12 Things To Discover In Thailand

Thailand has breathtaking beaches, colorful nightlife, and mouthwatering cuisine. But there are plenty of hidden facets to this Southeast Asian gem.

1. Chiang Mai Tiger Kingdom

Thailand has with some of the most diverse wildlife in the world, and a visit to Chiang Mai Tiger Kingdom allows you to get up close and personal with some of these amazing creatures.

Chiang Mai is a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation some of the country’s rarest beasts. Tiger hunting is a devastating trade in South East Asia — a $6 million dollar per year industry. For around $13, you can spend 15 minutes in an enclosure with an adult tiger — an exciting experience you will never forget.

Snap a few pictures standing next to a 500-pound tiger without worrying about being devoured. The Chiang Mai Tiger Kingdom prides itself on the ethical and humane treatment of their animals, making it an uplifting place to visit.

2. The Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden

If you are on the hunt for an oddball and mind-boggling exhibit, a stroll around the Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden should be on your itinerary. Located in the district of Saen Suk, the garden is full of statues depicting a Buddhist conception of hell. Not for the faint of heart, these massive statues convey some rather gruesome scenarios, as one might expect! A sign that reads “Welcome to Hell” invites you to explore endless renderings of sinners atoning for their sins via imaginative forms of torture, such as boiling alive. This head-turning exhibit is a bit of a trek outside of Bangkok, but it’s worth it if you’re interested in Buddhism, the macabre, or the unfortunate details of the afterlife.

3. Sip On Some Kratom Tea

This soothing concoction is beginning to win a following in the United States, but its roots are firmly planted in Thailand. Derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree (which is native to Southeast Asia) kratom tea reportedlyhas a remarkable curative effect on the human body. Drinking just a little bit boosts your nervous system and provides a jolt of energy. Consumed in larger quantities, kratom tea can apparently serve as an effective painkiller; it even helps addicts fight opioid dependency. Although it’s bitter with an earthy taste, you can lighten up this brew with some honey. Kratom is worth a try for any curious traveler. Just a few sips will probably put you at ease.

Tiger roars fenced in. — A tiger gently roars in his enclosure at Chiang Mai Tiger Kingdom. libargutxi/Flickr.

4. Koh Kood

Some of Thailand’s most popular attractions are its vast network of photogenic beaches, but these spots can be extremely congested. You can escape the crowds on Koh Kood, an island east of the Thai Gulf. This island is said to be the most beautiful in all of Thailand, and its barely-touched, pristine beaches will have you convinced. Koh Kood is filled with secret spots just waiting to be explored. Enjoy a picnic in the sand along one the uninhabited shoreline — this is the place to bask in sun and silence.

5. Lotus Lake

Thailand is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, and Lotus Lake is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Located in the northeastern agricultural region of Tambon Chiang Haeo, Lotus Lake is comprised of wetlands covered by tall elephant grass – so it’s only accessible by boat. Once you navigate through the overgrown elephant grass, you will see an abundance of bright pink lotus flowers covering the surface of the water like a flamingo-themed blanket. The best time to pay a visit to Lotus Lake is between December and February. You can even taste the lotus seed and stem – a local delicacy natives swear by!

6. Head North For Serene Silence

Looking to escape the endless crowds of tourists? Tucked away in the northern part of the country is the district of Chiang Kham, which contains all the beauty that attracts travelers to Thailand. This calm rural redoubt is home to the coveted Phu Sang National Park. From limestone caves to an ark’s worth of animals, Phu Sang is chock full of epic sights. Your visit isn’t complete without seeing the beautiful waterfall of Chiang Kham, one of the country’s hot spots for nature enthusiasts everywhere. You won’t find long lines, but you will find some serious serenity.

Water with floating lotus flowers. — Lotus Lake – and yes, that’s the surface of the water. raichovak/Flickr.

7. Dare To Try The Durian Fruit

The rich and flavorful cuisine of Thailand is most likely one of the reasons you want to visit. If so, one mysterious native fruit my intrigue you. The durian is a spiky fruit that looks like some sort of deep sea creature. But once you crack it open, you will realize why so many are apprehensive to try it. This fruit smells pretty repulsive – so much so that it’s banned from some public transportation and hotels. But don’t let that deter you. The durian actually tastes undeniably sweet and creamy; many say it resembles the taste of marshmallow. There is a reason the durian is known as “The King of Fruits,” and your trip won’t be complete without tasting ne. Just be sure to hold your nose before you take a bite!

8. Maeklong Railway Market

Those craving a different kind of shopping experience have to make their way to the Maeklong Railway Market. Not only does this distinctive marketplace offer a variety of foods and trinkets from local vendors, but six times a day the market is completely disrupted — only to return to business after just a few moments. Six times daily, a train comes flying through the heart of this bustling bazaar, giving the crowd only three minutes to make way.

Vendors must move any product or stand each time the train rolls through, giving Maeklong the fitting nickname ‘umbrella pull down market.’ Don’t worry – there is a warning call, and the train’s screaming whistle will alert you to get out of the way in time.

Unsurprisingly Maeklong has been described as one of the world’s most dangerous markets. Even so, thrill-seekers of all ages can’t get enough high-risk bargain hunting. Just remember to step back once you hear the warning bell!

9. Stay A Night At Banphasawan

Your top hotel picks in Thailand probably include many a beach-side retreat. But nestled along the coastal area of Ban Tai, you’ll find an eccentric resort, unlike any place you’ve ever stayed. Banphasawan offers upscale lodging and a particularly quaint atmosphere — each individual cabin is in the shape of a giant vegetable or fruit. Plan to stay in a larger-than-life pineapple, durian, mushroom, or dragonfruit, and enjoy the lush, serene property and comfortable accommodations. The owner of Banphasawan is dedicated to preserving and cultivating produce, making this the perfect location to sample some local delicacies — especially the aforementioned durian fruit!

Maeklong Railway Market. amelia soo/Flickr.

10. The Butterfly Pea Flower

If you are looking for a culinary showstopper, any cocktail containing the butterfly pea flower is bound to delight. Known to Southeast Asian as “Asian pigeonwings,” this flower turns beverages a vibrant shade of blue. Add a touch of citrus and watch your beverage change color again! This magnificent flower has been used for medicinal purposes in Thailand for centuries. With a flavor profile similar to black tea, butterfly pea can help treat digestive issues, nervous system conditions, and even help prevent cancer. Relaxing with a cup of butterfly pea tea is an experience you won’t soon forget.

11. Bangkok Airplane Graveyard

The city of Bangkok contains many novelties, but the three abandoned airplanes sitting on the side of the road next to an auto body shop is really a sight to see. The two MD-82 jetliners and a 747 may seem out of place, but three Thai families have made these old planes their homes. The families have removed the seats and redecorated the fuselages to make them homier. These fascinating dwellings are a great addition to a day trip through Bangkok. The residents simply charge you a small fee to take a look around.

12. Koh Hingham

Believed to have been cursed by the Thai God Tarutao, Koh Hingham attracts visitors with the allure of its beaches lined with precious black stones. It is believed that anyone who takes a stone from the island is cursed forever by Tarutao, so be sure to place any stones back where you found them. The National Park Service of the area receives many black pebbles returned by mail every single year, proving that locals and tourists alike take this folklore extremely seriously. This uninhabited island is definitely worth the trip, unless you’re extremely superstitious of Thai deities.

Butterfly Pea Flower tea. Tanya May/Wikimedia.

7 Things Americans Need To Know When Traveling To Cuba In 2018

Cuba has been off the American tourism market for decades. But a thawing of Cold War tensions in recent years has opened the island’s borders to U.S. visitors once again. Still, there are a lot of hoops you have to jump through if you want to visit. Here are some things it might be useful to know.

1. Travel Is Difficult, But Not Impossible

President Trump’s recent directives have certainly dampened some of the enthusiasm surrounding Cuban tourism, which had been enjoying a resurgence under former President Obama. But it’s still possible to travel there.

President Obama eased the travel restrictions that had applied to the communist island nation for decades, but Trump has brought many of them back.

“What Trump did was take away that independent style of travel,” shared Peggy Goldman, the president of tour company Friendly Planet. “Americans can continue to visit as long as they comply with the twelve ways that you can travel to Cuba.”

One of those restrictions is that Americans are prohibited from any kind of transaction with businesses funded by the Cuban military. This adds up to a list of 83 hotels and businesses, a list that will likely change and grow over time.

It also means that, while travelers can still book trips to Cuba online, they will need to produce additional verification regarding the reason for their stay.

These restrictions are well worth researching before booking. Check visa requirements with the U.S. embassy in Cuba by clicking this link.

2. Worst, Bad, Good, And Best Times Of Year To Go To Cuba

There’s never an outright horrible time to travel to Cuba, but there are some definite advantages to traveling in certain seasons.

If you’re looking for the coolest and driest time of year, definitely aim for mid-November to March, but you can also expect this to be the busiest time of year at most resorts.

May and June are typically the wettest months, but they do have highlights like the Carnival, Cuba’s liveliest festival, and tobacco harvesting if you’re interested in touring or sampling.

Hurricane fear is rampant at the moment, and for good reason! Storms are most active from July to November, and while it’s unlikely you’ll see a full-fledged hurricane, you can expect volatile weather, especially between late-August and mid-October.

3. American Currency Not Recommended

Wherever you travel, it’s always recommended to bring some physical cash for certain vendors that won’t accept cards, or in case of emergency. With regards to travel in Cuba, it’s even more important.

ATMs that cooperate with American currency are hit and miss, and exchanging your American money into Cuban currency is possible, but expensive. Expect a 10% surcharge for these sorts of exchanges.

The solution? Bring Euros if at all possible! There’s no fee for exchanging Euros to Cuban money.

Debit and credit are options, but don’t expect to find them everywhere.

4. Make Sure You Document Your Entire Trip

Many people like to journal during their vacations for fun, but new U.S. regulations require that American visitors to Cuba document their entire trip in order to confirm that they were abiding by the twelve acceptable reasons for traveling to Cuba.

“Right now there is a lot of confusion,” commented Goldman. “The day that Trump made those announcements, and even until today, people call and they want to be reassured that if they go on one of our trips they will be traveling legally.”

While most travel booking agencies bear the responsibility of reporting a traveler’s itinerary, you might want to confirm with your agency that they’re complying with these new regulations.

Havana at sunset, with a green taxi. — Havana at sunset.

5. Print Out All Of Your Documents Before You Get To Cuba

Cuba has most of the technology that you’ll need while you’re there, but it’s certainly not as easily found as it is in the U.S. or in other popular travel destinations.

Many visitors claim that they didn’t see a single internet cafe. So when it comes to important documents that you may need while you’re there, it’s best to print them out before you go!

Speaking of important documentation…

6. Travel Insurance Is A Must

While travel insurance is optional (albeit highly recommended) for most destinations, it is a firm requirement when traveling to Cuba.

Airport officials may not always ask for verification when you arrive, but if they do and you don’t have documentation to prove your insurance, they could actually refuse you entry into the country.

7. The Food Isn’t To Die For, But The Water Might Be… Literally

You might have heard some tourist commentary on the state of Cuban cuisine, and while most resorts and restaurants serve perfectly acceptable food, you’ll definitely want to choose wisely.

Check other travel reviews, and don’t expect the culinary experience of a lifetime. The food will be passable, but not revolutionary.

Water is another hot topic in Cuba, and we highly recommend ONLY drinking bottled water. Don’t let some bad water ruin your trip and keep you glued to the toilet!

From ‘A’ To ‘Zeppelin’: 15 Things To Do In Germany

Germany’s history has been difficult to say the least. A vainglorious “great” war, a 1,000 year reich that lasted but 12 disastrous years, and then half a century split in half, caught between communism and capitalism. But through it all, German culture, art, philosophy, and architecture have survived and thrived — to say nothing of German hospitality.

1. Coffe Baum, Leipzig

Grab a coffee at one of Europe’s oldest coffee houses at Coffe Baum in Leipzig. (This establishment has been in business since the 16th century.)

Initially, it didn’t actually serve coffee, as the beverage did not become popular in Europe until the early 1700s. Coffe Baum started offering it in 1711, attracting well-heeled intellectuals, artists, and students. The list of former customers of this proto-Starbucks is illustrious and includes Bach, Goethe, Napolean, and Franz Liszt.

More than just a cafe, the building also houses a full-service restaurant and a museum featuring exhibits about Saxon coffee culture, including antique roasting, grinding and brewing equipment.

2. Berlin Botanical Garden

Germany is also home to many natural attractions, such as the Berlin Botanical Garden. The garden started as a modest affair, but it’s now the second-largest in the world. Started in 1679 — another example of the rich and deep history of this country — its grounds feature 20,000 plant varieties. The Great Pavilion is the world’s largest glass greenhouse, at over 65 feet tall. The garden is especially famous for its impressive collection of water lilies and carnivorous plants, such as venus fly traps.

3. Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe

Located in Kassel, Germany, Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe is a mountain park with a large and impressive system of waterworks. Over 92,000 gallons of water flow through the park’s aqueducts, pouring into intermittent waterfalls and fountains, and one 50-foot geyser. Note that this impressive water show only occurs between May and October, so definitely plan your trip accordingly if you hope to visit.

Coffe Baum, Liepzig. Front view, day. — Coffe Baum, Liepzig. Wikimedia Commons

4. Zeppelin Museum, Friedrichshafen

No, we are not talking about the British Hard-rockers from the 60s and 70s, but the woefully inefficient airborne conveyance from the turn of the last century. At the Zeppelin Museum, you can learn more about these immense airships, and experience many cabins and other memorabilia. The museum’s big draw, however, is its replica of the ill-fated Hindenburg, which was built at the site of the museum, but exploded in New Jersey in 1937. Oh, the humanity.

5. Roman Monuments In Trier

Many are unaware of the deep connection between Germany and the Roman Empire; if anything, ‘Germanic barbarians’ are often blamed for the collapse of Rome. But Germany’s Roman roots are actually on display everywhere you look.

Nowhere is this truer than at Trier. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trier includes remnants of a Roman city outpost. The city outlived the ill-fated Empire that created it, becoming a major European trading city in the Middle Ages. Many of the surviving structures are in amazing shape, passed down to us with a surprising lack of wear and tear.

6. Restaurant Vendome

The epitome of “New German” cuisine is yours for the tasting at Restaurant Vendome, located near Cologne. Awarded three Michelin stars for the past 10 years, Chef Joachim Wissler specializes in putting creative spins on classic German and European fare. Dishes like toffee and caramelized fois gras, langoustine with pickled cabbage, and fragrant rice ice cream tantalize taste buds. The restaurant is in the Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg, which features other great options for food and drink, such as the Salvador Dali Bar or the Restaurant Jan Wellam for breakfast and brunch.

Ancien Roman ruins in Trier. — The world-famous ruins of Trier.

7. Restaurant Tim Raue

Fans of Netflix’s Chef’s Table might recognize chef Tim Raue. On his installment of the series, Chef Raue told his story of growing up as a street thug in Kreuzberg, one of the poorest and roughest neighborhoods in Berlin. Well, something in those tough streets taught Raue the skills necessary for culinary excellence, as his Berlin restaurant has been short-listed as one of the best in the world. A Michelin-starred dining destination, Raue features a vegetable-forward menu with many Asian elements interlaced with traditional German dining.

8. Monsterkabinett: The Nightmare Museum

If you are looking for a vacation experience that is a little offbeat, a little scary, and a lot of fun, check out the strange surreal displays at the Monsterkabinett. Imagine rooms full of odd robots, massive alien insect creatures, and serious haunted house vibes. It’s all part of a large art gallery and museum experience created by the Dead Pigeon Art Collective. And the tour guides handle your visit like theatre, adding some performative flair to the curated dread.

9. Museum Island, Berlin

Located on the northern half of an island in the Spree River in Berlin, Museum Island is the setting for a complex of internationally-significant museums. The island includes the Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, Pergamon Museum and Humboldt Forum. Here, visitors can find a large collection of antiquities, including a famous bust of Nefertiti, and Priam’s Treasure. Some of the recent exhibitions include Rodin’s statues, Bronze Age weaponry, and a collection of Byzantine art.

Museum Island, Berlin, at night seen from the river. — Museum Island, Berlin. Wikimedia Commons

10. Jeweled Skeletons Of Furstenfeld Abbey

If you are looking for something strangely beautiful, you’ll be impressed by the skeletons at Furstenfeld Abbey in Fürstenfeldbruck. European churches are rife with relics and icons, or evens bone fragments or locks of hair from saints. Furstenfeld Abbey, however, contains the full skeletons of Saint Hyacinth of Caesarea and Saint Clemens, and they are encrusted with jewels and precious metals.

Initially a monastery, the abbey once included a brewery and modest farm. Now, it contains much more ornamentation. The church is gorgeously decorated with gilded painting, statuary, tapestries and the relic-holding boxes on the altar. The abbey is just a short trip from Munich.

11. Floating Railway At Wuppertal

Imagine taking a train or trolley ride upside down through the sky. That’s basically the gist of the Schwebebahn or “floating highway.” It is the world’s oldest monorail (its upside-down tram cars dangle from a rail above). Located in Wuppertal, the monorail is the most important mode of transportation in the city. Check out all the charms of the city below as you glide across the train’s 8-mile track. The system was designed as a prototype method of public transportation for Berlin, but quickly became popular with Wuppertal citizens. It services millions every year, becoming iconic in many films, TV shows and works of literature.

12. Lichtenstein Castle

If you are curious about Gothic Revival architecture, spend a day exploring the Lichtenstein Castle in Baden Wurttemberg. The castle dates back to 1100; it’s actually a large hunting lodge built on the bones of an older castle. Most of the current structure was completed in the late 19th century when its gothic style was in vogue. During World War II, the castle was almost destroyed by American troops, and one of the castle walls still contains a large hole from a U.S. tank shell.

Lichtenstein Castle in the daytime. — Lichtenstein Castle.

13. Fabrik, Hamburg

For an immersive and exciting dose of European flavor, you must check out Fabrik in Hamburg. This cultural center occupies a former machine parts factory (“fabric” is German for “factory”) and features an industrial-chic spin on a variety of arts, education and music. Several renowned musicians have performed here – such diverse acts as B.B. King and Nirvana. The center was founded in 1971 by German painter Horst Dietrich, and today offers lectures, exhibitions, debates, and theatre productions in addition to music.

14. Dollenberg Hotel

If you are looking for traditional luxury, you cannot miss the creature comforts offered at the Hotel Dollenberg in Schwarzwald. A Relais & Chateau resort, Hotel Dollenberg provides magnificent views and an unrivaled wellness experience. More than a wellness resort, the hotel fully exploits its Black Forest surrounding to the benefit of its guests. The grounds feel like a sprawling park with statutes, natural features, and lush fields for walking, hiking, or just sitting back and enjoying the clean mountain air.

15. Buchstabenmuseum Museum

The last entry is an oddity in Berlin: a museum entirely devoted to letters. We’re not talking about correspondence, but actual physical letters and lettering such as in typefaces and signage. This museum is a must for font-addicts and admirers of artistic and commercial calligraphy. Most of the collection consists of letterforms from public displays. Expect to see remnants of old signs spanning different eras in Europe. The museum’s mission statement calls for them to preserve and display three-dimensional depictions of letters, including the history of their origins and construction. Much like a large salvage yard, at this museum, they see beauty where some might see debris.

7 Nifty Things Travelers Should Know About Russia

Russia a fascinating country to visit, with contrasting beauties from brilliant subtropical beaches to arctic wastes regions in the far north. What makes Russia even more interesting are these little-known facts…

1. McDonalds Will Have You Feeling Right At Home

It always seems a little strange to see McDonalds franchises in European countries, and it’s all the stranger that Russia is actually home to the largest McDonalds in all of Europe. At one point it was the largest in the world (capable of seating 700 people at a time) but it’s since lost that title.

If you’re a fan of the classic golden arches, the Russia’s flagship location is a must-see. You’ll find it in Pushkin Square in downtown Moscow.

2. Travel The Country By Train

Trains have grown in popularity in recent years, with many opting for a more relaxing travel option. It’s also an excellent way to experience the enormity of the Russian countryside.

In Russia, travelling by rail is an excellent choice. After all, they went to the trouble of building the single longest line in the world: The Trans-Siberian Railway. Its 9,200 kilometers (5,716 mi) span the Eurasian continent, connecting Russia’s twelve time zones.

The line starts in Moscow and ends in Vladivostok on the Pacific ocean; if you were to take the journey non-stop, it would take 152 hours and 27 minutes to make it from end to end. Many travelers choose to make stops along the way and simply use the train as a means of progressing from one town to another.

Some great cities to stop at along the way include Kazan, Irkutsk, and Yekaterinburg.

Woman sleeping on train. — A sleeper train in Penza, Russia.

3. Cats Run This Museum

History buffs will want to check out The Hermitage in St. Petersburg. It’s arguably Russia’s greatest museum, with nearly 14 miles of marbled corridors bedecked by an immense number of artifacts.

One of the most interesting features of this museum is the roughly 70 cats that guard its treasures from rodents.

This is no accident: it’s actually a tradition that goes all the way back to 1746 when the Empress Elizabeth appointed the first feline guardians by decree.

4. The Best Underground Travel In The World

Moscow is widely acclaimed for its fantastic metro system, which is one of the fastest ways to get around the city.

Trains arrive in station every 90 seconds. At that blazing speed, it’s estimated that more than 9 million people ride the Moscow metro every single day.

Beyond functionality, many consider Moscow’s underground subways to be among the world’s most beautiful, with bright, colorful trains, and stations that resemble art galleries and cathedrals.

The Hermitage, St. Petersburg, illuminated. — The Hermitage illuminated at night, St. Petersburg.

5. Want A Beard? Pay The Tax

Men in Russia that were looking to grow a beard would have wanted to think twice during Peter the Great’s reign.

The ruler instituted a “Beard Tax” that all bearded men would have to pay if they wanted to have facial hair.

The reason behind the tax? Peter the Great wanted Russians to be more like the ‘modern’ Europeans he had met in his previous travels and go beardless.

Fortunately, the tax was done away with and men in Russia are now able to enjoy tax-free facial hair!

6. Russia Is Larger Than Entire Planets

Russia isn’t only the biggest country in the world by area, it’s actually even bigger than the dwarf planet Pluto.

Its surface area covers 17.1 million square kilometers (10,625,447 square miles) with a population of 144 million people.

With such a substantial population and vast geography, there are countless amazing points of interest in Russia. The Gosolov Ravine in Moscow is one, with its quirky combination of (alleged) mythical woodland creatures and lovely walking trails. It’s the perfect sanctuary in the middle of the bustling city of Moscow!

Bunker-42 is another unusual and oft-overlooked place you should check out in Moscow. Underneath Moscow, you’ll find a massive tunnel system that leads to Bunker-42, a shelter once maintained for Stalin’s personal use in the even of an emergency.

7. Fantastically Unique Cuisine

You can’t go to Russia without at least trying Borscht. It might not always look appealing, but beetroot and beef soup is a staple in the Russian diet.

Beef stroganoff topped with butter, white wine, and sour cream is another must-try, not to mention filling!

For a classic Russian dining experience, Cafe Pushkin in Moscow is a great start! It’s a very antique-themed dining room inside of an old nobleman’s house. The immaculately formal service and the very Russian menu will give you a sense of the best traditional cuisine the country has to offer.

Want to read more? Check out Caviar & Cosmonauts: 16 Russian Adventures.

Saints and Supervolcanoes: 8 Italy Facts

Italy is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, but surprisingly, there’s still a lot that people don’t know about it. These are our favourite surprising truths about the boot in the mediterranean.

1. All The Beauty In The World

We know Italy is full of aesthetic delights, but did you know that it has more masterpieces per square mile than any other country in the world?

It’s not just something proud Italians say, it’s actually true!

From the Michelangelo’s David in Florence to the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City — and a thousand ancient, quaint towns in between — Italy is a repository of renown and genius.

2. Prepare To Gain A Few Pounds

One of the first things that comes to mind when you think of Italy is the food and wine, and that’s for good reason.

Italians are firmly not on board the anti-wheat train, eating upwards of a half-pound of bread per day on average. Don’t even get us started on pasta, of which the average Italian consumes roughly 70 pounds every year!

Of course, how good can food be unless it’s washed down with a fine glass of wine? Italians definitely do their fair share of drinking. The statistics show that they consume over 45 bottles of wine per year per capita.

Yet another reason to feel no guilt when you buy a bottle of wine just for yourself. When in Rome…

Picture of downtown Florence — Florence, Italy: one of the most culturally significant cities on earth.

3. The Most UNESCO Sites In The World

Italy has a grand total of 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites, the highest number of any country on earth.

Some of the most noteworthy are the Castel del Monte, the frozen volcanic city of Pompei, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

With so many worthy attractions, visitors must structure their itineraries carefully to cover as much ground as possible. Even so, unless you have virtually unlimited time, you’re going to miss something spectacular.

That being said, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is definitely a must-see, as engineers say it will only remain standing for another 200 years! Tick tock, people.

4. The Smallest Country In The World

Italy is far from the smallest country in the world. But within Rome rests the Vatican City, the seat of the Papacy, and a nation in its own right.

Not only is the Holy See the smallest independent country in the world, it’s also the only one that can actually lock up its own gates at night.

The city has its own defensive force, the Swiss Guard, who have guarded the Popes without interruption since 1506. The Vatican also boasts its own TV station, radio station, currency, phone company, and stamps.

Saint Peter’s Square is the main entrance to the city, through which adoring crowds flock to hear the words of the Holy Father. Between the square’s majestic fountains, its 140 statues of saints along the balustrade, and Michelangelo’s Pieta, it’s hard not to feel a little small yourself in the world’s tiniest state.

St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, seen from a distance. — St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, seen from a distance.

5. A Culture That Appreciates Strolling

An evening stroll is nothing new, but the Italians might be the only culture that actually has a name for it: the passeggiata.

This popular, pre-dinner stroll is a huge part of Italian culture, and it’s an opportunity that many use to leisurely take in the neighborhood, to see and be seen, to socialize.

With all the carbs you’re likely to eat, burning some calories might not be the worst idea!

6. Where Would We Be Without Italian Cooks?

Italians are notoriously good cooks, and they claim that they’re responsible for teaching the rest of Europe how to cook as well.

Not only did they introduce ice cream to the world, they also were proud early-adopters/creators of coffee, fruit pies, and — they would argue — the first French fries.

In 1474, Bartolomeo Sicci created the first Italian cookbook; Italian food remains one of the most popular styles of cuisine in the world.

It’s hard to narrow down the list of great restaurants in Rome, let alone Italy, but Er Buchetto is one of the most raved-about, with its convenient location in the heart of Rome. Let’s just say it’s common for guests to order seconds immediately after finishing their first portion.

Fancy spaghetti dinner — Oh, are we making you hungry?

7. Looking For Spare Change?

Trevi Fountain is far from a secret, being the largest Baroque fountain in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in all of the world. But there is a little-known fact about it.

Nearly every day, passersby throw change into the water and make wishes. As you might expect, the money adds up quickly.

At the end of the year, the government collects roughly €3,000 worth of change from the Fountain and donates it all to charity.

So while your wish may or may not come true, you are giving to a good cause when you throw money in the fountain!

8. A Volcanic Hotbed

There are literally entire vacation tours dedicated to Italy’s volcanic history, which is extensive and very much in evidence.

The story of Pompeii has grown in popularity in recent years, but it’s less well-known that Italy still has three active volcanoes: Etna, Stromboli, and Vesuvius.

They’re all immense spectacles that beg to be seen, but you don’t have to worry about them too much: apart from the tempestuous Stromboli, located in the Aeolian Islands, the last eruption here was Vesuvius in 1944.

More worrying is the position of Naples, a city of a million people which sits in the caldera of an enormous supervolcano that makes Vesuvius look like a pimple. If the Naples volcano were ever to erupt, not just Italy but the entire world would be in peril.

Interested in learning more about Italia? Check out 14 Things To Do In Italy That Most Tourists Miss Out On.

Vesuvius seen across the Bay of Naples, which is itself the caldera of a much more dangerous supervolcano.

17 Things To Do And See (And Eat!) In Spain

From delicious tapas bites to awe-inspiring medieval castles, Spain has something for every traveler. Here is a list of the best places to dine, explore, and just plain enjoy the beauty of Spain.

1. Barcelona Tapas At Cervesaria Catalana

Start off your trip with the rustic delights of Spanish finger food. World-renowned for having some of the best tapas, in Barcelona, Cerveceria Catalana impresses with a large selection of drinks and a combination of traditional and inventive small plates and other delicious bites.

Every trip to Spain requires a taste of the famed Jamon Iberico — air-cured ham that has been fed with acorns — and montaditos — bread served with various toppings. Other must-have tapas dishes include sauteed shrimp, patatas bravas, and manchego cheese.

Cervesaria Catalana is a beer bar at its heart, though, so be sure to grab a bottle of Spanish beer, such as a Voll-Damm Doble Malta or Alhambra 1925.

2. Restaurant Aponiente in El Puerto De Santa Maria

Situated in an old tide mill near the Bay of Cadiz in southwestern Spain, Aponiente only plates seafood. At the helm is Chef Angel Leon, who is often referred to as the “chef of the sea,” and his 27-course tasting menu starts at the bottom of the food chain with algae and plankton and progresses to shellfish, fish sausages, and other concoctions based on larger creatures. A standout dish is his play on the classic Spanish paella, which incorporates plankton and aioli tartare.

3. Mugaritz, San Sebastian

Over the past few decades, Spanish cuisine has transformed from a reliance on rustic classics, instead becoming the epicenter of molecular gastronomy. The focus, however, is firmly on the country’s freshest produce – meat and seafood. Nowhere is this more evident than at Mugaritz in the Gipuzkoa province. Part of the Basque region, which straddles the border of France and faces the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastian features innovation and culinary history. Mugaritz will shatter your preconceptions about what fine cuisine can be by transporting you through a three-hour, 20-course exploration of flavor, aroma, texture, and color. Dishes like creamy polished rice with mushrooms are variations on Spain’s ubiquitous paella theme, while puffed anchovies encompass the sea and simple roasted chicken pays homage to country dining.

4. Explore Spain’s Wines

Spain is filled with great wine-producing regions. Many know of its famed Riojas, but Garnacha (or Grenache) is an exciting alternative that you might not be ware of. Explore the wine with a tour of the vineyards at La Garnacha Campo de Borja. This tour follows the “ruta” or route of this particular wine through tours and tastings of Garnacha with its warm, powerful and aromatic complexity.

Spain has many other notable wine routes, including El Bierzo, Bullas, Navarre, and more. Check out some of the exciting tours for different varietals at Wine Routes of Spain.

5. Have A Drink And Watch Some Dancing At Palau Dal Mases

Add some entertainment to your dinner and drink with the nightly flamenco dancing at Palau Dal Mases in Barcelona. Set in a 16th-century baroque palace in the hopping entertainment and arts district, the restaurant also features fine art exhibits and weekly opera performances.

6. Sit At Hemingway’s Favorite Spanish Bar

Literary aficionados can follow in the footsteps of Ernest Hemmingway, who spent considerable time living and writing in Spain. Any fan of The Sun Also Rises knows how Don Ernesto was able to vividly paint a picture of Pamplona’s bullfights. The main characters would have coffee and drinks at the Cafe Iruna in the Plaza del Castillo, and so did Hemmingway. Today, you can revisit Hemmingway’s Pamplona of the 1920s, as the cafe preserves its old-school charm.

Castell de Bellver, one of Spain’s many, many castles.

7. Guell Park, Barcelona

If you are looking for art and design, you must check out Guell Park in Barcelona. A combination municipal garden, housing complex, and museum, the park is adorned with some of the best mosaic art in the world. Architect Antoni Gaudi designed and built the complex between 1900 and 1914, but it did not open to the public until 1926. A UNESCO Heritage Site since 1986, Guell Park attracts millions of visitors to its mythological mosaic sculptures.

8. Josep Pujiula Labyrinth, Argelaguer

The “Wild Village” at Argelaguer is a complex of strange structures near the Fluvia River in Catalonia. It has been a work in progress since the 1970s, with a considerable amount of resistance from the Spanish government. Some of the lands were public, and the government worried about the stability of some of creator Pujiula’s structures. The site includes a labyrinth, a tower made of branches, a liveable cabin, and long traversable tunnels and walkways.

9. Barrio de las Letras, Madrid

If you are looking to be ensconced in Spanish literature, take a walk in the shoes of Cervantes and Quevado in the Barrio de las Letras in Madrid. The pedestrian streets are paved with quotes from famous Spanish authors who once called the neighborhood home. Nowadays, the area is close to some of the country’s greatest museums, such as the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza. The streets here are lined with cafes and restaurants, with other impressive sights such as the world-famous vertical garden at the CaixoForum art museum.

10. Malaga Costa del Sol

No trip to Spain is complete without experiencing the sun and beaches of the south, including Malaga Costa del Sol. The “sun coast” is filled with beachside resorts that boomed in post-war Europe, and still attract millions of annual visitors today — including many celebrities. It’s located close to Gibraltar, which attracts British and other European visitors. Getting there is easy too, since it’s served by three major airports: Málaga, Granada and Gibraltar International Airport.

11. Picos de Europa

Few natural destinations can rival the Picos de Europa National Park. Spain’s oldest national park, its northern location near the sea exposes it to an unusual climate that ranges from warm to foggy humidity to banks of year-round snow. Hikes vary in difficulty, and both beginners and veteran hikers can have a fun and challenging outdoor adventure.

12. The Alhambra, Granada

The grand palace and fortress of Andalusia, The Alhambra was built in 889 AD on the remains of an old Roman fort. In the 13th century, it was expanded to its present grandeur as part of a Muslim Emirate in Granada. The Alhambra served as the palace for the Emirate, but returned to Spanish control after the Christian Reconquista in 1492. Christopher Columbus’ trip to the Americas was authorized at The Alhambra, at the royal court of Ferdinand and Isabella. Visitors can relive the palace’s millennium-plus of history through well-preserved Muslim and Christian artefacts.

13. Tibidabo – Biblical History From a High Mountain

The Tibidabo mountain outside of Barcelona is believed to be the site where Lucifer brought Jesus Christ during one of his temptations in the New Testament. Lucifer took Jesus up high on a mountain and offered him everything he could see. And in fact, from the top of this mountain, visitors have quite the panoramic view of the city below and the sea in the distance.

14. Castillo de Zafra

A dramatic snapshot of medieval Spain, Castillo de Zafra is an iconic castle built in the 12th century atop a large rocky hill. Located at Campillo de Duenas in the north-central region of Spain, the nearest major city to Castillo de Zafra is Guadalajara. And if the castle looks somewhat familiar, you may recognize it from season six of Game of Thrones as the castle was a filming location in several episodes.

15. Puente Romano

If you are looking for a perfect combination of luxury and beach, make your way to Marbella on Spain’s southern shore. At the Puente Romano Beach Club, a village-like atmosphere awaits visitors. A pristine beach meets tennis courts, botanical gardens and open-air cocktail lounges.

The view of Barcelona from atop Tibidabo. Doc Searls/Wikimedia

16. Akelarre, San Sebastian

A winery, hotel and three-star Michelin restaurant, Akelarre offers a total luxury experience with dramatic cliff views of the sea. This property is very new, and exudes a chic modern style. Its namesake restaurant wows guests as well, but make sure to get your reservations well in advance as Akelarre is making a name for itself as a luxury resort with a rare perfect dining event.

17. Mas de Torrent Hotel and Spa

Heading up the Mediterranean coast from Barcelona, travelers enter the gorgeous Valencia region of Spain. Here, the countryside slowly blends into the Pyrenees lowlands of southwest France. Valencia offers much more than its famed orange groves and paella – although every visitor would be wise to sample both. There are many luxury resorts, even inland, such as the Mas de Torrent Hotel and Spa. Here you can experience the rustic elegance of an 18th-century Catalan farmhouse, renovated into a five-star hotel. Enjoy private pools, gardens, immersive spa treatments and the best cuisine in the Costa Brava.