land. The Maori population in the area is estimated to have peaked at 20,000 before the arrival of Europeans. After a British colony was established in 1840, William Hobson, then Lieutenant-Governor of New Zealand, chose the area as his new capital. He named the area for George Eden, Earl of Auckland, British First Lord of the Admiralty. Maori–European conflict over land in the region led to war in the mid-19th century. Auckland was replaced as the capital in 1865 by Wellington, but the city continued to grow, initially because of its port and logging and gold mining in its hinterland, later from pastoral farming , and manufacturing in the city itself. It has throughout most of its history been the nation’s largest city. Today, Auckland’s central business district is New Zealand’s leading economic hub.
With its striking natural beauty, friendly citizens, and recent popularity due to its use as the filming location for the Lord of the Rings films (as well as many others), this island nation is one of the world’s great places to visit. The biodiversity here is amazing-it’s believed New Zealand was one of the last places on earth to have human inhabitants.
Start your visit off in the capital city of Auckland, with its culture, history, and museums. Spend some time on the water and at the beach-Waitemata Harbour has beaches, along with a range of sailing and boating activities.
Visit the Rotorua area to learn about and experience indigenous Maori culture and head to Queenstown to experience the country’s wide range of outdoor extreme action sports. Remember, this is where bungee jumping was invented.
Istanbul is a major city in Turkey that straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. Its Old City reflects cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here. In the Sultanahmet district, the open-air, Roman-era Hippodrome was for centuries the site of chariot races, and Egyptian obelisks also remain. The iconic Byzantine Hagia Sophia features a soaring 6th-century dome and rare Christian mosaics.
The city held the strategic position between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. It was also on the historic Silk Road. It controlled rail networks between the Balkans and the Middle East and was the only sea route between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. In 1923, after the Turkish War of Independence, Ankara was chosen as the new Turkish capital, and the city’s name was changed to Istanbul. Nevertheless, the city maintained its prominence in geopolitical and cultural affairs. The population of the city has increased tenfold since the 1950s, as migrants from across Anatolia have moved in and city limits have expanded to accommodate them. Arts, music, film, and cultural festivals were established towards the end of the 20th century and continue to be hosted by the city today. Infrastructure improvements have produced a complex transportation network in the city.
Turkey’s capital city is another destination that offers a great mix of culture, food, and history. There are thousands of years of history here, starting with Ancient Greeks and Ancient Romans and leading up through the Ottoman Empire.
It’s an Islamic country with a secular government, so it’s a good place for Western tourists to experience Islamic culture. There’s a mix of the new and the timeless here unlike anywhere else. You can spend the night at a wonderful restaurant eating great Turkish food and dancing to Turkish music, then rise (very early) in the morning to the sound of the Ezan or morning Islamic call to prayer. It echoes across the rooftops as it’s broadcast from loudspeakers set atop the minarets of the city’s mosques.
Istanbul has excellent public transit, which means it’s easy to get around and explore all the major sites and monuments. Must-see places include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, and Topkapi Palace.
Angkor Wat, temple complex at Angkor, near Siemreab, Cambodia, that was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II (reigned 1113–c. 1150). It is the world’s largest religious structure, covering some 400 acres (160 hectares), and marks the high point of Khmerarchitecture.
It is located just outside the Cambodian city of Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is the largest religious site in the world. It was created originally as a Hindu temple and mausoleum for the Khmer ruler in the early part of the 12th century and was converted to a Buddhist temple at the end of the 12th century. Just part of a enormous ancient city. Angkor Wat is the temple area, Angor Thom was the city and palace area. There are hundreds of other ruin sites in the area, all part of the ancient capital of Angkor.
Siem Reap and its temples and ruins are now very easily accessible via daily flights from Hong Kong and other large Asian cities. Accommodations range from inexpensive guesthouses to lavish luxury resorts, with everything in between.
Several bridges named London Bridge have spanned the River Thames between the City of London and Southwark, in central London. The current crossing, which opened to traffic in 1973, is a box girder bridge built from concrete and steel.
Throughout its history, London bridge has been a busy thoroughfare, and was once lined with shops. The road over the bridge was only about 4m wide between the shops. It was so narrow it often jammed with people, horses and carts.
The Old London Bridge of nursery rhyme fame dates from 1176, when Peter, a priest and chaplain of St. Mary’s of Colechurch, began construction of the foundation. Replacing a timber bridge (one of several built in late Roman and early medieval times), Peter’s structure was the first great stone arch bridge built in Britain. It was to consist of 19 pointed arches, each with a span of approximately 24 feet (7 metres), built on piers 20 feet (6 metres) wide; a 20th opening was designed to be spanned by a wooden drawbridge.
The stone foundations of the piers were built inside cofferdams made by driving timber piles into the riverbed; these in turn were surrounded by starlings. As a result of obstructions encountered during pile driving, the span of the constructed arches actually varied from 15 to 34 feet in the width of the protective starlings was so great that the total waterway was reduced to a quarter of its original width, and the tide roared through the narrow archways like a millrace. “Shooting the bridge” in a small boat became one of the thrills of Londoners.
In 1205 Peter of Colechurch died, and three other London citizens completed the bridge by 1209. Almost immediately the bridge became not only an important commercial crossing but also a choice business and residential site. Shops lined both sides of the roadway between the fortified gates at either end; houses were built above the shops, with 138 premises being recorded in 1358. Walkways and additional rooms were extended between the buildings, transforming the roadway into a tunnel-like passage through which merchants and other travelers bustled. In the 1580s, during Queen Elizabeth I’s reign, water mills were installed that added to the uproar.
This historic English city is another destination just filled with incredible places to visit. A trip to London is an opportunity to visit iconic places like the Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London.
Take advantage of the city being a cultural center as well by seeing a West End theater show or watching a musical performance at the Royal Albert Hall. Modern London is also a city of fine dining, luxury hotels, and world-class shopping.
Don’t miss the museums, the vast British Museum is free, and usually quite crowded. Make time to visit TheWallace Collection, a free museum on Oxford Street. It has one of the world’s greatest collections of furniture and porcelain, along with some important Old Master paintings.
