Best Historical Places to Visit in the World

 

When it comes to historical places in the whole world, we can assure you that there’s going to be a lot on your plate. Since the world has been alive for so long, there are many historical places out there that await you. However, of course, we only want you to see the best. Now if we’re talking about the best, nothing compares to the UNESCO heritage sites. Overall, there are 1,092 UNESCO World Heritage Sites worldwide, including 209 natural sites and 845 that are significant in both culture and history. All of these locations are acknowledged as being of international significance and deserving of special protection. With all these places, it’s harder to pick out only a few ones that indeed stand out the most. But we’ve done all the dirty work for you and have assessed the top-tier historical places in UNESCO. 

Here are the best historical places to visit in the world! 

1. Taj Mahal, India 

Taj Mahal is a place you’ve probably heard of lots of times. It’s one of the most historic places all over the world. Its history goes back to 1632 when The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan ordered the construction of the vast Taj Mahal mausoleum complex to keep the bones of his beloved wife. The renowned complex, which was built on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, India, over the course of 20 years, is one of the best examples of Mughal architecture, which fused influences from India, Persia, and Islam. The Taj Mahal, a structure made of glistening white marble that appears to change color depending on the light, is located in the center of the complex. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983 and continues to be one of the most renowned buildings in the world as well as a breathtaking representation of India's extensive history. Because of its beauty and historical value, it stands a place in the 7 wonders of the world! 

2. Nubian Monuments, Egypt

Also, another place that was discovered in the 1960s, the Nubian Monuments is another historical place you shouldn’t miss. From the second millennium BC onward, they were constructed by several pharaohs in an effort to conquer or maintain control over the Nubian kingdom and its natural resources, including gold, copper, and ivory. Due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam and Lake Nasser in the 1960s, the two wonders of this set—the temples of Abu Simbel and the sanctuary at Philae—were completely shifted to another location. UNESCO has the honor of having salvaged the Temple of Philae and Abu Simbel from Lake Nasser's floods. If you hadn't known that both temples had been relocated, you probably wouldn't have known they were so beautifully kept in two places, which are more than 100 miles apart and contain some of Egypt's best-preserved temples.

3. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

One of the most well-known World Heritage Sites is the temple complex known as Angkor Wat, built in the 12th century. Prior to becoming a Buddhist temple, it was initially constructed as a Hindu temple. Due to the ruins' concealment by trees and other vegetation, they exude a certain air of mysticism. Angkor Wat is one of the greatest religious structures in the world, covering over 400 acres. By the end of the 12th century, Angkor Wat, which was once devoted to the Hindu god Vishnu, had converted to Buddhism. Even though it is no longer a functioning temple, it is nevertheless a popular tourist destination in Cambodia. This is despite the fact that it was severely damaged both during the Khmer Rouge regime's dictatorial control in the 1970s and earlier regional battles.

4. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu was constructed with polished dry-stone walls in the traditional Inca manner. The Inti Watana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows are its three main buildings. 

It is the most well-known representation of Inca civilization and is frequently referred to incorrectly as the "Lost City of the Incas." The estate was constructed by the Incas around 1450, but they left it unoccupied until the Spanish Conquest a century later. The majority of the distant structures have undergone reconstruction in order to better convey to visitors how they originally looked. Thirty percent of Machu Picchu had been restored by 1976, and work on restoration is ongoing. In 1981, Machu Picchu has designated a historical sanctuary by Peru, and in 1983, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In a global Internet survey conducted in 2007, Machu Picchu was chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. If you’re planning to go, it is situated above the Sacred Valley, which is 80 kilometers northwest of Cuzco and through which the Urubamba River flows, in the Cusco Region, Urubamba Province, and Machupicchu District of Peru.

5. Petra, Jordan

Known for its amazing tombs and temples, Petra in Jordan has become a world-famous destination. In the third century BC, the Nabataeans cut palaces, temples, tombs, stores, and stables out of the soft stone cliffs to create the magnificent sandstone city of Petra. It doesn't require any introduction now that it is a World Heritage Site; suffice it to say that no trip to Jordan is complete without spending at least two days visiting the amazing Ancient City. It can be reached by way of the nearby town of Wadi Musa, which serves as a transportation and lodging hub. The Nabataeans, a group of master builders with expertise in hydraulic engineering, iron manufacture, and copper refining, controlled the trade routes from Damascus to Arabia from Petra and reaped the benefits of the taxes collected from caravans passing through their domain.

6. The Great Wall, China

The Great Wall of China has been featured in many movies like the Karate Kid. It has been a historical place that receives great appreciation for its exterior and, of course, its historical value. Nearly all of the Great Wall's portions were constructed on mountain ranges because of its initial use as a military fortification; hence, even the sections that have undergone extensive restoration still need some difficult climbs and uneven staircases. You can see the unrestored portion of the Great Wall if you climb to its end while visiting a section that has been restored Most tourists will find Mutianyu and Jinshanling to be excellent medium-difficulty hikes that are nevertheless extremely safe. The Jinshanling to Jinshanling East or Gubeikou to Jinshanling routes is our recommendations for people searching for a challenging hike via untamed, unrestored sections of the Wall. Both untouched and charmingly restored portions of the Wall can be found along all of these paths.

Hotels 101: How to Keep Safe

 

Vacation is here and it is time to book plane tickets and plan countless itineraries. After all, where is the fun in your extra free time, if you are not spending it on yourself? Thus, after all the sleepless nights and stress, allotting yourself a little break might not sound so bad at all.

 

However, with all these tackled, is this the only thing you should not forsake during traveling in an unfamiliar place?

 

Newsflash, that is not the only thing to consider. One of the most important parts of the trip should be your safety, and how do we consider your overall safety? It comes back to a simple aspect, the place, you are staying. These days, the dangers of unknown bookings and impromptu hotels are rampant.

 

You have probably read a lot of advice and pointers on how to travel safely. But there is less information available when it comes to hotel safety advice. Perhaps because you expect a hotel or inn will be secure when you check-in. That is not true, though.

 

To guarantee your safety, you must take personal responsibility for several things, including understanding how to flee a fire and dealing with a potential theft. You need to be ready since the security of your hotel room is quite crucial. Following a few essential safety guidelines is the first step.

Invest in your hotel bookings

Traveling with fewer expenses than usual is the goal for cost-effective travelers. However, in terms of hotels—invest in a good and safe hotel. Make sure that you are not forsaking your safety just for the price of each room. Taking fewer chances than ever is more important than being in a plight of danger. It is good to be more cost-efficient in traveling is it will teach you how to be more friendly in handling your money, but if you are in an unfamiliar place with no companion—you are on your own. So make sure that when finding a hotel it must have a good security system, and facilities regardless of how much it can cost. Ensure your safety and invest your money in a place that not only you will enjoy, but can make you feel comfortable and safe as well. Better prevent danger than being saved from danger, and that is an aspect that even money cannot buy or guarantee.

 

Common hotel facilities can be unhygienic

If you are a fan of common baths and spas, well don’t. Aside from being physically safe, there is far more dangerous than being robbed or getting into a fire—health problems. Although the hotel might have ensured the hygienic practices of their common facilities, we cannot guarantee its safeness of it in terms of health. So even though the hotel may have made all of its amenities available, it is still best to avoid using them. Additionally, even if you exercise while others don't, their respiratory secretions might go further. Although the danger would be marginally reduced in the spa scenario since it involves physical contact, we nevertheless advise against it. We do not fully discourage you to stop using common hotel facilities since these things are intended for you, but if you are a traveler who can be easily affected by airborne diseases, then maybe you need to avoid them.

 

Never leave your door open

One of the mistakes a newbie traveler can do is to leave their door open and unattended—especially if they are too tired to remember to close it. When you are in a place that you barely know of, you still cannot be complacent about the people and the environment around it. Who knows? Maybe a drunken old man can mistake your room for theirs—worse throw a rampage inside your hotel room! Not to sound so negative, but I am only stating the worst-case scenario of this dangerous action. So to avoid those from happening, make sure that you always leave your door closes—whether you are going inside or leaving your hotel room. Reminder, some hotel doors do not automatically close when you leave, remaining open and inviting anyone to enter whenever they like. So before rushing out, pause for a moment to hear it click and give it a little tug. Make sure that the door is closed and locked properly.

 

Always let them know that you’re inside: even if you are not

When you are staying in a hotel room, you should always put the “do not disturb” sign on your door to let others know that you are in your room: even if you are out. This then gives them the idea that they cannot enter inside it since the occupant is there—preventing the risks of possible theft.

 

Bring your pocket Wi-Fi

Like any other public internet connection, it is not safe. Regardless if you are staying in a 5-star hotel, you cannot guarantee your cybersafety if it is public Wi-Fi. Thus, to protect your data, make sure that you bring your Wi-Fi. When utilizing any public Wi-Fi, including that at your hotel or another place of stay, you should always utilize a VPN. This is a little bit of safety precaution when traveling.

 

Never provide personal information in online bookings

Online booking can be essential for travelers who do not have enough time to book everything by themselves. That is why there are a lot of scams who choose the industry of travel booking—since it allows them more revenue and clients to trick and manipulate. That is why during online booking, whether the agency is credible or not—do not give out your personal information online. Even when you are in your room, do not give them your room number. Criminals can contact the hotel from a landline or a hotel phone and ask to be connected to a specific room number all too easily. Despite public awareness of this specific fraud, victims continue to fall for it. If someone calls and claims to be from the front desk and requests any personal information, hang up right away. 

Cheese on Bread! Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

 

The Caribbean is one famous tourist spot that leaves many people in awe. You’ve probably seen it on TV or on the internet, or have probably talked about it with your friends. Well, as said earlier, it’s a pretty famous tourist spot and we just know that you’ve heard of it at least once in your life. But what really is there in the Caribbean that always makes the headlines? What’s impressive about it and why is it always the talk of the town? If you're looking for some sun, beach, and relaxation, a trip to the Caribbean might be just what you need. Professional insights and characteristics including beach accessibility, tourist attractions, and excellent hotels have ranked the United States as the best in the world. News selected the most excellent spots to visit in the Caribbean for a vacation. The Caribbean is simply a top holiday destination practically all year, thanks to its near-perfect tropical weather, magnificent beaches, blue ocean, and island breezes. Thousands of islands dot the Caribbean Sea, with 13 sovereign governments and 17 territories serving as famous tourist destinations, each with its own distinct personality. We can’t deny that one of the reasons for the islands' popularity is the abundance of all-inclusive resorts that make vacationing simply. Whether you're island hopping on an excursion or taking a Caribbean cruise to various islands, it's simple to visit multiple destinations in the Caribbean in a single trip.

 

If you’re going to the Caribbean, we can assure you that you’re going to have a fun time. But you’re going to have an extra fun time if you go to the places that are the best. If you’re curious what these are, here’s everything you need to know.

 

The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands (BVI), sometimes known as the Virgin Islands, is a British overseas territory in the Caribbean, east of Puerto Rico. The islands are part of the Virgin Islands archipelago, with the US Virgin Islands and the Spanish Virgin Islands making up the rest.

 

The territory's formal name remains "Virgin Islands," but the prefix "British" is frequently used to distinguish it from the neighboring American territory, which changed its name from "Danish West Indies" to "The Virgin Islands of the United States" in 1917. The name "The Territory of the Virgin Islands" continues to appear on British Virgin Islands government documents, although the territory's passports simply say "Virgin Islands."

 

From the renowned family-friendly Cane Garden Bay on Tortola Island to the tranquil and gorgeous Deadman's Beach on Peter Island, beaches are a huge appeal in the BVI. The crystal blue Caribbean waters surrounding the islands are ideal for surfing, diving, snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing. Excursions such as dolphin tours and sunset cruises are available from the islands.

St. Lucia

The volcanic island is bisected from north to south by a central range of wooded mountains, with Mount Gimie as its highest point. Many streams flow across rich valleys from the mountains. The Gros and Petit Pitons, respectively, are two massive granite pyramids rising sharply from the sea and encircling a tiny bay in the southwest. The boiling sulfur springs in Petit Piton, in the crater of an ancient volcano, are where the nearby town of Soufrière gets its name. The springs are a popular tourist destination that also has significant energy potential.

 

The Caribbean's tropical beauty of St. Lucia is one of the most popular honeymoon locations, and it's simple to see why. It features a number of upscale resorts and is both soothing and exciting for adrenaline enthusiasts. The majority of holidaymakers spend their time on clean beaches. Two of the most popular beaches are Anse Des Sables and Plantation Beach.

 

St. Lucia offers a variety of sports, ranging from ziplining through the rainforest to off-roading. It is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling tours. The island has serene natural beauty, yet Rodney Bay offers nightlife and eateries.

The Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are one of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean, including renowned dive sites like Eden Rock and Devil's Grotto, as well as crescent-shaped beaches. Stingray City offers clear water, a shallow sandbar, and the possibility to swim with stingrays to visitors only willing to go knee-deep. During the summer months, this archipelago offers some of the best hotel discounts and vacation rentals in the Caribbean, so you can enjoy the white sand beaches and tranquil water without breaking the bank. For anyone looking for some of the best diving in the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands are a must-see. Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac make up the island chain. The Kittiwake Shipwreck and artificial reef are renowned dive destinations on Grand Cayman, which is the most popular island for holidaymakers. The calm Seven Mile Beach, one of the nicest beaches in the Caribbean, and Stingray City, where tourists can get up close to the huge sea monsters that will eat the food right out of your hand, are both popular attractions on Grand Cayman. During your stay in Grand Cayman, you can stay at one of the many resorts or take day tours to the other two islands.

The Bahamas

The Bahamas, with 16 major islands and hundreds of islets, is known for its beautiful beaches and the Caribbean Sea views. The beaches in the country range from the busy Cable Beach to Pig Beach and Pink Sand Beach. Explore the Bahamas' vast protected regions, including Lucayan National Park, once you've had your fill of the Caribbean heat. To avoid blowing your vacation money on transportation, limit yourself to one or two islands. Its beaches and ocean are not only beautiful, but they also support the local economies. The spiny lobster fishery generates $70 million in revenue each year. Protecting against growing risks like overfishing and climate change is more vital than ever. The Nature Conservancy has been working in this unique archipelago for over a decade to achieve long-term conservation outcomes for its valuable marine resources.

 

What to Do and Best Places to Visit in Tokyo, Japan

 

If you don’t already know Japan is one of the best places to visit any season of the year. It’s full of beauty and the culture is very intact. A lot of people have actually chosen Tokyo as the best tourist spot as opposed to the typical Paris or Rome or whatever place in Europe. They say that Tokyo is simply beautiful, especially with the clean surroundings, and the beauty of nature all the while not being limited to modern infrastructures. Aside from this, you can also count on that the food is impeccable. It is truly one of the cities that will give you a memorable experience the moment you walk right in. With the many places to go and the many places to do, you are sure to have a good time. Whether you’re here for shopping, just trying to experience a different culture, or wanting to appreciate some nature, it’s surely going to be a blast. Just be reminded that Tokyo is one of the most expensive cities to be in. So if you plan on going here, pack up a lot of cash because you’re going to need it. But best believe that every penny spent is going to be worth it! If you plan on visiting Tokyo, here are some of the things to do and the places to see! 

Best places to visit in Tokyo, Japan: 

Shinjuku 

If you want to be close to Tokyo's tourist attractions, Shinjuku is generally referred to as the city's tourism heart and soul. Skyscrapers provide a spectacular skyline, and brilliant neon lights can't help but catch your eye. The things to do? At Odakyu, Lumine, Beams Japan, and Takashimaya Times Square, you may shop till you drop. You can also take a stroll through Golden Gai's historic district. If you’re feeling a little wild, in Kabukicho, go bar hopping. Shinjuku City includes the neon-lit East Shinjuku's frenetic clubs and karaoke rooms, as well as the Skyscraper District's posh hotel bars and restaurants. Mount Hakone stands over peaceful urban parkland, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Building has a popular observation deck. Students from crowded universities flock to museums, theaters, and bookstores. 

Meiji Shrine 

Japan's faiths are very different from how we think of religion in the West. Shinto is one of the country's oldest religious systems, and it is via this religion that Japan has been able to embrace and incorporate western influences into its culture while maintaining its own originality. The Meiji Shrine is one of the city's most important Shinto shrines, and it's surrounded by a large park that serves as a stark reminder of how beautifully the city blends ultra-modern buildings with nature. Because the Meiji shrine is still in use, make sure you participate in a ceremony while you're there. This is a tranquil, peaceful setting, so eat and smoke only in designated locations and keep your voice low to avoid disturbing other visitors. A huge archway known as a Torii stands outside the temple. When entering and exiting, it is customary to bow at these gates.

Sensoji Temple & Asakusa District

Sensoji Temple stands out in the middle of an apparently modern neighborhood as if it has been transferred from another era. This is the city's oldest temple, as well as the most visited by tourists and locals. The temple, which dates back to 628, appears to be old but was really rebuilt after being destroyed during WWII. But you'd never guess that just by looking at it; it looks and smells like it's been soaking up incense for longer than you can imagine. Since this is a working temple, it’s best to be mindful of the people who may be worshiping or burning incense inside. The residents' most firmly held beliefs include this temple, and they frequently visit it to seek healing or assistance. It's a popular tourist attraction, so go early in the morning or late at night to avoid the throng. Apart from that, simply stroll around the site and photograph it from every angle.

National Museum of Emerging Science and Technology

Japan is all about science and tech. This museum a.k.a Miraikan is one of the best in the world, and it grew out of Japan's passion for technology and invention. It's a fun and intriguing site to visit whether you're a youngster or an adult, and you could spend hours here investigating every aspect of Japan's fascination with technology. If you feel like going to space, go to the Explore the Frontiers exhibit, where you may walk into a model of the International Space Station that includes autographs from some of history's most famous astronauts. In the Create Your Future exhibit, you can learn about robotics, explore an LED Earth sculpture in the Discover Your Earth exhibit, or watch an educational film at the Gaia 3D home theater. Basically, this museum will make you feel like a large kid who is too enthusiastic to pick just one thing to see. And recapturing that experience is incredible in and of itself.

Ghibli Museum

You've probably seen a Studio Ghibli film. It’s famous all around the world even if you’re in Asia or in western countries.  if you've ever watched Japanese cinema. Spirited Away, which received an Oscar for the best-animated feature in 2003, is one of the most popular and magical animated films in Japan. Hayao Miyazaki runs this studio, and the museum is equally as odd as the movie. If you enjoy the movies, it's worth the trip since you'll have a great experience. Make sure you have enough time to enjoy this informal and unique museum. There's a kid's play area with a cat bus from one of the movies and a rooftop garden with sculptures of popular movie characters. You should also see the short video they've chosen because it changes every month and isn't available anywhere else. Just keep in mind that this museum is not designed for tourists, therefore most of the signage is in Japanese, and you may find it difficult to navigate.

The Land of the Navigators: Best Places to Visit in Portugal

 

You might think, what can be the best tourist destination that exudes both elegance and nature? After all, these characteristics are all part of how good a trip is going to be. For navigators, however—it comes from a different perspective. They study geography and how a place will be as adventurous as they are.

The heartland of Portugal combines stunning northern mountain ranges with wide rolling plains in the sun-drenched center areas.

That is why they like going to Portugal—and what most likely is called, “The Land of the Navigators”. Moreover, to put into context—why has Portugal considered the dream place for travelers? Well, this country does not only exude good culture and nature but is also a place filled with adventures. From the outstanding Lisbon capital up to Portugal’s Madeira Island—everywhere is a place to discover. Portugal’s Atlantic Ocean coastline does not also falter, as it attracts tourists yearly due to its exotic views and stunning locations. 

Thus, if you are somebody who wishes to transpire the realms of Portugal—this place is perfect for you! Dreaming to go to Portugal and you do not have any idea where to go? Here are some places that you can enjoy and visit. 

Leiria

Living the dream of witnessing a live-action castle—Portugal’s Leiria fully encompasses your castle on the hill dreams. With its stunning architecture and well-planned landscapes, the village below the castle completely suits the aesthetic of the entire city. Moreover, traveling to the top will let you exhibit the beautiful scenes—overlooking what lies ahead. With its perfect weather and suited landscapes, the vibe is exquisite as if you are the main character of a movie. There are a few museums to see among the densely packed buildings, and because it is a university town, the center comes alive at night. Nearby beaches provide visitors and residents alike the opportunity to catch some rays while relaxing on the beach.

Oceanário de Lisboa

Because Portugal resides along the Atlantic Ocean coastline—its marine ecosystem will absolutely not falter as well. Thus aside from its central architecture, the marine life of Portugal is arguably one of the most family-friendly tourist attractions as well. With its pure and wholesome marine life, children will certainly have the most fun here, especially in Lisbon’s oceanarium, Oceanário de Lisboa. The ecosystems of the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Antarctic oceans are recreated in four different seascapes. Sharks, rays, and other finned marvels and dwellers of the deep abound in a massive central tank visible from various levels. Thus, if you aspire to visit a place that your children will surely love, this place is the safest option. 

Bom Jesus do Monte

Portugal is one of the most religious countries in the world. So it is impossible to visit this place without any religious landmarks and sanctuaries. One of the most famous places of such is called the Bom Jesus do Monte, and this place is not for the easy-hearted. You must have good cardiovascular endurance to visit such a place as it transpires not-so-long stairs to the top. Climbing the bottom half of the 116-meter decorative granite stairway leads to a steep Sacred Way with chapels depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross. Moreover, the white, interlaced Escadório dos Cinco Sentidos, located in the middle, portrays the five senses through artistically carved statues. Lastly, the Staircase of the Three Virtues, which leads to the church, is the final piece. Too much exercise is it not? Do not worry too much, since the venue is all worth the sweat. 

Guimaraes

If you want to visit the place where Portugal was born, then go and visit Guimaraes. Before Lisbon, this place was considered Portugal’s first-ever capital—how cool can that be? Moreover, this place is the exact definition of Portugal—stunning castles and well-landscaped cities. This place, therefore, testifies to Portugal’s rich history, the mother of their culture and traditions. Head to the adjacent Penha Mountain for a breathtaking view of Guimaraes below. Olive Square in the city is a pleasant location to spend some time, and it's here that you can truly get a sense of the city's rich history. Guimaraes, about 50 kilometers north of Porto, is an excellent day excursion for history buffs. 

Evora

It might look weird in pictures, but believe me, it is more majestic in person. Evora is a city packed with more than two thousand years' worth of history—even historians would take interest in visiting this place. Moreover, one of the most popular landmarks of this place would be the Bone Chapel—these high pillars and no roof infrastructure encompasses how culturally preserved this place is—as it still stands high originating way back from the 13th century. The city center is plenty of interesting locations to see, and just outside of Evora is the intriguing megalithic structure of Almendres Cromlech, which features a vast group of menhirs and massive stones arranged in a circle. If you are a traveler who seeks more of the historical value of a place, then this place will definitely be filled with it. 

Porto 

This city of Portugal is remarkable due to its stagnant piece, the spindly needle-like Torre de Clérigos. It can be seen standing so high and upright from afar as if it signifies the landmark of Oporto. Thus, when you see such a high needle-like tower, now, you are definitely in the zone of the city. Nicolau Nasoni erected this slender tower in the 18th century, and it emits a powerful sense of the Baroque. The tower was erected in 1763 as part of the Igreja dos Clérigos and was the highest building in Oporto at the time. Surrounded by different sizes and lengths of houses, its unique architecture can both be disturbing yet pleasing to the eye, due to its uniformed orange-roofed houses. Moreover, you can also go to the top, if ever you are willing to take 200 steps up to the tower and witness its magnificent views of the Douro river. How cool does that sound?