10 Facts You Didn’t Know About Sedona, Arizona

These 10 facts about the small desert town of Sedona are no mirage; this locale holds a ton of secrets waiting to be discovered. This western travel destination has a little adventure for everyone.

Fall leaves in Sedona, Arizona. — John Earl Webb / Shutterstock

1. It’s A Top-Spot For Fall Foliage

Sedona has changing leaves that will make you believe you have been transported out of the desert. Although the northeast is home to the most amazing foliage the eyes can see, Northern Arizona has a few tricks up its sleeve every autumn. Sedona trails that are above an elevation of 8,000 feet experience some of the most picturesque fall foliage you can find anywhere in the country, and it’s one of the area’s best-kept secrets.

Take a walk up one of the town’s trails to view the contrast of the golden aspens against the desert landscape. Drive through Oak Creek Canyon, a stretch of land between Sedona and Flagstaff to see leaves in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Visit between September and the middle of October for the best fall foliage viewing experience in Northern Arizona. You won’t want to miss this unreal desert show every fall.

Bikers on a trail in Sedona. — meunierd / Shutterstock

2. The Canyon Walls Have A Deep History

Every geological component of this desert town is simply breathtaking, and the red rocks are not the only star. The canyons that line this Arizona hotspot are definitely a sight to be seen, and they hold a very distinct and timeless piece of history. These vast gorges are made up of nine layers of different types of stone, dating back millions of years, allowing these canyons to tell centuries of stories.

Vibrant sandstone, limestone, and basalt stone make up these massive landmarks, and all three types of stone represent different time periods and fascinating geological processes. The layers of limestone and sandstone were formed by sand dunes, and mud blown by the wind, while the bottom layer of basalt was formed by volcanic eruptions that took place over 14 million years ago. These colorful canyons are sure to catch your eye, and the history of these geological forces is sure to inspire.

Want to get up close and personal with the best of Sedona’s rock formations?

Travel writer Stacey Wittig told TravelAwaits, “Sedona is a mecca for day hikers. With over 89 named trails in the area, Sedona’s iconic red rocks draw hikers from around the world.”

“All trails are rated for difficulty from Double-Black-Diamond mountain biking routes like Hangover Trail to easy rambles like Margs Draw, where grandchildren [can] experience the wonder of red rock scenery. Other trails lead to archaeological sites or historic cabins.”

Phoenix resident and Sedona regular Emily Blosser said one of her favorite family-friendly hikes is Submarine Rock.

“The rock that you end up climbing on really does look like a submarine. It’s an easy hike, too.”

Last time we went, there was someone playing a flute on top of one of the rocks. It echoed across and made you feel like you were in another world.

Hikers overlooking Sedona. — Nikolas_jkd / Shutterstock

3. The High Elevation Causes Mild Winters

Although Sedona is nestled in the heart of the Arizona desert, it isn’t blistering hot year round. This Southwestern small town has an elevation of 4,500 feet, which equates to a break from the intense heat during the winter months.

Tourists take note: winters are generally mild, with the average high temperature in January being 51 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 21 degrees Fahrenheit. A definite break from the average high of 95 degrees Fahrenheit in July. Sedona also has an average of more than 300 days of sunshine per year, which is more than the state of Florida expects on a yearly basis. Florida minus the humidity? Sedona has weather that can do no wrong.

Cowboys in Sedona, Arizona. — Alena Vezza / Shutterstock

4. Classic Western Films Were Born Here

Far from the bright lights and big city, Sedona still managed to make its mark on American cinema. It’s no surprise that the bright red rocks against the dry, desolate desert make for a great Hollywood backdrop. This desert town became Hollywood’s hottest set during the 1940s and 50s when actors such as John Wayne made cowboy films a smash hit. The town of Sedona has been the set of endless Western films, most notably Billy the Kid and Broken Arrow.

Elvis Presley, James Stewart, Henry Fonda, and Robert De Niro are just a handful of successful actors that have put Sedona on the map through the silver screen. Sedona is strikingly beautiful, and it wasn’t long before Hollywood began cashing in on this dreamy desert location. One glance at the landscape and you won’t question why cowboys have called Sedona home.

A javelina in Arizona. — Tina Andros / Shutterstock

5. It’s Where The Javelina And Peccary Play

Okay, so technically, javelina and collared peccary are the same thing: bristly, pig-like animals native to the Americas. According to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, they can be found in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, and south throughout Mexico, Central America, and even northern Argentina.

The good news for animal-loving vacationers headed to Sedona? You can witness spunky wild javelina at different spots around town, including a favorite restaurant, aptly named Javelina Cantina.

Erin Maxon of With Dog She Travels told us Javelina Cantina “has something for everyone. For those looking for a great Mexican meal, this is a stop you have to make while in Sedona. The surprise comes when you actually see wild javelina over the patio deck bathing and napping in the sun.”

Kids, dogs, and adults alike spend time holding onto the railing just to see these hogs up close and personal. Talk about dinner and a show!

Javelina Cantina offers Tex-Mex favorites, sandwiches, burgers, and even a few vegan options. Note that while you should enjoy your meal to the fullest, the Arizona Game and Fish Department warns people not to feed javelina or other wildlife. In 2018, multiple people were bitten and a herd of javelina–yes, they roam in packs–attacked a woman’s dog. Respect the wildlife!

A Pink Jeep tour in Sedona, Arizona. — Pink Adventure Tours

6. You Can Live Out Your Off-Road Trucking Fantasies

Sedona’s rugged environment might just inspire your inner adventurer to come out and play. If a hike isn’t going to cut it for you but mountain biking seems like a bit too much, Michael Anderson of Passport Explored, who visited Sedona in 2016, has the perfect alternative: an off-road Pink Jeep tour.

What an experience! It’s quite thrilling to be driven through the desert in one of those Jeeps. The best part is that they stop at stunning viewpoints along the way so that you can take pictures of the beautiful Arizona desert.

A Pink Jeep tour can be an excellent way to get out and enjoy nature, even if you or someone in your group has limited mobility. According to a Pink Jeep Tours rep, their Jeep tours can accommodate guests with mobility issues, “as long as they or someone in their party can get them in and out of the vehicle on their own. They also need to have upper body mobility strength to be able to hold themselves up.” Note that different levels of confidence and ability are required to participate in tours that involve hiking, boating, or helicopters.

Maxon of With Dog She Travels also recommended Pink Jeep Tours and credits responsible off-roading with the preservation of much of Sedona’s wilderness.

7. You Can Get A Five-Star Hotel For A Three-Star Price

Booking accommodations might seem slightly–or altogether–less exciting than Sedona’s majestic vistas and Wild West history. That said, it’s an essential part of any vacation, and another reason Sedona is a truly luxurious destination.

According to data from booking site Hipmunk, Sedona is one of 20 U.S. cities where you can book a five-star hotel for a three-star price.

Which high-end accommodations should you consider? Well, according to Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2018, Sedona’s Enchantment Resort and Mii Amo were among the top 20 resorts not only in Arizona, but the entire Southwest.

8. You Can Get Hands On At An Operating Trout Farm

If you’re traveling with a mixed-age group, a trip to Sedona’s Rainbow Trout Farm could be the recipe for a day well spent. This interactive attraction–open seven days a week, weather permitting–is located in the breathtaking Oak Creek Canyon river gorge.

Admission to the farm’s quaint grounds is just $1 per person and includes bait and fishing equipment, so no need to lug anything with you. There are also barbeque pits, picnic tables, and plenty of shade trees.

Employees will clean your catch for 50 cents, and for an extra dollar you can purchase a grill kit that, per Rainbow Trout Farm’s website, includes “lemon, butter, salt, pepper, plate, fork, napkin, and foil.” You can also purchase soda on site and bring your own food and drink.

Of course, there are more “authentic” fishing experiences around Sedona, but this tucked away place is perfect for hassle-free memory making.

A woman meditating in Sedona. — Tom Tietz / Shutterstock

9. The Scenery Has Healing Properties

Mother Nature definitely spent a little more time perfecting this Western locale. Sedona’s red rock formations and endless geological wonders have made it a prime location to become one with the environment and with yourself. The scenery is even said to have healing powers, which is why yoga retreats and other wellness and spiritual experiences have become popular attractions around the area.

The landscape is believed to contain energy-healing vortexes, which attract those looking to make a life-changing pilgrimage to one of the most beautiful places in the United States. Even if you aren’t looking for some sort of spiritual awakening, the beauty of this desert destination is sure to bring you joy and uplift your mood. Take a hike among the red rocks or schedule a tour of the surrounding canyons, Sedona is anything but ordinary.

Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park in Sedona. — Autumn Sky Photography / Shutterstock

10. You Can Visit A Stupa And Peace Park

Joy Musacchio of Stillpoint Aromatics and Alexandra Tran of Schimiggy Reviews both recommend a visit to Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park.

Musacchio said it’s “a free destination in Sedona that feels like stepping into another world,” and went on to share that “the beautiful Buddhist shrine is a place for meditation, prayer, or simply connecting with a sacred space. All our more than welcome. Light walking trails offer plenty of opportunities to see wildlife–especially birds.”

Her suggestion:

Bring some water and plan on spending at least an hour exploring. It’s stunning just before sunset, when the setting sun paints the surrounding cliffs in a thousand different colors.

For a mindful snack before or after your stupa visit, Tran suggested Sedona’s farm-to-table ChocolaTree.

“The food is organic and so delicious! They also have a cute patio area that allows dogs and gives you an opportunity to practice aerial yoga if that’s your thing. Get the chocolate milk. It’s so delicious!”

Sedona may be a small town in the heart of the desert, but it doesn’t lack vibrancy or secrets. Discover the best that Northern Arizona has to offer by learning more about this desert gem. You won’t be disappointed, and you’ll leave absolutely mesmerized.

*Updated March 2019 by Linsey Stevens

9 Things To See And Do In Vancouver

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, quirky attractions, or something in between, you’ll find it in Vancouver. Here’s a list of nine things to see and do in Canada’s gateway to the Pacific. But, of course, this is just for starters!

1. Gastown Steam Clock

The Gastown Steam Clock is one of only a few working steam clocks left in the world, and it can be found in Vancouver’s Victorian city of Gastown. The clock was built in 1977 by Raymond Saunders and Doug Smith. Every quarter hour, you can hear the clock whistle and watch it shoot out steam; every hour is marked with a louder sounding of the whistles. There are only six such working clocks left in the entire world, and this one might just be worth a little bit of your time.

2. The Museum Of Anthropology

The Museum of Anthropology can be found on the University of British Columbia’s campus. If you want to really get to know Vancouver, you have to start at the very beginning, and that’s what you’ll get with this museum. It tells the story of the peoples who settled in the area over 10,000 years ago and showcases both ancient and contemporary history that really helps to elucidate the city’s roots.

Vancouver's Musesum of Anthropology totem pole — Vancouver’s Musesum of Anthropology. Wikimedia Commons

3. Stanley Park

Stanley Park is Vancouver’s oldest and largest urban park. You can walk along the Seawall and take in the scenic views of the mountains that rise out of the sea behind the city, survey the water, the sky and the trees that grow along the lush coastal inlets. There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, as well as beaches and historical landmarks. And, on top of all that, Canada’s largest aquarium can be found here as well — The Vancouver Aquarium. You could plan a whole day in Vancouver just around this park.

4. The Digital Orca

This public art piece is a must-see for anyone who visits Vancouver. The Digital Orca looks like a giant Lego killer whale leaping right out of the ground — or right out of an Orca-themed video game. This unique landmark was created by the famed novelist and artist Douglas Coupland and was installed in 2009.

5. VanDusen Botanical Garden

There is so much to do at the VanDusen Botanical Garden. It is home to one of only six Elizabethan hedge mazes in North America. which is composed of 3,000 pyramidal cedars that were all planted in the fall of 1981. Besides the maze, the garden covers over 50 acres and showcases different plants from all around the world. The Bloedel Conservatory is also found here and is the highest point in all of Vancouver. It contains three separate climate zones under one roof — tropical, subtropical and desert — and is home to over 500 different plants, as well as 100 free-flying exotic birds.

6. Vancouver Police Museum

The Vancouver Police Museum is where you need to go if you’re trying to uncover Vancouver’s dark side (and, alas, there is a dark side). It houses around 20,000 different objects, including counterfeit currency, police uniforms, photographs, and confiscated firearms and other weaponry. The museum also offers a themed tour called “Sins of the City” that explores the history of prostitution, murder, and bootlegging in Vancouver. It all began as a celebration of the Police Department’s centennial anniversary in 1986, but has since blossomed into an intriguing, sobering exhibit on the other side of Vancouver.

7. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

This traditional 15th century Chinese garden can be found in the middle of Vancouver’s Chinatown. It is rich with colors, winding paths, seasonal trees, and is many koi fish. The garden was created as a collaboration between Canada and the People’s Republic of China, and it hosts a variety of events including regular yoga and tai chi lessons, as well as several festivals throughout the year.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen was the founder and first president of the Chinese Republic, and the garden is named in his honour.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Flickr / mayanais

8. Jimi Hendrix Shrine

A shack in Vancouver has been transformed into a shrine to, of all things Jimi Hendrix, making it a site of pilgrimage for any and all music lovers. What it lacks in size it makes up for in authentic Hendrix memorabilia. Photos, guitars, vinyl records and concert flyers can all be found inside. You can also see letters from Jimi to his grandmother, and get a genuine look into what his family life was like. The owner of this shrine, Vincent Fodera, is currently planning to add a 32-foot statue of Hendrix to the grounds.

9. Deep Cove

Deep Cove is located in the District of North Vancouver and is the ideal spot to spend your day if you love the outdoors. Ocean kayaking is a popular pastime in the city, and Deep Cove is the best and safest place to do it. While you paddle up Indian Arm, you’ll be able to take in the scenic forest surrounding you, and maybe even get a glimpse of a few creatures who call those forests home. Besides kayaking, you can also enjoy some baked goods at Honey Doughnuts or go for a hike on Quarry Rock.

This is really only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things to do in Vancouver, British Columbia. This Canadian city is the perfect spot for a family vacation or weekend getaway.

The 7 Best Travel Wallets For 2018

Whether your priority is style, security, or size, one of the wallets from this list is sure to be just what you’re looking for.

1. The YaY Wallet

If you’re looking for something small, affordable, and made in the USA, the YaY wallet should be right up your alley. It’s made of stretchy, woven elastic, and comes in dozens of different designs, ranging from understated to downright funky, and it features double stitching for durability. If you can’t decide which design to go for, you can certainly afford to experiment with more than one, since the wallet only costs $9.99. This little wallet doesn’t have RFID blocking, but if you’re looking for a small, utilitarian wallet, the YaY Wallet will fit the bill nicely.

2. Zoppen Multi-Purpose Document Organizer And Wallet

This travel wallet by Zoppen packs a lot of features into a relatively small package. Among other things, this tri-fold wallet offers a smartphone pocket, passport pocket, zippered pocket, key holder, and even a SIM card pouch. It is made of polyurethane leather and faux suede and features RFID-blocking shielding to keep your information safe. There are plenty of colors to choose from, and Zoppen manages to cram all these benefits into a wallet that has a footprint of 7.5″x5″x1″. Costs range from $11.99 to $16.99 depending on which color you select.

3. Tarriss RFID Neck Wallet and Passport Holder

Sometimes, you’ve just got a lot of stuff to carry, and you want to keep it safe. In that case, this neck wallet by Tarriss is sure to please. You can wear it over your clothes for ease of access, under your clothes to keep your goodies stashed away, or even folded up to become a more traditional travel wallet. There’s even a breathable backing for those who choose to wear it under their clothing. It’s durable, versatile, comfortable, and thanks to its RFID blocking capabilities, secure. It’s only $16.97 and ships free within the United States.

Tarriss travel wallet — Tarriss Travel Gear

4. Agilisk Travel Wallet And Document Organizer

If you’re the designated pack mule of your traveling party, this wallet by Agilisk should give you the storage capacity you need. This wallet can hold up to nine credit cards and four passports, along with all the other odds and ends you need to lug around. It is made out of quality nylon and has an RFID blocking liner. The built-in side strap helps keep your wallet by your side, and ease of pocket access was a major consideration in the design. You can wear it around your neck, across your body, or on your shoulder. It costs $24.99 and comes in black, blue, or red.

5. Seawhisper Travel Clutch

Made of high-density waterproof nylon, the Seawhisper Travel Clutch is an ideal choice for those of us who refuse to let a little rain keep up from exploring. This clutch features four passport pouches, making it a solid option when traveling with a family. There are also 10 credit card slots, a spot for cash, and a zippered pocket for your most precious items. The detachable strap allows you to hook this wallet to your belt, backpack, or wrist. It comes in a variety of vibrant colors and offers RFID blocking and a lifetime guarantee. For $15.99, this travel wallet is tough to beat.

6. Active Roots Security Belt

While not a traditional travel wallet per se, the Active Roots Security Belt deserves mention for being streamlined and inconspicuous. No, this belt can’t hold your passport, or even a credit card. That’s not its intention. It’s designed to hold your money, and maybe a key. It could hold a copy of your passport, at least, which could come in handy. Unlike traditional money belts, this belt is slim and unobtrusive. It keeps your money hidden in plain sight, keeping it safe from pickpockets and muggers. It costs $21.95, and you might like it so much that it becomes your everyday belt.

7. Pacsafe RFIDsafe V50

Pacsafe offers an assortment of travel equipment, with their priority being security. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the strongest asset of the Pacsafe RFIDsafe V50 is security. As the name suggests, if offers RFID blocking, and the detachable strap is constructed of difficult-to-cut Dyneema webbing, which means you can attach it to your belt or backpack without fear of a strap-slashing thief cutting it loose. It is made of nylon and boasts five card slots. No, it won’t hold your passport, but it’s stylish, light, compact, and it will keep your cash and cards protected. It costs $24.95 and comes in three color options.

When it comes to choosing a travel wallet, the options are endless. The wallets from this list will keep your items safe, meaning you won’t have to worry and can focus on having a good time, wherever you may roam.

6 Amazing Things You Can Do In Rio De Janeiro

As the second most populous city in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro offers a lot in the way of activities. Here are the ones we like best!

1. Visit Christ The Redeemer

Whether or not you’re religious, the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio De Janeiro is worth seeing up close for yourself. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, this mesmerizing representation of Jesus sits at a staggering altitude of 2,330 feet, gazing out at the favelas and thoroughfares below. You don’t have to be a Christian to appreciate the beauty and symbolism of this work of art.

Aside from the visual appeal of the Redeemer, there’s a rich history to learn about as well. Completed in 1931, this monument is covered in mosaic tiles and serves as a symbol of the welcoming culture in Rio de Janeiro.

Tijuca National Park is located on Corcovado Mountain where the statue is located, so you can make a day of it and explore the park at the same time.

Christ the Redeemer. Unsplash / Robert Nyman

2. See The Graffiti Wall

Most cities have graffiti, but it’s not usually listed as one of the main attractions. The graffiti wall on Rio’s Olympic Boulevard, however, is like none other and deserves a spot on this list.

The wall measures 32,300 square feet, and it has been awarded the title of largest graffiti mural in the world by Guinness World Records. It’s twice the size of the next biggest such artwork in Mexico.

It was commissioned by the city for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, and it commemorated the first and only time the Olympics have been held in South America. Artist Eduardo Kobra designed the piece, which identifies people from five different continents and uses color schemes that match the Olympic rings.

You can easily spend a couple hours on the Olympic Boulevard of Rio appreciating this massive work of art.

3. Take A Cable Car Ride Up Sugarloaf Mountain

Another lofty sight to in Rio is Sugarloaf Mountain. It towers a majestic 1,299 feet high and provides a unique vantage point over the sprawling metropolis in the Guanabara Bay area below.

Apart from the view at the top, visitors are also greeted by spectacular vistas while riding the cable cars to the summit. The first ride is from Praia Vermelha to Morro da Urca, followed by another ride to the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Watching the sunrise or sunset from the top of the Sugarloaf is an experience you won’t soon forget, and you’ll also be able to check out a historical exhibit showcasing the cable cars that were used in the past. There’s food, shopping, and an amphitheater on the mountain as well.

Sugarloaf Mountain. Pixabay / nuno_lopes

4. Do Some Reading At The Royal Portuguese Cabinet Of Reading

Do you like books? Us too! But even if you don’t, you’ll still be amazed by The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading. Affectionately dubbed “library porn” by tourists, the Cabinet has the largest collection of Portuguese books outside of Portugal itself.

The library first opened in 1887 and is nearing a grand total of 400,000 volumes with 6,000 new books being added every year.

The immense bookshelves and meticulously detailed interior will give you a new appreciation for libraries!

Royal Portuguese Cabinet Of Reading. Pinterest

5. Soak Up The Sun On Ipanema Beach

If you’re a fan of beaches and people-watching, the Ipanema Beach has you covered. With sandy shores stretching 2-miles across the Zona Sul neighborhood of Rio, visitors will be blown away by breathtaking mountain views while they lounge in the sun.

Perhaps you’ll be interested in partaking in a game of futevolei (essentially volleyball without hands) or else you can simply watch while others play the game. There are no shortage of beachgoers, so if you want to be at one of the more happening beaches in Rio, this is the place.

The beach is lined with a string of restaurants and shops, so you’ll get a big helping of local culture. For a less crowded spot, check out Grumari Beach.

6. See The Green Paradise Of Your Dreams

Rio has greenery in spades, especially at Jardim Botanico, a 340-acre paradise with botanical wonders as far as the eye can see.

If you’re a lover of flora, you can’t skip this scenic garden. It hosts over 6,000 exotic species of plants and has been a popular sanctuary for tourists and locals alike over the years.

Take in the sights and enjoy some fine food at La Bicyclette, a highly-reviewed restaurant conveniently located in the park.

Rio has a number of other architectural masterpieces and monuments worth exploring like the Rio de Janeiro Cathedral, Parque Lage, and Largo do Boticario, but you might not have time to see them all. We highly recommend the spots on this list, but do some more research and determine if they match up exactly with the type of trip you want to have. You certainly won’t be disappointed by any of these, though!

7 Fascinating Facts About Nicaragua

Nicaragua likely isn’t a destination you’ve considered, but it’s quickly becoming the new must-visit destination in Central America. Before you start planning your visit, there are some things you should know.

1. One Of The Poorest Countries In The World

Nicaragua is the second-poorest country in the Americas, next to only Haiti. The country’s total GDP is $10.5 billion. To give that number some perspective, the GDP of the US is around $18.5 trillion. How does that low productivity affect individuals? Statistics show that roughly 75% of the country’s 6,000,000 people live on less than $2 per day.

A poor economy has caused many locals to migrate to places like Costa Rica or Panama in search of work, and working elsewhere while sending money home to family is a popular idea right now. A substantial percentage of the GDP is actually from Nicaraguans that remit money from abroad.

The economy is expected to climb slowly on the back of a strong agricultural and commercial industry. But it’s something to think about if you’re planning to visit: how can you ensure your tourist dollars get into the hands of Nicaraguan workers who could really use it?

Little Corn Island in Nicaragua. — Joseph Mortimer / Shutterstock

2. Tourism Is Huge

Nicaragua still isn’t on the same level as many household-name travel destinations, but it’s been growing steadily. In fact, over the past decade, the tourism sector has seen 10% year-on-year increases.

If you know little of Nicaragua and are wondering what the main draw is for visitors, there are actually quite a few. Corn Islands offers premium scuba diving, backpacking, and beaches. There are also beautiful wildlife reserves, and natural wonders like the Momotombo volcano to hike. If you’re looking for an active(ish) outdoorsy place to spend your vacation, Nicaragua should definitely rate.

Tourism has become so prominent in here that it’s the country’s second-largest industry. In 2010, Nicaraguan tourism broke the threshold of one million visitors. The country plans to boost their economy with tourism, so it might be better to go now before it gets too busy!

3. The Largest Lake In Central America

Nicaragua holds a number of titles, and you can add the largest lake in Central America to the list.

Called Mar Dulce or the “sweet sea” by the Spanish, Lake Nicaragua is 8,264 square kilometers, and is one of the biggest attractions in the country.

It’s one of Nicaragua’s major sources of drinking water. Despite being a freshwater lake, it’s home to sharks, sawfish, and tarpon, meaning you should be careful if you go for a dip!

Lake Nicaragua is actually the only lake that has freshwater sharks, giving the country yet another title.

The Ruins of Leon Viejo in Nicaragua. — Inspired By Maps / Shutterstock

4. The Oldest City In Central America

Besides great beaches and scenic volcanos, Nicaragua is home to the oldest city in all of Central America. The Ruins of León Viejo date back over 500 years, and it’s another big draw for tourists. It’s located near the famous Momotombo volcano. History tells us that León was a Spanish colonial settlement that didn’t quite develop, and insted ended up laying abandoned for centuries.

It was damaged by Momotombo’s eruption in the 1500’s, but it has been preserved and even moved to maintain its historical legacy. León is officially a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s well worth checking out if you’re visiting Nicaragua.

5. See More Stars Than Anywhere Else

Most people love watching the stars, and can spend hours staring at them, trying to decipher the different constellations. If you’re an avid stargazer, you’ll want to visit Nicaragua: of the 88 constellations that exist in the night sky, a whopping 86 of them can be seen vividly if you’re in Nicaragua.

The reason? The sky is very different as you travel from locations near the North Pole and towards the South Pole. The sky in the Northern Hemisphere is not the same as the one in the South, but Nicaragua has a wonderful equatorial location that offers the best view of both hemispheres.

A street in Leon, Nicaragua. — Fotos593 / Shutterstock

6. Finding Streets Can Be Challenging

As a traveler, it will be no surprise to you that some countries are more difficult to navigate than others. Nicaragua sure hasn’t made it easier for visitors, as there are no official street names in the country.

If you were looking for directions in Nicaragua, you would be given them in relation to various landmarks, such as “across from the Our Lady of Grace Cathedral and take two lefts.”

This likely works better for locals than it does for tourists, but perhaps there’s some charm to the “no street name” rule.

7. It’s Very Safe

Of paramount importance to visitors and locals alike is safety. Nicaragua is considered by many to be one of the safest countries in Central America to visit.

Every year, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime puts out a homicide report, and Nicaragua has fared well with a rate of roughly 11 homicides per 100,000 population in its 2013 report. To compare to a neighbor country in Central America, Honduras had a rate of 90.4/100,000 in 2013.

While that might scare you away from traveling to Honduras anytime soon, it also might make you a lot more comfortable in Nicaragua.

Nicaragua is an amazing place with interesting landmarks and quirks that make up the fabric of the country. While every country has its downsides, the freshwater sharks and the clear starry skies are certainly reason to appreciate and visit Nicaragua’s gems. Just make sure you do it in a sustainable way that helps the Nicaraguan people realize their aspirations as well.

7 Things To Know About The Wine Of Napa Valley

Northern California is home to one of the world’s great wine-growing regions, and this breathtaking valley is filled with some serious surprises. Time to pour a glass and plan a wine tour! Here are some facts about Napa you’ll want to know before you head out on your tasting.

1. Mountainside Grapes Have A Distinct Flavor

Vines that grow along a mountain tend to produce grapes with a much fruitier taste. This isn’t vineyard magic: it’s due to the roots being much shallower and getting less water on an incline. This causes the grapes to grow smaller, and less skin means a more vibrant, fruitier taste with each and every drop. Popular wines such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Merlot are all crisp, sweet vintages that many of us have grown to love – especially when we’re looking for something light and refreshing.

Mountainside winery — Flickr / valkyrieh116

2. One Man Started A Wine Revolution

Napa never would have claimed its place in the wine pantheon if it weren’t for one man who decided to use the land to grow grapes. George C. Yount – a trapper from New Mexico – ventured north to California in 1831. In 1836, he planted the first vineyard in Napa County, claiming: “In such a place I should love to clear the land and make my home. In such a place I should love to live and die.” The first winery planted for commercial use was created in the year 1861 by Charles Krug. And the rest has become history.

3. A Rare, Ideal Climate For Grape-Growing

It’s really no surprise that Napa Valley has had such astronomical success when it comes to producing some the world’s finest wines. This region in Northern California is pretty much the perfect environment for growing flavorful grapes – and vineyards are taking full advantage of these conditions.

Napa is described as having a Dry Mediterranean climate, which can only be found on 2% of the entire earth’s surface. The average high temperature during the summer months is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the southern portion of Napa Valley and 95 degrees Fahrenheit in the north. Overnight temperatures during the summer rarely exceed 53 degrees Fahrenheit, thanks to the abundance of fog. This temperature range is perfect for enabling grapes to grow plentifully, and with an ideal character for fermentation.

4. Your Favorite Vino Boosts The American Economy

Most people savor a glass of their favorite wine, and brands that come from Napa Valley have had a pretty significant impact on the United States economy. The wine industry of Napa Valley contributes more than $50 billion to the state’s GDP every year. Napa County also provides more than 300,000 jobs, making Wine Country one seriously lucrative piece of California property. Here’s to enjoying some adult grape juice and creating jobs, all at the same time!

5. Grapes Come In Almost Endless Varieties

Although your main concern with wine may be choosing between your favorite red or white, it obviously gets way more complicated when you start talking about different strains of grapes. Napa Valley is home to more than 34 different varieties of grapes, and their individual attributes have a big impact on the finished product. Your favorite glass is probably dependent on one a very specific type of grape.

White wine grapes take up around 23% of vineyard space, whereas red wine grapes dominate 77% of the average vineyard. The specific wine that takes up the most acreage? Cabernet Sauvignon – a wildly popular red that pairs well with a juicy burger or steak.

6. Wine Country Houses Hundreds Of Wineries

Many are surprised to learn that only a mere 4% of California’s wine comes from Napa Valley, but this doesn’t mean Napa County isn’t bustling with a ton of vineyard activity. For an area of only 45,000 acres, Napa Valley is home to more than 420 individual wineries. This equates to over 800 brands of wine produced — making Wine Country a definite powerhouse in the world of fine wines. Small, but undoubtedly mighty, Napa Valley is a top tourist destination for a reason. There are a variety of vineyards to tour and a ton of tastings to partake in.

7. Patience Is A Virtue On The Vineyard

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither was a successful, thriving vineyard. Growing ripe, delicious grapes doesn’t happen overnight. Vines take an average of six to seven years to grow grapes suitable for making wine. Although this may seem like a stretch when it comes to keeping the finest vino flowing, vines are known to produce good fruit for up to 30 years before needing to be replanted. Good wines come to those who wait, and they stay for the long haul.

Whether you consider yourself a wine-enthusiast or you just like to sip on something tasty once in awhile, we hope these facts encourage you to think about taking a wine tour. Napa is waiting for you: time to pop a cork and see all that Northern California has to offer. Cheers!