Traveling can be a life-altering experience.
Traveling in general, and specifically outside of your comfort zone comes with several benefits. It exposes you to different cultures, allows for personal growth and development, can be a form of education, reduces stress and assists in relaxation, and overall enrich our daily lives. If you think you might want to move outside of your comfort zone, look into one of these 5 must-see destinations for your next trip.
#5. Azores Whale Sanctuary, Azores, Portugal
The Azores, a volcanic archipelago in the North Atlantic, is a popular destination for whale-watching enthusiasts. The area is known for its marine life, and the Azores Whale Sanctuary provides a safe haven for a variety of whale species. The Azores Whale Sanctuary offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. Whether it's hiking, whale watching, or simply taking in the stunning scenery, there is something for everyone in this beautiful destination. Here are 5 things to do while visiting the Azores Whale Sanctuary:
1. Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours: The Azores offers a variety of whale and dolphin watching tours that depart from many of the islands. The tours typically last a few hours and provide a chance to see a variety of species including fin whales, blue whales, and sei whales during their annual migration in the spring.
2. Hiking at Monte Brasil: The hike to Monte Brasil, a volcanic mountain in Terceira, offers stunning views of the Azores landscape and a chance to see a variety of plants in the area, including Azores laurel, heather, Faya, African boxwood, and common Azorean juniper. This hike is considered one of the best things to do in Terceira [4].
3. Summit Mount Pico: Mount Pico, located on the island of the same name, is the highest point in the Azores and all of Portugal, standing proud at 2,351m high. Although deceptively challenging, it is a must-visit spot for hikers and offers stunning views from the top [5].
4. Lagoa do Fogo, Sete Cidades, and Lagoa das Furnas: These are some of the best hikes in Sao Miguel and offer a chance to see some of the Azores' stunning natural landscapes. Lagoa do Fogo, Sete Cidades, and Lagoa das Furnas offer a variety of hiking options with varying levels of difficulty [6].
5. Enjoy the Wildlife: The Azores whale sanctuary is home to a variety of marine life, including whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. Visitors can take a boat tour or simply sit on the shore and watch the wildlife. The best time to do whale watching in the Azores is during the Springtime, with April and May being the strongest months [7].
#4. Metropolitan Cathedral, Iasi, Romania
The Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedrala Mitropolitana) in Iasi, Romania is an incredible example of Romanian Orthodox architecture and is one of the largest Orthodox churches in Romania [3]. The Cathedral also houses the relics of the 10th-century Saint Parascheva. If you're visiting the cathedral as a tourist, here are 5 things to see:
1. The Architecture: The Metropolitan Cathedral is an impressive structure constructed in a neo-Byzantine style with elements of Greek, Romanian, and Russian architecture. The cathedral's ornate facades, arches, and towers make it an architectural masterpiece worth admiring [4].
2. The Iconostasis: The iconostasis is the screen that separates the altar from the nave in an Orthodox church. The Metropolitan Cathedral's iconostasis is made of carved wood and adorned with intricate religious paintings, making it a must-see attraction for any tourist visiting the cathedral [3].
3. The Frescoes: The Metropolitan Cathedral is home to some of the most beautiful frescoes in Romania. The frescoes, which cover the walls and ceiling of the cathedral, depict various biblical scenes and saints in intricate detail. The artist Gheorghe Tattarescu painted the frescoes in the cathedral [3].
4. The Stained Glass Windows: The stained-glass windows in the Metropolitan Cathedral were made by a factory in Munich and are renowned for their beauty and intricate designs. The windows allow natural light to filter into the cathedral, illuminating the intricate frescoes and iconostasis [3].
5. The Bell Tower: The bell tower of the Metropolitan Cathedral offers stunning views of the city of Iasi. Visitors can climb the tower's winding staircase to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. The tower also houses the cathedral's impressive bell, which weighs over six tons [4].
#3. Cumberland Island, Georgia, USA
Cumberland Island, located off the coast of Georgia, is a beautiful and unique destination for tourists to explore and is truly a unique and beautiful destination for tourists to explore, with a wide range of activities to suit any interest. Here are 5 things to do on Cumberland Island:
1. Visit the Beaches - With 17 miles of secluded white sandy beaches, Cumberland Island offers visitors plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the sun. Some of the best beaches include South End Beach, Dungeness Beach, Sea Camp Beach, and Greyfield Beach [2].
2. Explore the Island's Wildlife - Cumberland Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild horses, sea turtles, alligators, and a wide array of bird species. Visitors can go on wildlife tours, birdwatching expeditions, and even take part in turtle walks during nesting season [3].
3. Tour the Historic Sites - Cumberland Island has a rich history, and visitors can explore historic sites such as the Dungeness Ruins, Plum Orchard Mansion, and the Greene-Miller Cemetery. Guided tours of these sites are available, as well as self-guided tours [1].
4. Hike the Island's Trails - Cumberland Island has over 50 miles of hiking trails, which wind through maritime forests, wetlands, and along the beach. Popular hikes include the Settlement Hiking Trail and the Land and Legacies Tour [1].
5. Camp on the Island - For visitors who want to immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty, camping is available at several locations on Cumberland Island. Visitors can choose from backcountry campsites or campsites at the Sea Camp or Stafford Beach campgrounds [5].
In addition to the above activities, visitors can explore the island's Ice House Museum, which is a good place to start their exploration of the island [1]. Fishing, photography, and stargazing are also popular activities on the island [5].
#2. Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a busy commercial hub and a popular destination for tourists. Sapporo has much to offer visitors, from beautiful parks and museums to delicious food and stunning views. With so much to offer, it can be overwhelming to decide what to do in this vibrant city. The following are 5 things for visitors to do in Sapporo, Japan:
1. Visit Odori Park: The most famous green space in Sapporo, Odori Park stretches over 1.5 kilometers through the heart of the city. In the winter, it is the site of the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, while in the summer it is the location for many outdoor events and festivals. Visitors can take a stroll through the park and enjoy the various sculptures, fountains, and gardens. [3]
2. Explore the Sapporo Beer Museum: The only beer museum in Japan, the Sapporo Beer Museum is a must-visit for beer lovers. Visitors can learn about the history of beer in Japan, see the brewing process, and even sample some of Sapporo's famous beer. [5]
3. Try local delicacies at Nijo Market: Nijo Market is a fish market in the heart of Sapporo where visitors can sample fresh seafood, sushi, and other local food. The market also sells souvenirs and other goods. [2]
4. Visit the Historical Village of Hokkaido: This outdoor museum is a re-creation of a 19th-century village, complete with traditional houses, shops, and workshops. Visitors can experience what life was like in Hokkaido during this period and learn about the area's history and culture. [6]
5. Sapporo TV Tower: See the views from this tower. Standing 147 meters tall, the Sapporo TV Tower offers amazing views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Tourists can take the elevator to the observation deck and enjoy the panoramic views. There is a restaurant and souvenir shop on the lower levels of the tower. [4]
1#. South Tyrol, Italy
South Tyrol, a region in northern Italy, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. South Tyrol offers a wide range of activities and attractions for tourists to enjoy. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing vacation, South Tyrol has something to offer. Tourists visiting this region can enjoy a wide variety of activities ranging from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are 5 things for tourists to do in South Tyrol, Italy:
1. Explore the Dolomites: The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a must-visit for anyone traveling to South Tyrol. Tourists can go hiking, cycling, or skiing in the Dolomites and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Some of the top attractions in the Dolomites include Parco Naturale Tre Cime, Alpe di Siusi, and the Meraner Hohenweg mountain hiking trail [1][6].
2. Visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology: This museum in Bolzano is home to the famous ice man, Otzi, who lived over 5,000 years ago. Tourists can learn about the life and times of Otzi and see his well-preserved mummy. Other top museums in the region include the Messner Mountain Museum and the Museum of Wine in Kaltern [2].
3. Take a Cable Car Ride: South Tyrol is home to several cable cars that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Renon Cable Car and the Seiser Alm Bahn are two of the most popular cable cars in the region. Tourists can also take a ride on the Fun Bob or the Klausberg Flitzer, two roller coasters that offer an adrenaline rush [3][5].
4. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: South Tyrol is known for its delicious food and wine. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes such as Schlutzkrapfen (spinach and cheese dumplings), Speckknodel (bacon dumplings), and Tirtlan (fried dough pockets filled with spinach or sauerkraut). The region is also famous for its wine, particularly the white wines produced in the Alto Adige region [4].
5. Go On a Road Trip: South Tyrol is a great place to explore by car. Tourists can take a scenic drive through the region and stop at some of the charming towns and villages along the way. Some of the top destinations for a road trip in South Tyrol include Bolzano, Merano, and Brixen [4].
Whether you travel to become more culturally aware, for personal growth, or for career opportunities, traveling can help you in many ways. Traveling helps you develop a global perspective and exploring the world creates lasting memories, experiences, and potentially life-long friendships. There is something for everyone when you travel. Just be more open. Think outside of the box when you make your travel list.
Footnotes:
All photos courtesy of www.pexels.com.
Azores, Portugal Whale Sanctuary
[1] "Whale and dolphin watching tours in the Azores
tend to last for a few hours and can be arranged on multiple islands. Highly
rated tour operators include Futurisimo, which departs from the Pico..."
URL:
https://travel.usnews.com/The_Azores_Portugal/Things_To_Do/
[2] "Whale and dolphin watching tours in the Azores
tend to last for a few hours and can be arranged on multiple islands. Highly
rated tour operators include Futurisimo, which departs from the Pico..."
URL:
https://travel.usnews.com/The_Azores_Portugal/Things_To_Do/Whale_Watching_64980/
[3] "What do I need to take whale watching in the
Azores? 1. Sun protection Since the ocean reflects the sun, you’ll definitely
want to pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during the spring and
summer months. 2. Layers, however, it can still get cold out on the
water."
URL: https://www.beportugal.com/whale-watching-azores/
[4] "The most exciting and interesting thing about
Monte Brasil is that the area has its own microclimate. Up there, you can find
a variety of flora, including Azores laurel, heather, Faya, African boxwood,
and common Azorean juniper. The hike to Monte Brasil is one of the best things
to do in Terceira."
URL: https://www.meganstarr.com/things-to-do-in-terceira-azores/ [5] "4. Summit Mount Pico. Standing proud at 2,351m
high, Mount Pico (on the island of the same name) is not just the highest point
in the Azores, but all of Portugal. Deceptively challenging to summit ..."
URL: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/travel/destinations/portugal/europe/azores/best-things-to-do-azores
[6] "Our favorite hikes in Sao Miguel are Lagoa do Fogo
(11 KM, 4h00), Sete Cidades (7.7 KM, 2h00), and Lagoa das Furnas (9.5 KM,
3h00). Photo by Chris Slupski (Unsplash) Book Sao Miguel Tours 5. Whale
watching on a cruise. The Azores is known for its marine life, especially
conservation and research ever since whale hunting was banned in the 80s."
URL:
https://www.portugal.com/activities-experiences/5-best-things-to-do-in-sao-miguel-azores/
[7] "In general, the best time to do whale watching in
the Azores is during the Springtime, with April and May being our strongest
months. During this time, we have many fin whales, blue whales, and sei whales
passing the Azores on their annual migration. The biggest whales in the world
will definitely impress you with their huge size."
URL:
https://www.futurismo.pt/blog/wildlife/best-time-to-do-whale-watching-in-the-azores/
The Metropolitan Cathedral, Iasi, Romania
[1] "Iasi City Tour 2 Bus Tours from $82.94 per adult
(price varies by group size) 3-Day Small Group Tour to Iasi and Republic of
Moldova Multi-day Tours from $380.22 per adult Private Half-Day Iasi City Tour
with Lunch Bus Tours from $269.28 per adult The area Bulevardul Stefan cel Mare
si Sfant Nr. 16, Iasi 700064 Romania Full view Best nearby"
URL:
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g304060-d554818-Reviews-Catedrala_Mitropolitana_Sfanta_Cuvioasa_Parascheva-Iasi_Iasi_County_Northeast_Roma.html
[2] "See all things to do. ... Iasi 700064 Romania.
Full view. Best nearby. Restaurants. 272 within 3 miles. ... The Metropolitan
Cathedral is listed in the National Register of Historic Monuments. Two
churches previously stood on the site: the White Church (15th century) and the
Presentation Church (17th century). On 8 August 1826, prince Ioan ..."
URL:
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g304060-d12634638-Reviews-Metropolitan_Complex_of_Iasi-Iasi_Iasi_County_Northeast_Romania.html
[3] "The Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedrala
Mitropolitana) is the largest Orthodox church in Romania, and was built between
1833 and 1839, and restored between 1880 and 1888 following its partial
collapse. Gheorghe Tattarescu is the well-known Romanian artist that painted the
church, the stained-glass windows being made by a factory in Munich."
URL:
https://www.inyourpocket.com/Iasi/metropolitan-cathedral_155673v
[4] "Metropolitan Cathedral is an awesome place to
start your exploration in Iasi. This principal church doesn't cost a cent to
enter. Palace of Culture, Copou Park, and Golia Monastery are close by and also
recommended by fellow travelers. Top Hotels Close to Metropolitan Cathedral
Hotel Moldova Strada Anastasie Panu 31, Iasi, 700020 $45 per night"
URL: https://www.expedia.com/Metropolitan-Cathedral-Iasi.d6116496.Vacation-Attraction
[5] "ЯСИ Must see in Iasi, Romania. Metropolitan
Cathedral 365 views Jul 20, 2022, The Metropolitan Cathedral is the biggest
historic Orthodox church in Romania. The Cathedral was built..."
URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9gvOy30nG4
[6] "59 Visa Free Countries for Indians, ..."
URL:
https://www.hellotravel.com/romania/metropolitan-cathedral-iasi
[7] "So let's get straight to the point and check out
the top things to do and see in Iasi! 1. Copou Park Eminescus Linden tree If
you are looking for a nice walk to unwind after a difficult day or you are just
visiting, Copou park is the place to go. Copou is actually one of the 7 hills
Iasi sits on and it hosts 2 of the parks the city has."
URL:
https://www.romaniaexperience.com/top-things-to-see-and-do-in-iasi-romania/
Cumberland Island, Georgia, USA
[1] "Best Things to Do on Cumberland Island, Georgia
Ice House Museum Wildlife Tabby House Greene-Miller Cemetery Dungeness
Greyfield Plum Orchard Footsteps Tour Land and Legacies Tour Settlement Hiking
Trails Campgrounds Is Cumberland Island Worth Visiting? Ice House Museum This
museum near the Dungeness Dock is a good place to start your exploration."
URL: https://rovology.com/united-states/georgia/best-things-to-do-on-cumberland-island-georgia/
[2] "The entire Atlantic Coast on Cumberland Island is a beach, and you can find some amazing stretches of coastline here. From south to
north, the best beaches are South End Beach, Dungeness Beach, Sea Camp Beach,
Goats Way Beach, Greyfield Beach, Little Greyfield Beach, Campground Beach,
North Stafford Beach, Willow Pond Beach, and Duck House Beach. 4."
URL:
https://www.magnificentworld.com/cumberland-island-georgia/
[3] "Bird Watching Hiking National Parks Cumberland
Island Visit Website Dungeness Ruins Historic Sites, Trails Tours Beaches Bird Watching National Parks
Cumberland Island Visit Website Cumberland Island National Seashore Camping
Beaches National Parks Wildlife Viewing Campgrounds RV Parks Cumberland Island Visit Website Plum
Orchard Mansion."
URL:
https://www.exploregeorgia.org/cumberland-island/things-to-do
[4] "The 15 Most Popular Things to Do in Cumberland
Island, Georgia
URL: https://touristwire.com/best-and-fun-things-to-do-in-cumberland-island-georgia/
[5] "Visit the beach or fields at night to catch a
starry display of the Eastern sky. Fishing With miles of streams, lakes, tidal
marsh, and beach, Cumberland Island offers a variety of experiences for
anglers. Photography Beaches, forests, marshes, wildlife, and architecture all
offer plenty of interest to photographers. Last updated: January 18, 2018"
URL: https://www.nps.gov/cuis/planyourvisit/things2do.htm
[6] "Best Things to Do on Beautiful Cumberland Island
United States Europe Canada Antarctica and Arctic See All Activities Interests History and Culture Outdoor
Activities Food and Drink Sightseeing Seasonal Travel National Parks State
Parks Hotels and Resorts Wildlife Beaches Shopping Festivals and Special Events
Theme Parks Photography Reading."
URL:
https://www.travelawaits.com/2563553/best-things-to-do-cumberland-island/
[7] "Cumberland Island National Seashore is the largest
and southernmost barrier island in Georgia, offering guests more than 17 miles
of secluded white, sandy beaches. Wild horses and other island wildlife roam
freely throughout the ruins and along the beach."
URL: https://www.exploregeorgia.org/city/cumberland-island
Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
[1] "Things to Do in Sapporo Popular things to do Day
Trips Full-day Tours Parks 4WD Tours Cooking Classes Shopping Malls Cultural
Tours Private Sightseeing Tours Sacred Religious Sites Rail Tours City Tours Historic Sites Dining Experiences
Culinary Tour History Museums Transfers Ground Transport Top Picks Points of Interest Landmarks."
URL:
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g298560-Activities-Sapporo_Hokkaido.html
[2] "Japan is a top destination for tourists, with many
attractions in Hiroshima, Kyoto, and of course, the beautiful island of
Hokkaido. The capital of Hokkaido, Sapporo, is a bustling commercial hub with
so much to offer for tourists like shopping spots, sightseeing, festivals and
events, and great Hokkaido delicacies."
URL:
https://www.nomadasaurus.com/things-to-do-in-sapporo-japan/
[3] "This is a very popular spot in Sapporo so make
sure you leave some time here to take pictures as it can get rather crowded. 8.
Visit Odori Park Source: ArtNat / Shutterstock Odori Park is the
most famous green space in Sapporo, and this is also one of the best-loved spots
in the city."
URL:
https://www.thecrazytourist.com/25-best-things-to-do-in-sapporo-japan/
[4] "A good choice is Tokyo, the country's capital and
the hub for many connecting flights to Sapporo (it's an easy 1.5-hour journey).
Must-sees here include the Imperial Palace, the superb National Museum of
Nature and Science, and, of course, Mount Fuji, to name but a few."
URL: https://www.planetware.com/japan/sapporo-jpn-hk-sap.htm
[5] "Today, the city is more popular than ever, thanks
in part to the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, which attracts millions of
tourists every year. Then, there are unique attractions like the Sapporo Dome
and Sapporo Beer Museum — the latter is the only beer museum in Japan. Scroll
down for the 10 best things to do in Sapporo, Japan. Read also:"
URL: https://trip101.com/article/things-to-do-in-sapporo
[6] "Takino Suzuran Park (pictured), Sapporo Dome, Sato
Land, Hitsujigaoka Observation Deck, and the Historical Village of Hokkaido are
large venues perfect for playing in the snow. Although each facility's
activities differ, there's plenty of winter fun to be had, like tubing and
sledding or building a snowman! Takino Suzuran Hillside ..."
URL:
https://livejapan.com/en/in-hokkaido/in-pref-hokkaido/in-sapporo_chitose/article-a1000252/
[7] "Japan Travel 3256 7 Culture Makomanai Takino
Cemetery Sapporo Events Annual highlights and the latest things to do View
upcoming events Activities Hitsujigaoka Snow Park Jan 6th - Mar 5th 212 Shiroi
Koibito Park Indoor Illumination Dec 15th - Mar 14th Culture 60th Anniversary
Sanrio Exhibition Feb 11th - Apr 2nd Where to Eat in Sapporo."
URL: https://en.japantravel.com/hokkaido/sapporo
South Tyrol, Italy
[1] "Top Attractions in South Tyrol Dolomites 1. Parco
Naturale Tre Cime (Dolomiti Patrimonio dellUmanita - UNESCO) 185 Parks By
HCT1962 We had maps and guide notes provided and did the main circular walk
around the 3 peaks themselves, but you don't really... 2022 2. Alpe di Siusi 337
Mountains By F1179JZwilliaml Incredible Views and Hikes 2022 3."
URL:
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g5978780-Activities-South_Tyrol_Dolomites_Province_of_South_Tyrol_Trentino_Alto_Adige.html
[2] "South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology 2,628 History
Museums by Sugarplumcici Very interesting and informative museum about the ice
man 2022 5. Renons Cable Car 2,257 Trams By DP25 The view from the cable car
was amazing and the ride was great fun. 2022 6. Lago di Carezza 1,846 Bodies of
Water by Amy mattin"
URL:
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g1493734-Activities-Province_of_South_Tyrol_Trentino_Alto_Adige.html
[3] "9. Alpe di Siusi - Seiser Alm Bahn. 516. Trams. By
AnthonyB492. Like everywhere in the Dolomites, food and drinks are not hard to
find so make sure you enjoy a couple of places even... 2022. 10. Bunker
Museum."
URL:
https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attractions-g5978780-Activities-South_Tyrol_Dolomites_Province_of_South_Tyrol_Trentino_Alto_Adige.html
[4] "The definitive list of things to do in South Tyrol
during summer. Discover famous natural attractions, beautiful towns, incredible
wineries, epic hiking, and the best food. ... Italy | 2.5 hours. Marco Polo
International Airport, Venice - Italy | 2.5 hours. ... Top things to do in the
Dolomites, Our 7-day road trip itinerary for the Dolomites ..."
URL:
https://www.thecommonwanderer.com/blog/things-to-do-in-south-tyrol
[5] "There are several of those in South Tyrol, here
are some of the best: Fun Bob - located in the East near Toblach, in this coaster
you get to control the speed. Klausberg Flitzer - located in the east near the
Austrian border, is a favorite among kids and adults and it's budget-friendly."
URL: https://paulmarina.com/things-to-do-south-tyrol-italy/
[6] "10 Best Things to do in South Tyrol 1. Dolomites
hiking There are 220 km of Dolomites hiking trails at different heights and
levels of difficulty in the area around Schenna and Merano. There are also 180
km of marked cycle paths. Meraner Hohenweg mountain hiking trail This 100 km long
trail is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Alps."
URL:
https://www.worldwidewendy.be/en/blog/the-10-best-things-to-do-in-south-tyrol
[7] "Alta Via Circle, Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy|
Last image: Behance. The two best-known and most popular hiking trails are Alta
Via 1 and Alta Via 2. Alta Via 1 starts next to Lake Braies. You have to cover
150 kilometers in 13 days and get to the city of Belluno. It is one of the
easier routes, mostly on friendly roads."
URL: https://trekhunt.com/en/article/south-tyrol-tourist-attractions-italy-with-map-and-pictures/
