Everyone talks about going to a warmer climate when winter weather outside begins to get you down, but can you imagine which cities reach highs that even the most avid sun lovers may find sweltering? Make sure to pack sun block when visiting any of the cities on this list.
Death Valley, California
Death Valley, California has reached temperatures of an amazing 56.6 degrees C, making this one of the hottest places on earth. The Death Valley is about 280 feet below the sea level, which means that due to the scientific phenomenon of air compression on a day when the temperature at the top of the valley around the wester’s border is 80° F, it would be a sizzling 110 °F at the bottom. Though it may not look like much, there are lots of things to do in the area, whether you’re interested in hiking,
stargazing, visiting one of the springs, taking in the scenery at the Mosaic, Natural or Titus Canyon, or even exploring Ubehebe Crater. This lists just a few of the popular areas to explore in Death Valley, but all will make you feel as if you have stepped into another world, so its not surprising that this area has set the scene for many movies, including the Star Wars films.
Saudi Arabia
Along with the Death Valley, Saudi Arabia is known to top the charts as the hottest destination as well, though you might find it “hot” in strictly this one sense. Saudi Arabia has not been very open to foreign tourisms until recently and still the tourists are pretty closely monitored regarding where they go. Though the country is not completely devoid of tourist attractions, coastal cites like Jeddah, Dammam & the valley of Taif and Al Baha , along with a few historical sites would probably make the trip worthwhile. Do remember to travel between October and February; the rest of the year can be sweltering hot.
Timbuktu, Mali
Most know the name, though not nearly as many have actually been there, Timbuktu actually derived its name from a woman who was digging a well named Buktu. Timbuktu literally means Buktu’s well. The city has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988. Many visit this arid region to explore the museum, many mosques, and the terraced garden. Visitors are even drawn to see the water tower in Timbuktu.
Chennai, India
Madras, or what is now known as Chennai, is one of the largest metropolitan areas in India. Their peak hot temperatures are in May and June, easily reaching 42 degrees Celsius. What draws many tourists to the area is the Marina Beach, though there are other places to see while you are there. Many look for peace in Kapaleeshwar Temple, or visit the National Art Gallery, though Fort St George is a unique structure as well. For those not wanting to see many sights, Chennai also has a very active nightlife, and great shopping opportunities.
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August 23rd, 2007 at 5:46 pm
Chennai is also a hub of cricket in India. I remember a few games vividly, including an India Pakistan game in the 1996 world cup quarter final. The crowd was partisan but the ground looks great…and they know just how to celebrate a win