Amsterdam's Unique Wonders: The Red Light District and Canals

Must-see experiences

When it comes to Amsterdam, there are two things that come to mind for most people: the Red Light District and the canals. And let's be honest, these two things couldn't be more different. But they're both part of what makes Amsterdam so unique and worth a visit.

Let's start with the Red Light District. Yes, it's famous for its sex workers and coffeeshops, but it's also a historical part of the city that dates back to the 14th century. Walking through the district's narrow streets and alleys, you'll see red-lit windows with women of all shapes and sizes, and in some cases, men too. But don't be fooled, this isn't your average streetwalker situation. The workers here are licensed and regulated by the government, ensuring their safety and rights.

Now, let's talk about the canals. Amsterdam has more than 100 kilometers of canals, and they're not just for show. These canals were built in the 17th century to help with transportation and defense, and they're still used for both purposes today. But they're also one of Amsterdam's top tourist attractions, with boat tours that take you through the city's waterways and past some of its most picturesque sights.

 

But what do these two wonders have in common? Well, for one, they're both part of Amsterdam's rich cultural heritage. And they're both a testament to Amsterdam's open-mindedness and tolerance. Whether it's the legalization of sex work or the acceptance of cannabis culture, Amsterdam has always been a city that embraces diversity.

So, if you're visiting Amsterdam, don't miss out on these two unique experiences. But just remember, if you're going to the Red Light District, be respectful and keep your camera in your pocket. And if you're taking a canal tour, bring a coat because it can get chilly out there. And who knows, you might even see some of the workers from the Red Light District waving at you from their windows as you float by on the canal. Hey, it's Amsterdam, anything can happen!

The Majestic Marvels: Discovering the Iconic Skyscrapers of Dubai

Dubai, the city of soaring skyscrapers and luxurious living, is home to some of the most iconic buildings in the world. Amongst these towering structures, the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall Tower, and the Princess Tower stand tall and proud, showcasing the architectural marvels that have put Dubai on the global map.

The Burj Khalifa, standing at an awe-inspiring height of 828 meters, is the tallest building in the world. It is a symbol of Dubai's ambition and vision, a testament to the city's ability to dream big and achieve the impossible. From its observation deck on the 148th floor, visitors can take in the panoramic views of the city and beyond, feeling as if they are floating above the clouds.

The Dubai Mall Tower, also known as the Burj Mohammed bin Rashid, is a stunning glass structure that is a sight to behold. It stands at 382 meters tall and is the fifth tallest building in Dubai. The tower is connected to the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping centers, and is home to luxury residences, offices, and a hotel. With its sleek lines and shimmering facade, the Dubai Mall Tower is a masterpiece of modern design.

Finally, the Princess Tower, a residential skyscraper standing at 414 meters tall, is one of the most recognizable buildings in Dubai's Marina district. It boasts stunning views of the Persian Gulf and is home to over 700 apartments. The tower's sleek design and imposing presence make it an architectural wonder and a true gem of Dubai's skyline.

 

Each of these buildings is a reflection of Dubai's grandeur, ambition, and innovation. They stand as a testament to the city's ability to push boundaries and create structures that are not only functional but also beautiful. They are a celebration of human ingenuity and creativity, and a reminder of the limitless possibilities that lie ahead.

As visitors and locals alike gaze up at these towering structures, they are filled with a sense of awe and wonder, marveling at the majesty of these towering giants. The Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall Tower, and the Princess Tower are not just buildings, but symbols of a city that is constantly evolving, reinventing itself and pushing the limits of what is possible. They are a testament to the human spirit and a celebration of the power of the human imagination.

Must-see experiences

Rome's Secret Sauce: Uncovering the City's Hidden Mysteries!

Rome, the Eternal City, has seen it all. From gladiator fights to papal coronations, the city has a rich and storied past. But beneath the surface, there are secrets that have remained hidden for centuries.

Deep beneath the Colosseum, there are winding tunnels and hidden chambers where the gladiators and animals were kept before the battles. It is said that some of the tunnels lead all the way to the Vatican, allowing for secret passage between the two sites.

In the heart of the city, the Pantheon stands as a testament to ancient Roman engineering. But there are whispers that beneath the marble floors lies a hidden room where the emperor Augustus conducted secret meetings.

The Vatican, the seat of the Catholic Church, is also home to many secrets. In the Sistine Chapel, the famous frescoes painted by Michelangelo hide a mysterious symbol that has yet to be deciphered.

 

And in the catacombs beneath the city, there are ancient tombs and underground chapels that have been sealed off for centuries. Who knows what secrets they may contain?

But perhaps the biggest secret of all is the true identity of the city's founder, Romulus. Legend has it that he was raised by wolves and went on to found the city that bears his name. But historians have long debated whether he was a real person or just a myth.

Despite the many secrets that lie hidden beneath its streets, Rome remains a city of wonder and awe. Its ancient ruins and timeless beauty continue to captivate visitors from all over the world.

NYC Museums: Where Art Happens!

In the heart of New York City, where the dreams are big and the lights are bright, lies a world of wonder and beauty, waiting to be explored. Here, amidst the bustling crowds and towering skyscrapers, you can find some of the greatest treasures of humanity, preserved for all time in three of the city's most magnificent museums.

The first of these is the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a temple of culture that towers over Central Park like a beacon of inspiration. Here, in the shadow of the majestic Great Hall, you can lose yourself in a maze of galleries and exhibitions, where the treasures of the world's great civilizations await. From ancient Egypt to modern America, from the Renaissance to the present day, the Met is a testament to the power of human creativity, a celebration of the beauty and diversity of our shared history.

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Next on our list is the Museum of Modern Art, a shining jewel in the crown of contemporary art. Here, in the heart of Midtown, you can immerse yourself in a world of bold colors and daring ideas, where the boundaries of what is possible are pushed to the limit. From Picasso to Warhol, from Van Gogh to Pollock, the MoMA is a testament to the power of the human imagination, a celebration of the avant-garde and the cutting edge.

Finally, we come to the American Museum of Natural History, a true wonderland of science and discovery. Here, in the shadow of the soaring blue whale, you can journey through time and space, exploring the mysteries of the universe and the wonders of the natural world. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of the cosmos, the AMNH is a testament to the power of scientific inquiry, a celebration of the beauty and complexity of our world.

 

These three museums are more than just buildings filled with artifacts and art. They are gateways to new worlds, places where the imagination can soar and the soul can find peace. So if you find yourself in New York City, be sure to visit these three great treasures, and experience the wonder and beauty that they offer.

Unleashing the Ultimate Camping Adventure

Unleashing the Ultimate Camping Adventure

Barcelona is a beautiful city situated on the coast of Spain and there are many great camping sites in and around the area. Here are some of the best camping sites in Barcelona and its surrounding areas:

 

1. Camping El Garrofer: Located in Sitges, just outside of Barcelona, this campsite offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and has a swimming pool, playground, and restaurant.

2. Camping La Pineda de Salou: Situated in Salou, about an hour south of Barcelona, this camping site has a water park, mini-golf, and other recreational activities.

3. Camping Vilanova Park: This campsite is located in Vilanova i la Geltrú, just south of Barcelona, and offers a large swimming pool, restaurant, and sports facilities.

4. Camping Tres Estrellas: This camping site is located in Gavà, just south of Barcelona, and is situated right on the beach with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

5. Camping Rupit: Located in the countryside, about 90 minutes north of Barcelona, this camping site offers a peaceful and quiet getaway with beautiful scenery and hiking trails.

6. Camping Bungalow Park Las Dunas: This campsite is situated in Sant Pere Pescador, about two hours north of Barcelona, and is located right on the beach with a variety of recreational activities available.

No matter which camping site you choose, you're sure to have a great time exploring the beautiful region of Barcelona.

Visit Madrid for Authentic Spanish Hospitality

Madrid, Spain’s capital city is one of the few European cities where the sun is out for more than 300 days a year. Being a nice combination of cosmopolitan and modern city, it still preserves its traditions and culture. With that sunny weather, the culture, and the architecture, this charming city forms a picturesque background for amazing city strolls and sightseeing escapades.

The typical “madrileño” enjoy life by being outdoors, drinking “cañas” and having “tapas” and as a result, the street life is vibrant and energetic much like many other Spanish cities. Madrid may be famous for its football clubs such the Real Madrid or “ the Atleti”, but it has way more to offer to visitors.

While going off the touristy paths might lead you to a hidden gem regarding sightseeing, taking a panoramic Madrid guided tour is the best way of experiencing the most and best of Madrid.

Whether you are traveling alone, with family, or as a group of friends, you are bound to be mesmerized by the cities baroque palaces, elegant streets, famed museums, and breathtaking landscapes.

Madrid is lined with numerous squares, the busiest and most famous of which is the Puerta del Sol, which also doubles up as the starting point of numerous Spanish roads. This square also sits the clock whose bells mark the start of a new year as well as the eating of the Twelve Grapes, a local tradition.

A stroll away is the Plaza Mayor featuring fancy and grand archways and historical buildings that will awe you, and further still is the Plaza de Cibeles with its charming fountains and marble structures.

And it doesn’t end with the squares!

Madrid is home to its own Royal Palace (with a guided tour), the Royal Theatre, the Cibeles Palace, and the National Library Building, all with breathtaking architectural designs going back thousands of years and reminiscent of medieval time.

Souvenir lovers and shopaholics will fall in love with Gran Via and Salamanca District which are the most touristy and upscale sections of Madrid. The two are a haven for shopping enthusiasts. Even with the majestic buildings and charming culture, there comes a time when you need to relax while you take in the sights and sounds.

The Buen Retiro Park, a premier Madrid landmark forms the ideal atmosphere for a retreat complete with a picnic and boat ride!

Art lovers are not forgotten either as the city of Madrid plays host to some of the most renowned museums the world over. From the Museo del Prado to the Thyssen Bornemisza and the Reina Sofia Museum. These museums are home to fine artworks from the greatest artists of all times including Picasso, Miro, Rubens, and Goya.

As for foodies, cocido and calamari sandwich are Madrid’s traditional cuisine, and every corner has a restaurant to tickle your taste buds. You can even take a guided historical tour complete with food tasting and dinner!

In essence, Madrid seems to have stuck in the past as tradition here has held on with few changes: a hold that assures you an authentic Spanish experience.

Visit Spain!

Land of the most beautiful Mediterranean beaches, rich history, vibrant culture and passionate people, Spain offers the most complete and diverse tourist destination to make your vacations unforgetable.

Spain will enchant you when you discover its sunny coasts such as Marbella or Torremolinos near Malaga, or enjoy lovely Mediterranean weather at Valencia, or you explore each Cala at Ibiza or Mallorca.

Get lost in ancient cities were Jewish, Arab and Christians cultures had once their golden periods, such as Toledo or Cordova.

Don’t forget the Basque Country, with prosperus Bilbao and San Sebastian. Amazing places will captivate you in Galicia,and of course, once center of spiritual world, Santiago de Compostela will captivate you.

Taste the Moorish flavor in Granada, dance flamenco in Sevilla, eat “Jamon” and “tapas”, drink “Sangría” or an excellent Rioja wine…

Give yourself the chance to experience all this adventure in your life…

Get Lost in the World of British Modern Art at Tate Britain

One of the largest museums in the country, Tate Britain, should not be a place to be missed on your visit. The gallery is situated on the site of the former Millbank Prison. Since its opening in 1897 the museum housed both British and modern collection, but since the launch of Tate Modern, the gallery displayed only modern collections from the Tate network of galleries. Download the Tate Britain Travel Guide and Offline Map to get to more about this iconic museum.

1.     Ophelia by Sir John Everett Millais

Millais’ depiction of the Shakespearean heroine is almost as iconic as the museum that houses it. It captures the moment from Hamlet when Ophelia goes mad after discovering that her lover has murdered her father and drowns herself in a stream. The model fo the painting, Elizabeth Siddal was required to pose over a period of four months, lying in a bath of water.

2.     Chair by Allen Jones

Ever since the launch of the British pop artist’s controversial ‘furniture’ series in 1970, it has since caused outrage for its fetishisation of the female body. The Chair, along with the Table and Hat Stand, presents full-sized, busty mannequins in erotic poses. Some people claim that it symbolizes female oppression, while others view it as an important object in the canon of art history.

3.     The Angel Standing in the Sun by JMW Turner

As Turner became preoccupied with the notions of death during his final years, he became fascinated with biblical stories of righteous retribution. The painting combines his glorious mastery of light and color. The painting showcases Archangel Michael wielding his sword, ready to smite the sinners below.

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The Spellbinding Museum that is the Science Museum of London

Here you’ll get hooked with seven floors fulls of interactive and educational exhibits. Wether you’re an adult or child, you will for sure be completely mesmerized. The museum covers everything from early technology to space travel. One the most famous exhibits is Exploring Space, a gallery featuring genuine rockets and satellites. Visit this epic gallery with the Science Museum of London in hand.

1.     BepiColombo

See the a full-size engineering model of the European Space Agency’s first ever spacecraft to explore Mercury. This model of the spacecraft was used to test BepiColombo’s resilience during its seven-year journey to Mercury. The journey is considered to be the most challenging planetary missions ever launched.

2.     Superbugs

This new exhibit showcases how antibiotics have enabled us to combat diseases that were once untreatable and how bacteria has evolved into superbugs resistant to even the most powerful antibiotics. It explores how society is responding to the enormous challenge of antibiotic resistance. See real bacteria and discover the innovative technologies being used to make superbugs a thing of the past.

3.     Dream Big

Explore our beautiful world and our ingenuity behind engineering marvels big and small. Hear inspiring stories of human grit and aspiration as the 3D film reveals how engineers push the limits of innovation. From the Great Wall of China and the world’s tallest buildings to underwater robots and solar-powered cars.

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Explore Nature at its Finest at the Natural History Museum in London

As one of the three major museums on Exhibition Road, its exhibits focus on a vast range of specimens from various segments of natural history. The museum comprises of 80 million items within five major collections: botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology, and zoology. It is also a center of research specializing in taxonomy, identification, and conservation. Discover mother nature’s beauty with the Natural History Museum Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     Origins

The first floor exhibits showcase the origins of species and explores natural selection and Darwin’s theories. ‘Our Place in Evolution’ exhibits the remains of “Lucy”, the Australopithecus discovered in Ethiopia in 1974 and believed to be between 1.5 and five million years old. While the Mineral Gallery contains some 130,000 specimens representing some 75 percent of the world’s known minerals.

2.     Mammals

There is also a section that is dedicated to mammals which includes a 91-foot-long life-sized cast of a blue whale as well as casts of extinct mammals. The lower floor showcases land mammals, including elephants, hippos, giraffes, and their early relatives. And the lastly, the upper level is dedicated for mammals living in water.

3.     Earth

The gallery focuses on an extensive collection of material on the geology and minerals of the world. There are lectures and film shows on particular subjects. In the main hall, stands a six-feet diameter rotating globe that serves as the museum’s purpose to the the story of the Earth. The gallery also includes a simulation of an earthquake and a collection of gems.

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Kuala Lumpur: A City for the Culturally Inclined

Malaysia’s capital is a great example of a cultural melting pot. Amidst its majestic mosques, modern skyscrapers,  Kuala Lumpur’s mix of cultures, Indian, Malay, Chinese, and Western, creates a unique blend of food, shopping, and nightlife. Download the Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide and Offline Map and start planning your trip to his invigorating city.

1.     Islamic Arts Museum

Stepping inside the Islamic Arts Museum is like inside a treasure trove. The building itself is every bit as impressive as the collection it houses. It showcases Islamic decorative arts from around the world. Here you’ll find scale models of the world’s best Islamic buildings, gorgeous textiles, carpets, jewelry, and calligraphy-inscribed pottery.

2.     Kampung Baru

It seems like time stood still in this neighborhood filled with rows of traditional Malay wooden houses, village life unfolds despite the surrounding skyscrapers. Kampung Baru’s low-slung charms are best showcased as you wander its streets. Along the way be sure to stop by and enjoy tasty home-cooked Malay food at the many roadside cafes and stalls.

3.     Petronas Towers

Resembling two twin rockets shooting from up the ground, the Petronas Towers is the perfect presentation for the rise of the city to the 21st-century metropolis that it is now. Purchase tickets for a 45-minute tour that take you in the Skybridge connection on the 41st floor and the observation deck on the 86th floor at 370 meters above ground.

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Three Reason Why People Can Never Have Enough of Chiang Mai

Calm, blissful, and laid-back are three words that would come to mind when arriving in Chiang Mia. The former seat of the Lanna kingdom is a stark contrast to the busy and bustling Bangkok. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful city that is still firmly Thai in its atmosphere and attitude. Don’t forget to download the Chiang Mai Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     Lanna Folk Life Museum

Located inside the Thai-colonial-style former Provincial Court, this imaginative museum dates back from 1935. It recreates Lanna village life in a series of life-size dioramas that explain everything from lai krahm pottery stenciling and fon lep—a mystical Lanna dance that features long metal fingernails. You’ll also find the intricate symbolism of different elements of Lanna-style monasteries.

2.     Wat U Mong

This historic forest Wat is famed for its sylvan setting and its ancient chedi. The Wat is located above a brick platform wormholed with passageways built around 1380. As you wander through the arched tunnels, you can catch a glimpse of the original murals and several venerated Buddha images. The forest around the platform is scattered with centuries’ worth of broken Buddha images.

3.     Chiang Mai Warorot

There’s no better way to know a South East Asian city better than exploring its public markets. Chiang Mai’s oldest public market, Warorot is a great place to connect with the city’s Thai soul. It’s easy to get lost and spend an easy half a day wandering its walkways, watching locals, and haggling for goods. Historically, most of the farm produce was delivered by boat thus the market is located by the river of Mae Ping.

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Fall in Love with Vibrant Atlanta, the Capital of the South

There’s so much to do in Atlanta and it’s really no surprise why it’s dubbed as the capital of the South. The city is home to 5.7 million people and there’s a plethora of things to do and check out here; from big ticket attractions in the Metro to learning about the iconic African American history and even outdoor activities for the adventurers out there. Explore Atlanta with the Atlanta Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     World of Coca-Cola

Wether or not you’re an avid drinker of the world-famous soda, the World of Coca-Cola is definitely a must-see when visiting Atlanta. The museum showcases the history of the beverage company. There are multiple exhibits for you to get lost in, a pop culture gallery, and even a 4D cinema. For the Coke lovers, you’ll especially love trying out more than 100 different Coca-Cola beverages from all around the world.

2.     Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is the second largest aquarium in the world and the biggest in the United States. It is home to over 500 species of marine life, which include whale sharks, dolphins, penguins, beluga whales, manta rays, turtles, and so much more. And if you’re brave enough you can even take dip with the whale sharks—don’t worry, they’re not called gentle giants for nothing.

3.     Stone Mountain Park

Stone Mountain is Georgia’s most visited attraction with nearly 4 million visitors each year. With over 3,200 acres of natural beauty, its highlight is definitely Stone Mountain itself—the largest exposed granite in the world. The park is also home to the world’s largest LaserShow. You won’t be disappointed as the park offers so many attractions, entertainment, and recreation.

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Culturally Emersion Through Thailand’s Temples

Thailand’s vibrancy manifests itself in every corner of the country. From the scenery and art to its culture and people, you will be left awestruck from the moment you step off the plane. The country of smiles is more than just bustling Bangkok and pristine beaches, it’s a place of culture that’s deeply rooted to religion. And what better way to get to know Thailand than exploring its numerous, beautifully crafted temples? Download the Thailand Travel Guide and Offline Map to get started on your journey!

1.     Wat Pho

Among Bangkok’s famous sights, Wat Pho has gained its due fame from its gigantic Reclining Buddha. This temples has made a name for itself by collecting a handful of superlatives: the city’s largest reclining Buddha, the largest collection of Buddha images in Thailand, and the country’s earliest center for public education.

2.     Wat Phra Kaew

Bangkok’s biggest tourist attraction and a pilgrimage destination for devout Buddhists and nationalists. This architecturally awe-inspiring temple is the spiritual core of Thai Buddhism and the monarchy, which houses the country’s most holy image, the Emerald Buddha. Attached to the temple complex is the Grand Palace, the former royal residence, once a sealed city of intricate ritual and social satisfaction.

3.     Wat Phumin

Located in Nan Province, bordering Laos, is Nan’s most famous Buddhist temple. It is adorned with exquisite murals that were done during the late 19th century by a Thai Lü artist named Thit Buaphan. The ornate altar in the centre of the bòht has four sides, with four Sukhothai-style sitting Buddhas facing in each direction.

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Fulfill Your Caribbean Dreams in Puerto Rico

Haven’t got plans for a long weekend? Why not travel to Puerto Rico satisfies both the beach bums just looking for place to relax and chill and the adventure seekers looking to tackle big waves. We’re for sure its long stretches of sand will entice you to stay and leave you Caribbean blue once you leave. Download the Puerto Rico Travel Guide and Offline Map to jump start your next travels.

1.     Playa Flamenco

Sheltered inside a horseshoe-shaped bay, Playa Flamenco’s mile-long stretch of white beach is hailed as one of the finest beached in the Caribbean. The name comes from the flamingos that flock inside the bay during Winter. The iconic rusting tank is at the beach's western end, a legacy of when US troops practiced invasions here.

2.     Isla Culebrita

When you’re itching for some island hopping, we highly recommend hiring that water taxi and head for Isla Culebrita. This small island to the east of Playa Zoni is a part of the national wildlife refuge. With its six beaches, tide pools, reefs, and nesting areas for sea birds—there’s for sure plenty to do here. The north beaches, especially the long crescent of Playa Tortuga, are popular nesting grounds for green sea turtles.

3.     Bahia Mosquito

About two miles east of Esperanza is a designated wildlife preserve that has the highest concentration of phosphorescent dinoflagellates in the world. The magnificent bay of Bahia Mosquito is nothing short of psychedelic with hundreds of fish whipping up fluorescent-blue sparkles below the surface as your kayak passes by.

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Heaven on Earth: Visiting Mauritius

Mark Twain once wrote, 'Mauritius was made first and then heaven, heaven being copied after Mauritius'. It’s hard to imagine a more compelling visage of heaven than Mauritius: sapphire-blue waters, powder-white sand, and a front row seat to one of the most beautiful views of the Indian Ocean. Download the Mauritius Travel Guide and Offline Map and experience heaven on Earth for yourself.

1.     Rodrigues

Barely touched by commercialization one would think they’ve traveled back in time on this tiny volcanic outcrop 600 kilometers away from the mainland. As the locals wold often tell you,”It is Mauritius of 25 years ago”. Here you’ll experience what true island time means and its time-warped vibe. It is beautiful forgotten world in some of the most remote corners of the globe.

2.     Eureka

There’s no better place to learn about Mauritius’ rich colonial history than in Eureka. The perfectly preserved Creole mansion was built in the 1830’s and stands today as a museum. Visiting Eureka is like stepping into a time machine and gives you incredible insight into the island’s vibrant plantation past.

3.     Vallée de Ferney

This 400-year-old forest is an important habitat for the Mauritius kestrel—one of the world’s most endangered raptors and visiting here is probably one of your best chance in ever seeing one. The guides take you along a 3-kilometer trail and at noon the staff feed the wild kestrels at the trailhead. As an important habitat for endemic species, Vallée de Ferney promises to be an important conservation and ecotourism area in the coming years.

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Reliving Your Childhood Dreams at Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland Park is the first Disney Park built outside of the US and opened on April 15, 1983. Modeled after the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Park in California. Tokyo DisneySea is the second park at the resort. It opened on September 4, 2001 and is dubbed as the crown jewel of Disney Parks. It is also the 4th most visited theme park in the world. Planning your trip to Tokyo Disney Resort is an overwhelming experience so download the Tokyo Disneyland Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1. Dreamlights

Nighttime light parade a la SpectroMagic and the Main Street Electrical Parade. Dreamlights takes the light parade concept to the next level, and adds a couple of revolutionary floats to the mix, making Main Street Electrical Parade look antiquated by comparison. Dreamlights combines a great soundtrack with some plussed versions of the standard floats stateside guests are used to, and then throws some truly astonishing floats into the mix.

2. Minnie Oh! Minnie!

Live show featuring Latin music and dancers, as well as Disney characters. This is basically a high energy show with performers and other characters swooning over Minnie Mouse as a very loose plot (or perhaps ‘musical motif’ is better). The costuming is gorgeous, and the human performers are really talented. Choreography is great and the songs are really catchy.

3. Monster’s Inc. Ride & Go Seek

Interactive dark ride in which guests use flashlights to trigger effects and reveal monsters. Along with Pooh’s Hunny Hunt, this is the flagship attraction at Tokyo Disneyland. Reactions to Ride & Go Seek have been somewhat mixed, but we absolutely love it and consider it in the same caliber as Hunny Hunt. Its Audio Animatronics are advanced and lifelike (well, assuming a big blue monster is somehow “lifelike”), with very fluid motions. Sets are immersive and include a ton of detail.

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It’s the Prefect Time to Visit Riviera Maya and Here’s Why

Visiting Mexico's Caribbean Coast, known as the Riviera Maya is a must for every adventurer at heart. It's great for road trips where you can explore more of numerous white-sand beaches, scenic ruins, and amazing cenotes. It might be a little too busy for some, but despite the development, you can still discover small fishing towns or set forth inland and experience the true-blue Mexican culture untouched by tourism. Download the Riviera Maya Travel Guide and Offline Map to help you plan your next trip.

1. Chichen Itza

The famous Mayan ruins are UNESCO world heritage and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Even if you are in your all-inclusive relaxing vacation, a day trip is totally worth it. Chichen Itza is a huge complex of Mayan ruins in a shape of pyramids built by Maya people approximately 1,200 years ago. Keep in mind that the area is big, it is not only one pyramid that you see on all the pictures, it is an ensemble of many greatly preserved ruins.

2. Grupo Nohoch Mul

Nohoch Mul (Big Mound) is also known as the Great Pyramid. It reaches a height of 42 meters, making it the second-tallest Maya structure on the Yucatán Peninsula. Climbing the old steps can be scary for some. Two diving gods are carved over the doorway of the temple at the top (built in the post-Classic period, AD 1100–1450), similar to sculptures at Tulum.

3. Grupo de las Pinturas

The temple at Grupo de las Pinturas (Paintings Group) bears traces of glyphs and frescoes above its door and remnants of richly colored plaster inside. You approach the temple from the southeast. Leave by the trail at the northwest (opposite the temple steps) to see two stelae. The first of these is 20m along, beneath a palapa. Here, a regal figure stands over two others, one of them kneeling with his hands bound behind him.

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Discovering Playa del Carmen, Mexico's Next Big Thing

Playa del Carmen's popularity is growing more and more each year. It now ranks as the third-largest city in Quintana Roo and competes with Tulum as one of the Riviera's rendiest cities. The town is ideally located: close to Cancún’s international airport, but far enough south to allow easy access to Cozumel, Tulum, Cobá and other worthy destinations. So If you're looking for your next tropical destination download the Playa del Carmen Travel Guide and Offline Map now!

1.  Cenote Diving

What’s a cenote you ask? It’s an underground cave filled with fresh water. The Yucatan has tons of them—sinkholes that open up into underground rivers with the clearest water you’ve ever seen. If you have your PADI license, you can go scuba diving in these caves with a guide. Because there’s daylight near the entrance a more technical cave diving license isn’t required. Not a diver? No problem. You can also go snorkeling at most cenotes.

2. Visit Mayan Ruins

The ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum are located South of Playa del Carmen in the town of Tulum. A must-visit if you’re in the area.

Tulum was once a small but important port city for the Mayans. Along with impressive structures on the edge of a cliff, it has a beach below where you can swim too. Because Tulum is so popular, it can be crowded unless you arrive early in the morning. Coba is another Mayan site near Playa del Carmen which sees less visitors. You can still climb the pyramid there too.

3. Swim With Sea Turtles

Who doesn’t want to swim with sea turtles? I’ve always wanted to, that’s for sure. I got my chance at Akumal beach, 30 minutes South of Playa del Carmen. The shallow blue-green water here is home to Green, Hawksbill and Loggerhead sea turtles that you can swim with.

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Epic Adventures in New Zealand’s Outback

Scattered all over New Zealand are sublime forests, mountains, lakes, beaches and fiords that have made NZ one of the best hiking destinations on the planet. With just 4.8 million New Zealanders scattered across 268,021 sq km, prepare for mammoth national parks, a dynamic local culture, and world-class surfing and skiing. Whether you're looking for a chill and relaxing vacation or an action-packed one, New Zealand has got you covered. Download the New Zealand Travel Guide and Offline Map now!

1. Abel Tasman National Park

If there's one National Park you shouldn't miss out on that's Abel Tasman National Park. It's definitely every adventurers dream come true blanketing the northern end of a range of marble and limestone hills that extend from Kahurangi National Park. Various tracks in the park include an inland route, although the Coast Track is what everyone is here for--it's New Zealand's most popular Great Walk.

2. Rotorua

Welcome to "Sulphur City"--New Zealand's most dynamic geothermal area where steam casually wafts out of the drains and mud boils in public parks. The sulphur-rich air and all its springs might be one of its draws, but the city is also hailed for its dynamic Māori culture. The Māori revered this place, naming one of the most spectacular springs Wai-O-Tapu (Sacred Waters). Today 34% of the population is Māori, with cultural performances and traditional hāngi (steam-cooked banquets) as big an attraction as the landscape itself.

3. Milford Sound

Rising above the fiord's indigo water is Mitre Peak and has become the subject of millions of photographs for good reason. Scoured into the bare rock are pathways from tree avalanches, where entangled roots dragged whole forests down into darkly glittering water. Today, tapering to a cloud-piercing summit, the 1692m-high mountain appears. When rain comes (and that’s often), dozens of temporary waterfalls curtain the cliffs. Stirling and Lady Bowen Falls gush on in fine weather, with rainbows bouncing from their mists when sunlight strikes just right.

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