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Top 10 Places to See Before You Die

February 25, 2011 at 10:00 PM

This is a guest post by Uttoran Sen from Travel Tamed

There are many great places to travel in the world and witness with your own eyes, but there are some which are almost required to see firsthand. These are places which almost everyone has seen in the history books, along with various television shows. Most often they are featured as locations for the plots of many a popular story, television show or movie.

Travel is becoming more affordable as the number of cheap international flights increase, making it easier than ever to get out and see the world. It will be hard to choose only ten places to make this list, since which ones is a better sight is a matter of opinion. However, we will give it try and start out ten places to see before you die.

10 Grand Canyon

Photo: krandolph

While you might think this would be mostly for those in the United States, the Grand Canyon is truly a sight to behold. This is a steep canyon carved over the tens of thousands of years by the Colorado River. Pictures do not truly do justice to the sheer size of the Grand Canyon.Being able to stand near the edge and see the huge rock walls which span for well over 200 miles.

There are a number of hotels and lodges making it very easy to find comfortable accommodations nearby, along with guided tours on horseback or even donkey to take you down into the canyon.

9 The Great Wall of China

Photo: Let Ideas Compete

Being the first structure ever constructed by man to be visible from space, this is certainly a must see. When you stand on the Great Wall, looking down towards the horizon and seeing that it stretches beyond, it can be hard to imagine that this was built by human hands.

Being over 5,000 miles long, this truly is a marvel to behold. It is hard to imagine just how much labor went into the construction, and if you plan the proper tour, you will even see some of the many statues contained inside. Each of these terracotta statues are life sized, and individually numbered. It is estimated that inside the Great Wall if China there are around 8,000 of these statues earning them the name Terracotta Army.

8 Easter Island

Photo: AndrewGill73

This small island in the Pacific isn’t very interesting by itself. The ancient culture used up all the trees before vanishing, possibly to aid in the construction of the many 13 foot tall statues that line the island. Not much is known about why or who created them, and while we have seen pictures they just don’t convey the sheer size of these 10-14 ton behemoths.

No one knows why they were created, just that they were. It has been speculated that the peoples responsible for these statues left when the island was running out of resources. They have been a focus of study for quite a long time, and have inspired some truly unique stories.

7 The Louvre

Photo: min0n_

The museum is very well known and contains some of the greatest masterpieces by the best artists who ever lived. While we know what the paintings look like, seeing them housed inside this magnificent example of architecture just can be replicated through photos.

Located in Paris, it is one of the most well known places in France aside from the Eiffel Tower. While visiting, you will be able to see with your own eyes many great sculptures, statues and paintings created by a large variety of cultures from around the world.

6 Venice

Photo: Tambako the Jaguar

The canal streets of Venice Italy are truly unique in the world, and to see firsthand just how people go about their daily lives is an interesting experience. The city was built on over 100 small islands, which made travel by boat a necessity. With such easy access to sea trade routes, it is easy to see how this great city became known as an industrial center.

Taking a guided tour down the many canal streets is a truly unique experience which cannot be replicated. Every faucet of modern living as we know it will be different when your roads are canals.

5 Taj Mahal

Photo: sprague7

This huge mausoleum was built in the 1600′s at a time when most people would not have thought it possible to create such a magnificent place. While many people might think that this is one huge building, it is actually made up of many smaller structures, which all add up to make the place truly beautiful when viewed by the naked eye.

The large white dome is a world renowned landmark and although people have tried to replicate the look, it just isn’t the same. Even from afar this is truly a sight to behold, but what is even more spectacular are the decorations on the buildings themselves. Calligraphy carved into the side and many small adornments that were painstakingly handcrafted have held up to the test of time, and even by today's standards considered very impressive.

To this day much effort is put into maintaining, both the Taj Mahal itself, and the grounds surrounding the area so that you are surely to not be disappointed.

4 Angkor Wat

Photo: cornstaruk

The name of this place means “city temple” and this exactly what it is. Located in Cambodia, Angkor Wat is an example of what truly marvelous structures can be created without the aid of technology. The large statues carved inside the structure itself is what most people think of when hearing the name, but seeing the great temple from afar truly is impressive.

For anyone wanting to see great examples of architecture, Angkor Wat has to be high on their list. As there is so much to take in, you would be wise to schedule a guided tour so that you are sure not to miss out on the more interesting aspects of the city temples design.

3 Great Barrier Reef

Photo: chris vs world

The largest living coral reef in the world is actually made up of many smaller reefs which span for over 1600 miles. The large abundance of colorful sea life make this a real hotspot for divers worldwide. If you are lucky enough to view this spectacle from the air you will see just how large this reef really is.

There are a great many hotels and accommodations that have worked with local charter boats to have guided tours rather easy to get scheduled on, so you can be shown firsthand some of the more diverse sea life which call this place home. Reefs are composed of millions of tiny creatures, so one of this size would take untold ages to be able to form as it has.

2 Petra

Photo: sharnik

No one really knows just who built this great city in the mountain walls. The very large entry ways which can be over 14 feet tall have inspired many tales of a city inhabited by giants. It is estimated that the city itself is well over 3,000 years old, and served many purposes over it’s ancient history. It has been reported to be a capital, caravan trading post, as well as a temple of sorts and has been ruled by several different cultures.

The hardness of the stone must have made construction of the ancient city a project that spanned over multiple generations. Located in Jordan, there are many resorts available with a focus on making sure you get to see this incredible place safely.

1 Great Pyramid of Giza

Photo: kyahl

The Great Pyramid of Giza has been chosen for number one as it is one of the most widely known ancient structures in existence. It was built precisely to match the geographic directions of the compass, proving that mankind could indeed manipulate numbers back in ancient times to create great marvels of engineering.

While all of the other pyramids have a recorded history, and are proven to serve as a tomb, the Great Pyramids reason for being built is largely unknown. The top of the pyramid is missing though many believe from ancient writings that it was a huge piece of gold that would shine from the horizon. When looking at pictures, you have to envision that many centuries of erosion and vandalism have changed the way this site looks. The outer walls were made of highly polished stone, which make some scientists believe that it would shine bright enough at parts of the day to have been visible from orbit around the Earth itself.

I must admit that the order of these great sites to behold is based on personal preference, but this does not mean that these places are not a must see. The many photographs available truly do not let you behold and feel the presence of these unique places around the world. All of the above mentioned destinations have long served as a tourist attraction for the surrounding areas. This means you can easily find a place to stay as well as guided tours in an area that takes extra care to make sure international travelers stay safe.

How many of these have you seen? What would you put on your top 10 places to see before you die list?

Uttoran Sen is a travel enthusiast and a blogger since 2005, check him out on his travel blog or catch up with him on twitter or facebook.

Sign up for our FREE Monthly e-Newsletter and come hang out on our Facebook Fanpage. Top 10 Places to See Before You Die is a post from: yTravelBlog

Meet Our Facebook Fan of the Month: Catherine Sweeney

February 25, 2011 at 12:16 AM

me in Cambria California

Every Month we choose our "Facebook Fan of the Month" from our fanpage. This is the person who has been contributing and engaging the most in our community by answering questions, leaving comments, sharing tips, tagging, and sharing photos and info.

In appreciation, we do a featured interview with them that we post on our blog and share through Facebook and Twitter. And, if you happen to have your own Travel Blog, we can promote that too! We are happy to announce that January’s winner is Catherine Sweeney…

Please tell us about Catherine Sweeney?

I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, but I'm originally from Chicago. I also lived in Milwaukee a few years where I met my husband before we moved to California. I've worked in several careers: a technical writer and Information Services manager for a Fortune 500 company; a sales manager for a large computer company; an independent executive recruiter for high-tech sales and marketing; and an investor in real estate and other businesses. Before starting my blog, I founded and published another innovative travel-related internet website and email newsletter.

in Sterling Vineyards Napa Valley

How long have you been on Facebook? How has it helped you in your personal life?

I've been on Facebook for about two years, but I wasn't very active until I started my travel blog's fan page in early November of 2010. Facebook has given me a chance to interact with family and friends that I don't get to see very often, and I've met many new friends in the travel world. If it wasn't for Facebook, I wouldn't have this opportunity to be interviewed by yTravel Blog. Thanks very much.

What else in this world are you a fan of? Of course, I'm a big fan of traveling – just don't get to do enough of it! Also, I love all kinds of music ( jazz, world, etc.), movies (especially anything with Clive Owen or Jean Reno), books (fiction/non-fiction), food (addicted to pizza) and wine. I'm a big fan of my husband. He's awesome.

Where have you traveled to so far? All over the U.S. since I was very young. My family went on long road trips every summer and we were always taking short jaunts throughout the year by car. My international experience is still pretty modest, but I've been to most of the Canadian provinces, many places in Mexico and the Caribbean, and several countries in Western Europe.

Mt Pilatus Switzerland

Any travel plans for 2011?

Next up is a long weekend getaway to Lake Tahoe for skiing. I don't have dates yet, but there will be a few trips to Chicago and Wisconsin to see family and friends. There will hopefully be a couple of European trips (as yet unscheduled) in conjunction with my husband's business travel. I've never been to Asia and there is a chance that I might make it there this year.

What is your best travel tip for getting the most out of a journey?

Do and see whatever you can no matter how short a time you may have in a place. We used to plan extensively and had longer trips, but a lot of our travel now is last minute and our planning is much looser. If it's a first visit, see the major sites; just don't spend much of your time in the main tourist areas. A great way to experience a new place is to just walk, explore, and enjoy what you find along the way.

What websites/resources do you use to find travel deals and info?

It's hard to pick just a few because I'm connected to so many great websites and blogs now. There are some really good sites for quick tips and deals, but it's also wonderful to have so many blogs accessible that offer real personal insights about places all over the world.

If you could have dinner with 4 famous people in the world (alive or dead), who would it be and why?

Hillary Clinton (and I'd get a bonus since I assume she'd bring Bill). I've admired her for many years and was really inspired by her during the 2008 presidential primaries and now in her role as Secretary of State. Hugh Grant because he is hilarious and attractive. Winston Churchill because he was such a strong leader, very witty and enjoyed his drink. Someone like Lady Gaga to add hipness to the party.

If you had $10 Million to donate to a person or charity who you thought could impact the world, who would you give it to and why?

I'd like to divvy it up a bit for several charities, but I'd give a sizeable portion to organizations like National Multiple Sclerosis Society (and other MS-related organizations) in honor of my wonderful niece, Veronica. She passed away in September after living with MS for over 20 years. There's been much progress in the treatment of MS, but a long way to go to find the cause, enhanced treatments and a cure.

What did you want to be as a kid growing up?

Most of the time, I wanted to be an actress and I still hope that some director will spot me in a bistro in NYC sometime and ask me to be in a film. I had a short experience in community theater in Chicago, but I took different paths.

Read any good books lately?

I've always been an avid reader with eclectic tastes, but lately, I haven't had as much time as I'd like. I recently read Paris Movie Walks by fellow blogger, Michael Schuermann. Anyone who loves movies and Paris will find it very interesting. I also read Fateless by Imre Kertész not too long ago – intense, moving story.

Lake Tahoe California

Do you prefer a beach, mountain, or city getaway?

It depends on my mood and where I haven't been in a while. I like variety. I do love cities very much and I'm always sad when I'm leaving one.

We, Craig and Caz, both love music and sports! If you could be a rock star or a sports star who would you be?

In my rock star dreams, I'm Grace Slick. I know this will seem ancient and a lot of people probably don't know who she is. Download "Somebody to Love" by Jefferson Airplane and turn the volume up really loud. That's her! In sports, I'd like to be U.S. Olympic downhill skiing gold medal winner, Lindsey Vonn.

Do you have a favourite international food?

I love Italian food and hope that sometime soon I'll actually get to enjoy a real Italian meal in Italy! I love food and wine so enjoy it anywhere I travel. I am a huge fan of Cottage Pie when I'm in England and pastries in Paris.

Favorite movie that inspires you to travel?

Since I saw Vicky Christina Barcelona I can't wait to get to Spain. I also love the Bourne Trilogy. There are some wonderful scenes of international cities in those movies. I get the itch to travel somewhere anytime I watch a movie shot in a great location.

Did you have any posters on your wall as a kid growing up?

Mostly I had a lot of photos or pages I cut out of magazines with pictures of movie stars, rock bands and places I wanted to go. I also put up a lot of my own collages and artwork.

Do you ever get mistaken for anyone?

To varying degrees and at different times over the years people have said that I resemble Diane Keaton. Once, at a bus stop in San Francisco a woman looked over at me, clutched her chest as stepped back a few feet and gasped, "Oh my God, I thought you were Diane Keaton!" She was OK and I was flattered.

How do you like to spend your Sunday’s?

Lately, I've been spending many of them working for several hours, but always fit in tennis, rollerblading or other workout. I also like playing board games or doing jigsaw puzzles. Sometimes, we'll go for a drive to the coast which is only about 15 minutes from here.

Do you have a favourite quote?

"You can't have everything. Where would you put it?" by comedian Steven Wright. I love his humor.

The people of the USA are_____________

Diverse. Everywhere you travel in the U.S. there are so many different cultures and lifestyles. I also think that Americans are generally good people with good intentions who want themselves and our country to be the best they can be. We do tend to be chauvinistic about the U.S.

I’m still laughing about_______________

It seems that there's always something that strikes me as being funny, so it's embarrassing that I can't come up with an answer to this right now.

Notre Dame Paris

If we were to visit you in your hometown for a day, what would you do with us?

We'd get an early start and drive about 1-1/2 hrs up to Sonoma County (in California wine country), an area that means so much to me (since I first visited when I was 9 yrs old). To get there, we'd drive through San Francisco and across the Golden Gate Bridge stopping briefly to see the views of S.F. After visiting my favorite wineries, we'd drive back along the Sonoma coast, stopping at Jenner or Bodega Bay for dinner.

If we could meet you anywhere in the world so we could shout you a coffee/wine/beer where would it be and what drink?

It would be awesome to meet you anywhere! How about Australia and an Australian Chardonnay?

Tell us about your travel blog and it’s purpose?

Right now my travel blog is really about my own travel experiences and my perspectives on what made them special. I hope that people enjoy the posts and photos, but I also hope that they get inspired to travel and that they bring back good memories of their own trips. My blog is evolving and I've got plans for incorporating more guest posts and information/tips, too.

Finally, how else can we connect with Catherine online?

Start by checking out my blog Traveling with Sweeney. You can also come and hang out with me on my Facebook Fan Page and follow me on Twitter.

Sign up for our FREE Monthly e-Newsletter and come hang out on our Facebook Fanpage. Meet Our Facebook Fan of the Month: Catherine Sweeney is a post from: yTravelBlog