Top 10 Places to Visit

I am sad to say that is is time to bring my Top 10 Places to Visit blog to an end.  I have really enjoyed traveling to these different destinations each week and I hope you have too.  Although I have heard about the majority of these places prior to writing my blog, I learned a lot about the culture and tourist sites of each location and I hope you have too.

Thank you all for reading and commenting each week.  I enjoyed reading your comments and hearing your thoughts on each destination.  I hope these blogs gave you a little vacation away from State College.

Enjoy your summer and good luck next semester!

Our last destination is on a continent we have yet to visit.  We are headed to Cape Town, which is located on the southern tip of the continent of Africa.  CNNGo, Cnn’s travel section of CNN International has rated Cape Town as one of the “World’s 10 Most Loved Cities”.  In 2011, Cape Town was titled as TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Best Destination.  Yahoo Travel describes Cape Town as, “southern Africa’s most beautiful, most romantic and most visited city.”

Table Mountain is the center of Cape Town, separating the city into definitive regions.  It is considered Cape Town’s most famous landmark.  The mountain’s flat “table top” is almost two miles long.  It contains indigenous flora and native species.  The mountain has over 550 paths; hiking is a common activity.  Table Mountain is known for frequent changes in weather, so if you choose to go for a hike, be prepared to experience dramatic changes in weather.  If you are not feeling the physical activity, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway offers a five-minute ride and provides passengers with a panoramic view of the mountain.

The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens are located on the eastern side of Table Mountain.  TripAdvisor explains that, “Kirstenbosch is internationally acclaimed as one of the seven most magnificent botanical gardens in the world.”  The garden contains many native South African plants, with many uncommon and endangered species.  There is a visitor center with restaurants, a nursery, a gift shop, and a bookshop.  One TripAdvisor review states, “Don’t miss this awe inspiring place when visiting Cape Town. A beautiful walk around the gardens on the paths or a walk along the Boom Slang (a platform above the trees) is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have in Cape Town…” Even if you are not a flower fan, I think this is definitely a must see.

I am sure many of you have heard of the Cape of Good Hope.  It is a rocky peninsula at the southernmost part of Cape Peninsula.  In 1488, a Portuguese navigator, Bartolomeu Dias, first found the Cape of Good Hope.  It is home to amazing views and scenery, culture, and an old lighthouse.  It offers numerous activities including hiking, surfing, picnicking, beaching, and cycling.

This trip was a little different from our past visits, but is full of culture and new experiences.  What do you think of Cape Town?  Have you ever heard of it before?  Do you have any interest in going and why?

 

 

 

 

Sources:

http://www.capetown.travel

http://www.capetown.travel/blog/entry/cnn-worlds-10-most-loved-cities-cape-town-is-there

https://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-191501607-cape_town_vacations-i

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g312659-d480578-Reviews-Kirstenbosch_National_Botanical_Gardens-Cape_Town_Central_Western_Cape.html

http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/238708/Cape-of-Good-Hope

http://www.capepointroute.co.za/seeit-capepoint.php

http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/tourism/attractions.php#goodhope

I am embarrassed to say that I learned about this next destination from a Keeping up with the Kardashians episode.  Mykonos is known as the most popular Greek Island in the Aegean Sea.  I think what caught my eye the most was the white architecture and bright blue water.  Even though Mykonos is a popular tourist destination and I like to see places rich in culture and history, this island is too beautiful to pass up.

The first site we’ll be visiting is Mykonos Town, the largest town on the island with the same name.  It is described as “one of the nicest and most charming towns of the Greek Islands, with endless small streets, shops, windmills, churches, terraces and whitewashed houses” on MykonosTour.com.  The streets were laid out with the intention of confusing pirates, so it is very easy to wonder and lose your way.  The city has two harbors for tourist use and one where the ferries dock.  The Aegean Maritime Museum and the Folklore Museum expose tourists to the culture and economic history of the region.

Little Venice is located where the western part of the town meets the water.  The buildings are directly on the water with balconies practically in the sea.  It is known as a very romantic spot with great sunset views.  One Trip Advisor user explains “Just loved sitting in Little Venice watching the world go by and the sun setting whilst sipping a cocktail looking out to sea.”

The beaches are what lured me into this island.  Agios Ioannis Beach is best for its view of Delos Island, its sunset view, and tranquil swimming.  The 1980’s film “Shirley Valentine” was actually filmed here!  One part of the beach has umbrellas and sun beds accessible for rent.  Ornos beach is family friendly and close to town.  It is is surrounded by hotels and villas, bars, restaurants, and shops.  Paraga beach is classified as a party beach.  Although I sort of view this an oxymoron, I think it is part of the experience when on Mykonos.  Its name does not suit if very well; Paraga is translated to mean “a poor house or a favela.”  The beach was made popular by the hippie generation in the 1970’s and has been ever since.  There is a bar and restaurant on the beach and there is music playing.

This blog is a little on the shorter side because I want you to really look at the beauty of this place!  What did you think of Mykonos?  Next week is my last post, any suggestions on places you would like to go?

 

 

 

Sources:

http://www.mykonostour.com/sightseeing/mykonos_town.html

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g662620-Mykonos_Town_Mykonos_Cyclades-Vacations.html

http://www.mykonostour.com/sightseeing/little_venice.html

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g662620-d519760-Reviews-Little_Venice-Mykonos_Town_Mykonos_Cyclades.html#REVIEWS

http://www.cycladia.com/best-beaches-greece/mykonos/?srch_loc=0

When I went to visit my sister in Prague while she was studying abroad, I was lucky enough to take a trip to Venice.  It was a beautiful city rich in history and beautiful sights.  In Venice, we took a gondola ride, admired Saint Mark’s Basilica, toured Palazzo Ducale, and much more.  One day, I would like to return to Italy to see Rome and Florence.

After doing some research, I found out that it is vital to travel Rome by foot.  For one, the transportation is unreliable, but there are also so many little things in this ancient city that one would miss if taking public transportation.  Many sources explained that the city itself is a museum.  Our first sightseeing destination is the Galleria Borghese.  The building itself, a 17^th-century villa, is beautiful.  The museum contains antiquities, the Renaissance, and baroque art.  Another museum is the Giorgio de Chirico House-Museum, which was actually De Chirico’s home for over 30 years.  De Chirico was a distinguished Surrealist painter.

Now, we’re off to do some shopping, however the Via Condotti looks a little different than the King of Prussia mall.  It is the most popular shopping area in Rome, home to Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and more.  I don’t know how much buying I would actually do, but it would definitely be a fun experience!

Rome is known as the city of seven hills, but the Gianicolo is not counted in that seven because it is located outside of the city.  The top of the hill offers a magnificent panorama view of the city.  At noon, a cannon is shot, a tradition that started in the 19^th century to tell the exact time.  The Gianicolo serves as a history lesson on the Italian Risorgimento, the 19^th-century movement that united Italy.

Florence is located 200 miles north of Rome and can be travelled via train, bus, car, or plane.  The express train is about an hour and a half and the car ride is about three hours.  Despite the longer trip, the car ride provides the opportunity to admire some of the Italian countryside.

To start off our visit in Florence, we are going to The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, known as the Duomo.  It is an enormous Gothic cathedral that was built in the 14^th century.  Guided tours are available to view the inside, however, the exterior possesses detailed designs and spectacular features.  There is also the option to climb to the top of the dome to view the city, but keep in mind there is no elevator.

The Piazzale Michelangiolo is home to a replica of Michelangelo’s David.  One TripAdvisor explains, “The view of Florence and the surrounding Tuscan hills is breathtaking from the Piazzale Michelangiolo. Bring a picnic, sit on the steps, and wander around and watch the sun as it sets over Florence.”  Definitely a must see!

The Battistero is the oldest building in the city with façade from the 11^th century and is dated back to the 5^th century.  It is thought that it was once a temple devoted to Mars, the Roman god of war.  While inside, make sure to look up!  The ceiling is covered in frescoes.

My mom has always spoken about how much she loves Florence, so when I chose my destination for this week I told her.  Her exact words were, “Eat, eat, eat the best pasta in the world, shop the most beautiful fashion forward stores, and always look up when in churches and museums- magnificent frescos on the ceilings!”

I hope you enjoyed this week’s trip!  Have you ever been to any of these places or heard of them?  Do you enjoy visiting museums in foreign countries?  I have never been much of a history buff, but when I am traveling I love learning and seeing the past.

 

 

 

Sources:

http://content.time.com/time/travel/cityguide/article/0,31489,1850368_1850304_1850160,00.html

http://traveltips.usatoday.com/travel-rome-florence-35296.html

http://travel.usnews.com/Florence_Italy/Things_To_Do/

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g187895-d242858-r31378526-Piazzale_Michelangelo-Florence_Tuscany.html

There are so many great places to visit in the states that I think oftentimes get ignored because they are not foreign.  Indicated by my past destinations, I enjoy visiting foreign countries and learning about different cultures.  However, there is so much to see and learn in our own country that many don’t take advantage of, including me.  That is why we’re headed up to Boston, a city I have only driven through.

The Travel Channel rates Freedom Trail number 1 in a list of Boston’s attractions.  Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile, brick-lined path from Boston Common to Bunker Hill.  The route contains 16 historical sites, including museums, meetinghouses, churches, and burying grounds.  This attraction is rich in history of the American Revolution; you even have the opportunity to see the home of Paul Revere!  There are a number of different companies that give tours of Freedom Trail.  I think this would be a great way to see everything there is to see!

Our next visit is to Fenway Park, conveniently located in the center of the city. Travel Channel describes it as “one of American’s most beloved baseball stadiums since it opened in 1912.”  Bryan H on Trip Advisor states, “As a baseball junkie, Fenway Park and the surrounding area lived up to its reputation. Not easy for me to say this since I am a NY Yankee fan. Fenway is one of the last remaining cathedrals of baseball. It is a must see and visit for any baseball or sports fan.”  It would be great to go during baseball season, but, if not, 50-minute tours are offered daily.  Be on the lookout for a red seat in right field, which marks the landing spot of the longest home run ever hit inside Fenway Park.

You should know by now that most of my vacations involve some sort of shopping, well Boston’s Newbury Street is perfect for this.  It is eight blocks lined with salons, boutiques, and restaurants.  As you move eastward, the stores become increasingly higher-end.  The 2 mile long street began under water as part of Boston Harbor.  Starting in 1857, the harbor was filled in and became the Back Bay section of Boston.  The architecture is very European, as you can see in the pictures below.  A Trip Advisor reviewer explains “Great restaurants and stores.  Brownstone homes line the street and make it really quaint.”

I am sure there is so much more to see and do in this amazing city full of history and culture!  Have you been to Boston before?  If so, what did you do?  Also, what are your thoughts on traveling inside the states?

 

Sources:

http://www.travelchannel.com/destinations/boston/articles/tour-bostons-top-5-attractions

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60745-d105250-Reviews-Fenway_Park-Boston_Massachusetts.html#REVIEWS

http://www.baseball-almanac.com/stadium/fenway_park.shtml

http://www.newbury-st.com

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60745-d105255-Reviews-Newbury_Street-Boston_Massachusetts.html

We’ve visited some beautiful places with unbelievable attractions, but I’m ready to get back to lying in the sand underneath the sun with the sound of the waves crashing in the background.  We’re headed to the U.S. Virgin Islands, also known as “America’s Caribbean Paradise.”  The U.S. Virgin Islands are made up of three islands: Saint Croix, Saint John, and Saint Thomas.  They are located in the eastern Caribbean.

St. Croix consists of historic towns with Danish influence.  You’ll find yourself surrounded by quaint pastel buildings and plenty to do, whether it’s golfing or horseback riding.  The majority of St. John is a national park, but has notorious beaches such as Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Salt Pond Bay.  Activities on the island range from hiking to camping to shopping.  St. Thomas’s town of Charlotte Amalie is the most visited port in the Caribbean.  This island provides breathtaking sights of the Caribbean from 1,500 feet above sea level.

Although I would love to see all three islands, for the sake of time, we are going to stick to visiting St. John and St. Thomas.  Our first visit will be to the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John.  It should not be hard to find due to the fact that it makes up two-thirds of the island.  The park offers 22 trails to hike on and many experience camping out on the beach.

Trunk Bay is located in the national park and is supposedly a very special beach.  A TripAdvisor user explains, “Trunk Bay is absolutely gorgeous and has all the amenities — sheltered picnic tables, restrooms and a good snack stand. If you want to sit, read and/or watch the world go by this is the very best beach!”  U.S. News Travel names Trunk Bay #2 in Things to Do in U.S. Virgin Islands.  They describe the sand as “pearly” and the water “aquamarine.”  Trunk Bay’s Underwater Trail is a snorkeling trail of coral and fish, definitely on my to do list.

U.S. News Travel describes St. Thomas’s Magens Bay as “the most photogenic and swimmable shore of the Virgin Islands”.  One TripAdvisor user says, “Magen’s bay is by far the best beach my husband and I visited on our cruise. The waterfront is beautiful, the water is crystal clear with a gradual dropoff, and the palm trees lining the shore provide plenty of shade.”  As much as I love the beach, I’ll be a lobster if I spend my entire vacation there and shopping is always a must on vacation.  Luckily, St. Thomas’s Main Street in Charlotte Amalie offers great shopping and it’s all duty-free!  U.S. News Travel states, “St. Thomas has the best shopping plaza in the Caribbean.”

Because the U.S. Virgin Islands are not that far away, I think it could be a practical trip in the near future.  After reading about the different islands and all there is to do, it seems like a great destination for relaxing and some family time.  What do you think of this vacation spot?  Do you prefer a beach trip or more of a touristy trip?

 

 

Sources:

http://www.visitusvi.com/about_the_islands

http://travel.usnews.com/US_Virgin_Islands/Things_To_Do/

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g147411-d147590-r192713109-Trunk_Bay-Virgin_Islands_National_Park_St_John_U_S_Virgin_Islands.html

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g147406-d149849-r192995391-Magens_Bay-Magens_Bay_St_Thomas_U_S_Virgin_Islands.html#CHECK_RATES_CONT

Number 5 is not very original, however it has always been on my list of places I would like to visit.  Rated #1 for World’s Best Places to Visit by U.S. News Travel, Paris seems like the perfect travel destination.

In my past blogs, I have not really gone into depth about the culture of each location, but I think that it’s crucial to know the culture if you are visiting a foreign place.  I have heard numerous times that Parisians are stuck up and do not like to interact with Americans.  My French teacher in high school always told us that if we made an attempt to speak French, the natives would appreciate it.  Hopefully, after six years of French, I am well prepared to mingle with the citizens.  U.S. News Travel explains the importance of blending in, which means dressing as fashionable as possible, being that Paris is possibly the fashion capital of the world.

Another important aspect on every vacation is food and dining!  I have had a little exposure to French cuisine, being that my high school French teacher would give us extra credit for preparing a French food item.  I have a feeling my cooking was not nearly as good as the food in Paris is.  Upscale restaurants can be located in the 1er arrondissement (1^st district), Marais, and around the Eiffel Tower.  However, it is not all about the fancy dining, I could not go to Paris without eating a delicious crêpe or visiting a fromagerie (cheese shop).

Let’s explore some of the must-see attractions in Paris.  We’ll start at the Eiffel Tower, because how could we not.  The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 and was, surprisingly, loathed by the French.  With the option of taking the elevator or walking up to the top, depending on how much I ate that day, the top of the Eiffel Tower provides an amazing panoramic view of the city.  Now we’re off to the Musée du Louvre, the word’s largest art museum, which holds the Mona Lisa.   The Notre-Dame Cathedral is another top attraction in Paris.  If you are willing to climb the 387 steps, a beautiful spectacle will be awaiting you at the top.  One review on tripadvisor by shoff15 stated, “It’s amazing to think that this cathedral was built 850 years ago! It is truly a work of art. The first night I was in Paris, there were street performers that were swinging fire. If you go at night, you will see awesome performers and an amazing view of the historic cathedral.”

So, what are your thoughts on Paris?  Does it sound like a destination you would like to visit?  Or maybe you have already traveled to Paris?   If so, what was it like?

Au revoir!

 

 

 

Sources:

http://travel.usnews.com/Paris_France/Travel_Tips/

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187147-d188679-Reviews-Notre_Dame_Cathedral-Paris_Ile_de_France.html

I think it’s time to switch it up a bit.  You’re going to need your passport for this trip because we’re headed down to Australia!  I do not know much about this destination, so we’ll have to do some exploring together.  My co-counselor this summer was from Australia and if she was any representation of this place, I think we’re in for a treat.

Our first attraction will be the Sydney Opera House.  According to the Sydney Opera House website, “Sydney Opera House has earned a reputation as a world-class performing arts centre and become a symbol of both Sydney and the Australian nation.”  Architect Jorn Utzon created the building.  It was written in the World Heritage List in June 2007: “Sydney Opera House is a great architectural work of the 20th century. It represents multiple strands of creativity, both in architectural form and structural design, a great urban sculpture carefully set in a remarkable waterscape and a world famous iconic building.”  Seeing a performance and taking a tour at this magnificent building would be an amazing experience.

Our next stop is the Twelve Apostles, rock stacks that sprout from the Southern Ocean in Victoria.  The golden cliffs and crumbling pillars are secured by the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park.  Although a long trip, a four-hour drive along the Great Ocean Road, it will definitely be worth it.

As much as I love exploring new places and doing tourist-y things, I do not mind a day on the beach.  Bondi Beach, located in Sydney, is one of Australia’s most famous beaches and is 1 km long, about 2/3 of a mile.  But, this beach is not just about lying out in the sun or playing in the ocean.  There are plenty of restaurants and stores for eating and shopping.  While visiting, I would love to learn how to surf.  One review on tripadvisor.com stated, “This place is magic, I have seen many pictures but once you are there you will be surprise cause this place is magic. The beach is beautiful and restaurants around are also very good.”

The list of places to visit could go on and on!  Although a far place to travel, Australia would be an amazing vacation destination and hopefully one day I can cross it off my list.

What would you do if you went to Australia?  Would Australia be worth the trek for you?

 

 

 

 

 

Sources:

http://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/about/house_history_landing.aspx

http://www.visitmelbourne.com/Regions/Great-Ocean-Road/Activities-and-attractions/Nature-and-wildlife/Beaches-and-coastlines/12-Apostles

http://www.bondivillage.com

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g255060-d257354-Reviews-or20-Bondi_Beach-Sydney_New_South_Wales.html#REVIEWS

If you have not seen this place in person, I am sure you have seen it while watching one of everyone’s childhood favorites, “Full House.”  I’m hoping you thought correct, because we’re going to San Francisco!  I have been here once before, but only know that because there’s a VHS tape laying around my house of me, my sister, and our family friend on a “magic carpet ride” around San Francisco.    I’m sure it was a great vacation, but I only have a faint memory because I was so young.

With so much to see and do, I am going to try to diversify the places we visit.  The Marin Headlands is located in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.    There is plenty to do here, from hiking trails, to a dog friendly beach known as Rodeo Beach, to amazing views of San Francisco.  There is also history in the Marin Headlands including the Miwok Indians, Military Forts, and the 150 year-old Point Bonita lighthouse.    A review on tripadvisor by Mari S states, “This place should be on everyone’s list while in SF, so beautiful…a view to die for.”

Probably San Francisco’s biggest attraction is the Golden Gate Bridge.  Tripadvisor explains it “remains the most visited and photographed bridge in the world.”  I think a walking tour of the bridge would be necessary for me, because I lack knowledge on it, but I would also like to bike across.

If you have never heard of Alcatraz Island, from 1934 to 1963 it was a federal maximum-security prison.   It is located in the middle of San Francisco Bay and is now open to tours seven days a week.

San Francisco is rated number two in Travel and Leisure’s article “America’s Best Cities for Foodies.”  San Francisco is also a great city to shop in with 14,412 retail locations according to Forbes.  Levis Strauss & Co. was started in San Francisco in 1873 and continues to be the hometown of the Levi’s brand.

After doing some research and reading, San Francisco has become even more appealing as a vacation destination.  I hope you enjoyed learning all about the Tanner’s hometown!

Have you been to San Francisco before?  If so, what did you do?  Which attraction seemed most appealing to you?

 

 

Sources:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g60713-Activities-San_Francisco_California.html

http://www.nps.gov/goga/marin-headlands.htm

http://www.forbes.com/2010/12/13/best-cities-for-shopping-forbes-woman-time-retail-walmart-sales-tax_slide_26.html

http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/americas-best-cities-for-foodies/3

http://www.sanfrancisco.travel/shop/

Pack your bags because we’re hopping on a plane and going to Hawaii!  I have never been to Hawaii before, but I think it would be a great vacation spot for some relaxation and exploration.  We will be visiting two of the islands, Kauai and Maui.

Kauai is also known as the “Garden Isle,” which is very fitting.  The island is covered in tropical rainforests, rivers, and waterfalls.  The outdoor activities in Kauai are endless, from kayaking to snorkeling to hiking to even ziplining.  As much as I love being active on vacations, I also enjoy relaxing and really taking in the culture.  From my research, I found that Kauai has a rich culture and a very relaxed atmosphere.  And, here’s a little fun fact for you, Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed on Kauai.

I decided to dig a little deeper and find specific places I want to visit while on the island of Kauai.  The Na Pali Coast is a magnificent coastal range, but it can only be visited by hiking, sea tour, or helicopter tour.  The Na Pali Coast is located on the North Shore of Kauai and provides a sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean.  U.S. News Travel rated the Na Pali Coast #2 in “Things to Do in Kauai”.  The next place I want to visit is Hanalei Town.  It is a small town with historic sights and art galleries.

Now, we’re off to Maui!  Maui is the second largest Hawaiian island.  After doing some reading, I have come to the conclusion that Maui is not as cultured due to the great amount of tourism.  I think it is much more commercialized, although I am sure still very pretty.  The west coast is home to numerous beaches while the east coast is comprised of foliage and waterfalls.

U.S. News Travel provides a generous list of things to do in Maui.  Number one is the Road to Hana, which is a picturesque highway that travels through rainforests and waterfalls.  An IgoUgo.com user explained, “For nature lovers, I can’t imagine not taking this road. The lushness of the surrounding coastline is something that cannot be fully described. I have never seen so many different shades of green in my entire life.”  Number two on the list is Kaihalulu (Red Sand Beach).  The rare color of the sand is because of eroded volcanic cinders that border the shore.  A review on Yelp.com exclaims, “This place is worth it. Definitely the most memorable beachscape I’ve experienced thus far. If Mars had beaches, this is what they would look like. It’s just otherworldly.”  I am sure there is much more to see and do, but these would definitely be at the top of my list.

Here are some pictures of places I discussed.

 

 

 

Have you ever been to Hawaii?  If so, what islands did you visit and what did you do?  If you have never been to Hawaii, like me, do you have any desire to visit?

 

Sources:

http://www.gohawaii.com

http://travel.usnews.com/Kauai_HI/Things_To_Do/

http://www.hawaii-guide.com/maui/facts/all_about_maui

http://travel.usnews.com/Maui_HI/Things_To_Do/

http://www.igougo.com/attractions-reviews-b86617-Maui-Road_to_Hana.html

http://www.yelp.com/biz/kaihalulu-red-sand-beach-hana