Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Outdoors and Eco-Friendly 10 Mind-Blowing Escapes
10. Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Two of the world's most active volcanoes sit inside Hawaii's Volcanoes National Park. There are many ways to experience the power of these natural wonders -- scenic drives, hikes and ranger-led tours being the most popular.
9. Marrakech, Morocco
In Morocco's historical Marrakech is the notorious Jamaa El Fna marketplace. Here, storytellers, shopkeepers and snake charmers vie for your attention while you enjoy traditional foods like escargot and couscous. You truly will feel as though you've entered another world, tantalizing to the senses.
8. Monument Valley, Utah
The continental United States are back on the countdown at number 8. Monument Valley in Utah has been the setting for more Western movies than any other site in the US. Its iconic sandstone formations and the Four Corners Monument are unforgettable and absolutely breathtaking in person.
7. Venice, Italy
The city of Venice conjures images of stunning architecture, artistic masterpieces and incomparable wine and cuisine. Get lost in the St. Mark's Basilica and St. Mark's Square; experience the sites and sounds of the Venice Carnival; and walk across the Rialto Bridge.
6. Singita Lebombo, South Africa
At the Singita Lebombo Lodge, travelers experience the perfect combination of luxury accommodation and safari adventure. The resorts 15 suites all include indoor and outdoor showers and private terraces where you can sleep under the stars. During the day, explore the African wilds accompanied by an experienced guide and tracker.
5. Jellyfish Lake, Palau
Palau truly is one of the world's most beautiful tropical paradises. Located 500 miles from the Philippines, the island is famous for Jellyfish Lake. Here, a special species of jellyfish has been trapped in the lake and, over time, they've lost their ability to sting. A unique and unforgettable swimming and diving adventure, it earned the number 5 spot on our countdown.
4. Santorini, Greece
Santorini, Greece, is located in the Cyclades of the Aegean Sea and has one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. The villages are built on cliffs and overlook a submerged volcano. Those who visit Santorini flock to Oia, a town offering stunning views of the sunset.
3. Grand Canyon, Arizona
Carved by the mighty Colorado River, the Grand Canyon is an unbelievable chasm that cuts 5,000 feet into the earth's crust. The canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide and over one mile deep. Its vista is mesmerizing and awe-inspiring.
2. Zambezi River Rafting, Zambia
From a mighty river in America to another in Zambia, only the truly brave of heart risk whitewater-rafting on the Zambezi River. The river is classified as a high-volume, pool-drop river and floods between February and the end of June. At times, the volume is 4 times that of the Colorado River, so make sure you're prepared before running the Zambezi.
1. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat is one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Another UNESCO-protected location, it contains the remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, including the Temple of Angkor Wat and the Bayon Temple. Marvel at this jaw-dropping and eye-opening historical preservation.
