Many national publications and travel advice blogs release annually “must see’ attractions and destinations throughout the world. In fact, National Geographic magazine still releases a respected annual showcasing their favorite travel spots. The winning vacation destination locations listed usually have the advantages of unrivaled scenery, an industrialized economy geared to travelers, and their tourist dollars, pesos, and yen. Well, you get the idea! Below, please find our travel destinations worth considering.
What Makes these Travel Destinations Different?
The travel destinations listed below could not be farther apart. And we are not just talking (well, actually, writing) in distance! Each one of the travel destinations offers both the novice and seasoned traveler something unique and “Bucket List” worthy. The Scottish Highlands, Kruger National Park, Kyoto, and Quebec City provide some of the finest historical travel spots in the world, along with amazing biodiversity and stunning scenery.
Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom
This part of the world has everything in terms of cultural appeal and natural beauty. The towering mountains provide all the leisure options anyone could possible ask for, young or old. Check out the video for Mountain Biking at mean finest. Or for some craziest! For the sightseer, there are photo opportunities aplenty. Natural attractions include the Corrieshaloch Gorge and the fabled Loch Ness.
Lovers of royal heritage will enjoy a landscape that still proudly displays ancient cairns and castles. The location is tourist-friendly at all times of the year, from spring alpine blooms to fall foliage. Please feel free to send us a photo or video if you actually see the “Loch Ness Monster.” We will be pleased to give you credit in an upcoming Skycap News™ article!
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger National Park is one of the greatest National Parks in Africa. It is located at the North-Eastern tip of South Africa and extends over the Mpumalanga and Limpopo province. Most of the surrounding private reserves have actually removed their fences, enabling wild animals to wander freely in between reserves. This “full of life” park has developed a diverse wildlife setting like nothing else. The “animalistic appeal” of Kruger National Park soaks itself into any person that sees this diverse place through their own two eyes.
There is an impressive variety of wild animals in the area, including the African “Big Five” (rhino, elephant, leopard, lion, and buffalo). Kruger National Park is also located among the more politically steady regions of Africa, normally untouched by the high crime that plagues the rest of the country. Kruger National Park is a “must-see” and should be on the schedule of every visitor to South Africa. An important word of caution; “Please Obey ALL Park Rules!”.
Kyoto (Gion) Historic District, Japan
Gion District is a historic area in Kyoto city Close to the sizzle of downtown Kyoto and located between the downtown and the Yasaka Shrine. It is one of the most visited places in Kyoto city and reminds the visitors of the bygone charm of the ancient Kyoto city. Anyone who has actually watched the 2005 epic drama Memoirs of a Geisha can certainly appreciate the appeal of this historic area.
Ancient Buddhist temples, wood townhouses, and geisha houses bound in a modern reflection of ancient Japanese glory. The tourist attractions are plentiful with comprehensive Japanese xeriscape and architecture. From gardens to bridges, nobility homes, and public works buildings. All in all, this might be the most surprising of our travel destinations worth considering.
Quebec City – Quebec, Canada
Founded by the French explorer Champlain in the early 17th century, Quebec City is the French cultural heart of Canada. The City center is representative of all that the francophone culture consists of. This is the only city in North America that has protected its colonial ramparts as well as incorporates all the old trappings of fortresses, such as towers and bastions. The Historic District of Old Québec also makes the World Heritage Centre list.
Without question, the main focus of your visit should be the Old Town. This historic locale is split between the Old Upper Town (Haute Ville), perched above the St Lawrence River on the Cap Diamant cliffs, and the Old Lower Town (Basse Ville). This is the site where Samuel de Champlain established the first French foothold in 1608. The Old Town exudes history with museums, mansard-roofed houses, and cobblestone streets from days gone by.
All summer long, musicians, acrobats, and actors in period costume take to the streets, while fantastic festivals fill the air with fireworks and songs. In the coldest months of January and February, Québec’s Winter Carnival is arguably the biggest and most colorful winter festival in North America. If your budget allows, seriously consider spending a night (or several) at the Chateau Frontenac.
Travel Destinations Worth Considering Summary
So there you have it. All of the travel destinations offer something worth seeing and should be on the radar of your travel planning for anyone who wants something different. While more established best vacation spots are great, why not branch out and expand your horizon(s)? Just think how cool your Facebook “Check-ins” will be! Safe travels!