Auto Shanghai

China is on the verge of automotive domination, both from a consumer and manufacturer standpoint. Already the number one car market in the world, the People’s Republic now sits ahead of the U.S. and behind only Japan in automobile production worldwide. With that in mind, the biennial international automobile show held in Shanghai is major.

Bologna Motor Show

As the home of Ferrari, Ducati, Lamborghini, Maserati and Pagani, the region of Emilia-Romagna is a mecca for motor vehicle enthusiasts. No surprise then that the Bologna Motor Show draws international observers to the historic city every December. Aside from traditional exhibits, the show also features motorcycle and auto races, freestyle motocross, rally cars and stunt displays.

Australian International Motor Show

The Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre hosts the Australian International Motor Show every two years. From the confines of spectacular Darling Harbour, the location could not be more choice.

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North American International Auto Show

The North American International Auto Show is held every January in Detroit, Michigan. While The Motor City economy has taken a serious beatdown of late, the show is still a premier event in the industry and one of the most important in the world. This is where the press and public get first looks at new concept and production vehicles after all, such as the 2010 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 and 2009 Saab 9-5 Griffin. The presentation of North American Car and Truck of the Year awards also help make the show a big deal.

Paris Motor Show

The first auto show in the world is still highly anticipated every year and the place where many manufacturers unveil new concept cars. The biennial Paris Motor Show, or Mondial de l’Automobile, began in 1898 and is one of the most important events on the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles calendar. The next Paris Motor Show will take place in October 2010.

Chicago Auto Show

When the Chicago Auto Show overtook Detroit in size and attendance, it was quite a coup. While Detroit is crucial for industry insiders and the worldwide automotive press, Chicago is for the fans. More than 1,000 vehicles typically go on display at the annual event, which has been held more often than any other car show on the planet. With over one million visitors every February at McCormick Place on Lake Michigan, the Chicago Auto Show is indeed massive.

Tokyo Motor Show

As the top car manufacturer in the world, Japan has to have a world class auto show. The capital city is the place for it of course and with Detroit, Frankfurt, Paris and Geneva, the Tokyo Motor Show is part of the industry’s big five. The biennial event held in October and November is a slick affair, with cars, trucks and motorcycles on display. Though not technically in Tokyo proper, the host convention center Makuhari Messe is a mere 40 km away in Chiba City.

International Geneva Motor Show

Geneva is a vital international city, home to countless global associations and trade fairs throughout the year. The International Geneva Motor Show is one of the most important automotive industry events of the year, held every March in the superb Palexpo convention complex. Splashy production car debuts at the 2009 show included the Artega GT, Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, Aston Martin DBS Volante and Wiesmann MF4-S.

Frankfurt Motor Show

The Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung, or Frankfurt Motor Show, is simply the biggest and best in the world. The annual event actually shuttles between Hannover and Frankfurt, with the former dedicated solely to commercial vehicle launches. The passenger vehicles on display every odd-numbered year in Frankfurt then, is the principal draw for the press and public. While the 2009 show was all about electric cars, there were some notable introductions, such as the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and $1.5 million Lamborghini Reventón.

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Southward Car Museum

Run by a charitable trust, the Southward Car Museum is a short drive from Wellington in Otaihanga, on the North Island Kapiti Coast of New Zealand. The former car collection of Sir Len Southward and Lady Vera Southward features over 250 vehicles, from Marlene Dietrich’s Rolls-Royce to crime boss Mickey Cohen’s Cadillac.

Art Car Museum

As much about contemporary art as cars, the Art Car Museum of Houston, Texas is a strange and wonderful place. “Garage Mahal” is a celebration and commentary on contemporary car culture, where artists have free reign to trick out vehicles any way they see fit.

National Car Museum of Iran

If you ever make it to the city of Karaj, home to more than 1.3 million people, check out National Car Museum of Iran. The museum features the classic car collection of the last Shah, left behind after the revolution of 1979.

AutoWorld

Parc du Cinquantenaire in the European Quarter of Brussels provides a cool home for AutoWorld. A vintage car lovers dream, the museum has over 350 vehicles on display.

BMW Museum

Perhaps the most futuristic and avant-garde car museum in the world, the ode to BMW in Olympiapark, Munich is a marvel. If you love the icon brand, this place offers the total experience.

Emirates National Auto Museum

In what is perhaps one of the most opulent personal collections in the world, the Emirates National Auto Museum puts all of Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan’s cars on display. Best to call first before you drive out of Abu Dhabi on the E65 to visit.

California Automobile Museum

More than 160 classic cars inhabit 72,000 square feet of space at the California Automobile Museum in Sacramento. If you have the budget for it, you can even drive away with a vintage vehicle. The museum even has a throwback soda fountain, which takes the nostalgic motif to another level.

Mercedes-Benz Museum

Another German automotive gold standard gets the futuristic treatment in Stuttgart. The magnificent double helix interior contains a bevy of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, old and new, and welcomes almost one million visitors every year.

Porsche Museum

As with BMW and Mercedes-Benz, no expense was too large and no detail too small in the conception of the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. The sports car company spent €100 million on the facility … and it shows.

Galleria Ferrari

While Germany has some fabulous car museums, without a shred of doubt, Italy is up there as well. The home of some of the most desirable car brands in the world has a gem in the Galleria Ferrari, in the Emilia-Romagna town of Maranello.

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Lamborghini Museum

Another veritable hall of fame for high-performance luxury car purists is on hand in the tiny comune of Sant’Agata Bolognese. A recent influx of cash from the Volkswagen Group makes the Lamborghini Factory tour and museum a special treat. Well worth the trip from Bologna.

Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile

As the headquarters of both Fiat and Alfa Romeo, former Winter Games host Torino is a major car city. The Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile is a beautiful piece of architecture for one and has some extremely rare and valuable vehicles on display. For serious car buffs, the museum has a library and documentation center with tens of thousands of items.

Haynes International Motor Museum

The best car museum in England provides lovers of Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Jaguar, not to mention Ferrari and Bugatti, with a place to pay homage.

Cité de l’Automobile

With the most prolific collection of Bugatti vehicles in the world, the Alsace city of Mulhouse has a terrific automotive mecca in the Cité de l’Automobile. Once the private collection of the Schlumpf brothers, both wealthy textile barons, the incredible museum is now a National Heritage site in France. Beyond Bugatti, the collection of 520 cars also features many rare French-made vehicles.

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Back in 2006, the staff at the USA Today newspaper decided to let the American public vote for what they believed were the 7 wonders of the world. They worked in conjunction with the morning television show Good Morning America and after their panel of judges chose the 7 winners they were revealed, one at a time, over the course of a week on the television show. An 8^th wonder was later added to the list based on the overwhelming request of the viewers.

8. Grand Canyon – Arizona, United States

Earning honorable mention based on the request of Good Morning America viewers is the stunning Grand Canyon. Carved by the Colorado River over a period of more than 5 million years, the canyon stretches more than 277 miles and ranges from anywhere between 4 and 18 miles wide depending on the area you visit. Grand Canyon National Park was one of the first national parks in the country to be officially established.

7. Great Migration of Serengeti and Masai Mara – Tanzania & Kenya

The Serengeti National Park is one of the largest in Tanzania and continues over the border into Kenya where it is known as the Masai Mara, also a gigantic park reserve. This section of the park is well known because of the annual migration of zebra and wildebeest to the park grounds. Between the months of July and October you’ll find an astounding number of creatures in the park, including more than 1.3 million wildebeests, 200,000 zebras, and more than 350,000 gazelles. Lions and hyenas, their most feared predators, usually follow along as well.

6. Maya Ruins – Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

The Maya Ruins are amongst some of the most beautiful and extensively studied ruins in Mexico. Spread throughout the entire Yucatan Peninsula, there are dozens of sites where you can stop to view the few remaining examples of Mayan architecture, writing, and artwork. You’ll find the best sites in Quinta Roo, Yucatan, and Campeche.

5. Internet – Global

Believe it or not, the people spoke and voted the creation of the Internet as the 5^th wonder of the world. As odd as it seems, we’re really not surprised. No one could have imagined the creation of a virtual infrastructure as massive as the “network of networks” that creates what we know as the internet today. Providing an endless array of services and information, the internet has certainly grown from what it was when it originated in the 1960’s.

4. Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument

The Papahanamokuakea Marine National Monument is one of the most astounding national monuments in the United States. It spans over 140,000 square miles and is comprised of 10 islands and the rest ocean water. When it was declared in 2006, President George W. Bush originally called it the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Marine National Monument but it was later renamed. The site is not considered a sanctuary, although the ocean is considered part of the country’s national marine sanctuary system.

3. Polar Ice Caps – Polar Regions

The polar ice caps, always found in high latitude regions, were added to the list of world wonders as well. Traditionally, a polar ice cap is any area that is covered in ice, whether or not it is over land or water, found in a polar region. Polar ice caps aren’t only found on earth and the makeup of the ice can vary. On Mars, for example, the ice caps aren’t only made up of water but include carbon dioxide as well.

2. Old City of Jerusalem – Jerusalem, Israel

The Old City of Jerusalem is a large, walled in area taking up only .35 square miles of land. This area used to encompass the entire city but is now a key historic focal point housing several temples and religious sights. Inside you’ll find the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Western Wall, and the Temple Mount, amongst other incredible sights.

1. Potala Palace – Lhasa, Tibet, China

The Potala Palace, located in Lhasa, is named after Mount Potala. The palace was traditionally the main residence of the Dalai Lama until 1959 when the 14^th Dalai Lama was forced to flee the region for India after the invasion. Potala Palace was taken over by the Chinese who converted the 1,000 room palace into a museum. Inside you’ll find more than 200,000 statues and 10,000 individual shrines.

While you really don’t need to plan a special trip to visit the Internet, you should definitely consider working one of the other fantastic wonders into your next travel itinerary. We’re sure you’ll find them as breathtaking the rest of the country!

We guarantee you’ll see more stars in the sky than you will anywhere else in the world. They’re beautiful and amazing and you’ll be glad you made the trip to see them.

7. Monte-Megantic National Park – Quebec, Canada

Travel around 145 miles east, away from Montreal, and you’ll find the astounding Mont-Megantic National Park in Quebec, Canada.

The park is part of what is known as the Dark Sky Reserve, a dedicated plot of Canadian land earmarked for work designed to preserve the amazing views of the night sky from the area. The park is also home to the esteemed ASTROLab where astronomers regularly interpret what they see in the skies.

6. Joshua Tree National Park – California

Considered part of the California national parks system, Joshua Tree National Park is one of the best places in the country for stargazing. The skies here are so clear, and the park is so popular, the Andromeda Astromonical Society has chosen the park as the home of its monthly start gazing party. Joshua Tree is an amazing place to visit if you want to catch a clear view of the Milky Way.

5. Atacama Desert – Chile

In the Atacama Desert in Chile you may be discouraged at finding yourself at high altitudes and breathing some pretty dry air. On the other hand, you’ll be breathing some of the least polluted air on the planet and, as such, gazing into some of the cleanest skies – the perfect place to check out the stars.

Make sure you visit the Observatorio Cerro Mamalluca while you’re in the desert. They offer public tours and will educate you about the stars you can see from Atacama Desert.

4. Southern Africa

It’s hard to pinpoint just one great stargazing destination in Southern Africa as there aren’t many areas that will disappoint you. Southern Africa isn’t incredibly populated so the lack of people equals minimal pollution, meaning the skies will be clearer than they would be in a rural setting.

If you head towards Cape Town or Sutherland you’ll find the South African Astronomical Observatory where you can catch a glimpse of the stars under the guidance of some of the area’s most dedicated astronomers.

3. Valentia Island – Ireland

The skies along the western coast of Ireland are particularly dark. These cloudless skies may make you feel as though you’re part of an eerie movie but when you look up above you’ll be astounded by what you see. Valentia Island is one of the most recommended (and most popular) places to see the stars in Ireland. Plan to spend an evening or two in the area, either camping or renting a vacation home on the island.

2. Hawaii – United States

Want to enjoy a tropical getaway and catch a glimpse of an astoundingly clear night sky? Head to any Hawaiian destination and you’ll be astounded at the stargazing opportunities that present themselves. If you head towards Manua Kea you can visit one of the largest observatories in the world. Just make sure you visit before 2025, the year scientists expect to find that all of the dark skies in the United States will be permanently polluted.

1. Wiruna – New South Wales, Australia

In the middle of the woods of New South Wales you’ll stumble upon a 100 square acre section of land that is completely clear and protected, reserved for dedicated stargazers. Owned by local astronomers, the area is home to some of the darkest skies in the world – perfect for stargazing either during the annual South Pacific Star Party or at any other time throughout the year.

Take advantage of any opportunity you can get to stargaze. As the world becomes more polluted, areas with clear dark skies will become few and far between. Before you know it, stargazing will be a thing of the past. Make sure you enjoy the experience while you still can.

Havasu Falls

The Havasupai is the only native tribe to call the Grand Canyon home. The aboriginal people who inhabit the confines of the spectacular world wonder trace roots back some 800 years and more. Scores of tourists visit the Havasupai Indian Reservation to hike scenic trails, scour the bottom of the Grand Canyon and of course, gaze at Havasu and Mooney Falls.

Kaieteur Falls

Guyana is a country of dense rainforest, rivers, singular biodiversity and a strong indigenous heritage. Formerly British Guiana, the country has more in common with anglophone Caribbean culture than with the rest of South America. While the capital Georgetown is a beautiful old colonial town, Iwokrama Forest and the Kanuku Mountains, together with Kaieteur Falls in Kaieteur National Park, form the country’s best chance to secure a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Five times the height of Niagara Falls and twice that of Victoria Falls, Kaieteur is magnificent and by far the top attraction in Guyana. Werner Herzog’s 2004 documentary The White Diamond offers spectacular canopy views of the falls.

Huangguoshu Waterfall

Anshun is a small city in the province of Guizhou, China. Home to just over 215,000 people, the local claim to fame is the Huangguoshu Waterfall. Also known as the Yellow Fruit Tree Fall, Huangguoshu features a massive natural cave where visitors can get up close and personal.

Bridalveil Fall

Millions of people pass through the Yosemite Valley every year. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was one of the first national parks in the world and features incredible geological formations, Giant Sequoia groves, wonderful biodiversity, five vegetation zones and of course, waterfalls. Bridalveil Fall is simply put, one of the most impressive plunge waterfalls in the world.

Powerscourt Waterfall

The Slazenger family, of sports equipment fame, own and operate one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland. Powerscourt Estate sits on nearly 50 impressive acres and began as a 13th century castle. Familiar to many as the backdrop of Stanley Kubrick’s Barry Lyndon, the estate features the most impressive waterfall in all of Ireland.

Jog Falls

A massive, epic plunge waterfall of record proportions for India, Jog Falls provide the state of Karnataka with a marvelous attraction, some 400 km outside of Bangalore.

Rhine Falls

The result of Ice Age erosion some 15,000 years ago, the Rhine Falls now form the most immense plain waterfalls in all of Europe. The crown jewel attraction in the comely town and canton of Schaffhausen, Switzerland.

Tugela Falls

Second only to Angel Falls in Venezuela in overall height, Tugela Falls in the Royal Natal National Park in KwaZulu-Natal Province, Republic of South Africa, is awesome. Two spectacular trails ferry visitors to the top, with phenomenal views in store at the summit.

Johnston Canyon Lower Falls

The glacial landscape of Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada forms some of the most incredible scenery in North America. Between Banff and Lake Louise flows Johnston Creek, a tributary of the Bow River, and no less than seven powerful gorge cascades. In winter, the frozen falls provide ice climbers with superb recreation.

Gocta Waterfall

A relatively new discovery, at least to the outside world, formal expeditions to Gocta Waterfall were only made in 2005. Though some differ on the exact height, Gocta at least makes the top fifteen worldwide and as high as third by some accounts. At any rate, the Chachapoyas province attraction in the Amazonas Region of Peru is a spectacular find.

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10. Berlin Wall – Germany

The Berlin Wall loomed over the city of Berlin for 28 years, constantly reminding citizens of the horrors associated with the Cold War. A concrete version of the Iron Curtain, the wall stood from 1961 until 1989, when it was finally destroyed. November of 2009 will mark the 20^th anniversary of the destruction of this oppressive concrete beast.

9. Kremlin Wall – Moscow

The looming red brick wall that surrounds the Kremlin in Moscow has been standing for more than 700 years. The Kremlin Wall stretches 1.4 miles around the Red Square, contains 4 distinct medieval gateways, and has more than 20 looming towers. Some of Russia’s most famous dignitaries, including Stalin and Brezhnev, are buried in the necropolis at the Kremlin Wall.

8. The Western Wall – Jerusalem

The history behind the Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, also known as al-Buraq, is somewhat convoluted. The Muslims consider al-Buraq to be a holy site because they believe Muhammad kept his horse there. The Jews consider it a place to mourn the destruction of the Jewish Temple. The Muslims and Israeli government, on the other hand, state that the Jews have no right to claim this site as a shrine.

7. Tzompantli – Mexico

In Mexico’s Chichen Itza ruins you’ll find Tzompantli, often referred to as the “Wall of Skulls.” Back in the days of the Mayan empire, the skulls of victims used for sacrificial rituals were placed on the wall. The wall itself is carved with hundreds of life-sized skulls as well as with pictures depicting other rituals.

6. Hadrian’s Wall – England

Hadrian’s Wall was originally built during the 2^nd century because the Roman emperor, Hadrian, was fed up with fighting. The wall reaches from the North Sea to the Irish Sea and was at one point the mark that represented the boundary line of the current Roman Empire. The wall can be toured by visitors following some of the area’s most popular hiking trails.

5. Medinet Habu – Egypt

The wall known as Medinet Habu is the last standing piece of what was once the Mortuary Temple of Ramsses III. Built during the 12^th century BC, the wall stands approximately 60 feet high and boasts more than 75,000 square feet of ornate historic depictions and decorations.

4. Great Wall of China – China

Construction on the Great Wall of China began around 221 BC and continued for more than 17 centuries. Currently believed to be around 3,900 miles long, the brick path seems to grow more every year as new sections are discovered. A large stretch of the wall was used for cyclers during the 2008 Summer Olympics.

3. Santa Maria delle Grazie – Italy

You may not be familiar with the wall known as Santa Maria delle Grazie but we’re pretty sure you’ve seen a depiction of Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” at least once in your life. This astounding wall is the home to the original painting, which was completed in 1498. Despite the rest of the convent having been destroyed in 1943, this historic rendition has survived unscathed.

2. Green Monster – Boston

Sports fans appreciate the presence of the 37 foot high Green Monster at Fenway Park in Boston. The wall, despite having been destroyed by fire in 1934, has been rebuilt and reworked several times. The current wall is covered in hard plastic siding and touts a vintage scoreboard – remnants of the past.

1. Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall – Washington, DC

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, DC may not be the oldest wall on our list but it is certainly a treasure to the millions of people who visit it each year. The construction of the wall was completed in 1982 and features the names of more than 58,000 Americans who either passed away or were marked MIA between 1959 and 1975 in Indochina.

Some are fun, some are awe inspiring, and some evoke a sense of pride or curiosity. Regardless of the outcome, we’re sure you’ll find each and every wall on this list worth visiting at least once in your life.

10. Tuschinski Theater – Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The Tuschinski Theater in Amsterdam was originally opened by Abraham Tuschinski in 1921. Abraham had originally intended to emigrate from Poland to the United States but was sidetracked in Amsterdam where he fell in love with cinema. His love affair never ended and despite being killed by the Nazis later in life, his 933 theater has been upgraded, remains in immaculate condition, and is still in operation today.

9. Centre Cinema Imperial – Montreal, Quebec

The Centre Cinema Imperial originally opened as part of the vaudeville scene in 1913 and wasn’t transformed into a movie theater until 1934. The inter design was designed to depict some of the most famous Greek tragedies and included stunning frescoe paintings and white marble columns. The theater has been the site of the Montreal World Film Festival for almost 20 years. Make sure you book your Montreal hotel room as far in advance as possible if you want to visit during festival season.

8. The Astor Theater – St. Kilda, Australia

Opened in 1936, this astounding movie house almost didn’t open thanks to the complaints of neighboring residents. When it did open, though, the house was packed and regularly entertains huge crowds to this day. Tickets to a double feature are less than passes to a single show at your average chain-style multiplex theater.

7. Metro BIG Cinema – Mumbai, India

The Metro BIG Cinema in Mumbai was built by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (picture the roaring lion before your movie) in 1938. It was one of the first theaters in the area and was built to mirror those found in the United States. It’s now owned by BIG Cinemas, the largest chain in the country.

6. Grand Cinema – Shanghai, China

Famous architect L. E. Hudec was the mastermind behind the Grand Cinema in Shanghai, opened in 1932. Sadly, there was no air conditioning so despite having some of the hottest new releases the theater wasn’t very popular until it was finally upgraded in 1941. The theater was recently closed, completely renovated, and reopened in early 2009. It now features a rooftop garden where patrons can kick back and discuss their favorite scenes.

5. Coliseum Theater – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Coliseum Theater in Malaysia was built by Chua Cheng Bok in 1921 after he broke away from years of hard labor in the tin mines. The theater is popular for showing Bollywood films. So much so, in fact, that when the Malaysian government considered using the theater as a cultural center they had to cancel their plans due to public disapproval.

4. Le Grand Rex – Paris, France

The astounding Le Grand Rex in Paris opened in 1931 with the capability to seat more than 3,300 people. The lavish decorations, including palm trees, star like lights, and fake Venetian monuments seemed a bit gaudy at first but patrons loved the atmosphere. The theater still shows regular feature films and also hosts a number of annual festivals and concerts.

3. The Phoenix Cinema – London, UK

This tiny 255-seat theater was originally known as the East Finchley Picturedome and has continuously shown films since its original opening. They even showed films during World War II despite housing evacuees from surrounding villages. The projectionist, Peter Bayley, has worked at the theater since 1960 and was recently recognized by the British Empire for his dedication to film.

2. Bagdad Theater – Portland, Oregon

The Bagdad Theater was built in 1927 and was originally financed by Universal Studios. The architectural design gives a huge nod to the creative styles of the Ottoman Empire and originally included bubbling fountains and female ushers dressed in Arabian garb. When it was repurchased in 1991, brothers Mike and Brian McMenamin overhauled the look by keeping most of the original architectural style but by adding a pub-like atmosphere in the lobby outside the viewing area.

1. Grauman’s Chinese Theater – Los Angeles, California

In the late 1920’s, Americans were fascinated by life in Asia. As such, Sid Grauman decided to model his theater with a Chinese theme. He included 90 foot high gateway, pagodas, and even a few authentic temple bells. More than 4 million patrons visit the theater every year to catch a glimpse of the flamboyant décor and the famous Walk of Fame as well.

You should make a special effort to catch a glimpse of these theaters, even if you can’t stay for the show. Their old-school charm will douse you in nostalgia and will have you thinking twice about spending $20 on a ticket at the multiplex.

10. Jokulsarlon, Iceland

The lagoons in Jokulsarlon, Iceland are home to some of the most beautiful glaciers in existence. The glaciers are curved, smooth, and pristine – almost as if a series of waves were flash frozen in action. Because of its distinct location between larger glaciers and the ocean, the glaciers here are constantly calved and eventually drift away. You’ll see a different scene every single time you visit.

9. Flaming Cliffs, Gobi Desert, Mongolia

The Flaming Cliffs are a spectacular site. The Gobi Desert is known for having nothing but rock, sand, and blazing sunshine. The orange rocks of the Flaming Cliffs are a stark contrast in comparison to the rest of the barren desert which is mostly made up of miles and miles of rolling sand dunes.

8. Bryce Canyon, United States

Alright, alright – Bryce Canyon really isn’t a canyon but its position at the edge of the Paunsaguant Plateau gives it a pretty distinct quality. The main loop is 37-miles around and visitors will be astounded by red rock spires and picturesque scenes. Astronomers love visiting the canyon at night when its super dark skies make it easy to find and locate many of the atmosphere’s most natural guiding lights.

7. Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

In Madagascar you’ll find the Avenue of the Boabobs, a collection of Boabab trees indigenous and limited to the African flatlands. The trees can live anywhere between 1,000 and 2,000 years, grow up to 100 feet high, and span 40 feet in diameter. This particular group of trees is protected by the government, especially because most of the other remaining Baobab trees have been destroyed by humans.

6. Chott El-Jarid, Tunisia

Chott El-Jarid, found in Tunisia, is the largest salt lake in the world. The lake is also known as an endorheic, or in layman’s terms it is a lake that has no water system connecting it to an ocean or sea. Every year the lake evaporates and leaves a 2,000 square mile pan of salt in its place. If you visit during the summer months, when 120 degree temperatures have caused the disappearance of the lake, you may instead find yourself seeing mirages.

5. Tsingy de Bemaraha, Madagascar

Also located in Madagascar is the astounding Tsingy de Bemaraha. These dense spiky collections are actually made of limestone that was naturally carved over thousands of years. If you look down on the formations they sort of look like a giant hairbrush. The park itself also features wetlands, mangrove forests, and a valley full of local wildlife.

4. Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

The Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina is part of the Los Glaciares National Park. The park itself is full of glaciers but Perito Moreno happens to be one of the most popular because of its unique ability to move forward and backward, causing the leading edge to constantly change. The entire park has been a World Heritage site for over 30 years.

3. Chocolate Hills, Philippines

The Chocolate Hills of the Philippines span for what seems like miles and miles. Everywhere you look you’ll see conical hills that look like they’ve been popped out of giant molds. There are, after all, almost 1,700 hills – though no one has actually counted them. The Chocolate Hills were aptly named because the grass on each turns brown during the hot summer season.

2. Olgas, Australia

The Australian outback can be pretty dull in places but in Olgas you’ll suddenly find yourself surrounded by about three dozen red domes. Because of the movement of the sun during the day, the cliffs appear to change colors and look different depending on the time you visit. Those who want to see the domes up close can hike through the Valley of the Winds for a spectacular view.

1. Bungle Bungles, Australia

The Bungle Bungles of Australia are a series of rounded rock towers standing tall in the western desert. From a distance the rock formations appear to have tiger stripes of orange and black. The best way to visit this incredible maze is via helicopter tour but if you’re really daring you can arrange for a four wheel drive instead.

These sights represent only a few of the stunning landscapes you’ll find around the world. Keep your eyes peeled for other stunning sights. You’ll be glad you were paying attention!

10. Mont Blanc – Italian and French Alps

Standing 12,000 feet high, the summit at Mont Blanc is one of the most popular peaks in Western Europe. Set between the Aosta Valley in Italy and Haute-Savoie in France, the two countries have a peaceful dispute over who actually can claim rights to the peaks. Regardless, the mountain is a safe climb for even amateur climbers. You should be in good

9. Mount Uluru – Australia

Mount Uluru, aka Ayers Rock, is located in Australia and is situated on ground that has been deemed a World Heritage Site. The climb to the top of this 1,100 foot mountain is relatively short but can only be achieved if you follow the mountain’s carefully laid out hiking trails.

8. Mount Kailash – Tibet

In Tibet you’ll find the gorgeous Mount Kailash. Mount Kailash is considered, according to Tibetan Buddhist mythology, to be a sacred mountain. As such, it receives more visitors from Buddhist pilgrims and monks than from anyone else. Legendary tales claim that Buddha visited Mount Kailash not long after he was enlightened.

7. Kala Pattar – Nepal

From the top of this 23,000 foot summit climbers will have an astounding view of Mount Everest – the closest some climbers will ever get to that astounding peak. The climb is as “non-technical” as you’re going to get. Set in the center of a circle made by Mounts Everest, Lhotse, Pumori, and Nupste, those who ascend Kala Pattar are in for some astounding visual treats!

6. Mount Tukuhnikivatz – Utah

Set just outside the tiny city of Moab, the 1,250 foot high Mount Tukuhnikivatz sits just on the edge of the La Sal Mountain range. From the summit you’ll have astounding views of the red canyons, city, and desert below.

5. Mount Ararat – Turkey

Located in eastern Turkey, Mount Ararat is situated right near the borders of Russia and Iran. The 15,000 foot mountain is actually a dormant volcano. The climb itself, devoid of trees or shrubbery, is rumored to be a bit boring, but the views of the landscape below – with visibility as far as Armenia – are absolutely astounding.

4. Mount Olympus – Washington State

The peak of Mount Olympus in Washington State stands 7,962 feet high. After trekking around beautiful lakes and through old forests and rainforests you’ll find yourself at the top, looking down on magnificent flowing rivers and the rest of Olympic National Park. The mountain is great for beginners who have at least one or two mountains under their belts and are in great physical condition.

3. Kilimanjaro – Tanzania

Believe it or not, there IS snow atop Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania – for now, anyway. If you want to see the snow at the top of the tallest mountain in the world you’ll have to get there before changes in the global warming melt it completely away. Kilimanjaro is known as the tallest mountain that can be climbed without equipment and by amateur or inexperienced climbers. The only pitfall is that you must be in astounding physical shape for a hike that takes 5 days in each direction.

2. Mount Washington – New Hampshire

The tallest peak on in the New England states, Mount Washington stands 6,288 feet high. Because of heavy snowfall in the region, most of the hiking trails up Mount Washington are only open during the summer months. A summer hike doesn’t mean you won’t be surprised, though. Mount Washington has some of the most unpredictable weather patterns ever, so a summer snowfall shouldn’t come as a huge surprise.

1. Mount Fujiyama – Japan

A climb to the top of Mount Fujiyama, standing 11,000 feet high, is a once in a lifetime experience. Mount Fujiyama, a dormant volcano, hasn’t erupted since 1708. Climbing routes are only open to the public during the months of July and August. During that time you’ll find that most of the locals open their huts to provide refreshments and help in the event of an emergency.

These incredible peaks are perfect for climbers in good health and decent physical condition. Pack your hiking boots, grab a bag of snack mix, and hit the trails. You won’t be sorry!

What if you could take an exotic vacation to a destination where your favorite teas are grown or made? It doesn’t matter if you like white tea, black tea, green tea, red tea, or any other type of tea. We can find a spectacular vacation spot where you can not only explore the locality but enjoy tea straight from its point of origin at the same time.

7. Sri Lanka

Head to the hills of Sri Lanka if you want to catch a glimpse of the beautiful mountain atmosphere where some of the best Ceylon tea in the world is grown. Visitors to the area may be able to rent tea bungalows on old planter’s estates and if you’re lucky you may even find a place to stay on a working tea plantation. Think “Gone with the Wind” only with tea plants in Sri Lanka. The hillside and surrounding areas are incredibly beautiful – a spectacular destination for quiet nature lovers.

6. Paris, France

In Paris you may not find a plethora of tea gardens but you’ll find some of the most exclusive tea rooms in the country. Make sure you visit Mariage Freres while you’re in town. Founded in the mid 1800’s, it is the oldest tea importer in the country. In this and any of the other tea houses you’ll have the opportunity to taste some of the best white, green, and black teas in the world.

5. India

The tea trade has been a popular tourist attraction in India for the past few years and it is steadily growing. Indian teas are particularly popular in Western countries. One of the most popular is Assam, now known as Darljeeling – an afternoon tea that in India is known as a breakfast tea. A myriad of black tea varieties are grown in India each year. Visitors to the southern part of India will enjoy estate tours that give glimpses of not only the plantations but some of the area’s ancient cities as well.

4. Charleston, South Carolina

Believe it or not, most of the tea sold in the United States is imported from other countries. That is, unless you get tea from the Charleston Tea Plantation in South Carolina. Owned and managed by the popular Bigelow Tea company, the grounds on Wadmalaw Island are open to tourists year round.

3. Japan

Japan is one of the largest sources of green tea in the world. The Matcha Tea Factory, located in the Nishio Aichi Prefecture, is an incredibly famous factory. If you visit you’ll have the honor of seeing row upon row of immaculately cared for tea plants in carefully plotted gardens. Watch carefully and you’ll see the “tea gathers” picking tea leaves off of the plants. They complete this task 100% by hand.

2. Bolivia

You may have heard of the coca tea plant (aka, the plant from which cocaine is derived) but, believe it or not, there are plenty of legal teas coming out of Bolivia as well. The high altitude at which Bolivian teas are grown gives them an incredibly distinct flavor. Most of the tea gardens are located at altitudes between 4,000 and 7,000 feet. One of the most popular tea estates is the Chai Mate Tea Garden just outside of La Paz. If you head towards Bolivia you absolutely must add a cup of fresh tea to your breakfast or dinner menu.

1. China

Lung Ching, aka Dragon’s Well, is perceived to be one of the absolute best green tea varieties in the world. Grown in the Zhejiang province of China, the tea has a very light yet sometimes spicy flavor and is a standard base for most blends. Located within the Zhejiang province is the resort town of Hangzhou – a great destination for travelers who want to kick back and relax in a pampered environment. If you visit in the spring you may even catch part of the annual tea festival.

Tea tourism is a relatively new travel phenomena but if you’re a true tea lover you’ll really enjoy seeing some of the exotic places where your favorite teas are made. Don’t forget to bring some home for the rest of us!