12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites You’ve Never Heard Of

When we think of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a few things probably come to mind: Machu Picchu, Venice, the Great Barrier Reef, Yellowstone National Park, the Galapagos Islands…the list goes on and on.

But the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization has identified 878 World Heritage Sites across the globe, many of which you’ve probably never heard of.

The following 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites might not be the most popular, but hold some outstanding universal value and are definitely worth a visit.

1. Borobudur Temple Compounds

Regarded as the single most visited tourist attraction in all of Indonesia, Borobudur Temple Compounds in Java is one of the world’s most important Buddhist sites, dating from the 8th to the 9th centuries.

According to UNESCO, Borobudur Temple Compounds was built in three tiers: a pyramidal base, the trunk of a cone with three circular platforms, and a monumental stupa. The temple’s architecture was built in accordance with the concept of the Universe in Buddhist cosmology.

Beyond its historical value, the temple features stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, like that of Mount Merapi. In the ’70s, UNESO helped restore the Buddhist monument, helping the temple uphold its historical significance.

Ancient City of Bosra. Wikimedia Commons

2. Ancient City of Bosra

Once the capital of the Roman province of Arabia, the Ancient City of Bosra formerly served as an important stopover on the caravan route to Mecca, according to UNESCO.

A small Syrian town situated just about 30 miles from the Jordanian border and 60 miles from Damascus, Bosra is a lesser known UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains a rare representation of both Roman and early Christian architecture in Syria. Bosra’s Roman theatre is said to be the largest, most complete, and best-preserved Roman theatre in the entire Middle East.

3. Mount Emei

A breathtaking site that will take you a bit off the beaten path, Mount Emei is nestled within China’s Sichuan Province and is home to the first Buddhist temple in the nation, constructed in the 1st century A.D.

Mount Emei Scenic Area is one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China, with the most remarkable monument being the Giant Buddha of Leshan. Standing tall at 232 feet, the Giant Buddha of Leshan is the tallest Buddha structure in the world.

Mount Emei itself is known for its rich vegetation, with some of its trees being more than 1,000 years old. The region’s vegetation ranges from subtropical to subalpine pine forests.

Cocos Island National Park. Wikimedia Commons

4. Cocos Island National Park

Known for its outstanding diving conditions, specifically to gaze upon sharks, rays, and dolphins, Cocos Island National Park is located just off the coast of Costa Rica in the Pacific Ocean. Cocos Island is renowned for constituting one of the best preserved marine tropical waters across the globe.

Cocos Island stands out as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being the only island with a tropical rainforest in the tropical eastern Pacific, yet it still remains rather unknown compared to other UNESCO locales.

The surrounding area of Cocos Island National Park is teeming with forested mountains, rivers, waterfalls, estuaries, cliffs, sandy and rocky beaches, and extensive bays.

5. Surtsey

As a nation, Iceland has one of the most unique landscapes on the planet, and Surtsey is no exception.

Surtsey is a new island formed by volcanic eruptions that took place between 1963 and 1967, situated approximately 20 miles from the south coast of Iceland, part of the southernmost region of the country.

Surtsey has been carefully protected since its birth, and by 2008, 69 species of plant had been found on the island, of which nearly 30 had become established. This was the same year that UNESCO recognized the volcanic island for holding great scientific value by deeming it a World Heritage Site.

6. Chan Chan Archeological Zone

A pre-Colombian city and archeological site, Chan Chan Archeological Zone was once the capital of the Chimu Kingdom, a civilization that ruled the northern coast of Peru from around 850 to 1470.

According to UNESCO, the planning of the city of Chan Chan was the largest in pre-Colombian America, reflecting a strict political and social strategy. The construction of Chan Chan was distinctive by the city’s nine palaces that formed various autonomous regions.

Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Preserve. Wikimedia Commons

7. Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve

A unique nature reserve located near the western coast of Madagascar in the District of Antsalova, Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve is made up of karstic landscapes and limestone uplands that appear to be shooting upward from the earth like sharp, deadly needles.

This lesser known UNESCO World Heritage Site features the extraordinary canyon of the Manambolo River, rolling hills, and high peaks. Rare and endangered lemurs and birds make habitat of the reserve’s untouched forests, mangrove swamps, and lakes.

If you’re wondering where the name came from, the word ‘tsingy’ is alleged to to derive from a local word meaning “an area where one cannot walk barefoot.” Fitting? We think so.

8. Te Wahipounamu

If you’re the outdoorsy type, then this UNESCO World Heritage Site should be at the top of your bucket list.

Te Wahipounamu is situated in southwest New Zealand, a breathtaking national park characterized by its vast fjords, towering cliffs, rocky coasts, crystal clear lakes, and cascading waterfalls.

According to UNESCO, more than half of the park is covered with southern beech and podocarps, some of which are over 800 years old. The park is also known for housing the kea, the only alpine parrot in the world, along with the takahe, a large, endangered flightless bird.

9. Lumbini

Regarded as being the birthplace of the Lord Buddha, Lumbini is one of the holiest places on earth for one of the most practiced religions in the world.

The Lord Buddha, otherwise known as Siddhartha Gautama, was born in 623 B.C. in the gardens of Lumbini, situated in the Rupandehi District of Province No. 5 in Nepal. Today, Lumbini is a popular Buddhist pilgrimage site where the archeological remains associated with the birth of the Lord Buddha form a central feature, according to UNESCO.

Those visiting Lumbini will get to see the excavated remains of Buddhist monasteries from the 3rd century B.C. to the 5th century A.D.

Amphitheatre of El Jem. Wikimedia Commons

10. Amphitheatre of El Jem

The Amphitheatre of El Jem is the impressive ruins of the largest colosseum in North Africa and one of the largest amphitheaters in the world. Located in the city of Thysdrus, El Djem, Tunisia, the amphitheater was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. This 3rd-century monument illustrates the extent and resplendence of Imperial Rome.

With the capacity to hold up to 35,000 spectators, the Amphitheatre of El Jem was built entirely of stone blocks, with no foundations and free-standing, according to UNESCO. This architectural and artistic wonder was constructed in 238 A.D., shedding light on the history of Roman Africa.

11. Mammoth Cave National Park

Located in the state of Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park is the only North American UNESCO World Heritage Site on the list, a hidden gem suitable for exploration and wonderment.

This U.S. National Park is home to portions of Mammoth Cave, the longest cave and underground passageway system known in the world. The park’s underground network contains more than 285 miles of passageways that are home to various flora and fauna, including several endangered species.

According to UNESCO, Mammoth Cave National Park illustrates a number of stages of the Earth’s evolutionary history.

12. Mountain Railways of India

If you’ve ever seen Wes Anderson’s popular film The Darjeeling Limited, you’ll understand why the Mountain Railways of India are a cherished UNESCO World Heritage Site, albeit lying under the radar.

The Mountain Railways of India consist of three railways: the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and the Kalka Shimla Railway. All three railways were built in the mid to late 1800s and are all still fully operational.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is undeniably the most impressive of the three, with its design applying bold and ingenious engineering concepts to combat the issue of establishing an effective rail link across mountainous terrains, according to UNESCO.

Cover Photo: Unsplash / George Hiles

How to Spend 48 hours in Bogota, Colombia

Sitting at 8660 feet above sea level, it’s not just the altitude that will take your breath away in Bogota. Surrounded by towering emerald mountains, this capital city’s barrios are as varied as Latin America itself. Roam around La Candelaria for a dose of colonial history, ponder the city’s many street art murals, and learn about legendary icons like Jorge Eliecer Gaitan and Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Take advantage of the city’s proximity to nature and hike through lush mountain paths to savor unparalleled vistas. Sip on the world’s best coffee in one of Chapinero’s urban cafes and dine on traditional Colombian fare in one of Zona G’s gourmet restaurants.

With its booming economy, life can be hectic in Bogota, but there’s always a reason to celebrate in this country- sometimes until the sun rises. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or just a good time with welcoming locals, Bogota has it all. Even if you just have two days in the city, here’s how to get the most out of your time.

Day One

Once you arrive at the airport, forget renting a car. There is plenty of public transit throughout the city, and with the organization of the city grids, it’s easily navigable by foot as well. Grab a taxi or an uber for a 20 to 30-minute ride to your hotel, drop your luggage off, and get ready for an incredible day.

La Candelaria

Sip some coffee

If this is your first time in the Capital District, you’ll want to get to know its historic center first to learn about the city’s history and culture. Head to La Candelaria to get a cup of coffee. The importance of coffee in this South American country cannot be overemphasized, as they are the world’s second-largest exporter of the roasted bean. The unique climate in the high-altitude, rich-soil cafetero zones bordering the equator provide extraordinary cultivation. Grab a coffee at Contraste Coffee Lab for an intimate coffee tasting experience.

Eat your breakfast

Most Colombians have a light breakfast; you can grab a cookie or palo de queso to accompany your coffee at Contraste. Otherwise, you’ll have no trouble finding food carts selling the ubiquitous arepa, Colombia’s most popular street food. It’s a thick, delicious pastry made from ground corn, normally stuffed with cheese and garnished with avocado, plantains, or eggs.

Go on a walking tour

There is no shortage of walking tours within La Candelaria, and many are free. The historic tour will familiarize you with important buildings and areas here, such as Plaza de Bolivar and Chorro de Quevedo, where the city was supposedly founded. Other important tours include the graffiti tour, where you’ll be shown several gorgeous murals honoring indigenous culture. The war and peace tour is a must for visitors eager to learn about Colombia’s political past and how it has transformed over the years.

Savor traditional cuisine

For lunch, head to Puerta Falsa to try ajiaco– a traditional rolo (slang for Bogotano) soup made from chicken, potatoes, guasca leaves, maiz, avocado, and cream. This is perfect for the typically cold and rainy days that so often set upon the capital.

Visit a museum or two

Bogota is saturated with art, and you can’t miss the chance to soak up the culture by visiting at least one of its stellar museums. The Museo de Oro isn’t just eye candy; its impressive collection of gold and Precolombian art demonstrates the country’s wealth before the conquistadors’ arrival. If you want a quick introduction to Colombia’s most popular “modern artist,” go to Museo de Botero for a collection of Fernando Botero’s paintings and sculptures. The Museo de Arte Nacional is an excellent choice for a more thorough discovery of the country’s art. Please note that most museums are closed on Mondays.

Get a different perspective

After absorbing the long-standing creativity of Colombian culture, it’s time to head into higher altitude to visit Montserrate. This mountain rests over 10,000 feet above sea level and topped with a church, which draws in droves of pious worshippers during religious holidays. Even if you’re not religious, it’s worth a visit just for the spectacular views of this metropolis, especially as the sun sets. There are three different ways to ascend its steep façade; you can walk up (which takes about an hour and a half), take its funicular- a train pulled upward by cables, or the cable car. For the quickest ascent and best views, I recommend that latter. Stay until sunset and watch as the clouds set in and lights across the city begin to glimmer.

Chico Norte

Engage all your senses at dinner

For dinner, head north. Located on Calle 92, Gaira Café Cumbia House is a restaurant owned by Carlos Vives. Dedicated to embracing Colombian culture through music, dance, and- of course- food, this is a must-visit destination. Forget any rumors about the greatness of Andres Carne De Res; this is the place to be. Decorated with musical paraphernalia, it is especially lively on Friday and Saturday nights, when live cumbia and vallenato are played. Savor flavors of the coast, such as coconut rice and patacones, and you just might be surprised by a visit by Senor Vives himself.

Lay your head to rest

There are many places to sleep in Bogota, whether you’re on a budget or looking to be enveloped by luxurious pillows and linen so soft you’ll swear you’re sleeping amongst a pile of bunnies. For the lower price range, head to Quinta Camacho to stay at Aurora Hostel, arguably Bogota’s best budget accommodation. This is an eco-friendly hostel, filled with plants, bright, clean spaces to lounge, and breakfast included in the cost. Eight-bed dormitories cost approximately 27,000 COP and private rooms start from 40,000 COP per night.

If you’re looking for more upscale accommodations, try the GHL Hotel Bioxury. Located north of Chapinero, in the Retiro neighborhood, this airy five-star hotel combines the perfect combination of luxury and ecological balance. While you want to get the most out of your time in Bogota, you may be tempted to lounge around here, get a massage, work out in its exercise room, or journal in its garden.

Day Two

Chapinero

Another cup of coffee

After taking advantage of the complimentary breakfast at your accommodation, head out for a morning cup of tinto, or black coffee. Nearby Colo, also known as Bourbon Coffee Roasters, is another excellent establishment that serves coffee prepared in a variety of filters like the sifon and French Press. They also offer sandwiches, pastries, and almond milk for vegan-friendly coffee.

Get to Know Chapinero

Chapinero is an area in the heart of Bogota, roughly between Calle 50 and Calle 90, known for its modern approach to life. It includes the bustling financial district, the gayborhood boasting mega-nightclubs like Teatron and Oktavia, fashion boutiques, and way too many places to eat.

Go shopping

If you’re in the mood for shopping, head to La Percha for clothing, Three Little Birds for vinyl records, or Animalista for vegan goods like purses, make-up, and shoes.

Discover contemporary art

If you want to get an idea of what more contemporary artists in Bogota are up to, head to the Flora Ars Natura Gallery, which holds various exhibitions exploring the connection between art, nature, and the body. Join an art workshop at Rat Trap– a gallery that also serves as a bar, recording studio, and space for live events.

Zona G

Curb your appetite

After you’ve worked up an appetite exploring Chapinero, it’s time to eat. Walk to the nearby Zona G (“G” for gourmet), which boasts a variety of international cuisine. From Peruvian to Italian to Thai, there’s everything here- even a two-story Starbucks. Grab some Mexican sopes at La Lupita Restaurante or a typical Colombian dish, cazuela de frijoles, at Casa Bizarra. Walk around after to admire the quaint brick architecture and posh Bogotanos walking their French bulldogs.

Grab an afternoon craft beer

Not only do Colombians love to celebrate, there is also a blossoming craft beer culture here in the capital. Skip the water suds and head to a proper brewery, such as El Bar Perdido in Zona G or Mono Bandido in Quinta Camacho. Tip: If you’re traveling with someone else and plan on having more than one glass, it’s more economical to order a jarra (pitcher).

El Centro/Chapinero

Catch a Colombian play

The District Capital of Bogota is known for its arts culture, as you’ve already seen in its museums and walking its streets. However, no visit to Bogota would be complete without watching a show at one of its theaters. Teatro Libre, with locations both in Chapinero and La Candelaria, was established in 1973 and has a dedicated group of 22 artists who put on plays based on the works of Dostoevsky, Shakespeare, and many more.

If you’d like to see a bigger production, head to Colombia’s national theatre, Teatro Colon. Built in the 1800s in neoclassical design, there is no place more elegant to absorb Bogota’s artistic prowess. Check their schedule beforehand, as they offer a variety of productions, ranging from opera to ballet, circus, music, and more.

Usaquen

Wrap up your trip in a historic barrio

Usaquen was its own municipality until it became part of Bogota in the 1950s, but it still maintains its small-town charm. Located in the north of the city, it is known for its weekend feria, or flea market, and wide range of restaurants. Head to Parque de Usaquen to see the main plaza lit up at night. Roam around the cobblestone paths, where you’ll find street vendors selling handmade artesanias, talented musicians busking for pesos, and countless boutique shops and restaurants. Don’t leave South America without trying chicha, which is a fermented beverage made out of corn, at El Tigre. After, head to La Rosconeria, which sells over 30 flavors of Colombian pastries, for a sweet end to your two days in Bogota.

Top image credit: Unsplash / Flavia Carpio

Vegas For Cheapskates: The Best Things To See And Do On A Tight Budget

Las Vegas Strip lit up at night — Unsplash / Mike Boening

Everyone loves a great travel bargain and Vegas is full of them. But you have to know where to look and how to play the game. It’s not your run-of-the-mill destination and, as such, you need some insider tips about the best things to see and do on your tight budget.

Lowest prices on Helicopter Tours in Las Vegas

Las Vegas Hotels On A Budget

Accommodations in Vegas can be cheap. I don’t mean frugal or budget-friendly or value added. I mean downright cheap! It’s not unusual to find a room for under $40 a night and under $20 isn’t impossible. But you have to do some legwork. Your first step is to review this list of what hotels in Las Vegas charge a resort fee. A resort fee is a non-negotiable daily charge that gives you…. Nothing. But they can cost up to $45 a day, plus tax, and are never included in online quotes. They’re the enemy of any budget traveller so narrow down your short list of hotel choices accordingly.

With your short list selected, sign up for the promotional newsletter of each property you’re interested in. Great deals are often advertised only to insiders or fans and this is the best way to find the best prices.

Timing matters in Vegas. The cost of accommodations on weekends or holidays can be astronomical compared to the frugal offerings of weekdays. If you’re vacationing in the area, consider spending the weekend at one of the many nearby national parks. Pricing at national park lodges is usually set seasonally, not day to day.

Unless the price is truly too good to be true, book directly with the hotel, not a third party website, and choose the option that allows you to cancel a booking without penalty. On several occasions, I’ve booked what I thought was a killer deal – only to see a better price or a bonus offer for food credits a few weeks later. I simply cancelled the first reservation and booked a new one!

Finally, remember that in Vegas it pays to gamble. In my experience, it might not hurt to fold a fresh $20 bill in thirds, put it under your hand, and smoothly slide it across the counter and ask the clerk if they would mind checking if there are any nicer rooms available for complimentary upgrades. I’m serious! If the hotel has availability and you’ve been sincerely kind and friendly to the clerk, chances are you will be upgraded at no extra cost beyond your $20. If they can’t do it, they’ll likely slide the $20 bill back. No, it’s not a bribe. It’s a tip – and Vegas runs on tips. Anywhere else in the world this would be slimy. Not in Vegas. It’s how I moved from a standard room to a one bedroom apartment at the MGM Signature!

Colorful signs outside a Vegas liquor and cocktail shop — Flickr / Paul Kamberis

Dining Deals

In a Venn diagram of phenomenal Las Vegas eats and cheap Las Vegas eats, there’s little overlap. But enterprising travellers can find great bargains. If you’re a true night owl or a very enthusiastic early bird, several casual diners and casino cafes have excellent deals between midnight and 5:00 am – perfect for when you’re up late hitting a show or waking up early to travel for a desert hike. One example: The Sundance Grill at the Silverton offers biscuits and country style gravy for $2.95 and steak and eggs for $4.99.

Casino restaurants also offer great deals for members of their player’s clubs or loyalty programs. For instance, at the Sourdough Cafe at Arizona Charlie’s, your player’s card means $3.99 unlimited pancakes and a $8.99-weekday special. If you google “players club dining perks” and the name of the hotel or casino, you’ll find a host of online resources and tips.

And, depending on your point of view, there’s no dining bargain quite like the all-you-can-eat buffet. Getting the best value from a Vegas buffet is a work of art and everyone has an opinion on which one is the best. Locals flock to the Garden Court Buffet in the Main Street Station Hotel, where the breakfast buffet is $9, lunch is $10, and dinner is $13. One of my fondest Vegas memories is when I was stocking up on pasta there and a local directed my attention to a basket of garlic bread at the end of the station, saying it was fantastic. To be truthful, it was average at best, but I always respect people who have strong opinions about bread! If you’re REALLY into the buffet scene, pick up a copy of Frommer’s Las Vegas guidebook. They go into great detail about things like which buffet has the best homemade desserts (a Vegas rarity).

If you’re keen to explore off the beaten path – essentially anything you’ll find beyond The Strip – you’ll find a nice list of low-cost dining options. At a 24 hour diner called Badger Cafe, everything on the menu is under $10 and robust meals like a roast beef dinner are less than $8.

A red M&M candy on the wall of the Vegas M&M shop — Flickr / Bernard Spragg

What To See And Do

If your travel motto is “If it’s free, we go and see”, Vegas has plenty to keep you occupied for days at nary a cost. The Strip is an attraction in and of itself if people watching is your thing. You never can tell what you’ll see! But there are more organized events and activities too!

Nearly every major hotel along The Strip has an attraction that everyone can enjoy, not just guests. The Bellagio Hotel, for instance, puts on a delightful light and water show every night at its fountains. The volcano at the Mirage has nightly ‘eruptions” and the Venetian offers – you guessed it – a little taste of Venice right in the heart of Vegas.

If you have a sweet tooth, M&M World and Hershey’s Chocolate World are tons of fun to check out. But take note: They usually don’t offer samples and there’s plenty of temptation to shop. However, if your travels take you to nearby Henderson, the Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory has free self-guided tours and a higher chance of nabbing a sample.

There are a lot of strategies for getting free beer in Vegas – and most of them involve excessive gambling to ‘earn’ complimentary drinks at casino bars or buying an expensive souvenir glass in exchange for free refills. But at the Banger Brewing Company, a rare craft brewery in the city center, visitors enjoy great tours that end with sampling up to four beers! Times book up quickly – you can reserve a slot here. If wine is more your thing, check out the schedule for Wine Lounge Thursdays – part free wine tasting, part music series, 100% fun.

And if museums, art galleries, or outdoor excursions are your thing – Vegas has a host of options for each. You can see a long list of Vegas freebies here. One that’s especially easy for nearly all travellers to enjoy is the Aviation Museum at McCarran Airport.

The classic Las Vegas sign against a blue background — Flickr / Prayitno / Thank you for (12 millions +) view

Bonus Tips For Super-Cheapskates

Don’t be afraid to ask for discounts. If you’re a teacher, first responder, a military veteran, student, senior, a member of an automobile association or service club, you could very well get a 10% discount at many hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

If any big-ticket items are on your bucket list, search a guidebook or the web to get advice on how to save. There’s no need to pay full price for tickets to see magicians, gourmet meals, and guided tours. Often all it takes is a willingness to do some advanced research and have a bit of flexibility.

Flex your coupon muscle. Sure, you’re keen to leave the airport and hit the city but don’t leave the terminal without grabbing a handful of tourist brochures and magazines. Using 2-for-1 coupons is a Vegas right of passage.

Speak up if service isn’t great. Sure, all hotels and restaurants should be receptive to customer concerns but Vegas is particularly service oriented, especially in the large casino businesses. Lead with courtesy and don’t settle for just ‘good enough’.

Photo Credit: Flickr / ADTeasdale

Hotels With Theme Rooms To Spice Up A Romantic Getaway

For most of us, a romantic date means dinner at a nice restaurant perhaps with a complimentary rose and glass of champagne. But if you really want to impress your significant other, how about taking them back in time, or even to another planet, without ever leaving your hometown?

Theme suites at hotels across the country help you to turn a romantic getaway into the weekend of your dreams. Whether its playing space pirates in an out of this world alien planet themed room, or heading back to the old west in a saloon themed room, you’ll find these theme rooms not only fun but a door to all new adventures on your trip.

Wildwood Inn – Florence, KY

Just off I-75 in Florence, Kentucky, you’ll find the Wildwood Inn. While the hotel has normal rooms, many of which surround its Tropical Dome water park, it also features nearly two dozen themed suites to rent for your trip.

Running the gamut from Tiki Huts to suites decorated to look like caves to two-story suites reminiscent of a New York City apartment, the hotel’s theme suites all provide getaways that will delight your sense of adventure. Each theme room features a Jacuzzi hot tub, a king-sized bed and an HDTV. Some even feature murphy beds to turn the room from a romantic getaway to a family adventure.

Victorian Mansion – Los Alamos, CA

While it may look traditional, if not proper, on the outside, guests at “The Vick” will find more than just Victorian décor at this hotel in the Santa Ynez wine country. The hotel features six themed suites — from the 50s to the French country-side and from gypsy trailers to a pirate’s ship. Each room features a “hidden” bathroom, a hot breakfast for two each morning, a hot tub, a fireplace and luxurious robes to lounge in. The suites also come with flat-screen TVs and complimentary DVDs, CDs and other entertainment to match the theme of the suite.

Sunset Inn and Suites – Clinton, IL

From Arabian nights to a Space Odyssey, the rooms at Sunset Inn and Suites are sure to spark your fantasies as they immerse you all in their themes. Rooms feature hot tubs, HD TVs, high-speed internet and luxurious accommodations. Some rooms even feature dry saunas and multi-jet showers. All rooms are smoking rooms though. With enough time, the hotel will try to de-smoke the room upon request.

The Anniversary Inn – Boise, ID

With locations in Salt Lake City and Logan, Utah, and Boise, Idaho, the Anniversary Inn offers up plenty of theme rooms to try out. From biker hangouts to lighthouses to the presidential suite that looks like the Oval Office, you can be whoever you want to be in these theme rooms.

Ranging in price from $169 per night to $269 per night, the rooms come with hot tubs, complimentary cheesecake and sparkling cider and breakfast for two. As you escape from reality, you’ll admire all the little details — from the murals in the undersea room that make you feel like you’re really underwater to the hardwood floors and turret in the pirate’s lair that make you feel like you’re in a pirate ship! Covered wagons make for great beds in the prairie themed rooms.

Sybaris – Chicago, IL; Milwaukee, MN; Indianapolis, IN

If over-the-top executive exclusion is more your thing, how about a pool suite to relax with your significant other?

At Sybaris, you’ll discover full-sized pools within the suites, as well as waterfalls, massage chairs, a steamroom and a fireplace. Some of the rooms even come with their own private garage. It’s kinda the place you’d expect Tony Soprano to take a really treasured Goomba to, you know?

Hicksville Trailer Palace – Joshua Tree And Idyllwild, California

So, if you’re into staying in a converted trailer, or in a theme-decorated A-frame, this is the place for you. Located in Joshua Tree and Idyllwild, California, the theme motels — Hicksville Trailer Palace and Hicksville Pines Chalets and Motel, are two fo the more unusual theme motels around. Ranging from trailers decorated in a Pee Wee Herman theme, to a chalet decorated in a John Waters theme (complete with a TV on the ceiling to watch John Waters movies on and a closet full of Divine-inspired clothing), there’s definitely something for even the wildest tastes here.

Cove Haven Resorts – Poconos, PA

Remember back in the 70s and 80s when it was just soooooo cool to have someone take you to a Champagne Tower suite in the Poconos?

No, just me? Okay, well, take my word for it then, it was.

And you can still get that — a hotel room with a king-sized bed surrounded floor to ceiling with mirrors, and all near a heart-shaped pool, and a 7-foot tall champagne glass shaped Jacuzzi tub. See? What’s not to love in all that?

Cove Haven has three resorts in the Poconos, all of which have various themes. The resorts are all inclusive and also feature fireplaces, dry saunas and two remote controlled TVs. What more could you possibly want?

Wigwam Village #6, Holbrook, AZ

There’s something alluring about sleeping in a wigwam, even if it isn’t actually deerskin and tree branches.

Wigwam Village #6 is a throwback to the old American travel days along Route 66. The village has been there for decades and many people return to the motel time and again to relive their stays. The hotel rooms, each made as a teepee or wigwam, feature queen-sized or two twin beds with a television and plenty of room to move around in. For a step back in time, it’s worth the $86 a night.

Eureka Springs Treehouses, Castles and Hobbit Caves, Eureka Springs, AR

Arkansas is probably the last place you would expect to find castles and hobbit caves, but nevertheless, there they are.

Located just outside of Eureka Springs, Arkansas the Eureka Springs Treehouses, Hobbit Caves and Castles is a one of a kind accommodation that allows people to live out their fantasies in a wooded fairyland. From turreted castles, to hobbit caves, to houses literally in trees, there’s a place for every fantasy here.

Each room, whether nestled in the trees, decorated like a Hogwart’s cottage, or hidden in the ground like a hobbit cave, comes with a king-sized bed and a Jacuzzi for two. Some rooms come with fireplaces, decks and secret passage showers.

Traveling To Tokyo, Japan: What To Know Before You Go

A cultural wonder in itself, Tokyo is Japan’s capital and is widely known for being the most populous metropolitan city in the entire world, with more than 9 million inhabitants.

Tokyo is one of the 47 prefectures of Japan, forming part of the Kanto region on the southeastern side of Japan’s main island, Honshu. Located in the heart of the nation, Tokyo is idyllically situated roughly 80 miles from Mt. Fuji, one of the most iconic volcanoes in the world and one of the country’s three sacred mountains.

Filled with endless opportunities to taste the best Japanese cuisines and indulge in rich cultural experiences, Tokyo stuns its visitors with its futuristic skyscrapers, chaotic streets, the world’s most sophisticated railways, and vibrant youth fashion.

The following guide will answer all your questions before heading to the extraordinary Japanese capital, including Tokyo’s weather, must-eats, popular neighborhoods, how to get around, and important cultural customs.

An overview of the location of Tokyo. — Google Maps

Weather In Tokyo

Average High/Low Temperatures by Month

January: 50°/35°F
February: 50°/36°F
March: 56°/41°F
April: 66°/50°F
May: 73°/59°F
June: 78°/66°F
July: 85°/73°F
August: 88°/75°F
September: 81°/69°F
October: 71°/59°F
November: 62°/49°F
December: 54°/40°F

Months with the Most Rainfall

June: 12 days
July: 10 days
September: 12 days

The Climate in Tokyo

Tokyo has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Japan as a whole has four distinct seasons, with spring landing from March to May, summer from June to August, autumn from September through November, and winter from December to February.

Annual rainfall in Tokyo averages approximately 60 inches, with a wetter summer and a drier winter. Snowfall usually occurs annually in Tokyo, albeit sporadic.

The Best Time to Visit Tokyo

Spring is arguably the best time to visit Tokyo, for Japan’s magnificent cherry blossoms bloom in abundance during this season. In spring, temperatures are mild and ideal for touring the city outdoors and on foot.

If you’re traveling to Tokyo specifically to visit Mt. Fuji, though, the best time to visit would be from July to mid-September, when temperatures are pleasant and the mountain is free of snow. The only downside to visiting Tokyo during summer months is that this is the season when the capital city sees the most rainfall.

If you’re wondering what clothes to pack before traveling to Tokyo, check out this super helpful guide What To Wear While Traveling In Japan? Here’s What To Pack For Every Season!

Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, Japan. — Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Best Things To See In Tokyo

1. Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is one of the most prevalent shrines in both Tokyo and throughout Japan, celebrating the passing of Emperor Meiji and his companion, Empress Shoken.

The area of Meiji Shrine covers an area of 170 acres enveloped by an evergreen forest containing 120,000 trees of 365 different species, a great way to spend some downtime for rest and relaxation.

2. Senso-ji

One of Tokyo’s most visited places of worship, Senso-ji is a Buddhist temple built for the “Goddess of Mercy,” otherwise known as Bodhisattva Kannon Bosatsu. It is Tokyo’s oldest temple, constructed in the year 628.

When visiting Senso-ji, be sure to visit the nearby shopping street, Nakamise.

3. Rainbow Bridge

A suspension bridge crossing northern Tokyo Bay between Shibaura Pier and the Odaiba waterfront development in Minato, Rainbow Bridge is a popular tourist attraction, particularly breathtaking during the night when the bridge lights up in an array of vibrant colors.

Crossing Rainbow Bridge takes about 30 minutes and is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the summer, and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the winter.

5. Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the nation’s tallest structure, and at the time of its completion, was the second tallest building in the world.

Today, travelers can head to the top of Tokyo Skytree for spectacular panoramic views of the city, a sight one has to see when visiting Tokyo.

People eating at a sushi shop in Tokyo, Japan. — Tupungato / Shutterstock

Best Food To Eat In Tokyo

Japan is known for offering some of the best cuisines in the world, and the following Japanese specialties are undeniably the best foods to eat while visiting Tokyo, along with some suggestions on where to find them.

Sushi

Sushi is conceivably Japan’s most popular fare, and the nation’s capital is home to some of the best sushi found throughout the country. For those that don’t know, sushi is a Japanese dish made with vinegared rice, usually mixed with seafood and/or vegetables, then wrapped in nori.

Best sushi in Tokyo: Sushi Sugita

Ramen

If you think ramen is the noodles you ate in college when you were a broke student, think again. Ramen originated in Japan and is a popular dish made with Chinese-style wheat noodles cooked in a meat broth, flavored with soy sauce or miso, and usually topped with pork, menma, soft boiled egg, and green onions.

Best ramen in Tokyo: Ichiran

Tempura

Another prized Japanese delicacy, tempura normally consists of seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep fried. Rich and crispy, tempura is a must-try dish when visiting Tokyo.

Best tempura in Tokyo: Tempura Kondo

Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu consists of a breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet, with the two main types being fillet or loin. Tonkatsu is usually served with shredded cabbage and a slice of lemon.

Best tonkatsu in Tokyo: Kinka Pork Cooking Hirata Farm Kiwami

Soba

Known as the Japanese name for buckwheat, soba refers to thin noodles made from buckwheat, regularly served chilled with a dipping sauce, or in hot broth as a noodle soup.

Best soba in Tokyo: Kanda Matsuya

Okonomiyaki

Presumably a lesser known Japanese specialty, okonomiyaki is a savory pancake literally translating to “grilled as you like it” and is usually associated with the Kansai or Hiroshima regions of Japan. Think Japanese crepe, only served over a bed of noodles.

Best okonomiyaki in Tokyo: Suzume-no-Oyado

Udon

Quite the opposite of soba, udon is Japanese’s most popular thick wheat flour noodle dish, often served as a hot noodle soup cooked in a mild broth.

Best udon in Tokyo: Kagawa Ippuku Kanda

Inside the Mannen-yu osen in Tokyo. — Mannen-yu

Best Kept Secret In Tokyo

Mannen-yu onsen

If you keep reading, you’ll discover that tattoos are considered taboo in Japanese culture, making it hard for tattooed tourists who wish to enter any of the city’s or surrounding areas’ onsens (Japanese hot springs). Unfortunately, if you have a tattoo, you’ll be turned away from these popular baths.

Luckily, Tokyo is home to a hidden onsen that allows tattoos, Mannen-yu onsen. This traditional tattoo-friendly onsen is situated just a five-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station, and the surrounding area is a hotspot for incredible food (both Japanese and Korean), along with bizarre beauty outlets.

A sumo wrestling match in Tokyo. — J. Henning Buchholz / Shutterstock

Other Things To Do In Tokyo

Catch a sumo wrestling match

If you’re visiting Tokyo in January, May, or September, you’re in luck.

Sumo wrestling matches in Japan are held six times out of the year, three of which occur at Tokyo’s Ryoguku Kokugikan (Sumo Hall) during the previously mentioned months, with Grand Sumo Tournaments being spread over 15 days.

Sumo wrestling is one of the nation’s most beloved and prized traditions, dating back more than 1,000 years, originating as a right of the Shinto religion.

Click here to see Sumo Hall’s Grand Tournament schedule for 2019 to catch a sumo wrestling match during your trip to Tokyo.

Take a Japanese cooking class

It’s no secret that Japan has some of the most delectable cuisines in the world, thus taking a Japanese cooking class during a trip to Tokyo is a must.

Though there are endless Japanese cooking classes to choose from in Tokyo, Mayuko’s Little Kitchen Japanese Cooking Class is the top-rated cooking class in Tokyo on TripAdvisor, where Mayuko herself offers a home-style approach to simple and delicious Japanese dishes.

During the three-hour class, travelers will learn how to make traditional dishes such as sushi, miso soup, ramen, and gyoza.

The Shinjuku neighborhood of Tokyo. — aon168 / Shutterstock

Best Areas To Stay In Tokyo

1. Shinjuku

Shinjuku is arguably the best neighborhood to stay in when visiting Tokyo, with plenty of accommodations, entertainment, and shopping in this area. This neighborhood vividly depicts the essence of Tokyo: bright neon lights, towering skyscrapers, and crowded streets.

2. Shibuya & Harajuku

A popular hotspot amongst Tokyo’s youth, Shibuya and Harajuku are great places for people watching, filled with wide boulevard streets and buildings constructed by famous architects. This neighborhood is also nearest to Meiji Shrine.

3. Asakusa

Though Asakusa houses Tokyo Skytree, the city’s tallest building, it has managed to avoid the switch to modernization unlike the rest of the city and is a more laidback and quiet alternative compared to other bustling and hectic neighborhoods.

For more detailed information on many more of Tokyo’s leading neighborhoods, click here.

How To Get Around In Tokyo

Subways and trains are the best way to get around in Tokyo. Tokyo’s two prominent subway lines are the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subways.

The Tokyo Metro will take visitors to the most popular places in Tokyo, connecting travelers to tourists attractions such as Senso-ji Temple, Tsukiji Market, Tokyo Skytree, and many more.

View the map for Tokyo Metro’s different lines below, and get more information about the stops and fare here. There’s also a helpful downloadable guide for the Tokyo Metro, which you can get here.

Toei Subways is made up of four lines and is incredibly convenient to use, similarly connecting visitors to Tokyo’s most popular spots.

The best way to see all of Tokyo’s main attractions is by buying a Tokyo Combination Ticket, which includes unlimited one-day use of both the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subways. The Tokyo Combination Ticket costs approximately $14.65 USD.

An even better way to see the entire Japanese capital is by purchasing a prepaid smart card, namely Pasmo or Suica.

Pasmo and Suica prepaid smart cards can be used for all subways, buses, and trains in Tokyo, and can even be used at many shops and convenience stores.

Both cards suffice for the same purpose but are purchased in different places. Pasmo smart cards can be bought from vending machines at subway stations in Tokyo, and Suica cards can be purchased by vending machines at Japan railway stations in Tokyo.

Key Phrases To Know In Japanese

It’s always in a traveler’s best interest to learn some useful key phrases in any given country’s native language. It can be very intimidating to speak another language, yes, but locals will appreciate you trying, regardless of how you may sound. You’re guaranteed to feel empowered afterward by stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new.

The first time I traveled alone, I sat down and watched a few YouTube videos on key phrases from the specific country I was traveling to, and, believe it or not, I was actually able to use one or two of them during my trip.

If you’re trying to learn a new language, there is no better way than putting yourself out there and trying to speak in real-life situations. Even if you aren’t trying to learn a new language fluently, visiting a country and at least being able to ask for the bathroom or ask if someone speaks English will truly come in handy!

The following vital Japanese phrases are provided with their phonetic spelling:

Hello: Konnichiwa
Good morning: Ohayo
Goodbye: Sayonara
Please: Onegai shimasu
Thank you: Arigato
Yes: Hai
No: Iie
You’re welcome: Do itashimashite
Excuse me: Sumimasen
How much?: Ikura?
Bathroom: Toire
Can you help me?: Tetsudatte itadakemasu ka?
Do you speak English?: Eigo o hanasemasu ka?

Check out the video above to learn some of the most common and important Japanese phrases.

Edokko on a street in Tokyo. — Thomas La Mela / Shutterstock

Things To Know About Tokyo Culture

1. Bowing

Like many Asian countries, bowing is the typical way to greet others, and the way and degree in which you bow matters.

If you’re meeting a friend or a friend-of-a-friend, bowing at a 30-degree angle is normal, while bowing at a 70-degree angle with your head facing downward is customary for greeting people of importance.

In Tokyo and throughout the rest of Japan, we suggest you embrace the bow!

2. Towels

You may notice that, when eating out at restaurants in Tokyo, you’ll be handed a cold or hot towel, depending on the season. These towels are not meant to wipe your food-stained mouth after eating; instead, they’re used to wipe your hands before eating a meal and should then be gently placed aside afterward.

3. Removing of shoes

Removing your shoes before entering public places or peoples’ homes is another common custom throughout several Asian countries, but Japanese culture takes this to the next level.

Museums, hotels, places of worship, and other attractions throughout Tokyo will even have guards or doormen that check the actual nature of your socks after removing your shoes. If they’re abnormally holey, dirty, or just plain ugly, guards and doormen have the right to deny you access into said tourist attraction or accommodation. So, make sure your socks are up to par!

4. Tipping

Tipping is considered rude in Tokyo, for locals view this as undermining the authority of the person who set the price. Just. Don’t. Do it.

5. Walking normalities

Presumably because Tokyo is the world’s most populous city, when you’re walking around its busy streets, note that that’s all you should be doing.

Though there aren’t any rules governing the custom, Edokko (Tokyo locals) give the same care to walking as they do driving, and we guarantee you’ll never see any Edokko eating, drinking, talking on the phone, or smoking while they’re walking.

Edokko also walk on the left side of the street in Tokyo, so try to familiarize yourself with this idea before you arrive in the Japanese capital!

6. Tattoos

Unfortunately for many foreign tourists, tattoos in Tokyo are considerably frowned upon, mainly because they’re associated with organized crime and the Yakuza, Japan’s most notorious gangsters.

Travelers with tattoos will even be turned away when entering onsens, so we suggest covering them up before entering any relaxing Japanese hot spring.

Chidorigafuchi Park in Tokyo, Japan. — Phattana Stock / Shutterstock

Why You Should Visit Budapest’s Hidden Chocolate Museum

Ask anyone in all of Hungary where to go for chocolate and pastries and, inevitably, one name will be at the top of the list: Szamos. The legendary confectioner is nearly 90 years old and a bonafide Budapest institution. Still family owned to this day, the company has expanded to include outlets in Vienna, but the quintessential experience is to visit one of their central Budapest cafes for a bar of chocolate (or two!) and cake. Of all of their locations, there is one that you should visit above all others: its new location, adjacent to the Hungarian Parliament at Kossuth Square.

Visit and you’ll find yourself in the heart of central Budapest, close to many tourist attractions and the banks of the Danube River. But it would be well worth seeking out this particular Szamos even if it wasn’t so easy to get to. This location is not only set up differently from all the other Szamos shops; it’s also home to a secret chocolate museum!

Marzipan and chocolate bars from Szamos. — Szamos

That’s right – a chocolate museum! You’ll sometimes see it described as a marzipan museum, and the confusion is understandable. Szamos has a marzipan museum and workshop in the Hungarian town of Szentendre. Marzipan, a moldable paste of ground almonds and sugar, is nearly as common as chocolate in Budapest. It plays a key role in flavoring and decorating confections and cakes around the country and is a hallmark flavor of Szamos’ treats. Its unique texture makes it the perfect material to craft edible decorations, such as miniature fruits, animals, and flowers.

If you’re really ambitious, you could even sculpt a perfect scale replica of the Hungarian Parliament building! One of the Szamos Chocolate Museum’s star artifacts is a 160cm scale model of the building – made of 100% marzipan. I shudder to think of how many hours went into building it – and how many times a delicate awning or doorway would crack, requiring that piece to be made once again. There are many cute miniature marzipans on display (watch out for the Disney characters!) but a miniature copy of the coronation jewelry is well worth pausing at – as is the world’s largest marzipan, a 78-kilo marzipan Swiss maiden.

Inside the Szamos Chocolate Museum. — Szamos

While it’s easy to get distracted by all the marzipan, the chocolate is the star of the show at Szamos Chocolate Museum. There are six rooms, outlining the history of chocolate, the growth of cocoa and the production of chocolate, and the technique of chocolate moulding. There are also plenty of opportunities for tasting along the way! The interactive experience also includes a chocolate pouring, where a trained chocolatier pours hot, freshly concocted chocolate onto the work surface where guests can then flavor and decorate their own chocolate bar.

The museum has a large collection of vintage chocolate-themed porcelain. Antique lovers will appreciate the Meissen porcelain hot chocolate service dishes. Less charming are some vintage products that employ racist caricatures in their design. While they are obviously a relic of bygone times, it’s disappointing that they aren’t displayed in proper historical context, explaining the legacy of colonialism in cocoa production. It’s a missed opportunity in an otherwise excellent small museum.

Earlier I mentioned that the museum is part of a unique Szamos shop that is unlike the 25+ others in the company. It is branded as “Szamos Today” and it’s the first shop in the company that is built along a self-serve model. For North American guests, that might not sound too unusual. Don’t you order coffee and cake at the counter in most cafes? Not in Budapest! Or, at the very least, not in a Szamos. Part of what makes the shop such a local institution is that it has famous service. What could be fancier than having a natty waiter fuss over your precise coffee order, all while presenting a comprehensive list of luxurious cakes and pastries to choose from?

Interior view of Szamos Gourmet Haz one of the most famous pattiseries of Budapest. — JJFarq / Shutterstock.com

Frankly, there’s room in Budapest for both styles. Szamos Today has a young, energetic atmosphere, very suitable to the inevitable tourist traffic that pops in for a coffee after a visit to Parliament or stays for cake after a visit to the Chocolate Museum. During my visit, I tried not one but two pieces of cake. I’m nothing if not dedicated to my research! A chocolate hazelnut cake made my inner Nutella-loving child swoon, while the Hungarian classic Esterházy torta (named after a Hungarian noble family) combined almond meringue dough, orange liquor, walnuts, and fondant. It’s one of Szamos most popular cakes and I enjoyed it very much – but it’s really hard to win when chocolate and hazelnut is your competition!

There is no shortage of excellent cafes, patisseries, and confectioners in Budapest. As an intrepid traveler, it’s your duty to visit as many as possible. But if you can only put one on your must-see list, make it Szamos Today. I love the combination of old-world recipes with a modern set up. The delightful Chocolate Museum is the icing – wait, make the marzipan – on the cake.