The dollar never had more value against the euro as it is of now, which makes it the perfect time to take a trip to Europe right away. There is no better time to take your dream trip to Europe! London, Paris, Rome are commonplace, we know, and this is why we have sourced out some of the under-the-radar destination in the European continent you might not have heard about before, but are definitely must-visits.

These towns and cities are way less crowded and provided ample opportunities to the prospective tourists looking for some peace and calm, and of course, some really amazing food and drinks. Here we go.

Goreme, Turkey

Wonder what’s “even more” exciting than seeing Goreme’s stunning rock formations into which some gargantuan, gorgeous churches have been built? It’s viewing the same, but all abroad a hot-air-balloon from hundreds of feet overhead.

Torun, Poland

Torun- the birthplace of the science genius, Copernicus is reason alone to be worth a visit. But Torun, surprisingly, has more to it. Considerably less crowded than the other two major Polish towns (Warsaw and Krakow); this town also has a thriving theater scene and the famous Gingerbread Museum.

Manarola, Italy

Italy always has been a gastronome’s delight, and this under-the-radar Italian town serves no less the purpose. The oldest and the second smallest of the Cinque Terre towns, Manarola is known for fresh seafood from the Ligurian Sea, sweer Sciacchetra wine, and some peace and quiet (no cars are permitted in Manarola). Easy to reach by the Pisa Centrale train, Manarola is a must-visit at least for a day while you are in Italy. 

Ikaria, Greece

The best time to visit this town is between May to October when the town celebrates Panagiria- religious holidays that take once or twice every week during this season. And also, you might be more interested to know that the people of this town are known to typically live to 100. There is something in the water that gives them the longevity? We feel the same too. 

Hallstaatt, Austria

Austria is well-known for picturesque countryside, fine wine and amazing European food. Hallstaatt simply adds more to the list. Also known as “the pearl of Austria”, Hallstaatt is striking old village surrounded by salt mines; trekkers would love to have a tour of. Also, this village is essentially car-free which makes it a perfect nature escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life. 

Alesund, Norway

Think the Northern Lights is not enough reason to visit Norway? Well, Alesund adds a lot more to your trip. The Atlantic Sea Park at Tueneset is the biggest saltwater aquarium in northern Europe! Still want more? Go for advanced-skiing in the Sunnmore Alps in the month of December.

Porto, Portugal

Lisbon is not the only reason you would want to visit Portugal for. Porto, the second largest city in this country provides ample tourists-opportunities; if only you knew about it before. With rich culture and livelier-colored buildings, Porto is hub to a plethora of tourist-activities, including a visit to the massive indoor market of Mercado do Bolhao, where you can pick up culinary delights ranging from freshly-baked breads to delicious servings of lusciously-cooked fish.

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Summers, it is. Vacation time for all of us; Hurrah! Here is a beyond-conventional list of some of the lesser-known summer vacations destinations from around the world. Hope you enjoy the trip! Bon Voyage!

Valley of Fire State Park, Utah

Utah is known for its incredible landscapes, and Valley of Fire State Park is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of that beauty. Hike, picnic and check out centuries-old Indian petro-glyphs, all while you bask in endless red and orange sandstone formations.

Metéora, Greece

Metéora, Greece offers tourists a unique marriage of religion, history and natural beauty. Perched atop enormous sandstone pillars are ancient monasteries that have withstood the test of time. Whether you love history or hiking, you’ll have a blast in the Greek region.

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Makepeace, Australia

This heart-shaped island is called Makepeace, and it’s actually owned by Sir Robert Branson and Brett Godfrey. Located off Australia’s Sunshine Coast, the private island has offered luxury lodging packages for less than five years. Spanning just 25 acres, it’s said to be one of the world’s most romantic destinations.

Huacachina, Peru

Talk about a desert oasis! Nestled in the deserts of southern Peru, Huacachina is the perfect destination for adventurous souls. While sand-boarding and dune buggy tours are the norm, visitors can also head to the nearby village of Paracas to see Humbolt penguins, seals, and other wildlife.

Mont Saint Michel, France

Mont Saint Michel is an island commune off the northwestern coast of France in Normandy. Full of restaurants, shops, a museum and a centuries-old abbey, the island contains everything you need for a great visit.

Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Australia’s Whitsunday Islands offer the perfect escape for sailors and beach bums alike. In this tropical yet offbeat group of islands, tourists can snorkel and experience a variety of wildlife. Of the 74 separate islands, a number are still largely undeveloped, so you’ll be in for a quiet and relaxing trip.

Mount Lingyun, China

The world’s largest Buddha can be found on Mount Lingyun’s Xiluo Peak in China. Standing about 230 feet tall, the statue is one of many religious artifacts in the area.

Skellig Michael, Ireland

Even when it comes to surprising vacation destinations, Skellig Michael, an island off the coast of Ireland, is pretty unknown. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island is home to a well-preserved monastic outpost from the Early Christian period. While lodging isn’t available on the island itself, nearby accommodations offer more views of Ireland’s gorgeous coastline.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Despite being one of the coolest places on Earth, Salar de Uyuni (Bolivia) hasn’t become overcrowded by jostling tourists. The expanse of salt flats is the result of a prehistoric lake drying up, leaving behind mineral lakes and more salt than you can imagine. For the best experience, we recommend you stay at the Palacio de Sal Hotel, a luxury resort where everything---walls, ceilings, sculptures---is made of salt.

Flowerpot Island, Ontario

Situated just four miles off the coast of Tobermory, Ontario, Flowerpot Island is known for its caves and natural sea-stacks, which are called “flowerpots.” Whether you take a cruise, stay in a motel or commute from further inland, natives recommend bringing a bag lunch, as Flowerpot Island’s clear waters and beautiful landscape provide the ideal location for a picnic.

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No two sunsets are ever the same, they say. Whether it’s the colors, the clouds, or the scenery each one has something unique about it and you will know how and why. We have assorted some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world; every single one of these stands out in their own ways. There is nothing more romantic than a walk with your girl, hand in hand, in a lovely backdrop of the setting sun.

Scroll down to find out what propels us to make such claims.

The Serengeti, Tanzania

Loved watching the Lion King? Well, watch is here for real! This picturesque location provides the perfect setting that will appear almost like you are in person in the Lion King show from your childhood days. And in case you are lucky enough, you might even get to see some gigantic elephants and the famous African rhinos silhouetted against the sunset? Can afford to miss? We bet, not!

Canals of Amsterdam

What could be more romantic than watching the sun doing down over some intricately laid bridges arching over those dreamy canals? Amsterdam has over 400 of them. There is no way you would miss out on the beautiful European sunset while in Amsterdam.

Mount Haleakala, Hawaii

This dormant Hawaiian volcanic mountain that goes by the name of Haleakala shines brilliantly like a gemstone on a blackened landscape when the setting sun’s rays rush across its steep slopes. Can anything be more ethereal?

Grundarfjordur, Iceland

This small Icelandic town, situated between a mountain range and a lava field, makes for some intense background scenery where you can watch the sun fall below the horizon in the most dramatic way possible.

Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles

Well, this one is my personal favorite. There is nothing more pleasant than to sit on the beach watching people with the lights of a Ferris wheel reflecting off of the breaking waves under the sunset. What’s more? You can even play some miniature golf as well! There is more to this California sunset. Visit and find out!

Taj Mahal, India

There is more to this Indian architectural marvel than a clear blue sky with lots of tourists. This beautiful marble monument has been an eye-candy for millions of tourists who have been streaming in just to have a sight of this marvelous world wonder. Taj Mahal is as beautiful in the night as it is in the day, but what you shouldn’t miss is the sun setting in the backdrop of this amazing monument; just make sure you have the camera handy!

Barcelona, Spain

Spain isn’t just about bullfights and guitars. Looking out from El Carmel Hill across all of the colorful rooftops towards the ocean makes for one of the most colorful and unique sunsets in this European city. There is a lot to relinquish yourself to here, but what you should make a point never to miss is this exquisitely beautiful sunset that will take your breath away, nonetheless!

Lake Annecy, French Alps

One of the most popular European tourist destination, the Lake Annecy high up in the French Alps has been voted Europe’s cleanest lake, which isn’t too hard to believe when you see the setting sun’s rays reflecting off the water. The clear blue waters get well along with the setting sun to create an aura that you take you to dreamland, we bet!

Ayers Rock, Australian Outback

Also known as Uluru, Ayers Rock enjoys the reputation of being the largest monolith in the world. It’s so big that as the clouds move across the sky at sunset they reflect its orange and red colors. Wonder why we so love the sunset here? The orange is something you seldom get to see elsewhere. Give it a try; you will be glad you did!

The Florida Keys

Tired of downloading wallpapers? The Florida Keys gives you the perfect shot of some of the most exquisite landscape pictures you will ever click. You can have your own personal wallpapers now. Every night on Key West there is a sunset festival where visitors and locals alike gather to watch fire breathers, acrobats, and artists perform as the sun goes down over the water. There is nothing more your girl will love than a romantic walk in a heavenly backdrop as this one.

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Now, who on earth doesn’t love the tropical sands? I am sure not many hands would be raised. A tropical getaway is something we all look forward to, and there is no way as to why anyone would give it a pass given the chance to relinquish on these tropical heavens. For a beach lover, the sun and the sand go hand in hand, and there’s nothing that would stop him from returning to these paradises over and over again. The main purpose of a beach getaway, besides pure vacationing, is to elude the winters and the warm sandy beaches and balmy ocean waters serve the purpose just right.

Below is a list of the top five islands and beaches in the world where people can sit back, relax, enjoy the sun, and wonder if they really should board that flight home. Here we go.

Bali

Bali, by far, is a beach lover’s “Mecca”. Voted consecutively as one of the best islands in the world;

Bali boasts of ample space for any volumes of tourists, and abundant array of activities, dirt-cheap accommodation, and of course, the grandest of beach parties. There also is a volcano you can climb, in addition to the countless temples that you should visit. So as to say, Bali has it all! You would certainly love the weather there which remains pretty constant throughout the year (though the BEST time to visit is November through March).

And as you keep moving north, away from the tourist centers, the island gradually transpires to be the most peaceful abodes you will ever dwell in!

Seychelles

Conquering the second place on the list will be none other than the Seychelles. Located off the east coast of Africa, these islands are what you will call pure paradise.

Perfect white sandy beaches, serene clear blue water, and an archipelago of islands to choose from with all the quiet times you want; Seychelles make your dream vacation come true sans the slightest bit of compromise. Though these islands are likely to break your bank, but that’s the price you would willingly pay for a bite of paradise.

We would recommend visiting Seychelles from May through September which is considered the coolest season in these islands, and when it pours less.

Maldives

Game for some amazing snorkeling or do you wish to simply soak up the sun? Diving seems a fun idea, as well?

Well then, there is no better place to be than the Maldives; these mind-boggling coral islands will leave you smitten with all the fun-filled activities coupled with some of the most exquisite landscapes (or waterscapes, we would rather call it) you will ever come to terms with. Located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, as many as 1000 islands combine to cluster up the Maldives, of which only 5 sees substantial population.

The friendly locals and the pleasant weather being the best things about these islands, we would recommend travelling during November through May for the best Maldives holiday venture, when the weather is cool and dry. Spoil yourself in the luxury of any of the private resorts that litter across these islands; Bangkok Airways provide cheap flights to and from Thailand.

Ko Lipe

Tired of living the same humdrum everyday life? Well then, time it is for you to pack your bags, throw your cell phone away and fly to this exquisite Thai island of Ko Lipe where life oozes from every nook and corner of this heaven on earth.

Super-friendly locals and some finger-licking good seafood recipes make this island the vacationer’s paradise. But it doesn’t just end here. Even though the accommodation here is pretty basic meanwhile, you will live it off sans the complaint with some amazing snorkeling opportunities, when you might even be able to spot a few reef sharks! Clear, warm water and white sandy beaches will never make you willing to board the flight back home.

All you need to do is to take a boat from Pak Bara and resign yourself to a vacation you will never forget for a lifetime. Best time to visit this island is October through March when the monsoons had passed.

Fiji

Yet another cluster of some of world’s most beautiful islands is the Fijian Islands (Fiji) located some 1100 nautical miles northeast of New Zealand’s North Island. This island country brings together as many as 322 islands of which only a third are inhabited. While most of the action can be witnessed in western islands, but regardless of where you go, Fiji is sheer heaven.

As it is, just the name is enough to give you a glimpse of beaches and the tropically warm waters of this cerulean paradise- and this comes with a reason, too. Fiji is one of the best beaches you will go to, and with so many islands around, you are bound to find one you will like. Fiji has been the idea destination among young people, honeymooners, and lovebirds since time immemorial, and there is always something for everyone- young or old, alike.

The temperature here remains constant throughout the year, making it the perfect island getaway all round the year.

So. We have, in this article, put forth some of the best tropical islands in the world with a view to helping you out in choosing the ideal island getaway. But the list doesn’t end here. Make sure to check the sequel article as we bring in more tropical island holiday ideas for you to savor.

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Earth, as we know is, is no longer what it used to be. Natural causes such as climate change, erosion, desertification in addition to the ruthless human expansion have brought about radical changes to the landscapes and I am afraid, the changes are permanent. And with all the changes rushing in, there is high chance that we might end up being the last generation to witness some of the most amazing places and natural wonder that existed in the world. We have arduously compiled this list just to give you a sight of 10 of the most beautiful places on earth which have taken the path to annihilation. Check it out!

Maldives

Maldives, a very popular holiday destination, is a tiny island country in the Indian Ocean which is considered the lowest country in the world with an average ground level elevation of just 1.5 meters above the sea. There is high probability that the country along with its 400,000 citizens might soon be washed away due to the steady rise in the sea level. 

Azure Window, Malta

The Azure Window is a limestone natural arch located on Gozo which is the second largest island of the Maltese archipelago. The Azure Window is a popular tourist attraction which is on the road to disintegration with recent surveys of that opinion that it won’t last for more than a few years. Go have a look before it’s too late! 

 
Aral Sea, Kazakhstan/Uzbekistan

While some places are threatened by floods, others suffer from drying out, and this has been the case with the Aral Sea located between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The Aral Sea once enjoyed the reputation of being fourth largest lake in the world until the 1960s, after which the rivers that fed it were diverted by Soviet irrigation projects, and it has been steadily drying out ever since. By 2007, it shrunk to almost 10% of its original size, splitting into several smaller lakes. What a tragedy!

Venice, Italy

It’s not just those pieces of nature that can soon be lost forever. Rising ocean levels has put numerous cities under threat and the Italian city of Venice tops the list. Situated in the northeastern part of the country, Venice is a picturesque city famous for its romantic atmosphere. The exact time period in which the city might get completely flooded is not known but some experts suggest Venice can sink in less than 50 years from now. Guess, Atlantis won’t be the only city your kids will just read about.

Derweze Crater, Turkmenistan

Located in the middle of the Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan, Derweze is a small village where Soviet geologists drilled the land in 1971 for natural gas but their rig collapsed, creating a giant hole. To avoid poisonous gas discharge, they ignited the gas, hoping it would burn in a few days, but the gas is still burning today. It is not known exactly how much longer the crater, dubbed as “The Door to Hell” will burn but it might not last long. Go see what hell is like when you are alive; you might even give your actions some sort of consideration after this, after all who wants to go to hell!

Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

In the case of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, a bell tower famous for its striking tilt, the reason of why it might disappear soon is obvious. With the top of the tower displaced horizontally 3.9 meters from the center, the tower may follow the destiny of the bell tower in Pavia, northern Italy, which was also tilted and collapsed in 1989.

The Twelve Apostles, Australia

The Twelve Apostles is a collection of limestone stacks off the shore of the Port Campbell National Park in Victoria, Australia. Although it’s still known as the Twelve Apostles, there are currently just eight stacks remaining. The wave erosion has caused them to erode by 2 cm per year, forcing four apostles to collapse.

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

Situated on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, the Franz Josef Glacier is major tourist site of the region, attracting about 250,000 visitors annually. The glacier was growing until as late as 2008 but since then it has entered a very rapid phase of retreat and, according to some estimates, it can disappear for good within a hundred years. Enough time you have here, by the way!

Ranthambore National Park, India

Covering an area of about 400 sq km, the Ranthambore National Park is one of the largest national parks in northern India. Though the park itself struggles with environmentalist issues but it’s the tiger, the most famous inhabitant of this national park, who may vanish soon with the numbers falling every passing year. Poaching has brought down the numbers of these amazing cats into a drastic dwindle, and biologists are of the opinion that if immediate action is not taken, the cats might die out within the next 15 years. Can we really afford that?

ECOTOURISM: A STEP CLOSER TO NATURE

Everglades, Florida

The Everglades that bring about the picturesque natural touch of southern Florida is a region of tropical wetlands that act as the natural habitat of bountiful flora and fauna including the rare Florida panther. What poses as a threat to this exquisite ecosystem is human intervention in the form of regional expansion, farming and of course, pollution that have taken over like a sworn enemy hell bound on destroying this unique ecology. But fortunately, efforts have been made to save the Everglades so hopefully, next generations will also get to see this amazing piece of land.

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