Quest to find a place!!!

#1 Bagan, Burma (Myanmar)

Gather all of Australia's historic cathedrals onto the entire Sydney CBD and throw in a whole lot more for good measure, and you will start to get a sense of the ambition of the temple- filled plain of Bagan; an ancient city located in the Mandalay Region of Burma (Myanmar).
This temple- filled plain part of Burma is home to over 2,000 temples and buildings built from the 11th century to the 13th centuries A.D., when Bagan was the seat of the Myanmar dynasty.

Bagan Attractions:

Travellers to Bagan wont have the problem about not having many places to visit but more so which destination to go to first. As the capital of the first Myanmar Empire, Bagan is home to many archaeological sites. There are many temples, pagodas and monuments to be found throughout the area and visitors can embark on a spiritual and historical journey by going from one temple to another.

Dhammayangyi Temple

Mount Popa

Bagan Tours/Activities:

Visitors to Bagan now have the unique opportunity to enjoy spectacular views of the ancient Kingdom of Bagan in a hot air balloon! The world-famous archaeological site of Bagan is known for its marvelous sunsets and sunrises, mostly enjoyed from the top of one of the monuments. A balloon flight gives you the chance to see Bagan with a bird’s-eye view.

#2 Monument Valley, USA

Monument Valley  is a region of the Colorado Plateau characterized by a cluster of vast sandstone buttes, the largest reaching 1,000 ft (300 m) above the valley floor. Monument Valley provides possibly the most enduring and definitive images of the American West. The isolated red mesas and buttes surrounded by empty, sandy desert have been filmed and photographed countless times over the years for movies, adverts and holiday brochures. Because of this, the area may seem quite familiar, even on a first visit, but it is soon evident that the natural colors really are as bright and deep as those in all the pictures. The valley is not a valley in the conventional sense, but rather a wide flat, sometimes desolate landscape, interrupted by the crumbling formations rising hundreds of feet into the air, the last remnants of the sandstone layers that once covered the entire region.

#3 The Great Wall of China, China

The Great Wall of China, one of the greatest wonders of the world, was listed as a World Heritage by UNESCO in 1987. Just like a gigantic dragon, the Great Wall winds up and down across deserts, grasslands, mountains and plateaus, stretching approximately 8,851.8 kilometers (5,500 miles) from east to west of China. With a history of more than 2000 years, some of the sections are now in ruins or have disappeared. However, it is still one of the most appealing attractions all around the world owing to its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

#4 The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef ecosystem on earth and one of the best managed marine areas in the world. The reef is one of the richest and most diverse natural ecosystems on Earth.

The Great Barrier Reef can be seen from outer space and is the world's biggest single structure made by living organisms. This reef structure is composed of and built by billions of tiny organisms, known as coral polyps. It supports a wide diversity of life and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981. CNN labeled it one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The Queensland National Trust named it a state icon of Queensland.






If your in the land down under this cannot be missed!

#5 Aurora

There are two types of aurora lights:  aurora borealis (northern) and aurora australis (southern).

Aurora lights are formed due to high sun activity when sun throws a lot of particles into the space. When those particles get to Earth, they meet the magnetic shield that moves them towards the poles. That's where they interact with layers of atmosphere and create the lights. Aurora lights are normally best visible at night time.

One of the best locations to witness aurora on the north is Northern Norway. The lights are most frequent between September and March. However, weather is also important. Best time is in February and March when dry weather and a lot of snow form good conditions for lights to be spotted easier.

You have to be patient though, it is not easy to guess the right time to see the lights, sometimes you even have to stay in the area for one-two weeks. Despite all that, auroras are definitely worth to be seen at least once in a life!

to get more information to visit the northern light, check out the Visit Norway website: http://www.visitnorway.com/northern-lights

#6 Machu Picchu, Peru

Welcome to the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu Peru, Prepare yourself as you are about to embark on an amazing tour exploring one of the most intriguing destinations on the planet. Don't worry...you won't need a heavy hiking gear or an experienced guide to tour the spectacular views and scenery the magnificent complex has to offer.

Machu Picchu stands 2,430 m above sea-level,in the middle of a tropical mountain forest, in an extraordinarily beautiful setting.It is the most amazing urban creation of the Inca Empire. This is attributed toits height; its giant walls, terraces and ramps. It seems as if they have beencut naturally in the continuous rock escarpments. The natural setting, on theeastern slopes of the Andes, encompasses the upper Amazon basin with its richdiversity of flora and fauna.

For more information on this truly exotic momentum, please visit:

http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/274

#7 Mount Roraima, South America

Mount Roraima is a pretty remarkable place. It is a tabletop mountain with sheer 400-metre high cliffs on all sides. There is only one 'easy' way up, on a natural staircase-like ramp on the Venezuelan side-to get up any other way takes an experienced rock climber. On the top of the mountain is rains almost every day, washing away most of the nutrients for plants to grow and creating a unique landscape on the bare sandstone surface. This also creates some of the highest waterfalls in the world over the sides. Though there are only a few marshes on the mountain where vegetation can grow properly, these contain many species including a species of carnivorous pitcher plants. 

#8 The Great Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

One of the most famous structures on the list of the seven wonders of the ancient world is The Great Pyramid of Giza.  What makes this structure the most recognizable on the list?  Not only is this pyramid the oldest structure on the list, but it is the only structure that still remains.  The Great Pyramid of Giza was the tallest man made structure in the world for 3800 years which is not only a testament to its durability but to its mark as one of the most remarkable structures built.  It is no wonder that The Great Pyramid of Giza was placed on the list of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

The Pyramids of Giza are the most famous monuments of ancient Egypt. These massive stone structures were built around 4500 years ago on a rocky desert plateau close to the Nile. But the intriguing Egyptian pyramids were more than just tombs for kings. The mysteries surrounding their symbolism, design and purpose have inspired passionate debate. It is likely that many of these mysteries will never be solved!

#9 Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is a temple complex at Angkor, Cambodia, built by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as his state temple and capital city. As the best-preserved temple at the site, it is the only one to have remained a significant religious centre since its foundation – first Hindu, dedicated to the god Vishnu, then Buddhist. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture. It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is the country’s prime attraction for visitors

This place is a must see!

#10 Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls are located on the border of Canada, province of Ontario and USA, state of New York. Niagara Falls are a collective of three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Falls are not high, but very wide. In high fall, nearly 6 million cubic feet (168,000 cubic meters) of water falls on a crest line. 

The history of the falls brings us about 12,500 years back. That was a time after the Ice Age when the Niagara Peninsula became free from ice. The melted ice started to flow down creating Lake Ontario, Lake Erie and Niagara River, all the way down to the sea through St. Lawrence River. Later, about 10,000 years ago, Wisconsin glaciation formed the features that became Niagara Falls

If you decide to visit these amazing falls we recommend to take the 'Maid of Mist'. This is the most popular and also the oldest (it started in 1846) attraction to explore the full beauty and power of the falls. It operated from April/May to October each year. The boat takes you to the base of magnificent American and Horseshoe Falls...a really unforgettable experience! 

for more information visit: http://www.niagarafallstourism.com/play/

#11 Petra, Jordan

Petra, the fabled "rose red city, half as old as time" is a world wonder and is without a doubt Jordan's most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction.
These giant red mountains and vast mausoleums of a departed race have nothing in common with modern civilization, and ask nothing of it except to be appreciated at their true value- as one of the greatest wonders ever wrought by Nature and Man.

Entrance to this historical city is through the Siq, a narrow gorge over 1km in length which is engulfed by soaring 80m high cliffs. These cliffs alone are an amazing site due its interesting colors and rock formations. As you reach the end of the gorge, you will see your first glimpse of Al-Khazneh (Treasury).

This ancient tomb of an important Nabataean king is an awe- inspiring site with the tomb carved out of sheer, dusky pink rock-face and represents the engineering genius of this ancient civilization.

You would need at least four or five days to really explore this majestic land as the Treasury is merely one among many wonders that surround Petra.

 Tip #1: Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and a hate to protect you from the sun, and always carry plenty of drinking water.

Tip #2: The best time to see Petra, especially if your planning on taking photos, is either early to mid-morning  or late afternoon, when the angled sun highlights and enhances the amazing natural colors of the rocks.

Although much has been written about Petra, nothing really prepares you for this amazing place. It has to be seen to be believed.

#12 Four Seasons Resort, Bora Bora, Motu Tehuto, French Polynesia

Four Seasons Resort, Bora Bora is a luxury resort located at Motu Tehotu on the Island of Bora Bora, in the Society Islands of French Polynesia.
The resort is home to a lagoon sanctuary and home to over 100 species of marine life. From the moment you arrive on the island of Bora Bora you'll experience the South Seas redefined.
The resort offers 121 spacious hideaways nestling around Bora Bora lagoon and its outer beaches. The over water bungalows perch on stilts above the lagoon! So those of you who want to experience real life living on water well this is it! So come experience the spirit of French Polynesia!

#13 Palau, Pacific Ocean, East of the Philipines

Located in the Western Pacific Ocean, the islands of Palau are inimitable. 

Palau is an archipelago of about 300 islands only of which 9 are inhabited with a total population of 25,000 where it was even used as the set for one of the seasons on the hit TV series; SURVIVOR!!!

Visiting Palau, assumes you are ready to get wet! Most tourists who come here spend most of their time underwater, for Palau is among the world's most spectacular diving and snorkelling destinations. It features coral reefs, blue holes, hidden caves and an astonishing spectrum of coral and rare marine life!

But you don't have to get entirely get wet. On land the islands embraces the areas most richest flora and fauna; exotic birds flying around, crocodiles slipping through the mangroves and not to mention the capital
of Palau, KOROR!!!
Koror is home to restaurants, bars and shopping! Places like Pirates Cove for sushi and Indian at the Taj offer various styles of cuisine to suit everybody's taste buds.

Further down south of the capital are the Rock Islands!! A beautiful chain of 300 protected islands with white sand and white mud beaches!

When people go on vacation in Palau they usually take a week off from work and spend both weekends. In other words, ten days to two weeks. Plan on spending two days to get there (because of an overnight in Koror) and two days to get back (because of the international date line).

So without any further hesitation, add this destination to your bucket list,  bring your flip flops and your swimwear and prepare to be in awe! 

 

#14 Antelope Canyon, Navajo, Arizona, USA

Antelope Canyon consist of two sections: upper and lower. Upper in Navajo means "the place where water runs through rocks". The Lower part means "the spiral rock arches". Canyon was formed mainly due to flooding. Rainwater runs into basin above the canyon sections and then as it picks up speed and sand, it rushes into narrow passageway. That is making deep corridors and also smoothing the edges into 'flowing' shape.  

Upper Canyon is more popular because it is located on the ground level and doesn't require any climbing. Also, the sunlight beams are much more common. The beams start on 15th March and disappear on 7th October each year. 

Lower Canyon is few kilometers away and you have to climb through several installed stair cased to get there. It is longer, narrower and footing is not available in some areas. Despite those, Lower Canyon is still an attractive place for many photographers and tourists. 

Upper Antelope Canyon

Lower Antelope Canyon

#15 Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

"The Crown of Palaces" Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is widely considered one of the most beautiful buildings ever created. The exquisite marble structure in Agra, India is a mausoleum, an enduring monument to the love of a husband of his favorite wife. It is also a testament to the artistic and scientific accomplishments of a wealthy empire.

Whilst the arch and dome profile of clean and white marble has become iconic, other apparent beauties lie in the Taj Mahal's painstaking details:

• Inlaid semiprecious stones and carvings
• The Koranic verse in calligraphy create an enchanting interior space where the husband came to visit his wife's remains before he was eventually interred at her side.

How to get there:

Agra is a major city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Around three million people visit the Taj Mahal each year. The city is accessible by bus, train and (limited) air service. The area also has a wide range of tourist amenities  Access to the Taj Mahal is quite complex by foot.

#16 Heaven's Trail- Sylt, Northern Germany

 

Professional photography or does this view really exist?...

This image taken by Thomas Zimmer, resembles the true beauty of the universe from a view on earth!

Located on a small island, situated on the west coast of the North Sea, Sylt delivers this stunning view of the cosmos and the final result is visual poetry that communicates the wordless awe we sometimes feel in the beauty of nature.

Every 2 years, the stars line up with this trail on June 10th- June 18th and is known as heavens trail.

This by all means is definitely a sight to see and a place to add to your bucket list!!

And who knows, you might find this exact same trail as Thomas Zimmer did; one clear, moonless night, when the Milky way spins into view and you happen to look up and see it, perfectly aligned with reality.

#17 Gruner See, Styria, Austria

The Gruner See also known as the Green Lake is a lake in Sytria Austria. The lake is surrounded by mountains and forests. The water comes from the snowmelt off the mountains and during winter the surrounding area is used as a county park.

It is a particular favourite site for hikers. But as the temperature starts rising in spring, the ice and snow on the mountaintops begins to melt and runs down into the basin of land below. The lake swells up to engulf the entire area including the park and is a must see on ones bucket list

#18 Palm Island, Dubai

The Palm Islands in Dubai are the three largest artificial islands in the world. Constructed by Nakheel Properties, they consist of:

• The Palm Jumeriah
• The Palm Jebel Ali
• The Palm Diera

These Islands are located off the coast of the Persian Gulf. Some of the key features of the three islands are the luxury hotels, exclusive residential beach side villas, apartments, marinas, water theme parks, restaurants, shopping malls, sports facilities and health spas.

To experience a virtual tour of the Palm Islands, please visit:
http://www.airpano.com/360Degree-VirtualTour.php?3D=UAE-Dubai-Islands-Virtual-Tour

#19 Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore, Italy

The Cinque Terre is a rugged portion of coast in the Itallian Riveria. Over the past centuries, people have built terraces on the steep, rugged landscape up to the cliffs that overlook the sea. Also known as the "Five Islands", they compose of:

• Monterosso al Mare
• Vernazza
• Corniglia 
• Manarola
• Riomaggiore

Both the coastline and five villages are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park.

Cinque Terre, "The Five Islands"

Interesting Fact:

The only mode of transport to the villages are by walking paths, trains and boats. Cars are not accessible.

For more information and exquisite pictures, please visit:

http://lifesessions.com/gallery/cinque_terre/cinque_terre_italy.html

#20 Lake Baikal, Siberia, Russian Federation

Lake Baikal is the worlds biggest lake, it is 640km long and could be considered as a sea. It is also the oldest freshwater lake which originated about 20 million years ago. Here are some interesting facts about it:

• There are 27 islands and most are uninhabited
• About 300 streams and rivers flow into the lake, however only Angara (river) is an outlet
• Baikal is a home for many species of animals and plants, majority of them are unique to that area 
• The water in the lake is clear and pure, in a good day you are able to see 40meters into the lake; the max depth is 1632m

Lake Baikal is located in the south of Siberia between Irkutsk Oblast and Buryat Republic. I know, Siberia sounds freezing cold, but you should definitely visit Baikal once in your life. 

For more details visit http://www.lakebaikal.org/index.html

Our Blog Layout!

Here at "should-i-go-there" we aim at giving you the best destinations to visit and all the important information you need to know!

In order to ensure our content is delivered in a structured manner, we have chosen a simple yet effective layout for our blog.

The overall layout has the destinations on the left and various gadgets on the right.

• Search bar: Enables users to search for particular keywords or destinations quickly
• Blog Archive: Easy navigation between posts
• Translator: Enables users to view our Top 20 destination list in their own language allowing our blog to reach to ALL audiences

 In relation to our blog posts, we aim at keeping the image of the destination as our salient object as this is what will engage and hopefully make readers add it to their bucket list!. Followed by an image will be a brief yet detailed description of the destination. More images may be added to enhance the destination being presented.

 A light background has been chosen implying the idea of travel while also highlighting the text as it is one of the main focus of our blog.




Having said a formal welcome and explanation of our blog, we invite you to embark on a spectacular journey starting NOW!