Most Famous Must-See Tourist Attractions in Italy

Italy Travel Guide to Top Tourist Attractions

As the Roman Empire's birthplace and where the Renaissance originated, it's no shocking surprise that Italy must be overflowing with gorgeous architecture, masterpieces, or that no other country in the world can come even close to rivaling it in respect of having far more UNESCO World Heritage sites.

However, Italy's best-ranking attractions for visitors aren't all the marvelous art and architecture; it's the country's breathtaking mountains, lakes, and a spectacular coastline which give it excellent natural attractions, in addition. You can plan a whole itinerary inspired by only one interest, ranging from Renaissance art, scuba diving, hiking, to sunbathing, though most tourists coming here for the first time want to sample nothing but the best of what Italy offers in many various types of experiences.

The attractions listed below are meant to show off Italy's history, art, architecture, striking landscapes, as well as provide the sweetest opportunities for energetic pursuits. To ensure that you do not overlook anything particularly significant and worth visiting, use this Italy travel guide to find the top tourist attractions in Italy as you plan your itinerary.

1) Colosseum.  This massive amphitheater, the biggest of its type that the Roman Empire ever constructed as well as the largest of their buildings to survive as undeniable proof of their ingenuity, today still remains a fine example for sports facilities. Constructed by Vespasian and completed in AD 72, plus expanded when his son added a fourth story, it became a site for shows and public spectacles, including mock sea battles as if to relive old sea victories over their enemies.

A wooden floor, 83 by 48 meters, covers 2 more underground levels with tunnels, cells, rooms, and even passages which provide space for gladiators, wild beasts, workers, and storage.

But today the building stands in sharp contrast to the surrounding modern development and is a prime reminder of both ancient times and the Romans' far-reaching, lasting impression. 

2) Florence Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore.  Reputed as the world's foremost finest cathedral, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore monopolizes the Florence skyline. Constructed between 13th and 15th centuries, the cathedral had the most celebrated piece, the outstanding dome, finished in 1434 by Filippo Brunelleschi.

The cathedral's bell tower which stands near next to the cathedral in Piazza del Duomo, covers in similar patterned marble common of Tuscan Romanesque architecture.

Giotto designed the campanile which, standing 82 meters high, you could climb all the 414 steps to a viewing platform that boasts incredible views of the dome and the city.

Opposite the Duomo you'll find a remarkable baptistery, famous for its paneled doors of bronze by Lorenzo Ghiberti. Now you can tour the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo to see the real beautifully crafted panels, having been replaced by same replicas for protecting the originals from the element's destructive effect.

3) The Grand Canal in Venice.  The tradition of a gondola trip that takes one through the Grand Canal in Venice, travelers have been adoring for centuries. As a city of islands, the canals have been as forever Venice's main streets that are united by a maze of narrow passageways.

As the biggest and most renowned of these water ways, the Grand Canal cuts a broad S-shaped path through the city. Along the way you'll see the greatest palaces still standing proudly where the most powerful and the richest families once owned. The best manner to see several of such amazing palaces is to ride a Vaporetto through the Grand Canal.

But make certain that your gondola trip and sightseeing explorations by foot include better atmospheric smaller canals, so you'll see lines of older structures which have remained largely the same for ages.

4) Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius.  Though the Mt. Vesuvius still smokes while looking down on Pompeii's remains, destroying it in AD 79, the same eruption preserved several of the city's timeless art treasures that include from mosaics, frescoes to sculptures which the lava encased after cooling.

Many excavations that followed have been revealing the remains that include from homes, baths, markets, theaters, temples, streets to human remains. Tourists could visit the site by walking along the ancient streets that racing chariots once scarred and see the amazing feat of engineering that Romans used over 2,000 years ago.

Close to Pompeii you'll find the excavated old city of Herculaneum, which the same eruption destroyed back in AD 79, except lava and ash burying it that resulted in solidifying and freezing it and the town becoming how it was. Now you have the option to combine tours to the 2 sites in only one day; however, a long stay permits time for climbing to the rim of yet active Vesuvius.

5) Leaning Tower of Pisa.  The Leaning Tower of Pisa's world fame does not actually come from the design's substantial elegance, but because of a major flaw. Construction started in 1100s, but sinking that led eventually to the lean, initiated when the tower reached the stage in construction where the third story was built.

As the tower began leaning more and more through the centuries, prior to being restored in the 1990s, experts predicted it would just end up falling down in the year 2000. But today, defying all such predictions, tourists could climb up the tower's stairs to enjoy a fantastic sight over the city.

Standing on the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Leaning Tower shares the setting with a rounded freestanding baptistery and the lovely Romanesque Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which features excellent works of medieval stone carving.

  

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10 Best-Rated Must-See Tourist Attractions in the USA

 

The United States is home to many of the world's picturesque scenery and extremely recognizable icons found on earth. Several of the best attractions in the US happen to be bucket list destinations that draw millions of tourists from all over the world.

Putting together a pretty good list of things to do and places to visit is the first step. However, bear in mind, given the vast size of the USA, many prospective tourists plan their travels to a specific location, whether it's the outlying regions such as Alaska, Hawaii, or Puerto Rico, the beaches of California or Florida, the Southwest, or the East Coast to make the trip more doable and to avoid feeling overwhelmed. You might want to experience the highlights of a key city in a state like Arizona or visit rural areas and public parks. With careful enough planning in advance, you could combine the 2 and see such sights in a one- or two-day trip.

A superabundance of options is available, with amazing attractions scattered across the country. If you have plenty of time, or even if you must work with a limited time frame, the list of 10 best-rated must-see attractions in USA can be easily added to your itinerary to enhance your overall experience while visiting this great nation.

1) Grand Canyon.  This striking natural wonder is a very popular and most-visited site in the US. As a natural attraction that the Colorado River helped carve out, the Grand Canyon penetrates deep into the earth, creating both dramatic ledges and cliff walls. By simply standing on the canyon's rim, tourists could see down to the floor of the canyon as far as a mile below, and even lookout beyond the cliffs and ridges which run as if forever.

The South Rim, which is around 4.5 hour-drive from Las Vegas, happens to be the most-visited area of Grand Canyon National Park. Here you'll find a big visitor center, a reliable bus serving along the Rim during the high season, plus a walkway running along the canyon that boasts many platforms and viewing points. A lot of fantastic hikes as well as the Bright Angel Trail, begin from here.

The Skywalk, a real glass bridge which leads out over the Grand Canyon's edge, is a popular attraction you won't want to miss. Situated on the West Rim, at Eagle Point, this section is around a four-hour car ride from the South Rim, however often a 2.5 hour--or even less--drive from Las Vegas. This section is an excellent option if you plan to do a day trip beginning from Las Vegas.

The North Rim that provides fair lookout areas, offers a unique perspective. This part of the park is not so frequently visited and is less accessible during the months from November to May because of winter snow conditions.

2) Niagara Falls.  Sharing the common US-Canada border, Niagara Falls is the world's most stunning and famous waterfalls. Lake Erie's water in fact flows into Lake Ontario across these huge waterfalls. Well-known for incredible amount of water that's unceasingly tumbling, making massive roaring splashes as a mist rises.

Niagara Falls is really a set of 3 falls that consists of the biggest section, called Horseshoe Falls, with an 18-foot drop; another section located on the river's American side, called suitably the American Falls with an 89-foot drop; and then a thinner section situated beside the American Falls, called Bridal Veil Falls with only a 78-foot drop.

Though views are nice on either side of the river, the Canadian side yet features a dramatically unique perspective which is worth the trouble crossing into Canada.

Summer happens to be the wildly popular time for visiting Niagara Falls, and while the weather is hot, gardens are blooming, and roaming about is favorable. But winter offers a special opportunity for seeing ice-covered railings, snow-shrouded shores, trees, and street signs; it's really a winter wonderland.

On perfectly clear days, the Niagara Falls' constant plumage of mist rising could be observed from as distant as the CN Tower that stands in downtown Toronto, Canada, on the other shore of Lake Ontario. 

3) Statue of Liberty.  As a major attraction symbolizing universal freedom, the Statue of Liberty is not only the most famous icon but also the world's biggest statue. Towering in New York Harbor, tourists could admire the attraction from different angles around the city, especially Battery Park, or just board a ferry directly to the statue.

If you are planning to visit the statue, now options include from grounds tickets, pedestal tickets, to crown tickets, permitting access to various levels to the site. A great option available is to tour Ellis Island and the statue of Liberty. Skip-Line Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour + Pedestal Ticket Upgrade is a popular tour that makes visiting this sight straightforward and much easier.  

4) White House.  As the US President's official residence, the White House should rank high on your list as a major attraction to see in Washington. The historic building was the home of each president, excluding George Washington. Lafayette Park lies on the northern side of the presidential residence, and you'll find a pedestrian-only zone beyond it, filled with fascinating characters, including a great spot for taking a wonderful photo.

James Hoban originally constructed it in 1792, and after British soldiers burned it down in 1814, it was rebuilt in 1818. Though touring the White House is free, you must make reservations at least 3 weeks in advance. Bear in mind that uncompromising security rules are constantly in effect to ensure everyone's safety.

5) Walt Disney World Resort.  As a top-ranking family attraction, the Orland's mega amusement park has been catering young and old alike for decades. Opening their doors back in 1971, Walt Disney World wonderfully has succeeded in maintaining its relevance as well as its allure for kids and even adults over the years.

Walt Disney World Resort contains different theme parks, Downtown Disney with theaters and shopping, water parks, and much more such as from great dining to golf. This is a fine site where you and the entire family could stay a day or longer.

If you want to enjoy both sand and surfing, know that the lovely beaches of Florida's Atlantic coast lie just one hour away.

6) Waikiki.  As Hawaii's most popular beach and even the most famous beach in the Pacific, for more than a century Waikiki has been a main tourist destination. Today the area is a blend encompassing both modern city and tropical paradise.

Relaxing on this breath-taking stretch of white sand as palm trees sway in the wind shall surely tell you that you are now in the tropics, except the busy street and towering buildings in the background are a constant reminder that civilization is quite near. Dining, shopping, sunbathing, and surfing are all the perks making this little area of Oahu extremely popular with tourists from all around the world.

7) Las Vegas Strip.  Just strolling along the Las Vegas Strip, the major street that leads through the city beyond the massive resorts, resembles walking through a genuine amusement park for most adults. Recreations of the Eiffel Tower, the New York Skyline, the Canals of Venice, plus several other foreign attractions line the famous street.

Starting at one end where Luxor Hotel stands, shaped as a pyramid, a nice walk going down the street shall reveal a volcano erupting and then dancing fountains, but the resorts, inside, offer all types of entertainment and oddities. Several of the top things both to see and do in this flashy city are places that could be enjoyed for free.

One of Las Vegas' central attractions is the ceaseless lineup of shows. World-renowned singers perform regularly here. You'll find fine groups performing from magic, comedy to acrobatics every evening.

After having enough of city lights and the nightlife, now you can explore the close by attractions from Las Vegas on a day trip. For example, visit Death Valley National Park, Valley of Fire State Park, or Hoover Dam. Or choose to explore the nearby desert on hiking trails that surround Las Vegas, only a few minutes from downtown. 

8) Yosemite National Park.  As perhaps America's most loved park, tourists and especially nature lovers will want to visit Yosemite National Park. Famous sights such as the amazing granite domes of Half Dome and El Capitan, must be experienced in person in order to completely appreciate their grandeur.

The huge waterfalls tumbling off cliffs from sudden summer rainstorms or mountain snowfall are additional highlights that the park offers.

The park is loaded with activities you can do, ranging from horseback riding, walking, climbing, to hiking. Hiking trails often lead to spectacular scenic areas, a perfect way for escaping the crowds around lookouts.

If you are not physically inclined, you can always enjoy Yosemite's natural beauty from a picnic table while eating a home-packed peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Plus, you could catch highlights when taking a driving tour throughout the park.

Accommodations are limited in the park which include many lodges and some excellent campgrounds. But outside that national park, you'll find more options.

9) Golden Gate Bridge.  Arcing across San Francisco Bay, and then joining Marin County and San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge, constructed in the 1930s, has been a notable California icon since then. The sharp contrast of the blue water with the bridge's dark-orangish color creates an aesthetic quality which gives the city a unique distinction.

But when covered in fog with only the main towers' peaks shooting through the lower clouds, it has a majestic presence. The bridge is about 2 miles in length as well as part of SR 1 or Hwy 101. If the day is very clear, a great viewing place is on Conzelman Road, located in Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

10) Times Square.  Lively Times Square, notable for its dazzling billboards, endless throngs of people, countdown of New Year's Eve, is centered in Midtown Manhattan. 

This intersection, most normal days, is truly about the vibe and energy that you feel as you stand on any corner while taxi cabs fly by and traffic lights flash overhead, instead of any one particular location on the square. Though night is the best time to experience its full impact, during the day is still okay.

Most Famous Must-See Tourist Attractions in France

 France Travel Guide to Top Tourist Attractions

From Paris' boulevards to Cote d'Azur's seaside resorts, France offers the world's most beautiful scenery. Picture-perfect villages, magnificent cathedrals with towering rooftops, to fairy-tale castles inspire romance. However, the country's contemporary and major monuments, including fast trains services at the same time jolt tourists from the almost intoxicating storybook surroundings into today's 21st century world.

Commence your trip visiting the Eiffel Tower, France's eternal modern emblem. Next, discover world-renowned artistic masterpieces housed at the Louvre Museum. Spend a whole day pretending to be a crowned princess or princess at the fine Palace of Versailles. Make time to enjoy leisurely gourmet meals. Traditional French gastronomy has been listed on the UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Every region in France has both its own unique culture and Cuisine. For example, Brittany's costal region offers the older-world charm of ancient seaports and quaint fishing villages, and the French Alps provides tasty cuisine of Charcuterie and cheese fondue served in comfortable chalets close to ski slopes.

Appreciate the country's magnetic charm and discover the best things you can do and what are the top tourist attractions with this France travel guide.

1) Eiffel Tower.  As a massive symbol glorifying Paris, the Eiffel Tower, rising 320 meters into the blue ski, is a very famous landmark deserving a visit. Gustave Eiffel designed this huge structure comprising 8,000 metallic parts but only as a temporary exhibit to be shown in the 1889 World Fair. Though once even detested by critics at the time, the Eiffel Tower still became both a loved and permanent fixture adorning the Paris skyline.

Because of the Eiffel Tower's grace and beauty, it has earned itself the Iron Lady nickname. Tourists are awed by the tower's airy delicateness in spite of its massiveness and the stunning panoramas at every level--three in all.

Visitors could either dine at the first level and delight in the excellent view or on the next level up eat at the Michein-starred Le Jules Verne restaurant. But at the thrilling height of 276 meters, the highest level provides a wonderful outlook over Paris and more. In fact, vistas may extend as much as seventy kilometers, but on a crystal-clear day.

2) Musee du Louvre.  Housed in a stately palace which used to be a royal residence, the Louvre Museum now ranks among the best European collections that display the finest art pieces. You'll find several Western Civilization's foremost famous works here such as Mona Lisa, the Wedding Feast of Cana, and Venus de Milo sculpture.

Various kings, living in the Louvre, contributed generously to this collection's treasure chest. Other art pieces got added on account of France's treaties with the Republic of Venice and the Vatican, and the spoils of Napole'on l.

Today, the Louvre Museum displays about 35,000 artworks that include numerous masterpieces. Actually, it's not humanly possible, only in your dreams, to see so much in just one day. It's highly recommended to either use a private guided tour or concentrate on a list of favorite artworks to get a more rewarding experience without feeling overwhelmed.

3) Cha'teau de Versailles.  Emblematizing the French monarchy's grandeur before the ancient Re'gime's fall, Cha'teau de Versailles represents France's glorious moment in history, during Louis XIV's reign, when the palace established the standard for princely courts for all Europe.

Louis XIV managed to transform his dad's hunting lodge in 1661 into a full-blown royal palace. To materialize the king's vision, famed architect Louis Le Vau modernized the Cha'teau in a neoclassical fashion of sheer elegance. Later, another architect, Jules Hardouin-Mansart built the luxurious Baroque interiors such as the Hall of Mirrors.

The most extraordinary portion in the palace is found in the Hall of Mirrors, precisely where courtiers had to wait to gain an audience with the king. This sensational gallery shines with sunlight entering through the windows and reflecting off 100's of ornamental mirrors, as many dazzling chandeliers and even gilded details cause a greater and more amazing overall impression.

Versailles is famous for Les Jardins, which are formal French gardens that feature decorative pools, many statues, beautiful fountains, and admirably trimmed shrubbery. Renowned landscape designer Andre' Le Notre built the gardens in the 17th century, encompassing no less than eight hundred hectares of exuberant parkland.

Domaine de Trianon which lies beyond the formal gardens, includes Le Hameau de la Reine, Le Grand Trianon Palace, and Le Petit Trianon Cha'teau. Here you'll see Marie-Antonette's fabricated pastoral village that features quaint cottages lying around a lake. Rural architecture inspired these structures to have a rather weathered finish which was deliberately rendered to provide a more rustic appearance.

The French queen's hamlet initially had an operating dairy and farm, serving her children at an educational capacity. In fact, this place was originally designed as a spot for her to escape from the tiresome formality of daily court life, to enjoy short strolls as well as visits with friends. The halmet offers a truly rare glimpse of the French queen's private world.

4) Cote' d'Azur.  France's most trendy stretch of coastline, the Cote' d'Azur, extending from Saint-Tropez to Menton close to the Italian border, means "Coast of Blue," which is a suitable name that perfectly describes the Mediterranean's spellbinding cerulean waters.

This glorious seaside destination is recognized as the French Riviera to English speakers, the words ringing of sun-soaked decadence.

During the summer months, the seaside resorts are generally crammed with sunbathers and beach lovers. The famous and rich can be seen here residing in lavish villas and sailing on luxury yachts. Nice, a town, offers stellar art museums and panoramic sea views. Cannes is renowned for its legendary hotels and celebrity film festival.

The best-ranked beaches can be found in Antibes, plus having superb museums and an atmospheric Old Town. Saint-Tropez now offers both private and public beaches together with the feel of a charming fishing village, but Monaco captivates with its unrivaled scenery and personal ambience.

5) Mont Saint-Michel.  Towering from a rocky islet nearby the Normandy coast, Mont Saint-Michel is France's foremost striking landmark. The mystical site rises 80 meters over and above the bay, while imposing bastions and defensive walls surround it.

The chief tourist attraction is Abbaya du Mont Saint-Michel, a marvelous medieval architectural work boasting soaring Gothic spires. The Abbey Church's serene beauty scarcely fails to awe new visitors with its well-balanced Romanesque ornate and nave high-vaulted choir.

Constructed in the 11th century, the Abbey Church continues to be a significant Christian pilgrimage destination, nicknamed "The heavenly Jerusalem." Mont Saint-Michel still succeeds to inspire modern-day pilgrims who practice the traditional crossing the bay on foot as they did back in the Middle Ages.

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Most Famous Must-See Tourist Attractions in Saint Martin

Saint Martin Travel Guide to Top Tourist Attractions

The little but beautifully formed, the Caribbean island, Saint Martin comprises two separate countries that are divided between its southern Dutch side, Sint Maarten, and its northern French side, known as Saint-Martin. The end result is something extraordinary where no less than 120 different nationalities come together and also where you'll find the Caribbean's absolute best cuisines. Plus, this small paradise offers breath-taking white sandy beaches, quiet hidden bays, vibrant beach bars and nightlife, superb shopping, including very good options for both hiking and water sports and you got a wonderful vacation destination. Experience Saint Martin with this list of 5 best-rated must-see attractions.

1) Marigot Bay Port.  The Marigot Bay Port is a stunning site. 

Marigot happens to be the capital of Saint Martin's French side, constructed close to the bay that bears the same name. As the center of life on the small island, the port is a very exciting place for tourists.

Drop by the port to take memorable pictures of the pretty local homes, typical of the Caribbean's gingerbread-like architecture. In addition, you can enjoy great views of Fort St. Louis as well as tour through the fort. The port also provides bistros and a biweekly market.

2) Maho Beach.  Because Saint Martin is divided between two sides, the French and Dutch side, Maho Beach is an incredible stretch of coastline unfolding on the Dutch side. Tourists could bask in the Caribbean's warm waters and sandy shores.

But Maho Beach's major attraction isn't either the sea or even the sand; it's the air. The beach being situated beside Princess Juliana International Airport, there are hardly other airports elsewhere where tourists could stand extremely close to an airplane's final approach and also observe it landing on the runway. Maho Beach offers you a unique beach experience.

3) Philipsburg.  As the chief town on the Dutch side of Saint Martin, Philipsburg sits between the Great Salt Pond and Great Bay, providing excellent views of the water.

As the town's central shopping district, Front Street offers great deals on China, jewelry, and more. Here you'll run across the Coliseum Princess Casino.

Proceed to Old Street to delight in a quainter and a quieter shopping experience, where historic buildings stand hosting from little shops, bistros, to many photo opportunities such as the iconic yellow automobile that tourists love.

4) Orient Bay Beach.  As one of the busiest and nicest beaches, Orient Bay Beach contains wonderful turquoise waters and white sand, as do most beaches on Saint Martin. But what makes Orient Bay Beach especially unique is its vibrant nature. You'll find several restaurants, bars, and shops that line the beach. This is an excellent place for relaxing on the shore as well as enjoying the bohemian vibe.

5) Anse Marcel.  Go to Anse Marcel to have a luxurious traveling experience. Anse Marcel is an unquestionable the foremost beautiful place to visit on Saint Martin. In fact, Anse Marcel is actually a secluded cove with peaceful swimming, waters on the northern part of the island. Because the bay does a fine job of protecting the waters from the most dangerous waves, it's a great destination for families.

Also, there is a fair number of hotels and luxury resorts here, making it the ideal getaway for visitors searching for some quiet time for resting and relaxing.

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Most Famous Must-See Attractions in Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic Travel Guide to Top Tourist Attractions

Majestic postcard-perfect beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, beautiful resorts, and now a well-cemented tourism infrastructure draw numerous visitors to the Dominican Republic each year. But the diverse geography that ranges from mountains, semi-desert areas to lush forests, creates special opportunities for tourists who desire more than just a mere beach vacation.

La Romana, Puerto Plata, and Punta Cana are the beach resorts offering what several packaged vacationers are searching for: an ideal tropical escape intended for relaxation. Here you will have a fair selection of the most all-inclusive resorts in Dominican Republic.

Solo and independent tourists wanting to get away from this scene could proceed to distant areas of the island such as the Samana' Peninsula, which is the mountainous interior, or the often-overlooked cities and towns. Kiteboarders and surfers alike will find precisely what they are looking for while passing places like Cabarete. Plus, Santo Domingo delivers a unique history in its colonial zone.

Enjoy nature, discover secluded lovely beaches, as well as learn about the celebrated culture with this handy Dominican travel guide to find the top tourist attractions and what you can do while in the Dominican Republic.

1) Tour Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone.  In Santo Domingo, where Christopher Columbus first arrived in the America's, you will not only come across lively modern life but also centuries-old buildings. The colonial architecture, most which currently houses from museums, shops, hotels to restaurants, lines the squares and streets, and transports you back to quite another time in jaw-dropping fashion.

A lot of the activity concentrates around the popular Calle El Conde, which is the major thoroughfare and area for either fine dining el fresco or shopping. Roaming around the different streets, you are sure to discover crumbling ruins such as the Monesterio de San Francisco, and wonderfully preserved structures like the Catedral Primada de America, still used today, and even residential areas that offer fleeting glimpses into real local life.

Just devouring a mouth-watering delicious pizza while sitting inside a restored colonial structure on a very warm night or relaxing in the well-decorated courtyard of your 400-year-old hotel room could feel like a special experience in the beautiful city. Make no mistake, Santo Domingo is certainly a place well worth staying for a few days.

2) Puerto Plata and Playa Dorada.  Located in the north coast, with a great view of the Atlantic Ocean, the pretty stretch of beach called Playa Dorada and Puerto Plata's resort destination is the Dominican Republic's major tourist draw. The golden-sand beach is dotted with luxury resorts, though mostly less densely crammed than what you might expect to find in Punta Cana.

This area in addition is far more subdued, having a rather tranquil feel. Although these beaches are not usually busy with water sports and boats, it's a fine area for either snorkeling or swimming. You could walk past the resorts and visit undeveloped beaches surrounded by forest and palm trees.

3) Kiteboarding.  A well-known kiteboarding destination, Cabarete, with its center of action happening on Kite Beach, is not very far from Cabarete's central beach. It's around a twenty-minute stroll along the beach, the town's center to Kite Beach.

This little part of Cabarete has all its own special vibe. Most mornings the beach is calm, except for walkers, joggers, swimmers, and people engaged in stand up paddleboarding. Often in the afternoon, as the winds blow harder, kiteboarders start descending on the beach, and soon the blue skies are filled with colorful kites.

The sand parades unusual colors as kites wait for the perfect winds to materialize. Some restaurants here provide casual meals, several focusing particularly on vegetarian food, plus other healthy side dishes. A free circus always entertains where the beach ends, on every Friday afternoon. It's still worth visiting to enjoy the spectacle, even if you aren't a kiter. 

In February, Cabarete hosts the yearly Master of the Ocean contest, where the world's best appear to compete from kitesurfing, surfing, stand up paddleboarding, to windsurfing. This is a good time to observe amazing kiting on Kite Beach.

Now you too can take up kiteboarding with many schools offering lessons and hotels catering to kiters.

4) Whale Watching.  Imagine: every winter, December through March, countless humpback whales enter Samana' Bay to start mating and giving birth, doubtlessly making this a hot spot for seeing these amazing huge animals in the wild. The city of Samana,' situated on the Samana' Peninsula, is a central departure place for whale watching tours.

Though the city provides little more for tourists, whales are a popular attraction that several companies offer now day trips here from different locations around the island. You can sign up for a 12-hour worth of whale watching in Las Terrenas.

5) Las Terrenas.  Sitting on the north coast, Las Terrenas is rather a busy Dominican city boasting a calm and relaxed beachfront area, and where one-lane dirt roads wind and meander beyond little French cafes, beaches, and the ocean.

This is a great place to taste Dominican culture and many of the city's conveniences, mixed with a fine beach destination. Such as Las Galeras, several French people have chosen to call Las Terrenas home and also have gone into business by putting up restaurants and inns.

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Most Famous Must-See Tourist Attractions in Cuba

Cuba Travel Guide to Top Tourist Attractions

 

As the Caribbean's biggest island, Cuba is unmistakably dripping with culture, history, and an enchanting sort of mystique rarely seen or felt elsewhere. Music from live bands playing is heard vibrating through the beautiful, cobbled squares of Havana's Old Town, neat vintage automobiles are still cruising the streets and avenues, and the old charming structures in Cuba's colonial cities truly evoke the feeling of a country getting frozen in time.

Cuba provides abundant natural beauty with over 5,000 kilometers of coastline which is mostly rimmed by incredible beaches. Coral reefs shine in the turquoise-colored waters, plus Cuba's sublime islands and lush countryside have one point in time hosted presidents; given refuge to revolutionaries; and also inspired authors from all over the world, including Hemingway.

Together with all this intoxicating beauty, rich history, and excellent fishing and diving, Cuba offers a diversity and depth that few Caribbean islands could match. Use this practical Cuba travel guide to find the top tourist attractions in Cuba.

1) Old Havana.  As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Old Havana is an admirably-preserved place representing a piece of Cuban history. Just by walking about the cobbled streets and staring up at the row of neoclassical and the grand Baroque buildings, it's quite easy to begin imagining the kind of life Cuba was like 300 years ago.

Major renovations are currently reviving the historic structures. Main attractions around this area are the Plaza de la Catedral which contains the Cuban Baroque Catedral de San Cristobal, the fine restaurant as well as Hemingway's hangout, Bode Guita del Medio, and the impressive military fortress, Castillo de la Real Fuerza.

In addition, the Old Town, Plaza Vieja is another place worth visiting in Havana. This lively gathering location boast a few notable structures such as the 18th-century Casa del Conde Jaruco, the first floor displaying lovely stained-glass windows. Close by, the camera obscura provides remarkable views from the uppermost height of its 35-meter tower. You'll need at least one solid day in order to experience the Old Town.

2) Varadero.  As Cuba's foremost famous beach destination, offering the best-rated beaches in the Caribbean, Varadero extends along the Peninsula de Hicacos, jutting into the beautiful sea only off the north coast; a drawbridge now connects it conveniently to the mainland.

This popular strip is filled with over 50 hotels, and its glorious white-sand beaches never fail to draw tourists from all over the world.

Other delightful highlights in Varadero include Cueva de Musulmanes, Cueva de Ambrosio, and Parque Ecolo'gico Varahicacos, plus its 2 caves.

In addition, you'll find the calm Parque Josone which is filled with lush flower gardens, swimming pool, restaurant, and a little lake where you could paddle in rowboats.

Other fun things to do include snorkeling, diving, deep-sea fishing, skydiving, golf, and day hikes to cultural attractions.

3) Trinidad.  When you start exploring this town in Cuba, is like going back in time. Both the cobblestone streets and wonderfully restored buildings in the city center always exude a sort of quaint colonial feel.

A lot of the architecture goes all the way back from the 17th to the 19th centuries, the times when Trinidad was flourishing from both the slave and sugar trades. 

Now, Trinidad is a great city in Cuba worth visiting. You could delight in its vibrant ambience in the cobblestone Plaza Mayor, which is the city's main square. Then you'll find the neoclassical church of the Holy Trinity standing above the square.

Other Trinidad attractions include the bell-towered Church and Monastery of Saint Francis, the art gallery at the Casa de Aldeman Ortiz, the Museum of Colonial Architecture, and the Palacio Brunet, which is a fine home constructed in 1812 and yet featuring original marble floors and frescoes.

If you proceed east of Trinidad, and in route to Sancti Spiritus, the lush Valle de los Ingenios boasts many monuments and relics from the 19th century, when both mills and sugar cane plantations prospered. It is recommended to just drive or go on horseback through the lovely scenery of mountains, green sugar cane fields, and palm trees.

4) Guardalavaca.  Located in the Holguin province and rimmed by dazzling beaches, Guardalavaca is calmer and more distant than Varadero. Fringed with lush foliage, these beaches offer an abundance of shady patches perfect if you're searching for a break from the hot tropical sun. Both snorkelers and divers could explore plenty of sea life that exist along the coral reefs.

Consider taking a day trip beginning from Guardalavaca, including enjoying jungle adventures, sailing, as well as a sightseeing tour of Santiago de Cuba.

West of Guardalavaca, you'll find Bahia de Naranjo encompassing a big slice of 3 islands, coast, and Cayo Naranjo which features the popular Dolphinarium that provides close-up encounters with such friendly sea animals.

Chorro de Maita is yet another worthy side trip option now available from Guardalavaca, where you'll see a native Indian burial area as well as a rebuilt Taino Indian village.

5) Playa Paraiso.  Reputed for its lovely beaches and located on the island of Cayo Largo del Sur, Playa Paraiso is Cuba's top-ranking beach. This lofty stretch of powdery white sand, plus the light-blue sea enhances the island's sheltered western edge, merging finally with the rivaling but equally enchanting Playa Sirena.

Cayo Largo de Sur island is really a sunworshipper's little heaven with a typically sunny, dry climate, including some decent attractions dotting here and there among stunning beaches, and several resorts and hotels.

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Most Famous Must-See Tourist Attractions in Peru

 Peru Travel Guide to Top Tourist Attractions

Peru is a South American country, home to fair stretch of Amazon rainforest as well as Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan city that stands high in the Andes Mountain. Peru is a nation crammed with history, enchanting beauty, culture, and many adventurous opportunities for tourists. Besides Machu Picchu as a high point of a trip here, there's a lot more that Peru promises you to discover.

You could board a boat on the world's highest navigable lake, admire an extremely deep canyon, go sandboarding in the dunes, fish for piranha in the Amazon, or hike for hours in the Andes. Also, you can explore the Nazca Lines' mysteries, walk through Sacred Valley's ancient ruins, or experience Peru's modern life as you wander Lima's streets.

The sheer diversity of the people, landscape, including the experiences here easily make Peru a very unique destination on the South American continent. 

Now you can use my Peru travel guide to find the top tourist attractions in Peru.

1) Machu Picchu.  Sitting high on a ridge, some 300 meters over the Urubamba River, the glorious Inca city is an unmatched dramatic setting of a ruined city. Nearly as extraordinary as the ruins themselves is the stunning backdrop of lush, steep, and cloud-covered mountains.

Situated close to the caretaker's hut, overlooking Mach Picchu, the jungle-shrouded mountains, plus the river that runs far below, you could just start imagining why the wise Incas picked this particular site to construct their beloved city.

In 1911 Hiram Bingham discovered Machu Picchu and firmly believed to his last dying breath that it was the Incas' Lost City. But historians today differ in thinking that the genuine lost city of the Incas was Espiritu Pampa, which Hiram actually knew of but just dismissed it as unimportant.

Also, the trip becomes part of your experience of touring Machu Picchu, whether it is seeing the path by rail, or by just hiking the Inca Trail. Whatever is the case, the scenery will unquestionably inspire you. Trains leave from Urubamba, Cusco, or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

From Aguas Calientes, which is a town standing below Machu Picchu, you can hop on a bus that takes you up to the high-standing Inca city, only a twenty-minute ride through a harrowing switchback road. Though it's quite possible to walk up this road to Machu Picchu, it is a long and uphill climb and we seriously do not recommend it as a practical option for safety reasons.

2) The Inca Trail.  The famed Inca trail is a lengthy 4-day hike that ends at Machu Picchu, and almost all fans regard it as the highlight of their journey to Peru. 

The scenic trail is both quite demanding physically than most tourists expect and what makes it yet more rewarding. A number of varying beginning spots exist for the Inca Trail; however, the old 4-day hike starts at km 82 of the Cusco--rail line of Aguas Calientes. From here, the trail will pass over thirty Inca ruins and travel through impressive scenery. The most challenging part of the trail merges during the second day when you have to climb 1200 meters in both elevation gain and 2 high passes. This hike has to be arranged with an agency, and you must book reservations well in advance, especially during the high season from the months of June to August.

Certain agencies provide the option of getting a shortened version of the hike, entailing the last 2 days or only the hike's last day to lighten the physical burden for some. Campgrounds are scattered along the trail, including one at the base of Machu Picchu. A Hiker could carry his/her own backpack, or have it brought to him/her, depending on the kind of tour.

3) Cusco's Architectural Wealth.  Taking a walk through Cusco's streets is comparable to roaming through a museum, with many layers of history everywhere in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The foundations of several beautiful old colonial structures sit on Inca ruins; these buildings line the narrow roads and display Cusco's long history.

The chief square, Plaza de Armas, standing in the city center is where you'll find La Compania and the Cathedral, two lovely buildings. In addition, the square is a very good place to begin a tour on foot, get a meal, or just watch people going about their business during your day.

Though there are many fine structures and museums worthy of being visited, the church of Santo Domingo sitting on Coricancha's ruins of the Inca, is Cusco's must-see attraction.

4) Lake Titicaca.  Lake Titicaca's sparkling blue water is surrounded by traditional little villages and rolling hills. The lake area happens to be a combination of culture and lovely scenery which makes it quite unique from other regions. Located 3,820 meters beyond sea level, Lake Titicaca is recognized as the world's highest navigable lake.

A boat ride to the islands, including surrounding villages, is the ideal way to truly appreciate the lake. Uros Floating Islands is a major tourist attraction which sustains little communities of Uros Indians. In fact, they are man-made islands built of reeds which have sustained a traditional manner of life from the Incas' time.

The chief gateway to Lake Titicaca is presently the city of Puno, and here you will find travel agencies, hotels, and restaurants. There are buses and trains to Puno as well as flights coming and leaving the close by city of Juliaca.

5) Colca Canyon.  Though it once was thought to be the world's deepest canyon, Colca Canyon, being twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, is still the second deepest after Cotainuasi Canyon. In fact, resulting from a seismic fault between 2 volcanoes, Colca Canyon reaches an amazing depth of 3,400 meters. The base and far below sits a winding river.

Inhabited for 1000's of years, Colca Canyon was home to the Collagua, then Cabana, and inevitably the Inca peoples. Stone that terraces along the ancient canyon walls actually dates to AD 800.

Colca Canyon is approximately a 4-hour drive from Arequipa, where day trips to the canyon are always available; two days at least are recommended in order to access the canyon. Plus, there are hot springs, villages, churches, and you can explore Inca ruins. You may even sight condors soaring over the cliff walls.

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