Thor's well, in Cape Perpetua, Oregon. Looks like a doorway towards another, more violent world.

An 'emerald' lake, ontop an inactive volcano in Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

Just a restaurant off the coast of Zanzibar; one of the most rustic places on the face of the planet, if you ask me.

The balloon festival in Capadoccia, Turkey

A desert covered with blooming Phacelia (scorpion's grass), a sight which appears only once in a few years

Perhaps the most spectacular city of the moment - Dubai. This photo was taken from a building called Burj Khalifa, which measures 828 meters above the ground and has 163 floors.

This is taken from the same building, but looking down. Quite the view...

A monument from Kaunas, Lithuania, as seen during the day and during the night.

These spectacular sculptures (there are more like this) were made by Bruno Catalano and are spread throughout France

The 'Happy Rizzi House', in Braunschweig, Germany.

... what can only be described as a small paradise. Off the island of Lamu, at the Indian Ocean

The Maldives airport was built on an artificial island, but it looks magnificent

]]> http://www.zmetravel.com/destinations/11-sights-worth-seeing-in-this-lifetime-993/feed 0 http://www.zmetravel.com/travel-list/fabulously-colored-beaches-968 http://www.zmetravel.com/travel-list/fabulously-colored-beaches-968#comments Fri, 16 Dec 2011 14:32:25 +0000 Mihai Andrei http://www.zmetravel.com/?p=968 икони цениI don’t know about you, but I love going to the beach! The warmth of the Sun’s rays, the splash of the waves, the golden sand… it almost sounds to good to be true. But not all beaches are the same – and not all have golden sand. Some show the most dazzling and unlikely display of color – here are just a few of these jaw dropping colored beaches.

Kaihalulu – also known as Red Sand Beach

This amazing beach located just off Maui island means ‘roaring sea’ in Hawaiian – a fitting name for such this great beach.

You won’t find any more beaches coated in this blood red color, and for good reason.

The sand owes this color to cinder cone; cinder cone or scoria cone as it is also called a steep conical hill of volcanic fragments that accumulate. In this case they were also eroded up to the point they become sand.

Papakolea Beach – also known as green sand beach

Papakolea beach is another example of what wonders can be created through volcanic activity.

It is also located in US, and again in Hawaii – and the resemblances don’t end here. Papakolea is also a result of cinder cone, but this time we’re talking about olivines – crystals created in the depths of the earth.

The olivine crystals were part of the underlying magma, and are made mostly out of magnesium, iron and oxygen.

Harbor Beach – also known as pink sand beach

This beach isn’t or volcanic origin like the previous ones, but it is in fact made out of small pieces of coral; that’s right, small, pink pieces of coral.

It is one of the most special travel destinations in Bahamas, and in case you’re wondering, it’s actually quiet too – perfect for the ones who just want to get away.

Hyams beach – The beach with the whitest sand in the world

This beach is actually mentioned in the Guinness world record book as the beach with the whitest sand in the world.

Located only a two hour drive away from Sidney, this beach is made of quartz, one of the most common yet spectacular minerals in the Earth’s crust.

Punaluu Beach – Black sand

After all, you need a little black to even up all that white.

Again, the black beach comes from shattered basaltic rocks, which are volcanic rocks.

Pfeiffer beach – purple beach sand

Believe it or not, this magnificent beach is washed by a lavish purple color; this purple color comes from manganese crystals, eroded and washed away by the wind’s action.

This is one of the best places in the world where you should bring that special other, maybe right after the wedding, while she is still wearing purple wedding flowers.

Well, that’s not all the colored beaches in the world – that’s for sure! These are only the best we could find right now, so please, share with us your favorite beach – pics are a bonus. We would really love that, and so would other readers just like yourself.

Machu Picchu is the most famous Inca site, one of the most spectacular archaeological discoveries in all the world, and one of the best touristic destinations you can pick. Situated on a ridge above a spectacular valley, the Lost City of the Incas, as it is often called, will definitely give you a vacation to remember your whole lifetime; we’re talking (probably) an extremely long trip ahead of you, which means the ticket won’t be cheap, and numerous logistical difficulties you will probably have to face. Hopefully, I will be able to clarify what you should do.

First of all, you have to bear in mind the fact that Machu Picchu is not a cheap holiday, by most standards. You have to get to Lima, the capital of Peru first, and from there the road gets kind of complicated and crowded. Once you get close, probably in the city of Agua Calientes, there are three ways to reach the ruins themselves. First of all, you can follow the multiple day Inca Trail, which is the cheapest (free actually) and will give you a remarkable spiritual experience, but it’s definitely not for the lazy or unprepared. Second, you can walk on a shorter road, and last, if you are really lazy or don’t have a long vacation, take the bus. Buses are very frequent, and they cost about 7$, so it’s not really a lot of money. You have to be careful when traveling by bus, or the train, because you will probably be asked to pay about 10 times more than a local…

However, once you get to the ruins, things start to change; as I told you, visiting Machu Picchu isn’t cheap. The entry fee alone can go up to 100$, and a two hour guided tour will be about 20$; however, if you do find a group that’s already formed, you can mingle for just a few dollars. There are no vehicles allowed inside however, so no matter how lazy or short your vacation is, you have to take a comfortable pair of shoes and some adequate clothing and prepare yourself for a walk in the ruins; don’t be too scared however, because the main walks are quite accessible.

Accomodation in Machu Picchu is also something you have to consider; the only hotel close to the ruins is the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, but it will cost you about 750$ per night. The sunrise is definitely something you will take with you for a lifetime, but at 750 greenies, so is the cost. What most people do if they want a cheap accomodation near Machu Picchu is go to the nearby town of Aguas Caliente. You will likely pass through it anyway; it’s not really an interesting city, quite the opposite actually, but it’s the nearest access point for the Incan ruins. The food is good however, and the prices are not so bad; but there is a good chance people will try to rip you off, so keep an eye open anyway.

All in all, for what it has to offer, Machu Picchu is not expensive at all, but you shouldn’t think that going there is just like visiting any other ruins. You need to first of all get there, by plane and train/bus, and walk; you need to pay an entrance fee, and either get a cheap accommodation in the nearby city of Aguas Caliente, or an expensive one near the ruins. But the reward is priceless.

Many exotic locations around the world would need you to go through some desert, big or small, and for the explorer in you, there’s no bigger pleasure. But for the un-explorer in you, here are some tips while traveling through such an area.

First of all, you have to know your limits, and start easy. When planning the trip, especially if the area is not too populated, inform someone of your destination and route. Thus, if something happens, people will know where to come and look for you. Also, It’s very important that you check if you phone is working, and refill your battery.

What you should do, is search for a very reliable guide. He can get you out of a lot of problems and you can also learn from him, but once again, make sure he’s reliable. Also, there’s a big chance he’ll want to ask you a whole lot of money, so bargain with him. It shouldn’t be very expensive and you’ll also get the chance to work your social skills and there’s a good chance the guide will actually be insulted if you don’t bargain.

If traveling by car, make sure it is in good condition and check that you have the following:

• cell phone
• a spare tire
• tools (which you should know how to use)
• reserve gas and oil
• water (lots)
• a good battery
• hoses
• spare fan belts

While driving, keep an eye on the sky because flash floods can happen when thunderheads are in sight, even though it doesn’t have to rain at your location. If a dust storm happens, get off the road and turn on your emergency flashes, while backing into the wind. When going through washes and sandy areas, it is better to get off and test the footing so that the car won’t get stuck. These things happen in inhabited parts and even some urban areas.

If you will go by foot (these are useful when you go by car too), check that you have the following:

• lots and lots of fruits, tea (especially green or black, which when drank hot, is very good for you), and generally speaking light foods
• cell phone
• water, about one gallon per day / 1 person
• a map showing the nearest populated areas
• sunscreen, hat, warm clothes and blankets
• a pocket knife, compass, first aid kit, compass
• waterproof matches, lighter or flint
• a signaling device, like a whistle, aluminum foil or a mirror

Periodically look back and take a mental picture of what it looks like. This will help you get back.
Don’t stray off established paths and, if possible, leave some markings on the trail.

Now, let’s talk about what to do if something happens ( you get lost and / or the vehicle breaks down)

In the event the vehicle breaks down and you can’t fix it, stay near it and wait for rescue. Don’t attempt to leave on foot unless you are positive of the route to help. But better think about it: you have supplies, not to mention that a person is harder to be seen from a distance than a car.

If you are on foot and get lost, don’t panic, especially if people know where you are. Try to retrace your steps. Use high elevation to look around and get a sense of your bearings. Rest frequently to avoid heat prostration. Make sure you sit at least twelve inches above the ground in the summer by using a stool or branch. The ground temperature is hotter than the air temperature.

When walking, do it slowly and rest frequently. Breathe through your nose, try staying in the shade and wear clothes. It will help ration sweat. If you see someone, use some aluminum foil or mirror to signal for help.

I really can’t stress the issue that you shouldn’t go unprepared enough. Start in very easy areas, ask the locals, and don’t do anything stupid, no matter how romantic or easy it would seem. If you want to be a man, think first.

1) Gaved by Colorado during millions and millions of years, The Grand Canion outspreads over 5 millions of acres in Arizona. Its landscape constitutes the most important touristic attraction and over 5 million people visit it each year – especially during the summer time.

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The parc looks forward to visitors for the entire year, but the high season is between April and October. Summer implies crowd, blocking and using the facilities of the parc at the highest level, so it is possible for tourists to prefer visiting it during the spring or the autumn. It is more than agreeable for the ones who have the privilege to go there to admire the sight. The landscape they can see from Desert View Drive and Hermit Road is amazing, more than that, paradisiac. The best photos ever can be taken when the sunset or the risen come. Walking represents another pleasant choice a visitor can make.

Moreover, it’s something serious when we’re talking about the Grand Canion, and if there’s no experience, any tourist would better stay away from the inland canions. There can be made one-day trips, all needed being a map, a lot of water, solar cream and a very best friend.

2) Miami is known as the most interesting place in the entire U.SA, unique through its fast development. Although it can easy become “an intoxicant” because of the crowd, the beaches carry over a special charm, exotic, fact that can make any tourist to dream of it and return there when the next holiday comes.

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The activities that can be done there abound, from shopping to playing golf, the city being tooled up with many special places where people can spend their time in extraordinary ways. There also are a tropical park and one of the biggest Zoos in the entire world, called „Miami Metrozoo”. An extra-special moment in Miami is represented by the Calle Ocho Festival, being held right in the center of the city. Just say “we’re going to Miami Beach”. Say it out loud. You’ll know what I’m talking about.

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3) Mammonth Cave is named like this thanks to its proportion. The Indian tribes know this fantastic world for over than 4000 years; its incredible length attracts many tourists who want to taste from the joys that nature gives us and when they leave their eyes show an impressing feeling of love for anything that’s around us.

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The view changes from extended halls like Rotonda(as big as Grand Central railway from Ney York) to narrow passages, having less than 46 cm width. The ones who choose to cover Echo River are given the opportunity to bequeath the accomplished echo. Frozen Niagara is a serie of halls where stalactites and stalagmites seem to be veritable waterfalls turned into stone.

4) Yosemite National Park is visited by over 3 million tourists each year, fact that proves the quality of the American touristic wonders. The parc has 400 to 4000 m altitude, 5 bunches of sequoia and rich flore(over 3500 plants) and fauna. It issituated in the central area of Sierra Nevada from California. Its most important fluents are Merced and Toulumn.

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Yosemite is the second national park and the most popular natural destination in California. Rocky shapes, waterfalls, big pinnacles, subalpine meadows covered by mountain cusps. These are only some of the attractions people can find in Yosemite, where nature becomes a reason of joy.

5) Sun Valley means, before anything else, privacy.

The ones who are captivated by sky would do almost the impossible to assure they`ll spend some peaceful days on the track, away from tumultuous everyday life and indiscreet eyes. ForbesTraveler suggests 7 chic destinations, in the heart of American mountains, where luxe collocates with total relaxation. Adored by by celebrities such as Arnold Schwarzenegger and Gray Cooper, Sun Valley is caracterised as being a magical place, izolated and maybe this is the reason why it is considered to be a gorgeous place. The luxurious chalets from the mountains are meant to give the sensation of a dream, when they constitue a real one.

6) Niagara Waterfall is situated between the states of New York and Ontario, being one of the most popular and spectacular natural wonders of the world. It can be “braved” in a small sail named Maid of the Mist. Niagara has been formed oer 12500 years now, at the end of the last ice age, when the last massy glaciers melted.

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Since its formation, it got nearer with about 11 km to Erie. It represents a great touristic attraction, gathering millions of visitors each year. Niagara can be admired from parks situated on the ramp of both shores of the river. Visitors can also go into the Wind Cave, near the waterfall. During the night, Niagara is illuminated by powerful, multicolour spotlights, giving to the visitors the oportunity to admire a spectacle of lights and music.

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7) Colorado Springs is a town from the American State Colorado, a place of miracles and extreame pleasures of nature, the perfect place for natural spa and for unforgettable days, also a place for skiing .

The geography and the climate, as well of the air quality recommend it as a peaceful, soothing town; but you shouldn’t think that there’s no nightlife or stuff to do downtown. Nothing like a glass of wine with the mates after a snowfight.

Is your favorite american place here? If so, please leave a comment and let us know which one. If not, that’s even better, we’d love even more to hear about it, so we can add it to the list.

Have you ever dreamed of sailing off into the sunset, on your very own boat which is also your hollyday (or even permanent, if you’re the adventurous type) residence? If you want something of striking simplicity or a luxurious environment, this collection has something for everybody. The Trilobis 65 is a masterpiece of engineering. Reaching 20 metres in length, the semi-submerget dwelling environment is nonpolluting (!), permiting living in harmony with the ocean surroundings. It’s just a fantastic sample of man’s ingeniosity, as it embraces technology that includes high-power composites and nonpolluting hydrogen fuels. Here are some images to help you picture it (the top picture too).

But having such a residence is not just relaxing and fascinating, it’s also very useful for some people. For example, 20% of Netherlands is underwater, so there is a need of some creative and innovative designs. Here are some examples:

At the other end of the line, if you have a very tight budget but you just won’t give up on your dream houseboat, all you need is a platform and a shelter; and what better way to combine these is there than to use a simple floating surface and a ready-made trailer or mobile home.

If you really want to relax in this way, but can’t afford a permanent residence, go on a cruise! Or if you want more, just try some amazing underwater and ocean-going hotels instead!

I know where I want to go! But how do I get there? Deciding the right means of transportation could make your vacation a whole lot better (or a whole lot worse), so you should take your time in picking it. Here you’ll find a quick guide with the major means of transportation and things that you should take into consideration when choosing.Airplane traveling is one of the most common forms to get to your destination, especially because it’s the fastest way. If your vacation days are not that many and your budget is not very limited, this is the right way. But traveling by plane is nowhere near perfect. The bad thing is that it’s quite expensive (except for the low budget flights) and you don’t get to see any sights. For that reason, it can be quite boring too.

Traveling by train is in that way the opposit of the airplane; you travel slow, but you have the opportunity to see wonderful sights, which could include lovely sunsets and vaste fields. You get to see cities, meet people, make friends, and your experience could be fantastic; it’s also very cheap! But when traveling long distances you would have to spend a night in the train, which some people have a problem against. If you don’t like to meet new people than this is probably not the best thing for you. But if you want to take some great pictures, go for it! Also keep in mind that some trains, such as the Trans-siberian are a real oasis of luxury.

If you want to travel by car, it’s probably best not to use your own car. That would just add to the stress and limit you in a way; you would not be able to drink, nor be very tired, you would always have to be fresh. How could you party all night when you have to be fresh ?! Also, the train is a better choice than the bus. But still, a car is also very cheap and some people just feel comfortable in the car. Traveling by boat is a totally unique experience; you can’t describe it in words, you can just feel it. Some people love it, some people hate it. There’s no middle way. Other more excentric things you can should do include flying with a baloon, paragliding, and canoeing. Of course these are not means of transportation themselves, but they should be mentioned as they are loads of fun, and can even be unique experiences. So think about the fact that getting there can be just as fun as what you do there. Don’t cut yourself out of what can be truly a fascinating trip!

The common misconception is that China has is not very interesting, and that in fact it has very few attractions; few things could be further from the truth. Just take a look at Beijing, where you could stay for months and still see just half of it! This is not to mention the fact that with the summer Olympics, even more fantastic buildings are rising from the earth and there are even more things to do. I’m gonna name just a few, because if I were to talk about everything there it would take more than a day.Probably the first thing you want to do is check out the Great Wall of China; it stretches out for more than 5,000 kilometers and it’s the only building seen from outer space. It offers spectacular, breathtaking views and it’s definetly one of the greatest architectural achievements of mankind, and one of the greatest turistic attractions of the world. A walk on The Great Wall would definetly make your hollyday. The next thing you should do is go straight to Forbidden City. Splendid painted decoration on these royal architectural wonders, the grand and deluxe halls, with their surprisingly magnificent treasures will certainly satisfy ‘modern civilians’. Simply brilliant, not something you want to miss.

The Temple of Heaven is another worthwhile visiting place in Beijing. It is in fact a lot bigger than the Forbidden City with an area of about 2,700,000 square meters. Besides carefully designed buildings, there are also some other scenes that you can enjoy like Nine-Dragon Cypress. It’s said that the cypress was planted more than 500 years ago. This place truly deserves it’s name. Among the buildings created for the Olympics, probably the most notable is The Water Cube, a magnificent building, well worth checking out.

Hopefully by this time you’re already taking into consideration a trip there, and you have already left behind the totally untrue idea that China is dull or boring; it’s nothing near that! It just might be the hottest place on the planet this day, but there’s no better way of convincing yourself than going there. Also, stay tuned for part 2, where we’ll take a deeper dive into the beauties of Beijing!