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.

15 Beautiful And Bizarre Things To Discover In Mexico

Many tourists are attracted to Mexico for its sun, sand, and culture. Looking to veer off of the beaten path? These are the country’s best-kept secrets.

1. Hierve el Agua

Mexico is known for its picturesque beaches, but the natural mineral springs of Hierve el Agua reveal a much different side to the surf you’d expect.

The Central Valleys of Oaxaca are home to these natural mineral springs that have formed over thousands of years. They appear to be waterfalls that have frozen over while careening down a cliff. The mineral pools that sit at the edge of the cliffs are just as beautiful.

A visit to the two falls, “cascada grande” and “cascada chica,” is well worth the drive and short hike. You can even cool off by taking a swim in one of the mineral pools. You have to see Hierve el Agua for yourself —it’s one of nature’s most breathtaking surprises.

2. Cafebreria el Pendulo

Nestled in the heart of Mexico City, Cafebreria El Pendulo is a book lover’s dream. This two-story bookstore is also a cafe and a forest, allowing you to relax in nature with a good read and a warm espresso. Why just visit a traditional cafe when you can witness the spiral staircases and ivy-lined bookshelves of Cafebreria El Pendulo? Recline on a sofa on the first floor, or sit at the bar and enjoy a drink. A trip here will ignite your imagination, making you the main character of your own Mexican fairytale.

3. Snack On A Cucamelon

Mexican delicacies are plentiful, but the cucamelon is one of the most remarkable. This grape-sized fruit resembles a tiny watermelon, but once you bite into it you’ll taste cucumber. Native to Mexico, these adorable oddities are referred to as “sandita” or “little watermelon.” Try a bite at a local market and see how your taste buds can totally confuse you!

4. Swim With Whale Sharks

A visit to Isla Mujeres, only an eight-minute boat ride from the spring break hotspot of Cancún, gives tourists the rare opportunity to splash around with some of the world’s most fascinating sea creatures — whale sharks the size of school buses!

They generally don’t bother with humans and swim remarkably slow, making it a safe and life-changing experience to share their company. This dive is sure to take your breath away in the best possible way. Snorkeling along the surface is just as rewarding; there’s vibrant aquatic life everywhere you look here.

5. La Pascualita

Mexico is rich with interesting peculiarities, but the city of Chihuahua is home to one of the most bizarre the country has to offer.

La Pascualita is an 80-year-old mannequin dressed in a wedding dress, and she has been terrifying shoppers who pass La Popular for nearly a century. She appears so lifelike that some locals believe she is the corpse of the original shop owner’s daughter, who died from a spider bite. Eerie yet enticing, La Pascualita is an attraction that will test your superstitions. This attraction takes window shopping to an entirely new level.

6. Playa del Amor

The Hidden Beach — part of the Marietta Islands west of Puerto Vallarta — is one of Mexico’s most unmissable destinations. As the name suggests, the Hidden Beach is literally a hole in the middle of an island that contains a small beach. Secluded and invisible from the outside, Playa del Amor can be accessed via tour groups. This enclave allows you to enjoy the Pacific Ocean in a totally unconventional, unexpected way.

7. La Casa Azul

If you want to revel in the inspiring art and colorful culture of Mexico, La Casa Azul is sure to catch your eye. The former childhood home of beloved Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, this striking blue building has become a museum in her honor. Now filled with her surreal artwork, this was where Kahlo once taught herself to paint. A visit to the museum will have you feeling like you are reliving a pivotal part of Mexican history, and Kahlo’s paintings will stay in your mind long after you leave.

8. Playa Hermosa

Mexican ruins are a popular tourist attraction, and the history behind Playa Hermosa is undeniably intriguing. A now-abandoned resort in San Blas, this seaside escape was once a booming vacation spot for celebrities in the 1950’s. Stars such as Jim Morrison used to flock to Playa Hermosa regularly to drink and party, but once mosquitoes — yes, mosquitoes! — began to take over, the resort slowly began to decay. This little piece of forgotten history is a must-see — just don’t forget your bug spray!

9. Mercado de Sonora

Travel is best done with an open mind, and there is nowhere better to explore the great unknown than Mercado de Sonora in Mexico City. This marketplace is dedicated to everything witchcraft, and there is no shortage of mystical novelty in the shops at Sonora. Pick up magic soap, peruse through aisles of voodoo dolls, or simply marvel at whatever ‘sorcery’ you can find. The Mercado de Sonora is eccentric and undoubtedly magical —in one way or another. It’s definitely your one-stop shop for clever and baffling souvenirs.

Self-Portrait with Bonito by Frida Kahlo.

10. Tacos Gus

A visit to the neighborhood of La Condesa in Mexico City is not complete without enjoying some authentic tacos. Mexican food is filled with a panoply of flavors and fresh ingredients. Tacos Gus, a local spot, will expose you to all that Mexican cuisine can do to your palette. This eatery offers 20 different tacos, with a variety of vegan and vegetarian options available for those with dietary restrictions. The fresh ingredients are stored in large clay pots on the counter, giving you a clear look at the preparation of genuine Mexican fare.

11. Pyramids Of Teotihuacan

Mexico isn’t the first place you associate with ancient pyramids, but the city of Teotihuacan certainly has some. About an hour outside Mexico City, Teotihuacan has stood for about 2,000 years.

The pyramids are larger than life, but even more astounding is the mystery of the origin of this ancient metropolis. It is unknown who built the structures, but we do know the city’s decline began when a fire destroyed many of its neighborhoods around 1,400 years ago.

Don’t have time to tour all of Teotihuacan? Make sure you climb the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon — the two largest ones. The trek may be a little tiring, but it’s worthwhile to know you’re walking in the footsteps of the mysterious artisans who created this ghost city two millennia ago.

12. Punta Monterrey

Looking to enjoy the beach, but want to take a more rustic — and romantic — approach? The Punta Monterrey resort is 15 minutes from San Pancho, but it’s tucked away in the jungle, making for a secluded and serene getaway. It even boasts its own private beach, which you can enjoy after taking a quick hike through the jungle or enjoying a meal cooked with ingredients fresh from the resort’s garden. The stay is insanely budget-friendly, costing less than $100 per night. A weekend at Punta Monterrey is sure to refresh your mind and rejuvenate your spirit!

http://monterreybeach.com/

13. Las Pozas

Nestled in the small town of Xilitla, Las Pozas is the work of English poet and semi-exile Edward James. James was intrigued by Surrealist art, sponsoring Salvador Dali during the 1930’s. The sculpture garden of Las Pozas is truly a testament to James’ love of surrealism, and it will make you feel as if you fell down the rabbit hole into Wonderland. The garden is filled with natural and man-made delights unlike anything you have ever seen, so be sure to bring your camera!

14. Cactus Flower Ice Cream

This Mexican delicacy is exotic and rather refreshing, and the light green color just urges you to take a bite. Made from the fruit of a cactus plant — as you might have guessed! — cactus flower ice cream is delightfully sweet, with the texture of cucumber. This makes it the perfect summertime treat, especially when you are sweltering under the hot Mexican sun. Don’t let the ice cream shops fool you; “tuna” is the word they use for the cactus flower in Mexico, so if you see tuna ice cream on the menu, no need to hold your nose.

15. Minichelista

If you find yourself searching for a quick bite to eat in the heart of Mexico City, Minichelista is by far the most vibrant local spot. From hookah to coffee — and even a side of chicken wings — this tiny restaurant is colorful and charismatic; the entire building has been transformed into a work of art. Eye-popping graffiti and scrap objects made into furniture are just a few of the amusements that await you here. It’s obvious this establishment was created by artists. Since its beginnings 10 years ago, it has become the strangest and most endearing eatery in the city.

14 Less Well-Known Italian Attractions

You already know you need to see the Colosseum, Pompeii, and Venice, but if you’re looking for the full, authentic Italian treatment, here are some ideas that might inspire you.

1. Visit Monte Mario

The highest point in the city of Rome, Monte Mario is the place to be if you want to see those unparalleled, second-to-none views of the city.

A mere 15-minute drive from the city center, Monte Mario is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset and soak in the glorious beauty of this ancient city. While a little off-the-beaten-track, a visit is so worth it if you’re looking to see Roma at its finest, away from the typical hustle and bustle.

2. Eat The World’s Rarest Pasta

Though it requires an epic 20-mile pilgrimage to the entrance of Santuario di San Francesco, it’stotally worth the effort if you’re a die-hard pasta lover.

Translated as “Threads of God,” su filindeu is unimaginably intricate and time-consuming to create. In fact, it’s currently made by only three women on Earth – hence why it’s renowned as the rarest pasta in the world.

Mastering the technique this noodle demands is so complicated that celebrity chef Jamie Oliver gave up after a mere two hours. Engineers at the prestigious Barilla pasta company even attempted to create a machine to manufacture su filindeu: all attempts have so far been unsuccessful. (Take that, robots!)

To get your chance at trying this incredibly rare masterpiece, it’s essential you book a trip to Sardinia during May or October when the Feast of San Francesco takes place.

3. Spend A Night In Umbria

Often overshadowed by the ever-popular neighboring duchy of Tuscany, Umbria isjust as stunning and historic. Far less busy and much cheaper too, Umbria is the ideal destination if you want to pass a few quiet, unassuming days somewhere new – but old!

Dripping with medieval ambiance – hilly villages, summer festivals, inimitable Italian cuisine – renting an Umbrian farmhouse for a few days will shed a whole new light on the bucolic charms of old Italy.

4. Sunbathe At Lido Di Venezia

Venice is one of Italy’s most popular destinations, and for good reason! The City of Canals is simply bursting with romance. But Venice can sometimes be a little busy and overwhelming during the summer months, especially if you’re looking for something more low-key.

To experience the subtler side of Venice, take a short ride to Lido di Venezia, a 7-mile stretch of sand with gorgeous views and sophisticated beach bars. Here you can sip on Venetian culture away from the tourist traps. Lido di Venezia is the ideal place to kick back and catch some sun.

5. Visit The Gucci Museum

A second-to-none yet little-known activity for avid fashion lovers? A visit to the Gucci Museum in Florence is guaranteed to impress.

Showcasing authentic vintage Gucci work with a menagerie of pieces from every era since the brand was founded in 1921, this museum houses the essence of haute couture.

Fun in the sun awaits at Lido Di Venezia.

6. Experience The Ruins Of Herculaneum

Everyone knows the tragic story of Pompeii, but the neighboring hamlet of Herculaneum is often forgotten.

Situated on the north side of the volcano Vesuvius, and thought to have been buried a few days after Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, Herculaneum reveals secrets of Italian history you can’t unearth anywhere else.

With most of its ruins still resembling the original structures, you can view preserved mosaics that once adorned the villas of wealthy Romans and feel the calamity of this little-known town in your bones as you walk its desiccated streets.

7. Take In The Beauty Of Grotta Azzura

Also known as the “Blue Grotto” in English, Grotta Azzura is thought to be the personal swimming hole of the ancient Emperor Tiberius. True to its name, the water in the grotto can almost be said to glow, rippling brilliant, transparent blue.

The only way to enter the grotto is via a small rowing boat, through a culvert in the face of a perpendicular cliff. And, as the opening is a mere 4 feet high and 4 feet wide, it’s a tight squeeze! But once you get in, you’ll have an experience unlike any you’ve had before!

Accessible by bus from Anacapri or by boat from Marina Grande, make sure to plan your visit in good weather, as Grotta Azzura is closed on windy days for safety reasons.

8. Go To Church

Even if you’re not particularly religious, experiencing an Italian church service is with increase the cultural payoff of your trip.

Though Italy is a predominantly Catholic country, not every single person will abide by Catholic teachings in their everyday lives – naturally. But since religion plays such a huge role in Italy’s identity, experiencing a church service is an important way of immersing yourself in the heritage.

All church pages and information booklets will list the hours of scheduled services which you can attend.

9. View The Pyramid Of Cestius

While pyramids are more closely associated with Egypt (and rightly so!), the Pyramid of Cestius is the only “Egyptian” pyramid in Europe.

Situated in Rome near the Porta San Paolo, Cestius was originally built (around 12 BC) as a lavish tomb for a wealthy Roman priest of the same name.

Standing an impressive 120 feet high and featuring a much sharper angle than the traditional pyramids of Egypt, this unusual cenotaph is well worth a look.

10. See An Italian Soccer Game

Even if you’re not a soccer fan, or a fan of sport in general, attending an Italian soccer game is a experience like no other.

Italians are notoriously passionate about their soccer clubs. In fact, soccer could more accurately be considered their second religion!

The intensity at these events is simply second-to-none, giving you of that famous Italian spirit that you won’t get anywhere else.

11. Let Your Hair Down At The Carpino Folk Festival

Italians are known for their fun-loving nature, but nothing proves why quite like the Carpino Folk Festival.

By day, this small village lounges in peace and tranquility. But every August it transforms itself into an exciting open-air theater to which thousands of lovers of traditional music flock to chat, and sway, and dance the night away.

Featuring an array of colorful performances, cinematic shows, and workshops, the Carpino Folk Festival is an absolute must for people of all ages who enjoy good music and fun.

The Pyramid of Cestius. Carole Raddato/Flickr.

12. Visit Rome’s Vegan Cat Cafe

One of Rome’s best kept secrets, the Vegan Cat Cafe is perfect if you’re looking to branch out from typical Italian dining.

Unlike the suburbs full of traditional pizza and pasta restaurants Rome has on offer, the Vegan Cat Cafe is precisely what its name suggests – a cafe bursting with delicious vegan options, with cats occupying virtually every available space.

It might not be the best option if you’re meat-eating or allergic to felines, but it’s great if you’re a cat lover and looking to experience another, more modern side of Italian food.

13. Watch A Living Chess Game

Every other September, Marotisca transforms the classic game of chess into a real-life spectator sport.

Taking place over three days right in the center of town, these games feature human chess pieces dressed in traditional 15th-century costumes.

Guaranteed to impress, with accompanying period dances, music, fireworks, and parades, many flock to Marotisca to watch the chess.

14. Visit A Medieval Village

Situated in Turin’s Valentino Park, this medieval village is a perfect replica of a 15th century Piedmontese Village.

Effortlessly complex and including lively artisan shops, authentic narrow streets, and an expansive castle, this village will transport you back in time for an up-close an personal look at Italy’s past.

Viking Ruins & Enchanted Forests: 13 Unexpected Canadian Adventures

Canada is as diverse as it is vast, from cosmopolitan comforts to the endless silence of Arctic wilderness.

If you are looking for a world-class destination featuring natural wonders, rich history, luxurious accommodations, and top-shelf cuisine, check out these top Canadian vacation ideas.

13. Cosmopolitan Toronto

Canada is a massive country, so we’ll start off with its largest city, whose 2.7 million residents bustle with diversity and vibrancy. Toronto has everything you’d expect from a major metropolis. Visitors enjoy major league sports, film festivals, and countless performing arts venues. The CN Tower offers a bird’s eye view of the city, including Toronto Islands, the largest car-free urban area in North America. Some of the best dining experiences in Canada can be found in the city’s downtown, such as Momofuku Daisho, culinary titan David Chang’s take on the classic steakhouse.

12. Lakeshore, Ontario

After living it up in Toronto, head south to explore some of Canada’s lesser-known history. In the U.S., there are several well-known historical sites from the Underground Railroad, the network of routes and passageways used to help slaves escape to free states and Canada. Canada, however, paints a historical picture of the epilogue – the story of the new lives escaped slaves built in freedom. Lakeshore, Ontario – about 200 miles southwest of Toronto, close to Detroit – was one of the most popular destinations for escaped slaves. Black History is alive in this small city, as its community embraced freedom and many of those who made it into this town 150 years ago continued the fight against tyranny.

11. L’Anse Aux Meadows

If you think Christopher Columbus was the first European to set foot in North America in 1492, you would be wrong. He missed that record by about 500 years, as it turns out.

On the northernmost tip of the Canadian island of Newfoundland, there is an archaeological site that puts Viking settlers in Canada over one thousand years ago.

Discovered in 1960, the site (known as L’Anse Aux Meadows) has a possible connection to Norse explorer Leif Ericson’s Vinland colony. Today, you can see reproductions of the Viking settlement that once stood there and immerse yourself in its mysterious history. Sit around a roaring fire at the Viking Encampment and enjoy retellings of the Norse sagas of Thor, Loki, and Erik The Red.

Recreation Vikining house at L’Anse Aux Meadows, Newfoundland. D. Gordon E. Robertson/Wikimedia Commons

10. Blanc-Sablon, Quebec

About 500 years after the Vikings abandoned their settlement in Newfoundland, French explorer Jacques Cartier landed on the white sandy beaches of what is now northern Quebec. And in 1534, when Cartier planted a cross to bless the land, he was likely unaware that the site had been inhabited by humans for at least 9,000 years. In 2007, the area was designated a National Historic Site, and it has become something of a mecca for North American history buffs. From interactive displays and artwork to tours and reenactments, Blanc-Sablon celebrates almost 10,000 years of human history.

9. Camp Hughes, Manitoba

Few non-Canadians are aware of the important role the Great White North played in World War I. The history of the Canadian military in The Great War is displayed at Camp Hughes, which was a training ground for soldiers 100 years ago. The entire camp is now open to the public for hiking. Sites to visit include a large area of actual training trenches, the largest still extant in North America. Designated a National Historic Site in 2016, the camp has seen an uptick in visitors, with restored facilities, tours, and reenactments.

8. Halifax Harbour, Nova Scotia

Canada felt another pang of World War I when the entire harbor area of Halifax was leveled and many lives were lost on December 6, 1917. On that day, a Norwegian ship collided with a French boat full of explosive material headed off to Europe. Over 2,000 people died as a result, with up to 9,000 injured. In Halifax, you can check out the Harbour memorial and connect with Canada’s memory of The Great War, the “War to End All Wars.”

Halifax has more to offer than history; it’s also a booming city with a lively dining scene that features New Canadian cuisine at its finest. Check out the restaurant Edna a few blocks away from the Maritime Museum.

7. Enchanted Forest, British Columbia

A big bounce away, on the other side of the country, there is a magical place with hiking trails, amusement parks, and even a salmon run – oh, and gigantic gnome heads poking out of the ground. At Enchanted Forest, you are swept into a fantasy land that combines storybook fairies and elves with Pacific Northwest woodland beauty. And the fun is not just for kids. 350 of the aforementioned giant heads were designed by some of Canada’s best folk artists. You can also hang out in one of the largest treehouses on earth. Are you ever too grown-up for a treehouse? A large boardwalk threads its way through the forest, and you can take paddle boat trips over the wetlands and the nearby Eagle River.

6. The Canadian Wilderness

While enjoying some fantasy-inspired forests, look a little further north for some examples of the most remote and pristine wildernesses on earth. The Canadian territories of Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories each provide unique example of polar beauty. Set foot in the Arctic Circle, stay up to watch the northern lights, and breathe in the boundless peace of the north.

Or, if you don’t feel like going that far north, you can always check out Saskatchewan’s premier Elk Ridge Resort, on the border of Prince Albert National Park. There you can golf, fish, and enjoy all the benefits of civilization – on the edge of the wild.

An immaculate lake in Yukon Territory, Canada.

5. Banff, Alberta

The Banff National Park is the crown jewel of Canada’s natural beauty and rustic luxury. Famous for having some of the best golf courses in North America, Banff is one of Canada’s most popular tourist attractions. Take in the vistas of the surrounding mountain landscapes while you bask in the natural hot springs. You’ll also find some of the best skiing in Canada here, with Sunshine Village, Ski Norquay, and Lake Louise Mountain Resort all within the National Park area.

When you’re in Banff, stay in one of the historic luxury resorts, such as the Fairmont Banff Springs, and wake up to a serene mountain view unlike any other in the world.

4. Drumheller Dinosaurs

Not too far away from Banff, near Calgary, you can get as close to Jurassic Park as it’s possible to get. Drumheller, a UNESCO Heritage site, was once quite the stomping ground for dinosaurs of all varieties. Fifty-eight dinosaur species have been identified through fossils, and a central park celebrates scientific evidence of over 500 different species of life. At the Dinosaur Provincial Park Visitor Centre, you can view exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and the natural history of the site. The best time to visit is in the summer when public displays and outdoor theatre add to the richness of the dinosaur experience.

The Badlands of Dinosaur Provincial Park.

3. Montreal, Quebec: Old European Charm Spun Up With Urban Excitement

Montreal is well-known for its cosmopolitan charm. A major cultural center with museums, opera, theatre, and an amazing jazz festival every July, Montreal is like a mini-NYC mashed up with Paris. It’s smaller than Toronto and retains a lot of its old-world charm. A unique Quebecois culture weaves through its beautiful neighborhoods.

Dining is spectacular in the city, which is the epicenter of New Canadian cuisine. Fresh seafood shares the plate with maple syrup and farm produce. Try Montreal-style bagels, smoked meat, and poutine (classic french-fries with gravy and cheese curds). It’s refined comfort food at its finest, and at chef Chuck Hughes’ Garde Manger in Old Montreal, the dish is elevated with chunks of Atlantic Lobster.

Other must-see Montreal sights include the Biodome, which is a combination of a zoo, museum and nature center, and the site of the 1967 World Expo.

2. Give Peace A Chance

If you’re in Montreal, check out another stop that combines 60’s pop culture with politics and hospitality. The Fairmont Queen Elizabeth hotel provides first-class accommodations and is central to the main downtown strip. The hotel has a wonderful restaurant and bar, and its lobby is full of historical artifacts hearkening back to Montreal’s roots as a fur trading port. But up in room 1742, history was made when John Lennon and Yoko Ono staged their “bed-in” for peace. Today the hotel room is adorned with photos and memorabilia from the event, and is available to book as a guest room.

1. The Forks, Manitoba

Any trip across Canada should include a stop at The Forks in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The large public space has everything from art displays, festivals, premier shopping, and great dining options. The open space is at the center of Winnipeg’s downtown, so it’s easily accessible. In winter months, The Forks features outdoor skating and ice castles. When warmer weather arrives, enjoy boating on the nearby Red and Assiniboine Rivers, the displays of nature in the public gardens and orchards, or visit the outdoor marketplace.

Canada’s sheer size offers many choices for the traveler in search of history, excitement, luxury, and nature. Cross the country from the old world Europe-inspired Quebec to the serene isolation of the northern territories and soak in Canadian diversity, one stop at a time.