World Travel Destinations

Innsbruck - Austria

2011-11-21T00:32:00.000-08:00

Innsbruck is the capital of the federal state Tyrol and the biggest city in the Western part of Austria. It is located at 573 m elevation, 489 km south-west of Vienna, 190 km away from Salzburg. Innsbruck is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and offers a combination of culture, history and nature unequaled anywhere else.Other attractions include Tiroler museums, Hungersburg, Schloss Ambras, Wiltener Basilica, Bergisel, Hofburg, The Golden Roof, the Alpine Zoo. The beauty of Innsbruck city is protected by the architects who ensure that the new structures built in the city are harmonious with the preexisting Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance style buildings.Innsbruck Austria enjoyed the great strategic importance long before it became famous as a winter sports centre that has twice hosted the Winter Olympic Games, being close to the Brenner Pass that connects Italy with the north via the easiest route over the Alps.

Las Lajas Sanctuary - Colombia

2011-11-12T11:00:00.000-08:00

Las Lajas Sanctuary is located on the border of Ecuador and Colombia. The basilica is built in a canyon over the Guáitara River in a town called Ipiales, located 15 minutes into Colombia. Construction started on January 1, 1916 and finished on August 20, 1949, which makes it a fairly new church that looks a lot older then it really is. The church is of Gothic revival architecture and was built with donations from local churchgoers, replacing an old nineteenth-century chapel. The name Laja comes from the name of a type of flat sedimentary rock similar to floor tiles found in the Andes Mountains. The church was built to commemorate the appearance of the Virgin which legend has it, her image appeared on an enormous vertical rock 45m above the river.

Huahine – French Polynesia

2011-11-03T00:05:00.000-07:00

Huahine is an island located in French Polynesia, an overseas territory of France in the Pacific Ocean.Huahine is for sure the wildest and most secretive island of the Society Islands thanks to its luxuriant nature and its past full of myths and legends. Located 30 minutes away from Tahiti by plane, it is also the nearest one from the main island of this archipelago.Huahine measures 16 km (9.9 mi) in length, with a maximum width of 13 km (8.1 mi). It is made up of two main islands surrounded by a fringing coral reef with several motu. Huahine Nui (Big Huahine) lies to the north and Huahine Iti (Little Huahine) to the south. The two islands are separated by a few hundred yards of water and joined by a sandspit at low tide. A small bridge was built to connect Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti. Northwest of Huahine Iti lies a 375 ha brackish lake known as Lac Fauna Nui (Lac Maeva). This lake is all that remains of the ancient atoll lagoon. Air transportation is available via Huahine airport, located on the northern shore of Huahine Nui.

Marbella - Costa del Sol, Spain

2011-10-19T03:34:00.000-07:00

Marbella is a town in Andalusia, Spain. It is situated on the Mediterranean Sea, in the province of Málaga, beneath the La Concha mountain.Marbella and nearby Puerto Banús are important tourist resorts on the Costa del Sol.Because of its perfect beaches, Mediterranean climate and excellent surroundings it became one of the major tourist resorts in Costa del Sol region. Many celebrities from Europe and USA have Marbella for their summer vacation and residence. It is also a major destination for luxury cruise ships and mega yachts which are also often docked in its harbour. Marbella is specially popular with those who like golf and marinas. In the area around the city there are concentrated many private estates and luxury hotels. Popular among the rich and famous, especially due to its beautiful white beaches, warm and sunny climate, and the cosmopolitan outlook, Marbella is a refreshing combination of traditional beauty and contemporary style.

Petronas Twin Towers - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

2011-10-13T01:51:00.000-07:00

The Petronas Towers, also known as the Petronas Twin Towers are skyscrapers and twin towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.The Petronas Towers were the tallest buildings in the world for six years, until Taipei 101 was completed in 2004. The height of the towers is measured to the top of their structural components such as spires, but do not include antennas. Without the pinnacle, the towers measure 378 meter (1,240 feet).The skybridge lies between the two towers on 41st and 42nd floors,the bridge is 170 m above the ground, 58 m long and weighs 750 tons. The same floor is also called Podium because the visitors, wishing to go to the higher levels, have to change elevators here. It is open to all visitors, though entry is limited to 1700 people per day.

Cathedrale St-Etienne - Bourges,France

2011-10-05T10:34:00.000-07:00

Bourges Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral, dedicated to Saint Stephen, located in Bourges, France.The Cathedral of St Etienne of Bourges built between the late 12th and early 13th centuries, is one of the great masterpieces of Gothic art and is admired for its proportions and the unity of its design.With its unique feats of architecture, impressive sculptures and glorious 13th-century stained glass windows, the Cathedral is one of the great masterpieces of Gothic art. The tympanum, sculptures and stained-glass windows are particularly striking. Apart from the beauty of the architecture, it attests to the power of Christianity in medieval France.Bourges Cathedral has a highly unique floor plan. It has no transepts, which form the cross-shape of most churches. This lends the cathedral a unique appearance inside and out.

Pattaya - Thailand

2011-09-25T03:43:00.000-07:00

Pattaya, is a city in Thailand, located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 165 km southeast of Bangkok located within but not part of Amphoe Bang Lamung (Banglamung) in the province of Chonburi.Pattaya City is an internationally well-known seaside resort in Thailand, Pattaya is also a vibrant city by night and by day. Pattaya offers a colourful potpourri of mixed nationalities from near and far. Pattaya has a vast range of tourism-related activities. Pattaya is one of the most stunning beaches in Thailand, is identical to the sand, sun, nightlife and beach activities are fun, since Pattaya beach crowded visited tourists, this beach became one of the most developed cities in Thailand, especially in terms of tourism, they offer some of the best facilities and accommodation, ranging from hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, resorts, tour guide companies, rental of diving and snorkeling equipment, and much more.

mahdollinentie

2011-09-22T01:51:00.001-07:00

mahdollinentie

Palma de Mallorca - Spain

2011-09-18T02:04:00.000-07:00

Majorca is one of the most beautiful islands in Spain and the most popular and largest one in the Balearic Islands.The beautiful island of Mallorca boasts an average of 300 days of sunshine each year. This, combined with numerous excellent beaches, with fine golden sand and clear blue seas, means that Mallorca is understandably a popular destination for tourists.Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, is the largest city in Mallorca; the population of the Palma municipality was approximately 400,000 at the beginning of 2007. Half the population of Mallorca lives in the city of Palma.Majorca is visited by millions of tourists every year due to the fact that it is easy to reach; if you travel to Valencia, then you just have to take the ferry. If you have trouble travelling on the sea, then one of the cheap flights from Valencia will take you there in just a few minutes.

Majorca is a really beautiful island in Spain, a place with a lot of sun and a relaxed atmosphere, the perfect destination for a memorable holiday.

Cocos Island - Costa Rica

2011-09-16T04:48:00.000-07:00

Cocos Island National Park, located 550 km off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, includes the entire Isla del Coco and the marine ecosystems up to a distance of 15 km around the island. Is the only island in the tropical Eastern Pacific with a tropical rainforest.Surrounded by deep waters with counter-currents, Cocos Island is admired by scuba divers for its populations of Hammerhead sharks, rays, dolphins and other large marine species. The extremely wet climate and oceanic character give Cocos an ecological character that is not shared with either the Galapagos Archipelago or any of the other islands.Cocos Island is home to dense and exuberant tropical moist forests. It is the only oceanic island in the eastern Pacific region with such rain forests and their characteristic types of flora and fauna.

The cloud forests at higher elevations are also unique in the eastern Pacific. The island was never linked to a continent, so the flora and fauna arrived via long distance dispersal from the Americas. The island has therefore a high proportion of endemic species.

The rich coral reef, volcanic tunnels, caves, massifs and deeper waters surrounding Cocos Island are home to more than 30 species of coral, 60 species of crustaceans, 600 species of molluscs and over 300 species of fish.

South Island, New Zealand

2011-09-14T11:58:00.000-07:00

The South Island is the larger of the two major islands of New Zealand, the other being the more populous North Island. It is bordered to the north by Cook Strait, to the west by the Tasman Sea, to the south and east by the Pacific Ocean. The territory of the South Island covers 151,215 square kilometres (58,384 sq mi) and is influenced by a temperate climate.The South Island of New Zealand is characterized by grand open landscapes. Divided by a backbone of mountain aptly called the Southern Alps, the South Island is known for spectacular mountains and fiords, large beech forests, golden sand beaches and broad plains. Generally cooler in climate than the North Island but don't forget sunhats and t-shirts - temperatures are routinely in the 30°C's in summer. In winter the sea buffers the temperatures which rarely drop much below 0°C except in mountainous regions.

Cologne Cathedral - Kölner Dom, Germany

2011-08-08T01:31:00.000-07:00

The Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) is one of the most well-known architectural monuments in Germany and world wide. The construction of the Cologne Cathedral began in 1248, in order to house the precious relict "Shrine of the Three Holy Kings". It took over 600 years to complete the Cathedral, and when it was finished in 1880, it was still true to the original plans. It is one of the largest cathedrals in the world and between 1880 and 1884 it was the tallest structure in the world, before the completion of the Washington Monument and later the Eiffel Tower. Its spires are only surpassed by the singular spire of Ulm Cathedral, making it the second tallest church in the world, with 157 meters in height.Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), which was added to the World Heritage list by Unesco in 1996. It is one of Europe's most spectacular cathedrals and holds the record of the the biggest church facade in the world.

Capilano Suspension Bridge - Vancouver, Canada

2011-08-04T07:58:00.000-07:00

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is Vancouver’s oldest tourist attraction, having been built in 1889.The current bridge is 450 feet (137m) across and 230 feet (70m) above the river. The Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park draws over 800,000 visitors a year. It offers splendid views of the river below and old growth forest. Experiencing the thrill of Vancouver's largest suspension bridge is a must for any local or visitor.
The bridge was originally built in 1889 by George Grant Mackay, a Scottish civil engineer and park commissioner for Vancouver. It was originally made of hemp ropes with a deck of cedar planks, and was replaced with a wire cable bridge in 1903. MacEachran purchased the Bridge from Mahon in 1935 and invited local natives to place their totem poles in the park, adding a native theme. In 1945, he sold the bridge to Henri Aubeneau.The bridge was completely rebuilt in 1956.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

British Museum - London

2011-07-14T00:21:00.000-07:00

The British Museum is one of the largest and most important human history museums in the world. It was founded in 1700 by Sir Hans Sloane, who allowed his huge private collection of curios to be given to the state, if his heirs were paid £20,000. Eventually the government decided to buy Sloane’s treasures, and following his death in 1753 the British Museum was formally born. The first exhibition galleries and reading rooms opened in Montagu House, Bloomsbury, London, in 1759. Famous objects include the Rosetta Stone, sculptures from the Parthenon, the Sutton Hoo and Mildenhall treasures and the Portland Vase. There is also a programme of special exhibitions and daily gallery tours, talks and guided tours.

St Basil's Cathedral - Moscow, Russia

2011-07-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

Known as the Cathedral of Basil the Blessed, it is a Russian Orthodox cathedral erected on the Red Square in Moscow in 1555–1561. The building's design, shaped as a flame of a bonfire rising into the sky, has no analogues in Russian architecture - nothing similar can be found in the entire millenium of Byzantine tradition from the fifth to fifteenth century. Legend says that Ivan the Terrible blinded the architect so that he could not recreate the masterpiece elsewhere.
Built on the edge of the Red Square in Moscow, St. Basil’s Cathedral is a colorful edifice made up of 9 individual chapels, each a symbol of a successful assault on Kazan and topped by an onion dome. The ninth chapel was erected in 1588 between the first eight, giving the cathedral the look of an eight-corner star when seen from above.

Barbados - Caribbean Island

2011-07-03T07:43:00.000-07:00

Barbados is an island country in the Lesser Antilles. It is 34 kilometres (21 mi) in length and as much as 23 kilometres (14 mi) in width, amounting to 431 square kilometres (166 sq mi). The name "Barbados" comes from a Portuguese explorer named Pedro Campos in 1536, who originally called the island Los Barbados ("The Bearded Ones"), after the appearance of the island's fig trees, whose long hanging aerial roots resembled beards.Barbados has numerous internationally known hotels. Time-shares are available, and many of the smaller local hotels and private villas which dot the island have space available if booked in advance. The southern and western coasts of Barbados are popular, with the calm light blue Caribbean Sea and their white and pinkish sandy beaches. Along the island's east coast, which faces the Atlantic Ocean, there are tumbling waves which are perfect for light surfing.

Cala Tarida - Ibiza,Spain

2011-06-28T04:43:00.000-07:00

Situated on the south west side of Ibiza island on the coast, Cala Tarida is a small resort consisting of a beach with a couple of restaurants and hotels.At nearly 3,000 feet long, it is the longest of the beaches on this side of the island, and is set in a beautiful curving bay. Cala Tarida boasts one of the best beaches on the island, making this fine sandy retreat excellent for families, with shelters in the wide bay. Various watersports are on offer during the day.In the summer, you can reach this lovely family beach in Ibiza by ferry from elsewhere on the island.This makes Tarida Beach in Ibiza excellent for family vacations.

Mount Roraima - Venezuela

2011-06-24T03:19:00.000-07:00

Mount Roraima is the highest point in Guyana, the plateau standing at 2700 m with the peak at 2810 m in Venezuela. Roraima is the tripartite border of Guyana, Venezuela and Brazil, and at the moment can only be approached from the Venezuelan side.This is the land of tropical savannahs, cloud forests, tepuis, rivers and waterfalls. Roraima is one of the most recommended climbs in South America, and most people allow eight days for the trip.Mount Roraima is part of The Guiana Shield the highlands of which are known for being the home to some of world’s most spectacular waterfalls, including Kaieteur Falls in Guyana and Angel Falls.

Punta Cana - Dominican Republic

2011-06-20T09:04:00.000-07:00

Punta Cana is one of the most beautiful areas of the Dominican Republic and home to some of the world’s best beaches. The coastline is a 40-mile stretch of white sands, blue-green waters, plus all the lush flora and fauna you could ever imagine.The area is best known for its beaches and balnearios, which face both the Caribbean and Atlantic, and it has been a popular tourist destination since the 1970s. The weather is fairly consistent all year, with an average temperature of 30°C (86°F). The hot and humid season lasts from May to October, and during the day temperatures might reach 35 °C (95 °F). From November to March, temperatures during the evening are around 20 °C (68 °F). Boasts more that 50 hotels and 30,000 hotel rooms, Punta Cana is the largest tourist destination in the Caribbean. Whether you are traveling on your honeymoon or planning an excursion with the whole family, Punta Cana is the best spot in the Caribbean.

St Vitus Cathedral - Prague Castle

2011-06-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

Prague Castle is one of the most important monuments in Prague, if not entire Czech Republic.Prague castle was built in the 10th century by the Basilica of Saint George and the Basilica of St. Vitus.The St Vitus Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Prague, and is also home to the tombs of the Bohemian Kings. The cathedral is built in a Gothic style, which is one of the many styles visible in the castle complex. The Basilica of St George, on the other hand, is built in a Romanesque style, and is the most ancient church building in the complex.The cathedral, whose original name is St Vitus, St Wenceslas and St Adalbert Cathedral, is the biggest and the most important church in the Czech Republic. It’s the seat of the Archbishop of Prague and the place where saints, kings, princes and pmperors of Bohemia are buried.

Las Islas Cies - Galicia, Spain

2011-06-15T03:06:00.000-07:00

Galicia has 200 km of unspoilt coastline with coves, stunning beaches, sheer cliffs, and quaint picturesque fishing villages. Las Islas Cies beach is one of the more impressive beaches with far less people visiting the area and is a nature-lover’s dream with spectacular views, crystal clear waters, light oat coloured sands and a calm lagoon.Often considered one of the best beaches in Europe, the white sand of Las Islas Cies remains beautiful because the island is protected as a national park.Las Islas Cies were declared a nature reserve in 1980 and form part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park (Parque Nacional Marítimo-Terrestre das Illas Atlánticas de Galicia).In Spain, National Parks are nature areas with the aim of being untouched by human activity, this means that the islands of Cies are uninhabited and only open to the public during the summer.

Brooklyn Bridge - New York City

2011-06-12T07:17:00.000-07:00

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States. Completed in 1883, it connects the New York City boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn by spanning the East River.This bridge was the first steel wire suspension bridge and it was the longest suspension bridge on Earth until 1903. This bridge was built because it was a direct link between Manhattan and Brooklyn.Design of the bridge was begun by John A. Roebling and completed by his son, Washington. Construction took 14 years, and the bridge finally opened in 1883.On that first day, a total of 1,800 vehicles and 150,300 people crossed what was then the only land passage between Manhattan and Brooklyn. Emily Warren Roebling was the first to cross the bridge. The bridge's main span over the East River is 1,595 feet 6 inches (486.3 m). The bridge cost $15.5 million to build and approximately 27 people died during its construction.

Henderson Waves Bridge - Singapore

2011-06-09T12:05:00.000-07:00

At the height of 36 meters from the surface of the road, this bridge is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore. This 300 meters bridge connects the park at Mount Faber and Telok Blangah Hill.The bridge has a wave-form made up of seven undulating curved steel ribs that alternately rise over and under its deck. The curved ribs form alcoves that function as shelters with seats within. Slats of yellow balau wood, an all-weather timber found in Southeast Asia, are used in the decking. The wave-forms are lit with LED lamps at night from 7pm to 2am daily.The design concept of Henderson Waves is based on a folded three-dimensional surface-form created by means of simple mathematics. The architect of the project used proprietary mathematical techniques to define its form simply and rigorously. Hence the form bends, undulates, and ascends by twenty-one meters in one movement; in the process it also deforms to provide adequate egress, sloping, shelter, and scenic viewing to pedestrians and cyclists.

Mount Popa, Myanmar - South-East Asia

2011-06-05T02:57:00.000-07:00

Mount Popa is a volcano 1518 metres (4981 feet) above sea level, located in central Burma (Myanmar) about 50 km (30 miles) southeast of Bagan in the Pegu Range.Mt. Popa is an extinct volcano that is estimated to have erupted for the final time, over three hundred and twenty thousand years ago. However, popa’s attraction today lies not so much in its geological aspect, but more in its religious and mystical interests which are still prevalent.Popa is popularly recognized as an abode of many "Nats" (spirits of ancient ancestors) who dwell in various parts of the mountain. In the days of old, it also used to be referred to as the "Mountain of Spirits". The evidence of these beliefs is abundant in the form of "nat shrines", leg- ends, rituals, ceremonial offerings, annual representative festivals, and the never- ending stream of pilgrims and believers in mysticism. Popa today is one of the most popular pilgrimage spots in the country. One would need to spend a sizeable amount of time in order to unearth the spiritual and legendary wealth of this sacred mountain.

Boracay Island - Philippines

2011-06-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

Boracay is a tropical island about an hour’s flight from Manila in the Philippines. Its long white sand beaches rival the best beaches of more popular destinations such as the Caribbean, the South Pacific as well as neighbouring Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Facilities are available to suit different levels of activity. For those wanting to just lounge around and take in some rays, beach-front hotels usually have lounge chairs set up just a few steps away from the hotel entrances. Facilities for the usual water sports activities such as sailing, wind surfing, snorkeling, diving and jet skiing are also widely available for those in search of more active pursuits. The fun in Boracay also doesn’t end when the sun sets. Boracay nightlife is pulsating with many bars and restaurants serving food, drink and fun until the very late evening.

Santa Lucia Beach - Cuba

2011-05-28T11:40:00.000-07:00

Santa Lucia is one of the very best beaches in Cuba, with miles of soft white sand protected by the world’s second largest coral reef and gently washed by a clear blue sea. A holiday in Santa Lucia is perfect for a beach holiday at just about any time of the year and would be enjoyed by couples, families and water sports enthusiasts alike. The reef, clear waters and teeming marine life, as well as sunken pirate ships and Spanish galleons, make this a paradise for scuba divers, and anyone who would like to learn. Santa Lucia’s beauty is also appreciated by the large colony of roseate flamingos that have made it their home. Santa Lucia include scuba diving and snorkling at the coral reef, sunning, swimming, playing beach volleyball, windsurfing, pedal boating and engaging in other water sports.

Santorini, Greece - Pictures of Santorini island

2011-05-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

Santorini is one of the most famous Cycladic islands and is located in the beautiful Aegean Sea about 200 km southeast of Athens, Greece. Santorini is a small island with an area of 76 square kilometers and a population of about 8,500 to 10,000 residents. Her coast about 70 km long. Santorini length reaches 18 km. The extent of 2-6 km range. There are many things to visit and experience in Santorini. Among all the other tourist destinations, Santorini Villages is more remarkable and unforgettable experience for the people who put your whole life.Santorini is a beautiful village and the heart of the most popular because of their unique characteristics and differentiated appearance. Whitewashed houses with blue windows and doors, blue domed churches, extraordinary scenery, sunsets wild volcanic cliffs, historic monuments, blue sea, beautiful beaches and pleasant climate conditions of the several reasons which Santorini is known as the most popular destination for holidays and festivals around the world.

The villages of Santorini Island is considered the most beautiful villages in Greece. Approximately eighteen villages communicated well developed for tourists. In between each IRA, OIA and Kamari three villages which are the most popular tourist is always full.

Santorini Greece Videos

The Magic Mountain Hotel - Chile

2011-05-17T01:56:00.000-07:00

Located within the Huilo Huilo Private Natural Reserve,Chile, the hotel is nestled among the natural world. The Magic Mountain Hotel in the heart of the Huilo Huilo nature reserve. The architecture, combined with the forest setting, makes this truly a magical mountain.This hotel was made to look just like a volcano on the outside and has a waterfall which cascades down its windows and rocky walls. Wood and stone spiraled staircases as well as wooden walls and furniture are just some of the natural decorations you’ll see in and around the hotel. Hot Tubs made out of tree trunks are located in the forest; they are one of the biggest natural attractions at Magic Mountain.

Hohenzollern Castle - Germany

2011-05-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

Hohenzollern Castle is located at a distance of fifty kilometers from Stuttgart in the country of Germany. The Hohenzollern Castle was originally the residence of the Hohenzollern family during the middle ages.The castle is located on top of Mount Hohenzollern at an elevation of 855 meters (2,805 ft) above sea level, 234 m (768 ft) above Hechingen and nearby Bisingen, both located at the foothills of the Swabian Alb. It was originally constructed in the first part of the 11th century.The castle was completely destroyed after a 10-month siege in 1423 by the imperial cities of Swabia. A second, larger and sturdier castle was constructed from 1454 to 1461 and served as a refuge for the Catholic Swabian Hohenzollerns during wartime, including during the Thirty Years' War.

Koh Lipe Island - Thailand

2011-05-11T11:20:00.000-07:00

Koh Lipe is a tiny island in the Andaman Sea located 70 km off the southwest coast of Thailand near the Malaysian border. The Thai name is transliterated many different ways into English. The most common names in English are Koh Lipe, Koh Lipeh, Ko Lipey and Ko Lipe. Accommodation is still basic, and most places turn off the electricity around midnight. This island has four main beaches: Sunset beach, Sunrise beach, Karma Beach and Pattaya beach.Accommodation from grass huts to air-conditioned bungalows can be found on these beaches.

Sydney Harbour Bridge, Australia

2011-05-10T02:18:00.000-07:00

One of the world’s most massive bridges, the Sydney Harbor Bridge combines with the nearby Sydney Opera House to form an iconic image of Australia. The bridge spans the harbor and is a popular tourist destination, even offering visitors the opportunity to climb to the top of the bridge’s south end.The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a steel through arch bridge across Sydney Harbour that carries rail, vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian traffic between the Sydney central business district (CBD) and the North Shore. The bridge is locally nicknamed "The Coat Hanger" because of its arch-based design.

Catherine's Palace

2011-05-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

The Catherine Palace is the Rococo summer residence of the Russian tsars, located in the town of Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin), 25 km south-east of St. Petersburg, Russia.The residence originated in 1717, when Catherine I of Russia engaged the German architect Johann-Friedrich Braunstein to construct a summer palace for her pleasure. In 1743, Empress Anna commissioned Mikhail Zemtsov and Andrei Kvasov to expand the Catherine Palace. Empress Elizabeth, however, found her mother's residence outdated and incommodious and in May 1756 asked her court architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli to demolish the old structure and replace it with a much grander edifice in a flamboyant Rococo style. Construction lasted for four years and on 30 July 1756 the architect presented the brand-new 325-metre-long palace to the Empress, her dazed courtiers and stupefied foreign ambassadors.

Cairns - Australia

2011-05-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

Cairns, with a population of approximately 160,000 is Australia's 14th largest city and the 5th largest in Queensland. While now predominately a "tourist town" it is classified as a regional centre and supplies many outlying districts.Cairns is located about 1,700 km (1,056 mi) from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km (1,504 mi) from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The Great Barrier Reef can be reached in less than an hour by boat. Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km (81 mi) north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest.

Petrin Tower - Prague,Czech Republic

2011-05-02T03:21:00.000-07:00

In 1889, members of The Club of Czech Tourists visited world exposition in Paris and were inspired by the Eiffel Tower. Later, they collected a sufficient amount of money and in March, 1891 the building of the tower started for the General Land Centennial Exhibition (1891). It was finished in only 4 months.The tower is 60m tall, which doesn't sound particularly high until you add the fact that it sits on the top of Petrin hill, overlooking the whole of Prague.Today the Petrin Tower is a major tourist attraction. It is open from 10am to 7-10pm every day from April to October and only at weekends from November to March, from 10am to 5pm. There is a gift shop and a small cafeteria on the main level. On the lowest level is a small museum of Jára Cimrman.

Milan Cathedral - The Dome of Milan, Italy

2011-05-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

An exceptionally large and elaborate Gothic cathedral on the main square of Milan, the Duomo di Milano is one of the most famous buildings in Europe. It is the largest Gothic cathedral and the second largest Catholic cathedral in the world.The Duomo of Milan blurs the distinction between Gothic and neo-Gothic, for the Gothic west front was begun in 1616 and completed 200 years later. Only in its details does it reveal its Baroque and Neo-Classical date. From 1900 some of the less Gothic details of the facade were replaced in a true Gothic style, to designs of Giuseppe Brentano.

La Digue Island - Seychelles

2011-04-29T09:58:00.000-07:00

The fourth largest island of the Seychelles group, La Digue is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands with palm-fringed beaches, towering granite boulders and turquoise waters.La Digue is the fourth largest inhabited island of the Seychelles, lying east of Praslin and west of Felicite Island. It has a population of about 2,000 people, who mostly live in the west coast villages of La Passe (linked by ferry to Praslin and Mahé) and La Réunion. It has an area of 10 km². La Digue is named after a ship in the fleet of French explorer Marc-Joseph Marion du Fresne, who visited the Seychelles in 1768.

Millau Viaduct - France

2011-04-23T11:16:00.000-07:00

The Millau Viaduct is a work of both engineering prowess and architectural grace. Spanning the River Tam, in the south of France, Millau is a massive piece of infrastructure that appears as light as the fog that puffs across the valley.When it opened on 17 December 2004, the spectacular Millau Viaduct set new standards in both planning design and construction - without mentioning the record it set as the largest cable-stayed bridge in Europe. Near the bridge is a permanent visitors’centre with stunning views of the bridge and across the valley which it spans.At 2.4km long, and 270m above the river at its highest point, the Millau viaduct spans a 2km valley in the Massif Central mountain range and forms the final link in the A75 highway from Paris to Barcelona.

Sagrada Familia - Barcelona, Spain

2011-04-16T01:14:00.000-07:00

Basilica de la Sagrada Família is a large Roman Catholic church in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain, designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926).Sagrada Familia or the Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia was begun in 1882 by public subscription. A year later Gaudí became director of the project, a post he would hold for more than 40 years until his death in 1926. Work continued on the church based on Gaudí's general plan and studies. Unlike many churches, it survived during the Spanish Civil War, when many churches were burned; it was and is seen as a kind of symbol for the city of Barcelona.One projection anticipates construction completion around 2026, the centennial of Gaudí's death.

Madeira Island - Portugal

2011-04-11T07:53:00.000-07:00

The Madeira Islands, 540 miles southwest of Lisbon, Portugal, are a Portuguese archipelago positioned about 360 miles directly west of Morocco, Africa in the north Atlantic Ocean. These islands are a popular year-round resort, famed worldwide for their Madeira wine, embroidery artisans, a perfect (low humidity) climate, striking scenery and beautiful flowers. Madeira Island (740 sq km) is the largest island of the group. It's a rugged, mountainous rock, famed for its elevated sea cliffs, including Cabo Girao, the planet's second highest.

Glamis Castle - Scotland

2011-04-10T09:26:00.000-07:00

Glamis Castle is situated beside the village of Glamis in Angus, Scotland. It is the home of the Earl and Countess of Strathmore and Kinghorne, and is open to the public. Glamis Castle was the childhood home of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, best known as the Queen Mother. Her second daughter, Princess Margaret, was born there. Since 1987 an illustration of the castle has featured on the reverse side of ten pound notes issued by the Royal Bank of Scotland.The castle features extensively in fiction and legend, and according to local legend has more dark secrets than any other castle in Scotland. The most famous legend connected with the castle is that of the Monster of Glamis, a hideously deformed child born to the family. In the story, the monster was kept in the castle all his life and his suite of rooms bricked up after his death.

Guggenheim Museum - Bilbao, Spain

2011-04-08T01:36:00.000-07:00

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a museum of modern and contemporary art designed by Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry, built by Ferrovial and located in Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain. It is built alongside the Nervion River, which runs through the city of Bilbao to the Atlantic Coast. The Guggenheim is one of several museums belonging to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation. The museum features permanent and visiting exhibits of works by Spanish and international artists.

Angel Falls - Venezuela

2011-04-06T02:09:00.000-07:00

Angel Falls is one of Venezuela's top tourist attractions, but, even today, a trip to the falls is a complicated affair. The falls are located in an isolated jungle of Venezuela, and a flight from Puerto Ordaz or Ciudad Bolívar is required to reach Canaima camp, the starting point for river trips to the base of the falls.It is the world's highest waterfall, with a height of 979 m (3,212 ft) and a plunge of 807 m (2,648 ft). Angel Falls is also called Salto Ángel or indigenously Kerepakupai-merú. The indigenous name derived from the Pemón natives means "falls from the deepest place".

Vasco da Gama Bridge - Longest Bridge in Europe

2011-04-05T08:50:00.000-07:00

The Vasco da Gama Bridge in Portugal is the longest bridge in Europe (including viaducts) and 9th longest in the world. It has a total length of 17.2 km (10.7 miles), including 0.829 km (0.5 miles) for the main bridge, 11.5 km (7.1 miles) in viaducts, and 4.8 km (3.0 mi) in dedicated access roads.It is a cable-stayed bridge flanked by viaducts and roads that spans the Tagus River near Lisbon. Its purpose was to alleviate the congestion on Lisbon's other bridge (25 de Abril Bridge) and to join the previously unconnected motorways radiating from the Portuguese capital. The bridge carries six road lanes, with a speed limit of , the same as motorways, except on one section which is limited to . On windy, rainy, and foggy days, the speed limit is reduced to . The number of road lanes will be enlarged to eight when traffic reaches a daily average of 52,000.

Pictures of Puebla - Mexico

2011-04-03T03:34:00.000-07:00

In a broad, high valley about 60 miles southeast of Mexico City is a city known by many names over the years: City of Angels, City of Tiles, Heroic City of Zaragoza. Today we know it as simply Puebla.The city was founded in 1531 in an area called Cuetlaxcoapan which means “where serpents change their skin, in between of two of the main indigenous settlements at the time, Tlaxcala and Cholula.Although modern Puebla is highly industrialized, its historic downtown remains a Spanish-colonial treasure filled with elegant 17th and 18th century European architecture and art. When you add a temperate climate year-around, friendly and courteous residents (called poblanos) and delicious regional cuisine, Puebla becomes the ideal place to learn Spanish.

Marina Bay Sands - Singapore

2011-03-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

The Marina Bay Sands hotel is located in Singapore has been designed with one goal in mind, to be the leading business, leisure and entertainment destination in Asia. It holds the title of the most expensive hotel built till this day, as its investment by the Las Vegas Sands Corporation reaches $5 billion. The Marina Bay Sands hotel is a mixed-use integrated resort with 2,560-rooms, three 55-storey towers, a 150-meters infinity pool on top of the towers, an indoor canal, a museum shaped like a lotus flower, the best shopping mall in Asia and world-class celebrity chef restaurants. Furthermore, it includes theatres, an outdoor event plaza, a convention center and a casino with private gaming rooms for premium players.

Leaning Tower of Pisa - Italy

2011-03-27T12:31:00.000-07:00

The construction of this imposing mass was started in the year 1174 by Bonanno Pisano. When the tower had reached its third storey the works ceased because it had started sinking into the ground. The tower remained thus for 90 years. It was completed by Giovanni di Simone, Tommano Simone (son of Andreo Pisano), crowned the tower with the belfry at half of 14th century.The leaning Tower of Pisa is famous because it leans. Although it was designed to be perfectly vertical, it started to lean during construction. However, even without this famous characteristic, this building would still be one of the most remarkable architectural structures from medieval Europe. It stands at 60 metres and until 1990 was leaning at about a 10 degree angle.

Nice - Cote d'Azur,French Riviera

2011-03-20T14:40:00.000-07:00

When vacationing in France, be sure to visit the Southern port capital of Nice, located on the French Riviera.The city of Nice is located on the French Riviera in Provence Alpes, Cote d'Azur . Blessed by a sunny, temperate climate, Nice attracts visitors from around the world. Among its many attractions are its beautiful beaches, lovely seaside promenade, interesting museums, famous city landmarks and other tourist attraction.

Phi Phi Island - Maya Beach

2011-03-19T02:00:00.000-07:00

That beach, Ko Phi Phi, is no longer a secret. Located in the south of Thailand, about 50 kilometers from Phuket, Ko Phi-Phi is actually a group of six small islands.Phi Phi Island is high on the list of things to do to when in Phuket. Most tourists want to see Maya Bay at least ones in their lifetime. Therefore it can at times be somewhat crowded when in middle of the day (10am-2pm) boatloads of day trippers from Phuket and Krabi arrive for snorkeling in the bay and relaxing on the famous beach.

The Great Sphinx - Egypt

2011-03-17T14:49:00.000-07:00

The Great Sphinx is located in Egypt on the Giza plateau, situated about six miles west of Cairo. This area is part of the necropolis of ancient Memphis, the seat of power for the pharaohs.The Great Sphinx is a colossal stone statue located next to the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. Carved out of limestone, the Sphinx has the facial features of a man and the body of a recumbent lion; it is approximately 240 feet (73 m) long and 66 feet (20 m) high.

Leeds Castle - Kent, England

2011-03-14T01:07:00.000-07:00

Leeds Castle, acclaimed as the most romantic castle in England, is located in south-east England, built on two adjacent island in the river Len. Leeds Castle was originally a manor of the Saxon royal family possibly as early as the reign of Ethelbert IV ( 856-860). The first castle was an earthwork enclosure whose wooden palisade was converted to stone and provided with two towers along the perimeter. This is now vanished. Traces of arches in a vault thought to be Norman were found at the beginning of this century. source

Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island) - Dominican Republic

2011-03-11T11:14:00.000-08:00

Cayo Levantado is a little island in Samana Bay . The Island Cayo Levantado is also called the Bacardi Island because some palm trees look like the ones in the Bacardi advertising spots. It is a quite beautiful island with several hundred tourists coming every day.The sand is white and powdery, the turquoise waters are crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling or gentle swimming.

Bali Island, Indonesia

2011-03-09T05:32:00.000-08:00

Bali is an Indonesian island located in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. It is one of the country's 33 provinces with the provincial capital at Denpasar towards the south of the island.Bali is an Island of God in Paradise that is perfect destination for your holiday, enjoy the paradise with your family and collages and meet Bali will offer something for everyone. Bali Island has many kinds of places to visit like rice paddies, beautiful panorama, volcanoes soaring up through the clouds, tourism activities and attractions.

Mont Saint Michel Castle,France

2011-03-06T13:27:00.000-08:00

Mont Saint-Michel (English: Mount Saint Michael) is a rocky tidal island in Normandy, France. It is located approximately one kilometer off the country’s north coast, at the mouth of the Couesnon River near Avranches.It was built with two huge towers designed to defend the entrance. At the time it was built, the castle served as a means of preserving the freedom of the people. Along with the castle are built many monastic buildings that have been around since the 13th century. These structures are very fine samples of Gothic architecture.Today, Mont St Michel attracts over four million visitors a year.

Nassau,Bahamas - Paradise Island

2011-03-03T13:26:00.000-08:00

Nassau is the capital, largest city, and commercial center of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. The city has a population of 248,948 (2010 census), 70 percent of the entire population of The Bahamas (353,658). The city is located on the island of New Providence, which functions much like a business district. Nassau houses the House of Assembly and various judicial departments. Nassau is considered a historical stronghold of pirates. source

Sugar Loaf Mountain - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

2011-02-28T08:38:00.000-08:00

Sugarloaf Mountain is a peak situated in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at the mouth of Guanabara Bay on a peninsula that sticks out into the Atlantic Ocean. Rising 396 metres (1,299 ft) above the harbor, its name is said to refer to its resemblance to the traditional shape of concentrated refined loaf sugar.The mountain is one of the most famous in the world and is a spectacular backdrop to Brazil's most lively city. Visitors can see excellent views of Rio de Janeiro from the top of the mountain and sunsets are particularly spectacular.

Pictures of Pamukkale, Turkey

2011-02-25T11:52:00.000-08:00

The site is named in Turkish as "Pamukkale", that means "cotton castle", parallel to the glorious and spectacular view of the site. The dazzling white calcareous castles are formed by limestone-laden thermal springs, creating the unbelievable formation of stalactites, potholes and cataracts.The marvelous landscape of Pamukkale has been created by this gradual formation, leaving a cotton-like image. Located above the theatre of Hierapolis, the mineral water sources from the thermal springs of Cal Mountain. It is collected in a pool, known as the "Sacred Pool" of ancient times, where you can swim amidst the historical remains of Hierapolis. The Sacred Pool is now located inside Pamukkale Hotel.

Pamukkale, Turkey - Video

Corsica Island - France

2011-02-23T13:01:00.000-08:00

Corsica is an island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located west of Italy, southeast of the French mainland, and north of the island of Sardinia.Corsica was formed as an island through volcanic explosions. It is known as the most mountainous island in the Mediterranean.Nearly two million people visit Corsica each year, drawn by the mild climate and by some of the most diverse landscapes in all Europe. Nowhere in the Mediterranean has beaches finer than the island's perfect half-moon bays of white sand and transparent water.

Pictures of Bohol Island, Philippines

2011-02-21T12:04:00.000-08:00

Bohol is an island paradise in the Philippines famous for its while sand beaches, the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier, the smallest primate in the world. With a land area of 3269 km² and a coastline 261 km long, Bohol is the tenth largest island of the Philippines. The main island is surrounded by about 70 smaller islands, the largest of which are Panglao Island facing Tagbilaran City in the southwest and Lapining Island in the northeast.

Bohol Island - Video

Tenerife - Canary Islands, Spain

2011-02-17T14:34:00.000-08:00

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, and also of volcanic origins. It is dominated by the 3718 meters high volcano Mount Teide with its mighty crater. The Teide is not only the highest mountain of all Spain, but also the mountain with the highest elevation in all the Atlantic Ocean.
Tenerife's coastline is typically rugged and steep, however there are as well almost 70 kilometers of fine sand beaches, in particular in the islands' south, with Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos among the best known.

Tenerife - Video

Phi Phi Island - Thailand

2011-02-15T14:12:00.000-08:00

The Phi Phi Islands are located in Thailand, between the larger island of Phuket and the mainland. They are politically part of Krabi province, most of which is on the mainland.
Phi Phi Don is the largest island of the group, and is the only island with permanent inhabitants, although the beaches of the second largest island, Phi Phi Lee are visited by many people as well. There are no accommodation facilities on this island, but it is just a short boat ride from Phi Phi Don. The rest of the islands in the group, including Bida Nok, Bida Noi, and Bamboo Island, are not much more than large limestone rocks jutting out of the sea.

Arc de Triomphe - Paris,France

2011-02-12T11:50:00.000-08:00

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments in Paris. It stands in the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle, at the western end of the Champs-Élysées.The arch was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to commemorate his victories, but he was ousted before the arch was completed. In fact, it wasn't completed until 1836 during the reign of Louis-Philippe. The Arc de Triomphe is engraved with names of generals who commanded French troops during Napoleon's regime.The monument stands 50 m (160 ft) in height, 45 m (148 ft) wide and 22 m (72 ft) deep. The large vault is 29.19 m (95.8 ft) high and 14.62 m (48.0 ft) wide. The small vault is 18.68 m (61.3 ft) high and 8.44 m (27.7 ft) wide.

Burj Al Arab Hotel Dubai

2011-02-10T10:28:00.000-08:00

The Burj Al Arab is a luxury hotel located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. At 321 m (1,053 ft), it is the fourth tallest hotel in the world. The Burj Al Arab stands on an artificial island 280 m (920 ft) out from Jumeirah beach, and is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge.
Combining The Latest Technology With A Long-standing Reputation Of Arabian Hospitality The Hotel Symbolizes The Very Essence Of Dubai Embracing The Best Of New Alongside Traditions Of The Past.

Inside the Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab Hotel - Video

Ponte Vecchio - Florence, Italy

2011-02-08T09:18:00.000-08:00

The most famous bridge in Florence and also the oldest, this structure with three stone arches replaced a wooden bridge which had crossed the Arno River at this spot since Roman times. The upper side of the bridge, known as the Vasariano corridor, was designed by Vasari to link the Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery to the Pitti Palace; today it is an art gallery.
The Ponte Vecchio's two neighbouring bridges are the Ponte Santa Trinità and the Ponte alle Grazie.

Pictures of Sydney,Australia - Sydney Opera House

2011-02-06T08:11:00.000-08:00

Sydney is Australia 's oldest city, the economic powerhouse of the nation and the country's capital .The Sydney Opera House is situated on Bennelong Point in Sydney Harbour, close to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It sits at the northeastern tip of the Sydney central business district surrounded on three sides by the harbour and neighboured by the Royal Botanic Gardens.The building covers 1.8 hectares (4.5 acres) of land and is 183 metres (605 ft) long and 120 metres (388 ft) wide at its widest point.

Golden Gate Bridge - San Francisco

2011-02-04T10:33:00.000-08:00

The Golden Gate Bridge was the longest suspension bridge span in the world when it was completed in 1937, and has become one of the most internationally recognized symbols of San Francisco, California, and of the United States.The total length of the bridge is 8,981ft or 2,737m. The main span between the two enormous towers is 4,200 ft or 1,280 meter long.

St Moritz, Switzerland - Top of the World

2011-02-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

St. Moritz is a resort town in the Engadine valley in Switzerland.St. Moritz is one of the world’s glitziest and most expensive ski resorts, deserving its reputation as the St. Tropez of ski resorts, visitors can enjoy a huge variety of winter and summer sports.St. Moritz boasts some excellent skiing with outstanding views and an average of 322 days of sunshine a year.

St Moritz, Switzerland- Video

Video by,engadinstmoritz

Danube Tower - Vienna, Austria

2011-02-02T02:01:00.000-08:00

The Donauturm (English: Danube Tower) was constructed during 1962–1964, as designed by architect Hannes Lintl, in preparation for the Viennese International Horticultural Show 1964. After approximately 18 months of construction, under the supervision of Eberhard Födisch, the tower was officially opened on 16 April 1964 by Federal President Adolf Schärf.The tower stands at 252 metres (827 ft) in height.

Picture of Potala Palace - Lhasa, Tibet

2011-02-01T05:46:00.000-08:00

The Potala palace at Lhasa was built by King Songtsen Gampo during the seventh century. It is located on the Red hill of Lhasa, Tibet. It was struck by lightning and war that led to its destruction. However, the fifth Dalai Lama in 1645 rebuilt the palace again. And since then, it became the political center of Tibet.

Picture of Bellagio Fountains, Las Vegas

2011-01-31T00:56:00.000-08:00

The Fountains of Bellagio is a vast, choreographed water feature with performances set to light and music. The performances take place in front of the Bellagio hotel and are visible from numerous vantage points on the Strip, both from the street and neighboring structures.The show takes place every 30 minutes in the afternoons and early evenings, and every 15 minutes from 8 p.m. to midnight.

Bellagio Fountain - Video

Statue Of Jesus - Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

2011-01-30T04:47:00.000-08:00

Statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; considered the second largest Art Deco statue in the world. The statue is 39.6 metres (130 ft) tall, including its 9.5 meter (31 feet) pedestal, and 30 metres (98 ft) wide. It weighs 635 tonnes (700 short tons), and is located at the peak of the 700-metre (2,300 ft) Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park overlooking the city. It is made of reinforced concrete and soapstone, and was constructed between 1922 and 1931. Source

Glacier Express, Switzerland

2011-01-29T01:49:00.000-08:00

The Glacier Express is the most famous railway in the world. It travels from Zermatt to Davos or St. Moritz in around seven hours.The Glacier Express, which has been operating since 1930, is billed as "the world's slowest express train" and averages 36 km/h (22 mph). The trip on the Glacier Express is a 7½ hour railway journey across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels and across the Oberalp Pass on the highest point at 2,033 m (6,670 ft) in altitude.

Video by,StuartDutchmanHQ

Notre Dame Cathedral - Paris, France

2011-01-28T09:10:00.000-08:00

The Notre Dam Cathedral, Paris is an ancient cathedral that lies on the 'lle de la Cite' on the river Seine in Paris. The Notre Dam Cathedral, Paris is famous for its Gothic style architecture. The name Notre Dame means "Our Lady" in French, and is frequently used in the names of Catholic church buildings in Francophone countries.

Notre Dame de Paris - Video

Roman Colosseum - Rome, Italy

2011-01-26T23:47:00.000-08:00

The Colosseum is probably the most impressive building of the Roman empire. Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheater, it was the largest building of the era.The Colosseum - the greatest amphitheatre of the antiquity - was built in Rome, Italy, about 1920 years ago. It is considered an architectural and engineering wonder, and remains as a standing proof of both the grandeur and the cruelty of the Roman world.

Roman Colosseum - Video - Inside the Roman Colosseum

video by : intrepberkexplorer

Photos from Oahu Island, Hawaii

2011-01-26T00:52:00.000-08:00

Oahu is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands and most populous of the islands in the State of Hawaiʻi. The island is very georgraphically diverse with mountains, rainforests, volcanic craters, tropics, beaches, and much more.

Photos of Cancun, Mexico

2011-01-24T23:18:00.000-08:00

Cancun is the ultimate vacation and resort destination whether your idea of a good time is surfing, kayaking, fishing and swimming or just laying in the tropical sun.

Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt

2011-01-24T13:32:00.000-08:00

The simplicity of sun, sea and sand. The luxury of five-star hotels, water sports, shopping and entertainment. This is Sharm el-Sheikh, one of the most accessible and developed tourist resort communities on the Sinai peninsula. All around are Bedouins, colorful tents, mountains and sea.

Great Barrier Reef Australia

2011-01-23T04:17:00.000-08:00

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world, and pulling away from it, and viewing it from a greater distance, you can understand why. It is larger than the Great Wall of China and the only living thing on earth visible from space. The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest reef system composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,600 kilometres (1,600 mi) The reef is located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland in north-east Australia.A large part of the reef is protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, which helps to limit the impact of human use, such as fishing and tourism. Other environmental pressures on the reef and its ecosystem include runoff, climate change accompanied by mass coral bleaching, and cyclic population outbreaks of the crown-of-thorns starfish.

A divers' paradise because of all the marine life that the coral attracts, not to mention the amazing formations and colors of the reef itself, this natural wonder deserves its high ranking in the top adventure trips list.

Coral Reff

Tower Bridge - London, England

2011-01-22T09:01:00.000-08:00

London’s Tower Bridge is one of the most recognizable bridges in the world. Its Victorian Gothic style stems from a law that forced the designers to create a structure that would be in harmony with the nearby Tower of London.Two massive piers, containing over 70,000 tons of concrete were sunk into the riverbed to support the construction. Over 11,000 tons of steel provided the framework for the towers and walkways.

Neuschwanstein Castle - Bavaria, Germany

2011-01-21T04:56:00.000-08:00

The Neuschwanstein Castle is one most visited castles in Germany and one of the most popular tourist destination in Europe. The castle is located in Bavaria, near the town of Fussen. It was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, also known as the “Fairytale King”.Neuschwanstein is the most visited castle in Germany, and one of the most popular tourist destination in the world. Every year over 1.300.000 people crosses its gate.

Pictures of Patagonia, Chile

2011-01-19T11:52:00.000-08:00

The most famous region of Chile, Chilean Patagonia offers all the dramatic landscape one would expect from the world's ultimate land's end. Here the South American continent falls away in a dazzling explosion of islands, glaciers, icebergs and mountains

Mauritius - Island Pictures

2011-01-18T09:59:00.000-08:00

Mauritius Republic is an island nation off the southeast coast of the African continent in the southwest Indian Ocean, about 900 kilometres (560 mi) east of Madagascar.Mauritius is a fascinating, world-in-one-island slice of paradise. Its very name of conjures up images of tropical luxury and stupendous extravagance.

Pictures of Machu Picchu, Peru

2011-01-17T08:11:00.000-08:00

Machu Picchu –"Old Mountain", is a pre-Columbian Inca site located 2,430 metres (7,970 ft) above sea level. It is situated on a mountain ridge above the Urubamba Valley in Peru, which is 80 kilometres (50 mi) northwest of Cusco.Machu Picchu is probably the most familiar symbol of the Inca Empire.

Machu Picchu Video

Arenal Volcano Costa Rica

2011-01-16T11:22:00.000-08:00

Arenal Volcano is an active andesitic stratovolcano in north-western Costa Rica around 90 km northwest of San José, in the province of Alajuela, canton of San Carlos, and district of La Fortuna. The Arenal volcano measures at least 1,633 metres (5,358 ft).

Eleuthera - Harbour Island, Bahamas

2011-01-16T03:44:00.000-08:00

Eleuthera is an island in The Bahamas, lying 50 miles (80 km) east of Nassau. It is very long and thin—110 miles (180 km) long and in places little more than a mile wide. According to the 2000 Census, the population of Eleuthera is approximately 8,000.

Princess Cays Port- Eleuthera, Bahamas

Mount Kilimanjaro Photos

2011-01-15T13:59:00.000-08:00

Mount Kilimanjaro, with its three volcanic cones, Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira, is an inactive stratovolcano in north-eastern Tanzania and the highest mountain in Africa at 5,895 metres or 19,341 ft above sea level.

Capri Island - Italy

2011-01-15T00:16:00.000-08:00

Capri is an Italian island in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the Sorrentine Peninsula, on the south side of the Gulf of Naples, in the Campania region of Southern Italy. It has been a resort since the time of the Roman Republic.

Cote d'Azur, French Riviera - Monte Carlo

2011-01-14T06:13:00.000-08:00

Monte Carlo is home to most of the Circuit de Monaco, on which the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix takes place. It also hosts world championship boxing bouts, the European Poker Tour Grand Final and the World Backgammon Championship as well as fashion shows and other events.

Great Wall of China Pictures

2011-01-13T02:47:00.000-08:00

Construction of the Great Wall started in the 7th century B.C. The vassal states under the Zhou Dynasty in the northern parts of the country each built their own walls for defence purposes. After the state of Qin unified China in 221 B.C., it joined the walls to hold off the invaders from the Xiongnu tribes in the north and extended them to more than 10,000 li or 5,000 kilometers. This is the origin of the name Of the "10,000-li Great Wall"

Cape Town, South Africa

2011-01-12T01:54:00.000-08:00

Cape Town - a city with a diverse range of attractions, sights and activities to offer. From lavish and luxurious to back-packing on a budget, Cape Town has something for everyone.Cape Town is the second-most populous city in South Africa, and the largest in land area, forming part of the City of Cape Town metropolitan municipality.

Cape Town Travel Pictures

Cape Town, South Africa Vacations

Fontana di Trevi, Rome, Italy

2011-01-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

The Fontana di Trevi or Trevi Fountain is the most famous and arguably the most beautiful fountain in all of Rome. This impressive monument dominates the small Trevi square located in the Quirinale district.
Tradition has it that throwing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain guarantees a swift return to the world's most beautiful city.

Pictures of Mount Fuji,Japan

2011-01-11T08:50:00.000-08:00

Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan (3,776m / 12,388feet) and is an active volcano. Japanese people love mount Fuji, calling it as Fuji-san. It's a dream for many people to climb up Mount Fuji. It's said that about 300,000 people try to climb Mt. Fuji every year and that 30-40% of them are foreign visitors. Mt. Fuji is located about 60 miles southwest of Tokio.

Bora Bora Paradise Island - French Polynesia

2011-01-10T10:17:00.000-08:00

Bora Bora is an island in the Leeward group of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. The island, located about 230 kilometres (140 mi) northwest of Papeete, is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. In the center of the island are the remnants of an extinct volcano rising to two peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, the highest point at 727 metres (2,385 ft) .

Source

Chambord Castle - Loire Valley,France

2011-01-09T08:52:00.000-08:00

The Chateau of Chambord in one of the loveliest Renaissance buildings in the Valley of the Loire. Chambord, chateau, park, and village in the department of Loire-et-Cher in central France.Chambord, which measures 156 meters by 117 meters and has 440 rooms, is the largest of all the Loire castles.

Photo of Chambord castle

Chambord Castle - Loire Valley

Eiffel Tower, Paris Pictures

2011-01-08T12:31:00.000-08:00

The Eiffel Tower in Paris needs no presentation, it is one the most well known monuments in the world visited by more than 5 million people each year.
Built 1889 for the Universal Exhibition in celebration of the French Revolution.
The metal structure of the Eiffel Tower weighs 7,300 tonnes while the entire structure, including non-metal components, is approximately 10,000 tonnes.
The tower stands 324 metres (1,063 ft) tall, about the same height as an 81-storey building.

Eiffel Tower at Night

Paris France, Eiffel Tower Photos

Thailand Beach Pictures - Phuket photos

2011-01-07T05:14:00.000-08:00

One of the nicest parts of Thailand to visit is Phuket Island. There are so many things to do on Phuket Island that it will take you a couple of weeks to experience everything. This is probably the main reason why so many people who holiday on this island choose visit Phuket every year.

Phuket Island,Thailand - Beaches

Phi Phi Island

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe - Africa

2011-01-06T13:07:00.000-08:00

The Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders) is a waterfall located in southern Africa on the Zambezi River between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe.The falls are formed as the full width of the river plummets in a single vertical drop into a transverse chasm 1708 meters (5604 ft) wide, carved by its waters along a fracture zone in the basalt plateau.

Victoria Falls Rainbow

Victoria Falls - Video

Mount Rainier Pictures - Mount Rainier National Park

2011-01-06T06:23:00.000-08:00

Mount Rainier is a massive stratovolcano located 54 miles (87 km) southeast of Seattle.Mount Rainier, at nearly 4400m, has the highest peak in the cascade range and cascade volcanic arc.

Christine Falls - Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier National Park Pictures

Mount Rainier Video

Venice, Italy - Travel Photos, Europe

2011-01-05T06:10:00.000-08:00

Ponte di Rialto -The Ponte di Rialto was once the only way to cross the Canal Grande. Fish and fruit markets, along with souvenir shops can be found on and near the bridge.

Venice Italy Grand Canal

Piazza San Marco -Piazza San Marco is one of the most visited places in Venice. Here you will find numerous shops with locally crafted items. Take in the view as you gaze at the incredible basilica. Stop in at one of the cafés, grab a drink and sit out on the terrace to enjoy the view.

Piazza San Marco

Iguassu Falls - Brazil,South America

2011-01-04T14:47:00.000-08:00

Iguassu Falls Brazil, one of the great natural wonders of South America.
The Devil's Throat (Garganta del Diablo in Spanish or Garganta do Diabo in Portuguese) a U-shaped, 82-meter-high, 150-meter-wide and 700-meter-long ,marks the border between Argentina and Brazil.

The Devil's Throat

Iguassu Falls-Video