We have a lot to say about Indonesia and the Philippines, but in this article, we run down the 8 reasons Malaysia should be right at the top of your list of must-visit countries.

1. See Multiculturalism at its best in Kuala Lumpur

Right from its inception, Kuala Lumpur has been a truly multicultural town, where the Malay Muslim population co-exists—and flourishes—alongside large migrant populations from the Indian sub-continent and southern China. Modern Kuala Lumpur, therefore, is an intriguing palimpsest of architectural styles, distinct neighborhoods and cultural influences from all over Asia.

It’s a city that rewards walking, too. In a single day you can easily sample the delicious fusion food of a thriving China Town, marvel at the intricate interior spaces of the National Mosque, or witness a ceremony at Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur’s most revered Hindu Temple which has served as a focal point for Indian migrants to the city for over a century.

I’m not an expert on Malaysian politics, but in this time of many fraught conversations over the efficacy of multiculturalism, it’s certainly encouraging to immerse yourself in a city that seems to do this so well.

2. Marvel at the Petronas Towers

The name Kuala Lumpur translates roughly as something like “muddy convergence between two rivers”, and as late as the mid-nineteenth century Malaysia’s capital city was little more than this—just a small, wooden fishing village where two rivers met.

Look at it now and you’ll be amazed by how quickly it has grown into a global hub of huge significance. The Petronas Towers, the world’s tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004, are testament to Malaysia’s emergence on the world stage. These two towers stand at an impressive 1,500 feet tall and are linked by a navigable bridge on the 42^nd floor.

Time moves on, of course, and the accolade for world’s tallest building now belongs to Dubai, but the impact of the Petronas Towers, as a feat of engineering and a statement of economic power, is still enough to blow you away.

3. Cool off in the Cameron Highlands

For such a huge city Kuala Lumpur actually feels comparatively laid-back and mellow. Still, a few days of exploring the streets in that humidity and you’re going to start dreaming of an escape into the countryside.

Fortunately, the Cameron Highlands in North-Western state of Pahang is the perfect antidote to city life. Here, verdant tea plantations, stunning waterfalls and natural swimming pools nestle alongside fruit orchards and fields bursting with flowers, combining to create a region that feels like one big botanical garden.

Go fruit picking, swim beneath the Thompson Falls or learn about the region’s history in the fabulous Time Tunnel museum. The Cameron Highlands has a hundred ways to help you relax in nature.

4. Hit the beaches

Everyone knows about Thailand’s and Indonesia’s world-famous beaches, but if you think Malaysia can’t compete, then think again.

If you’re in the north of the country then prepare to be amazed by the white sands and coconut trees on the islands of Langkawi, a UNESCO Global Geopark.

If you’re in the south, then the islands that make up Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park might be your best beach choice. The national park is home to a great variety of local fauna, including macaques, proboscis monkeys and monitor lizards, as well as diverse and healthy marine life, making it a great spot for hiking or snorkeling.

Camping is permitted on many of the islands, so why not pitch a tent and wake up to take a swim at sunrise in your private paradise.

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5. Sample the best cuisine and nightlife in vibrant Penang

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Penang is rightly renowned as a mecca for travelers seeking the world’s best street food. Beyond its famous, and often very spicy, Penang curry, there’s a whole lot more stuff to stick in your face. There are more options here than I can list, so why not take a walk down the famous Gurney Street and simply follow your nose?

As a port town with a cosmopolitan vibe, Georgetown, the capital of Penang, has a valid claim to be one of the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Malaysia. Straits Quay is the place to be if you want to soak up the coastal atmosphere with some drinks.

6. Fill your frame with color in Malacca

Giving access to the important trade route of the Malacca Straits, this is one of Malaysia’s most vital economic hubs and has a complex history to boot.

The home of the first Sultanate, all that changed when the European colonialists came calling, and the city later fell into British, Portuguese and Dutch hands. As a result, there is now a wealth of crumbling forts, churches and museums scattered around that are like a goldmine for photographers and history buffs.

The city is also an explosion of color, especially in the area around the bright pink Anglican Christ Church, a hangover from British colonization that stands in central Malacca.

But Malacca isn’t stuck in the past; both the night markets around Jonker Walk and the street art scene are a testament to the creative buzz that keeps this city feeling lively in the modern age. Go and find out why both Forbes and Lonely Planet have rated Malacca as one of Asia (and indeed even the whole world’s) best travel destinations.

7. Get in touch with nature at Taman Negara NP

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It’s hard to pick a single highlight from all Malaysia’s natural havens, but if we were forced then we’d probably opt for this national park. The deciduous forest—one of the world’s oldest—is a perfect spot for trekkers as it’s possible to climb the mountains of Bukit Teresek (easy) or Gunung Tahan (difficult), or take a gentle stroll through the treetops on the Canopy Walkway.

Adrenaline junkies can get their kicks by shooting the rapids in small wooden boats piloted by local river guides, whereas animal lovers who are willing to be patient may be rewarded with the sight of elephants and even tigers.

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8. Visit wild Orangutans in Borneo

If you’re lucky enough, there really is no substitute for seeing animals in their natural environment. When we’re talking about orangutans that means either Malaysia or Indonesia.

Even within Borneo, there are only a handful of places you can see them, but our pick would be to take a tour of the rainforest at Danum Valley Conservation Area in Sabah. While you’re there you may even catch a glimpse of rhinoceros, pygmy elephants, clouded leopards or sun bears.

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General reasons to visit Malaysia

Malaysia is a rapidly developing country that embraces its past and looks forward to a bright future. The infrastructure is excellent and there are loads of options for getting around the country to suit each budget. English is widely spoken, meaning you should find it easy to get chatting with the locals, and most visitors do not require a visa to enter.

Malaysia offers all the highlights of South East Asia—from spectacular wildlife, great beaches, booming cities, fascinating culture and amazing food—all in a single country.

Go and discover your own reasons to visit Malaysia…you won’t be disappointed!

Suggested next reading: 10 Of The Very Best Things To Do In Singapore

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So out of that vast array of places, what should be on your bucket list first? Here are our six top choices for your World Heritage odyssey, from north to south:

1. Ilulissat Icefjord, Greenland

Only by going to Antarctica is it possible to see larger scale glaciers calving into the ocean than you’ll see at the Ilulissat Icefjord site, where the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier meets the Arctic Ocean. This glacier is replete with superlatives:

• Fastest glacier in the world, moving around 40 meters every day
• Calves around 46 cubic kilometers of ice every year, more than the annual consumption of water in the USA
• Produces 10% of all the icebergs in Greenland, up to 1.5 cubic kilometers — the size of 30 football fields covered by ice as high as Mount Everest

Whether you hike along the fjord and watch the endless procession of white mountains grinding their way out to sea, or sail amongst them and have your boat rocked alarmingly from nearly a kilometer away every time a new monster berg hits the ocean, or take a helicopter flightseeing tour over the apparently endless expanse of this monstrous river of ice … vistas just don’t get much more epic than this.

And for ethereal beauty, take a sunset cruise; the colors over the water and through the ice are unforgettable — that’s a guarantee! What’s not guaranteed is a chance to see the Aurora Borealis dancing in the heavens, although if you go from January through March you have the best chance of seeing them, it’s reputed; although it is very cold in Greenland in January!

Ilulissat lies 250 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle on Greenland’s west coast; there are expedition cruises that stop by, but the usual way to get there is flying from Iceland’s Reykjavík Airport.

2. Historic District of Old Québec, Canada

The closest that you’ll get to visiting Old Europe while staying in North America is Ville de Québec (Québec City), the cradle of French civilization in North America and the only fortified city north of Mexico; it’s cobblestoned streets rising from Basse-Ville (Lower Town) along the St. Lawrence to the monumental constructions of Haute-Ville (Upper Town) make up the Historic District of Old Québec site.

The iconic structure of Vieux Québec — and allegedly the most photographed hotel in the world — is the Château Frontenac, dominating the skyline from its perch atop Cap Diamant the headlands on which Upper Town is built. There are 37 National Historic Sites all over the place, but not that often do you have the chance to stay in one, especially not one this emblematic!

Besides the Château, there are 36 other National Historic Sites in the neighborhood; the three generally acclaimed must-sees are the Citadelle de Québec, the Fortifications of Québec and the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral. However, the attractions of Québec City are not simply historical; many come for the various festivals throughout the year — the Carnaval de Québec (Quebec Winter Carnival) is one of the world’s leading winter festivities, with everything from snow sculpture competitions to ice canoe racing — or to simply enjoy the Olde Europe ambiance of cobblestones, cafés, street entertainers and shopping.

Québec City is easily reached by land, air (via Toronto or Montréal most likely), and sea; it’s a popular endpoint for cruises from Boston and New York in particular.

3. Yellowstone National Park, USA

North America is endowed with dozens of national parks of natural wonder that are also World Heritage Sites, just within the continental United States you have the world’s tallest trees in California to the spectacular Grand Canyon to the world’s largest cave complex in Kentucky to the sub-tropical wilderness of the Everglades; but for uniqueness plus historical and future significance, we give our nod to Yellowstone National Park of Wyoming (and nibbles of Montana and Idaho) for a place on our Top Six List:

• The United States’, and arguably the world’s first, national park, established in 1872
• The largest protected northern temperate natural ecosystem, refuge for emblematic wildlife like bison and grizzly bears
• Over 300 geysers, two-thirds of all known geysers in the world
• Over 10,000 geothermal features — half of all known worldwide
• Lies atop the Yellowstone Caldera, arguably the most dangerous supervolcano in the world after Lake Toba in Indonesia

That last one makes it particularly notable for its future as well as historical significance, a rarity on heritage lists: not many — in fact, no other — World Heritage Sites are fairly certain to devastate the continent they’re part of in the foreseeable — if hopefully remote — future, as explored in science fiction author Harry Turtledove’s Supervolcano series!

Unsurprisingly, Yellowstone is one of the most visited national parks with over 4 million visitors a year; June to September are the peak seasons. Personally, we recommend visiting in late April through the beginning of June — there’ll still be parts of it closed with snowfall, but that is your best season for seeing grizzly bears with their cubs and bison, elk, and antelope calves, and there won’t be the crushing crowds of summer. And we can assure you, there are not many cuter things to watch than a couple grizzly cubs gamboling in the spring sunshine.

Yellowstone can be driven into from all directions, but the generally recommended approach is to fly into Jackson Hole, Wyoming as your gateway to Grand Teton National Park as well as Yellowstone.

4. Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacán, Mexico

Contrary to the general thoughts of pyramids being associated with Egypt, there are in fact more pyramids in the Americas than in the rest of the world; and our choice for the most impressive and mysterious — in fact, an alternative name for it is ‘City of Mystery’ — is Teotihuacán, the largest, most influential, and most revered city of the pre-Columbian Americas, which influenced all later cultures and is today the most visited ancient site in Mexico.

The mystery starts with what the name of the place actually is: Teotihuacán is its name in Nahuatl, the Aztec language, which means roughly birthplace of the gods or perhaps the place where men became gods — the Aztecs discovered it when it was already in ruins, and for unclear reasons decided that it was the place of the origin of civilization. What the original inhabitants called it and what language they spoke is completely unknown; it’s debated whether the extensive pictographs found there is a writing system at all, which is even stranger considering that the literate cultures of the Maya and Zapotec are known to have had diplomatic relations with it.

Likewise, the two commanding pyramids at the site are named the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon; they were given those names by the Aztecs, and we have no idea what their builders named them; as mentioned above, the Aztecs believed this was where the current cycle of the universe began; the Spanish recorded Montezuma making pilgrimages to the site, believing it the home of “wise men, knowers of occult things, possessors of the traditions” and that the pyramids were tombs built by giants in the distant past.

And that’s not the end of the mysteries that fuel wild theories about the builders, either; one thing you can see for yourself in aerial photographs that is very odd indeed is that on the Giza Plateau, at Xi’an in China, and also at Teotihuacán, you have an arrangement of two large pyramids along the main axis and a smaller one off to the left, in proportions that strongly resemble the arrangement of the three stars in Orion’s Belt. Strange, indeed. But even without the shroud of mystery surrounding it, Teotihuacán’s influence on the Zapotecs, Maya, Toltecs, and Aztecs ensure it a place on our list.

Teotihuacán is 40 km northeast of Mexico City; it’s easily reached by car or bus or you can take a great variety of day tours, up to a hot air balloon flight over the site.

5. Tikal National Park, Guatemala

A list of this sort must have a Classical Mayan site on it … but which? Chichen-Itza? Palenque? Uxmal? Copán? Calakmul? You could argue their relative merits of architectural and cultural value endlessly, but what we decided for this list is to pick the one Mayan site that the most people in the world by far have seen on the movie screen, as it was the location of Yavin IV, the Rebel base in Star Wars: Tikal National Park in Guatemala.

Also, Tikal is one of the few World Heritage Sites to be inscribed for both its cultural and natural value; the 5 million acre Maya Forest Biosphere Reserve is located in the largest tropical forest north of the Amazon and generally considered one of the world’s foremost examples of balancing sustainable development and forest management; the cleared parts of the site are scattered throughout the jungle, so you have miles of hiking trails and even two zip lines, one with 11 platforms.

Tikal is the largest excavated site in the continent by area, with five major pyramids to visit, the tallest of which is over 70 meters high; so while you can do those five must-sees in a day trip, we recommend overnighting nearby so that you can catch the sunset over the jungle from the temple tops and then be back in the morning to catch the sunrise burning off the fog as the howler monkeys greet it with their arresting howls.

Tikal is in northern Guatemala; the nearest major airports are Belize City to the east and Guatemala City to the south, from which you can take land tours or fly to the airport at nearby Flores.

6. Cocos Island National Park, Costa Rica

Most World Heritage Sites are on land, but the 70% of the planet that is ocean has its sites too: the Archipiélago de Revillagigedo and Belize Barrier Reef are other examples, but our choice for the must-visit scuba adventure World Heritage Site in North America — in the world, actually — is Costa Rica’s Cocos Island National Park, 530 km out in the Pacific and spectacular enough to make the list of Jacque Cousteau’s top ten dive spots.

The outstanding attraction of Cocos Island is that it’s the first landmark the North Equatorial Countercurrent meets and is a confluence point for other major currents, so it’s one of the best places in the world to see large pelagic (open ocean living) species, especially hundreds-strong congregations of scalloped hammerhead sharks, but also whitetip, blacktip, silvertip, and tiger sharks, not to mention the occasional whale shark.

If you ever get tired of hundreds of schooling sharks to swim with, there are swarms of eagle rays, manta rays, marlin, sailfish, tuna, endless schools of fish, and mammals such as dolphins and even humpback whales.

Even if you’re not a scuba diver, you can still experience the deeps at Cocos; the DeepSee Submersible will take you 80 meters down at the Everest site or up to 400 meters down The Wall. For a price, but in return for a well-nigh priceless experience!

To get to Cocos Island, you’ll fly into San José, Costa Rica, and then transfer to the port town of Puntarenas and a liveaboard diving boat.

So there are our choices for the top six World Heritage Sites to visit in North America; if this has whetted your appetite for more, come follow along with us at Every World Heritage Site, where we’re working our way through not just the 1073 currently inscribed WHS, but the 1696 on the Tentative Lists for future inscriptions as well!

Suggested next reading: I Went To North Korea: Here’s What Happened

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I glimpsed people above me reaching the top, exclamations of surprise and wonder just barely reaching my ears—the sound of the steam was already deafening.

With one last push of energy, I made it up the final steps, greeted by an enormous black pit before me that hissed and thundered from the lava below. After two days of travel and just 1.5 hours of sleep, I’d arrived at Mount Bromo.

This mesmerizing volcano lives on the eastern end of the island of Java, the geographic and economic epicenter of Indonesia. Home to more than half of the Indonesian population, Java is a stunning island almost entirely of volcanic rock—but only one-third of the volcanoes are currently active.

Situated right next to the more well-known island of Bali, the majority of its inhabitants are Muslim and dominantly speak Javanese, in addition to the national language of Indonesian. Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is located on the northwest coast of the island and is the largest city in the nation of islands. (Indonesia is made up of thirteen thousand islands!)

Java is quintessential Indonesia—it boasts major metropolitan cities, lush jungles, incredible volcanoes, tea plantations, and massive temples. While most tourists head to its popular neighbor Bali, Java has flown under the radar and maintained more Indonesian authenticity.

Here are five reasons to skip Bali on your next Southeast Asian adventure and visit Java, Indonesia instead:

1. There’s less tourism, commercialism, and crowds

Java feels like a quiet retreat compared to Bali. While the most frequented areas of Bali are filled with holidaying Australians, partying hipsters, and wealthy yogis, Java feels much more untouched.

As a Westerner in Java, you’re more of an anomaly than a fixture. You can stay in a hostel in a small village in the jungle and dine on delicious local cuisine, like nasi goreng (fried rice) and tempe goreng (fried tempeh)—for half the price of a dish in Bali.

You’re able to meet locals and experience what life is like in Indonesia apart from the influx of tourists on vacation. In a nutshell? You get to see the real Indonesia.

2. Four UNESCO world heritage sites are in Java, Indonesia

Even if you only visited one of these iconic UNESCO sites, it’d be worth the trip. Just north of Yogyakarta is Borobudur Temple, a massive 9th-century Buddhist temple that ranks with Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.

Borobudur is Indonesia’s single most visited tourist attraction, and popular for watching the sunrise. (Take a motorbike from Yogyakarta and get there early, as it tends to be crowded in the early morning hours.) Prambanan Temple is another popular one, the country’s largest Hindu temple compound that originally consisting of 240 temples.

Even if you don’t pay the entrance fee, you can wander the temples and ruins on the outskirts and still get a good feel for the magnitude of it.

Ujung Kulon National Park, located on the westernmost point of Java, is a stunning lowland rainforest that is the last known refuge for the endangered Javan rhinoceros and other threatened plants and species. The park includes the famous Krakatoa reserve, home to the most-studied volcanic eruption that killed 36,000 people in 1883.

Last but not least is Sangiran, an archaeological site located in central Java that is “recognized by scientists to be one of the most important sites in the world for studying fossil man,” according to a UNESCO report. Despite not being well-preserved when it was first discovered, Sangiran now boasts a modern museum.

3. It’s home to Mount Ijen and Mount Bromo

On the eastern side of Java are two of the most stunning volcanoes. Mount Bromo is a popular destination at sunrise, with the option to travel by Jeep to the top of Mount Penanjakan for an incredible view of the volcano. A pink sea of mist envelops the ground as the sun slowly rises, illuminating the billows of steam pouring out of Bromo below.

A bit further east is the Ijen volcano, known for its one-kilometer-wide turquoise-colored crater lake that’s home to a sulfur mining operation. Most popularly, a midnight two-hour hike leads visitors to the infamous “blue fire crater” to see the otherworldly ignited sulfuric gas.

4. Yogyakarta is a cultural hotspot

A highlight of Java, Indonesia is the city of Yogyakarta, or “Yogya” as it’s affectionately known.

Home to a multitude of colleges and universities, Yogya has a large student population and a rich tradition of arts and culture. Batik textiles, traditional cooking classes, Javanese dance, and its proximity to Borobudur and Prambanan temples make it a popular tourism destination, even offering some Western comforts like restaurants serving hamburgers and beer (alcohol is hard to come by in Java, as it’s a mostly Muslim island).

Yogya is the perfect place to wander aimlessly and stumble upon rambling alleyways, bustling markets, and ancient palaces.

5. The train system is a great way to see the island

Unlike Bali, Java’s reputable rail network is a reliable way to explore the 1000-kilometer island.

Away from the Westerners that flood Bali’s buses and ride-shares like Uber and Grab, train rides in Java are easy, comfortable, and affordable. All trains offer air conditioning, power outlets, and dining cars, making a tour of the countryside an enjoyable alternative to flights. (And tickets are easy to purchase.)

You can rumble through Java’s lush green rice fields peacefully, passing volcanoes and rural towns. Trains in Java connect all the major cities and tourist destinations, including Mount Bromo, and you can take a train from Jakarta in the far West all the way to Banyuwangi in the far East, the ferry terminal for Bali.

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While Bali is indeed a gorgeous island of Hindu culture, bohemian art, and deep spirituality, it sometimes steals the spotlight from its equally-as-impressive neighbor. An ancient epicenter of colonialism and resilience, Java, Indonesia deserves more praise—and perhaps a stop on your next Southeast Asia itinerary.

Suggested next reading: How To Go Rogue And See Southeast Asia By Motorbike

The post 5 Reasons To Skip Bali And Visit Java Instead appeared first on Modern Trekker.

If most of the Moroccan cities have a traditional feel (especially when you enter the old part of a town—the medina), then Casablanca stands out mostly as a cosmopolitan city. Standing on the Atlantic Coast, the economic hub of Casablanca is one of its most prosperous cities and features elements from many different parts of Morocco, and even from Europe.

Despite being a bustling metropolis, Casablanca deserves to be explored at a slow pace as it has some terrific places that should be on everyone’s bucket list when visiting Morocco.

The Top 5 Things To Do In Casablanca Are:

1. King Hasan II Mosque
2. Ancient Medina
3. Quartier Habous
4. Cathédrale Sacré Coeur
5. Colonial Architecture Of Casablanca

1. King Hasan II Mosque

Built by the end of the 20^th Century, the Hassan II Mosque sits on a rocky outcrop reclaimed from the Atlantic Ocean. It’s one of the world’s largest mosques and its 201m-high minaret is the tallest in the world. The mosque can accommodate 25,000 worshipers inside and 80,000 more in the courtyards around. Additionally, the compound houses an Islamic media center and a library.  

The Hassan II Mosque is the only mosque in Morocco that is open to non-Muslim visitors. Once you arrive there, go down to the basement floor in the courtyard and buy your ticket. Every two hours (except on Friday mornings), guided tours take place inside the mosque. You’ll be required to respect the Muslim dressing code and remove your shoes when you enter their holy place.

The tour will take you to the main prayer hall, decorated with traditional tile-work (zellij) and stucco molding. When I visited the mosque, I was lucky to see the retractable roof gently open up. The guide told us it was a unique occasion in honor for the King Mohammed VI of Morocco who was planning a visit that day to the mosque.

Further on, the tour goes to the underground floors where you can see the rooms for ablutions and even a hammam (public bath).

Before leaving the mosque’s compound, don’t forget to tour the grounds too. There are many courtyards and the exterior of the mosque is impressively decorated in white marble and colorful mosaics.

2. Ancient Medina

You may think that going to a modern city such as Casablanca would mean that you won’t find traces of the old city center. However, Casa (how Casablanca is dubbed by locals) has a small medina built in the 19^th Century and located between the modern part of Casablanca and the old port.

The walled medina features many of the authentic elements of a Moroccan old town, such as mighty fortification walls, narrow winding lanes, and storefronts lining the streets. Enter the medina next to the Place des Nations Square and you’ll see the old clock tower—a good landmark to ask for in case you get lost in the medina (which is pretty likely to happen).

On the boulevard facing the port, an old bastion of the medina’s fortifications has been refurbished as the Skala Restaurant. If you dine in the garden of the restaurant in the shade of the trees while listening to the water fountains, you will notice the complex fortification system of the old medina.

The ancient medina is also one of the top things to do in Casablanca at night since you will not be hounded by salesmen, and moreover, it will look slightly eerie and spooky!

3. Quartier Habous

The gentrified market district Quartier Habous is also called the Nouvelle Medina (meaning the New Medina). The picturesque quarter was built by the French to resemble the traditional architecture of an old Moroccan medina using modern colonial elements.

The quarter features streets with shops, bazaars, and cafés and it’s definitely more sanitized than the ancient versions of Moroccan medinas.

Habous is located 1km from the city center and it’s pretty easy to walk throughout the quarter once you get there. The imposing Muhammadi Mosque with its minarets stands in the heart of the quarter, surrounded by a park with palm trees and fountains. Nearby, the magnificent Royal Palace features whitewashed towers and high walls of stone.

4. Cathédrale Sacré Coeur

On the northwest edge of the Parc de la Ligue Arabe, Cathédrale Sacré Coeur is a good example of modern architecture with neo-Gothic elements. The graceful cathedral was designed by Paul Tournon and built at the beginning of the 20^th Century as proof of the French Colonization in Morocco.

The surrounding park also features colorful arches built to resemble a portico of a Christian monastery. Visiting a Christian place in an Islamic landscape is one of the more unusual things to do in Casablanca, but this impressive cathedral features an austere interior, with tall white pillars and colorfully stained glass windows in the altar.

One of the highlights of this landmark is the possibility to climb up one of its bell towers and have expansive views of the modern part of Casablanca. If you carefully look toward the ocean, you’ll even be able to spot the imposing minaret of the above-mentioned King Hassan II Mosque.

5. Colonial Architecture Of Casablanca

Casablanca has a rich architectural heritage dating back to the beginning of the 20^th Century. While local motifs had a powerful influence and led to the so-called Mauresque style, colonial architecture can be found in abundance in Casablanca. Due to its high architectural value, the city center was even suggested as a tentative addition to the exclusive list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The grand centerpiece of the French building scheme spreads out between Mohammed V Boulevard and Mohamed V Square. Most of the buildings are hotels or administrative offices built during the French protectorate under the signature of some of the most famous French architects of the time, Robert Marrast and Henri Prost.

Moreover, the main Post Office, the Law Courts, or the old Police Headquarters are also fine examples of modern colonial architecture in Casablanca. Wander the streets of this neighborhood and admire the art déco paneling or the colonial motifs on the buildings.

Once you get to Mohamed V Boulevard, look out for the Petit Poucet bar and pavement café. The place was once frequented by important names such as Édith Piaf and Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

Here were our top 5 things to do in Casablanca, Morocco, but we could have listed a few more such as La Corniche, Mahkama du Pacha, Notre Dame de Lourdes, and even the Morocco Mall!

Let us know how you get on and please feel free to share any of your own tips or ideas in the comments below!

Suggested next reading: 11 Super Important Tips For People Who Are Traveling Solo To Morocco

The post Top 5 Things To Do In Casablanca, Morocco appeared first on Modern Trekker.

From electrifying southern hemisphere countries like Colombia and Tahiti to harder-to-get-to regions such as Kyrgyzstan, here are the top travel destinations for this year. Not only are these countries exciting, but some of them also offer the best places to visit on a budget too!

The 10 Best Countries To Visit Are:

1. Liechtenstein
2. Tahiti
3. Greenland
4. Malta
5. Kyrgyzstan
6. Austria
7. Wales
8. Kenya
9. Sri Lanka
10. Colombia

Now let’s explore each of these hottest travel destinations this year!

1. Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is a tiny independent country, sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria. With a small population of just 35,000 people and 160 square kilometers in area, Liechtenstein is well known for its picturesque alpines.

The country is perfect for both vocational and business trips due to its favorable tax laws. Additionally, the country is also blessed with top-rated sites such as exquisite mountains, thrilling hiking trails that feature routes around Falkins and Naafkopf—the two tallest peaks in Liechtenstein.

There are also historic museums, medieval castles, and also skiing as well as other winter activities. Some of the most visited spots in Liechtenstein are the capital city Vaduz—because of its picturesque nature, the Treasure Chamber, the state of the art Kunstmuseum, the Gutenberg Castle, among other attractions.

2. Tahiti

Tahiti is quite an exotic place that should be in your list of best places to travel. The country is made up of 118 islands featuring iconic black sand beaches. The best way to experience Tahiti is to immerse yourself into its culture and do and see as much as possible.

Each of the three islands has its unique own way of charming the visitors. Tahiti has numerous hidden gems, and getting a tour guide—preferably locals—will ensure that you discover most of the hidden sights you would never be able to do on your own.

Bora Bora is the most famous island in Tahiti and receives almost half of the countries visitors, and for good reason. The island is known for its exquisite over-water bungalows as well as luxury beach resorts. It has crystal blue waters, coral reefs, and incredible cuisine. The island is simply beautiful.

But that is just a fraction of what Tahiti is all about.

Rangiroa Island is notorious for diving among other adventure-packed activities. Another island, Moorea is another one perfect for an active vacation.

3. Greenland

Greenland had to make our list of top 10 places in the world. The country features extraordinary landscapes, unique wildlife, iceberg-choked fjords (most of Greenland is actually white because of ice, despite the name “Green”-land), as well as intriguing tundra.

The country has seen the number of visitors surge in recent years, especially after Lonely Planet listed it as one of the Top 10 Countries to Visit in its “Best in Travel” docu-series. Nevertheless, Greenland is so vast and remote, making the thought of exploring it reminiscent of centuries gone when travelers would visit it itching to explore.

Some of the fun activities you can enjoy while on vacation to Greenland include kayaking, watching the Aurora Borealis on 300 clear nights every year as well as the Ilulissat Ice-fjord (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

4. Malta

Malta is a Mediterranean island close to North Africa and Sicily. Malta offers one of the best vocational experiences on a budget.

Among the top-rated spots, there is the Malta at War Museum that offers tours of a massive World War II underground shelter, Lascaris War Rooms, and Mnajdra and Hagar Qim—among the oldest stone buildings in the world (also a UNESCO World Heritage Sites).

Visit Malta for a truly authentic experience of Mediterranean culture on a budget.

5. Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is a country situated in remote Central Asia. It gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and opened for tourism just a few years ago.

For this reason, it is less surprising that few people know about this hidden gem known as Kyrgyzstan. It is a very peaceful nation with a perfect balance between isolation, authenticity and moderately developed tourist infrastructure.

You will actually encounter the nomadic culture, something that cannot be said for every nomadic culture regions in the world. After all, it was Kyrgyzstan who hosted the last World Nomad Games. The people here will let you eat and/or sleep in their yurt. Furthermore, you will be allowed to help with their daily errands such as milking and making butter.

The country also has stunning and easily accessible landscapes, ranging from high altitude mountainous lagoons to velvet-green hills, snow-covered peaks as well as huge, wide valleys containing beautiful wildflowers.

6. Austria

Austria is, without a doubt, one of the top travel destinations in the world. The country has beautiful alpine landscapes, fascinating mountain villages, as well as a unique passion for coffee.

One of the best tourist spots in the country is the capital city, Vienna. Dubbed the “city with the best quality of life” 8 times in a row by Mercer, many cities in the world find it hard to compete with Vienna for this accolade because they can’t offer what Vienna offers. This includes low crime rates, cheap rents, clean air, as well as rich culture.

Austria is also perfect for those seeking outdoor vacations because it has dramatic alpine summits suitable for hikers. Besides the landscapes, Austria also is known for its rich in culture, art, and music. Lastly, Austria is a world-renowned confectionery country. Visit Austria for sweet treats and unique coffee.

7. Wales

Wales is the smallest country making up Britain, and it offers many pleasant reasons to visit. The best starting point to explore Wales will be the south, which includes the capital city, Cardiff.

Wales is widely known for its pristine castles, arcades, and prehistoric buildings. Much of the country is blessed with beautiful scenery including heritage railways, gardens, and fortifications.

In addition, there is nothing more pleasant about visiting a foreign country than experiencing the nice hospitality there. The Welsh are a very interesting and easygoing people who will gladly welcome you into their beautiful country.

The most outstanding attraction is Snowdonia—a mountainous range consisting of 14 magnificent peaks rising as high as 3,000 feet. The famous Snowdon summit, which is 3,546-foot tall, is easily accessible by train.

8. Kenya

Where do we even start? Kenya is surely one of the best countries to visit this year! First of all, Kenya is a household name for safari lovers, and secondly, no other place in the world conjures up such feelings of adventure and romance.

The range of things to do amazes all who visit but witnessing the country’s rich wildlife always tops the list. Few things on this planet will dazzle you more than viewing throngs of wildebeest thundering through the savanna in Great Migration at the Maasai Mara.

Besides the safari parks, Kenya has also one of the most beautiful coastlines where you can snorkel and dive to explore the fish-rich coral reefs. Or you can just chill on pearly beaches, soaking in the Swahili culture and cuisines. Kenya is such an astounding country, surrounded by mountain ranges and calderas!

Furthermore, the Great Rift Valley cuts through the country, dividing it into a remarkably picturesque landscape. You can hike snow-cloaked peaks of Mount Kenya, and fish in crystal-clear streams.

To have the first-hand experience of Kenya’s colorful colonial history, head to the capital Nairobi. This city is the entry to one of the world’s most thrilling travel destinations.

9. Sri Lanka

Once described by Marco Polo as one of the best islands in the world, Sri Lanka has a magnificent history that dates back centuries ago. Despite its small size, the island has so much to offer in terms of beauty, nature, and history.

Explore the beautiful beaches, extraordinary jungles, acres of tea plantations, and temples. One place that is a must-visit is the pristine colonial city of Galle. The town is full of Dutch-era structures as well as wonderful seaside views. The city also has a natural harbor, an international stadium, and St. Mary’s Cathedral, which are all worth exploring.

Alternatively, visit Yala National Park to see Sri Lanka’s big cats. The park has the highest concentration of leopards than any other place in the world. It is also home to Sri Lankan elephants, aquatic birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and many other game animals.

10. Colombia

There is so much to enjoy in Colombia that a one day visit won’t be enough. From golden sandy beaches of Pacific and Caribbean coasts to the famous Amazon rainforest and Andes Mountains.

At first glance, you will notice a heritage that mirrors the culture of indigenous Colombian as well as the early settlers Spanish. Colombia has made significant strides in a bid to be a leading tourist country in South America following its dark past that was riddled with dangerous drug gangs.

These days, Colombia is one of the safest places for travelers. Visit Zona Cafetera for a glimpse of the origin of one of the world’s finest coffees. You can also go to El Parque del Café, a park with a botanical garden to learn more about coffee.

Bogota, the capital city of Colombia is tucked in the Andes at 2,640 meters high and has numerous sightseeing spots including a gold museum, cultural events, botanical gardens, and a thriving nightlife.

What do you make of our list of the best countries to visit this year? Do you agree that these are the best places to travel in the world, or have we missed any hidden gems out? Feel free to comment below!

Suggested next reading: The Most Beautiful Places In The World To Visit

The post 10 Best Countries To Visit This Year appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Where You Can Go On Holiday In March That’s Hot

Let’s now go into more details about each location to help you work out the best places to go on holiday in March for you.

1. Dominican Republic

If you’re looking for where is hot and cheap in March, the Dominican Republic is it. With average daily temperatures of about 26°C / 79°F in Punta Cana, the city at the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic.

It is basically the best of the Carribean for cheap with incredible beaches around the towns of Cabarete, Samaná and the island of Cayo Levantado. Other fantastic places to visit include Santo Domingo, which was founded by Bartholomew Columbus in 1496 and is the oldest inhabited European settlement in the Americas.

It is also a great spot for honeymooners with the romantic town of Punta Cana being a great option to visit if you’re looking for a memorable time.

2. Mexico

With an average temperature of 25°C / 77°F in March in the city of Cancun (located in its easternmost side), Mexico has SO much to offer in terms of cheap fun in the sun.

From incredible beaches such as Tulum, Cancun, or Playa del Carmen, to wondrous sights such as the Yucatán Peninsula or the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, there is a huge range of things to do.

Another thing: the food.

You won’t just be warm in the sun but you’ll be feasting on the delicious fiery food of Mexico. Delicious tacos will be costing you less than a dollar and you’ll have plenty of change to munch on Mollettes and huevos rancheros.

Another thing: the people.

Friendly, charming, expressive, vibrant and Catholic, what could be better? And the music too is a treat…Basically, Mexico is one of the best places to visit in March for you.

3. Thailand

The hottest month of the year in Southeast Asia is April so March really is an ideal time to visit. For example, the average temperature for Bangkok during March is around 30°C / 86°F.

Known for being ridiculously cheap, you can sleep in double rooms with a fan for about $7–$10 per night, dorm beds for about $4-$7, and quite luxurious hotels for only around $70.

You average street food meal will cost you around $1-$2, with nicer restaurants costing about $2–$7 per person.

Also, Thailand has so much to offer from its many islands, great beaches, scenery, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, National Parks, and super cities such as Chiang Mai.

4. Philippines

Pretty much everything that has been said about Thailand above can also be applied to the Philippines. It is a little bit cooler than Thailand in March with average daily temperatures in Manila being around 28°C / 82°F, but this might actually suit some people.

The benefit of the Philippines is that they usually have cheaper domestic flights on offer, meaning you can explore it more for cheap. The Philippines also pips Thailand in terms of natural beauty and scenery.

It can be a bit of a toss-up between whether to choose Thailand or the Philippines! If you’d like more info on this interesting debate, check this post out.

5. Laos

Another Southeast Asian country that has warm weather in March, the average daily temperature in Vientiane (Lao’s capital city) is around 29°C / 84°F.

Lao has been dubbed Asia’s “sleeping beauty” and is known for its coffee culture, green surroundings, gorgeous sunsets (see picture above), waterfalls, and great food.

There are many interesting things to do, such as taking the slow boat, visiting the charming little town of Luang Prabang (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the slice of heaven that is Vang Vieng (pictured), the Plain Of Jars, and so much more.

6. Nepal

In Kathmandu, Nepal‘s capital, the average daily temperature sits around 26°C / 79°F, making it another great option if you’re thinking about where can I go on holiday in March that’s hot.

Nepal is rugged, untamed, beautiful and is a wonderful place to visit if you like hikes. But hikes isn’t all it has to offer, from jungle walks to biking, rafting, kayaking, and seeing the Himalayas, Nepal is a great option for adrenalin junkies who want to visit somewhere completely new and fresh.

7. Brazil

Huge, colorful and vibrant, Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro is around 26°C / 79°F during March—the same as Kathmandu in Nepal. So not too hot, but not too cold either!

Whether it be dancing Brazilian style, checking out great sights such as Iguaçu Falls, Christ the Redeemer, Corcovado, Sugarloaf Mountain, or seeing why their beaches are to die for, or relishing in the fact that Brazilians love tourists, you won’t get bored.

After all, it’s such a big country (the 5^th largest in the world) that there are a plethora of things to do. And, moreover, great things to do on a budget! Like all the other countries in this post, Brazil is surprisingly affordable.

You can have nice Brazilain breakfasts at local cafés for about $2.50-$8 and taking the subway is your cheapest way to get around costing only about $1. Of course, prices vary depending on where you go and what you do, but with a bit of planning Brazil can turn out to be one of the best places to go on holiday in March!

8. Tenerife (Spain)

One of the best places to visit in March in Europe (well, at least culturally Europe), Tenerife is actually a Spanish island with an average daily temperature of 20°C / 67°F that lies just off Northwest Africa.

Bursting with marine life from orcas to bottlenosed dolphins and sperm whales, you’ll have lots to do if you love the sea and diving. Also, the Catalan and traditional Spanish cuisine only enhance the experience of sitting in the sun and enjoying the sea.

On that note: Tenerife is known for being sunny all year round so, in March, it’ll be a safe bet and a cheap escape since flights to Tenerife can often be ridiculously low (at least if you’re flying from Europe).

Basically, if you’re based somewhere in Europe right now and wondering where you can go on holiday in March that’s hot, Tenerife is a great option since it isn’t too geographically far away from Europe and, in a sense, is in Europe since it’s a Spanish island and so feels quite European.

9. Morocco

With the average daily temperature in Marrakesh (Morocco’s capital) being around 17°C / 63°F, Morocco might just be the perfect getaway if you’re a pasty European (like me) who is itching to fly somewhere exotic and unique, yet only on the short haul.

The unique blend of Arabic, Berber, and French culture in Morocco will charm you, and if you’re an architecture buff, you’ll LOVE Morocco. From the Mosques to the tombs built for royalty, to even great archeological sites, Morocco boasts so many interesting spots for architecture.

Check out Chefchaouen, the blue painted town, or trek the Atlas mountains, or go on a desert tour. If you’re looking to travel on a budget, then check out the city of Fes—which tends to be cheaper than Marrakesh.

Furthermore, if you plan to travel to Morocco on your own a female, be sure to also check out our tips for you.

10. South Africa

With Cape Town’s (the capital of South Africa) average temperature of 21°C / 69°F in March, South Africa is another perfect option for those looking for the best places to go on holiday in March.

Go on a safari, check out Kruger National Park, relax on Boulders Beach, all while enjoying the rays. Not to mention its also a gorgeous country.

South Africa is becoming known as one of the go-to places for adventure travel, so get out there and kayak with crocodiles, check out all the wildlife such as hippos swimming in dams, turtles laying eggs, and finding the world’s smallest lizard.

Even better yet, what most tourists remark on when visiting South Africa is how cheap everything is!

So, if you were that person who was saying to themselves, “where can I go on holiday in March that’s hot?” I hope this answered your question! Please let us know how you get on, and also feel free to comment if you have any other suggestions for our readers!

Suggested next reading: 10 Cheap & Warm Countries Perfect For People Who Hate The Cold

The post Where Can I Go On Holiday In March That’s Hot? appeared first on Modern Trekker.

It’s a big, wide world out that there and it’s full of some of the most beautiful sights that you can imagine. Make sure that you get the most out of your year wherever you go. If you need a little inspiration, here are the 10 most beautiful places in the world that actually exist!

The Most Beautiful Places In The World To Visit Are:

1. Petra, Jordan
2. Keukenhof, Holland
3. Svalbard, Norway
4. Niagara Falls, Canada/USA
5. Swiss Alps, Switzerland
6. Highlands, Scotland
7. Venice, Italy
8. Sunset Beach, Hawaii
9. Ayers Rock, Australia
10. The Grand Canyon, USA

1. Petra, Jordan

Originally known to the people that lived there as Raqmu, this ancient and stunning city is actually carved into the rose-colored rock that makes up the walls of a valley. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and was named as one of the “New7Wonders of the World”.

A truly awe-inspiring place and uniquely beautiful in its structures and craftsmanship, Petra is a remarkable place to visit and truly worth seeing.

2. Keukenhof, Holland

Between the middle of March and May tulip season arrives in Holland and Keukenhof is probably the place to see these beautiful flowers in all their glory.

Known as Europe’s garden, you will be in for a feast for the eyes whatever time of year you visit but try to go in the springtime to see field upon field of these joyful flowers.

3. Svalbard, Norway

Svalbard is a group of islands at the very north of Norway and is the place to be if you want to catch a display of the Aurora Borealis. The Northern Lights as they are often called are stunning, natural displays of light that can be seen in high latitude areas.

Auroras are caused when the magnetosphere is disrupted by the solar wind and—well, it’s complicated science stuff, but it’s absolutely glorious and you will not forget it!

4. Niagara Falls, Canada / USA

Straddling the international border between Canada and the USA, Niagara Falls is a spectacular group of three waterfalls.

Big, wet and wild, people have done such mad things as going over the edge of them in a barrel! Although this is not a recommended activity, you can go on a boat around the base of the falls. Take your coat and your camera!

5. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Who doesn’t love a good mountain? The famous Swiss Alps is one of the most impressive mountain ranges to be found on planet earth and definitely the biggest and highest in Europe.

If you like skiing then you are in for a treat, if you don’t like skiing, you are still in for a treat. There are lots of cool places to stay around here and it is a must see for those who like their peaks spectacular.

6. Highlands, Scotland

Whilst they aren’t quite as big as the Alps (but few things are!) The Scottish Highlands maintain a rugged beauty that is all its own.

If wild, unkempt nature is your bag, then head to bonny Scotland and check out some of the most evocative landscapes that you will ever see.

7. Venice, Italy

This unique and infinitely photogenic city actually consists of a group of 118 small islands that are separated by canals and waterways and connected by over 400 bridges.

World famous for its beautiful architecture and artworks, prepare yourself for a city break unlike any other.

8. Sunset Beach, Hawaii

Situated on the north shore of the island of Hawaii, Pūpūkea’s Sunset Beach is a famous surfing spot renowned for its big waves.

This two-mile stretch of golden sand is also, as its name suggests, famed for its picturesque sunsets. Sun, sea and sand is a timeless combination and this is one of the finest that the world has to offer.

9. Ayers Rock, Australia

Its proper name is Uluru but most will know this giant sandstone formation as Ayers Rock.

It is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the world and famous for appearing to change color at different times of year and day. This is most apparent when it glows a very photogenic red at dawn and dusk.

This is probably one of the best spots in the world to catch a good sunrise or sunset!

10. The Grand Canyon, USA

Continuing with the theme of impressive rocks for a moment. The world-famous Grand Canyon is an American icon. The sheer size and scale of this giant gash in the earth is breathtaking.

At 277 miles long, a mile deep and in places, 18 miles wide, this spectacular natural wonder has fascinated tourists for years. Go and see it and be amazed!

So, there we have it, our top 10 most beautiful places in the world to visit! Hopefully you’ve taken some inspiration from it. Go and enjoy 2019 and treat your senses to some of the most beautiful places in the world!

Suggested next reading: 10 Of The Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Norway

The post 10 Of The Most Beautiful Places In The World To Visit appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Visiting a castle should always be near the top of your bucket list. These fortresses still carry their glory and when you step your foot in one, you will stop imagining how life was before and actually start feeling it, living it!

You can experience first-hand the life of kings who conquered many battles, the queens who stood by them, and the people who put their sweat, blood, and in some instances, lives, into constructing these outstanding fortresses that have stood the test of time.

In this article, we are going to put together 16 of the best castles around the world you can visit. The list also includes the best castles in Europe. But first, here’s a summary of the best castles in the world, with more info on each castle following below!

The Best Castles In The World Are:

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

This castle stands in the Bavaria Alps in Germany and it was in this place that Ludwig II spent his childhood. The castle attracts over 1.5 million every year making Neuschwanstein one of the most visited places in the world.

Best time to visit. You can visit this castle at any time of the year, be it when its peaks are covered by snow or gleaming-white due to the summer sun. Nevertheless, Neuschwanstein receives around 6,000 daily tourists so it may be best to avoid visiting during the peak months in the summer like July and August.

To beat the long waiting lines, try to arrive at the Ticketcenter Hohenschwangau as early as possible, even before it opens. Alternatively, you can get there any time after 3pm when there are small crowds.

Another useful tip is to plan for your Neuschwanstein Castle visit on weekdays or schedule your tour during the off-season. Additionally, if you want to treat yourself or family to a great experience during the end of the year’s festive seasons, the number of tourists to Neuschwanstein usually drops considerably between the months of November and April.

Interesting fact. Neuschwanstein Castle inspired Disney’s Magic Kingdom castle.

2. Karlštejn Castle

This fairy tale castle is located in Czechia (the Czech Republic) and was built by Emperor Charles IV in 1348AD.

Best time to visit. If you are planning to visit Karlstejn, there is no best time to visit throughout the year—it’s great all year round! The red roof architecture of Karlstejn Castle, with its lush hidden gardens, and the majestic winding River Vltava will constantly provide new charming perspectives every time you visit. Whether it is Spring, Winter, Autumn, or Summer, just pack your bags and get ready for a wonderful experience.

Interesting fact. After Germany took over the Czech Republic in 1939, Adolf Hitler spent the night in the Karstejn Castle “proudly surveying his new possessions.”

3. Pena Palace

Pena Palace is located in Sao Pedro de Penaferrim, Sintra, Portugal. It is nestled on top of the Sintra Mountains overlooking the city of Sintra. This Portuguese gothic castle constitutes one of the major modern day’s expressions of Romanticism.

Additionally, the castle is still used by the country’s president for state occasions. Apart from being a Portuguese national heritage, the palace is also one the country’s Seven Wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best time to visit. The medieval village that surrounds Pena Palace makes it one of the best castles you can visit. But like any astounding place on earth, it’s better before the large crowds arrive. If you want to enjoy your tour best, consider arriving at Pena Palace around 9am to beat the morning crowd or late afternoon around 5pm when the crowd grows thin. This will work especially well if your hotel is in Sintra. And why not? Sintra has one of the most prestigious hotels in Portugal called The Tivoli Hotel Seteais Palace.

Interesting fact. If you are in Lisbon on a clear day, you can actually see Pena Palace.

4. Malbork Castle

Take a trip to Central Europe and you will find one of the best castles in Europe. Malbork Castle is also popularly known as the Castle of the Teutonic Order, and this 13^th Century Teutonic palace is specifically located in Malbork town of Poland. It was famously enlarged and enhanced when the Grand Master seat was moved from Venice to here. Today, it occupies a staggering 21 hectares, making it the world largest castle by land area.

Best time to visit. Malbork Castle is open to the public all year long, from 9am to 8pm. The area around the Castle features crystal clear lakes and rivers, making Spring to early Autumn the best time to visit.

Interesting fact. Malbork Castle is the world’s largest castle built in brick and the largest brick structure in the world. The castle was originally called Marienburg, in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Jesus’ mother.

5. Hohenzollern Castle

This castle is located in the southernmost city of Deutschland and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany.

Best time to visit. If you are planning on visiting Hohenzollern Castle, do so between May and September when the days are longer.

Interesting fact. The castle was completely destroyed by Swabian rulers in 1423 but was built again in 1454. This time bigger than before.

6. Eltz Castle

Another one of Germany’s medieval castles. This 12^th Century castle was built above a 70m tall hill surrounded on three of its sides by the Elzbach River in Wierschem, Germany.

Best time to visit. Eltz Castle can be best explored when you arrive early in the morning, between 9.30 and 11.00 or late afternoon between 3.30 and 5.30. Tours of the castle normally begin every 15 minutes.

Interesting fact. Despite Germany being hit heavily during the two world wars, Eltz Castle was never touched and is one of the best-preserved castles in Germany.

7. Eilean Donan Castle

This is one of the castles you can visit in Britain. It is located on Eilean Donan Island in Scotland. If you are Scottish, you have probably seen it on shortbread tins and calendars!

Best time to visit. Just like many of the world’s best castles, the best time to visit Eilean Castle is very early in the morning and late in the afternoon. The castle has varying opening and closing hours so check the official site for up to date info.

Interesting fact. Eilean Castle is currently owned by the Macrae family, the Highland Scottish clan. Many people are familiar with the castle from seeing it in movies, as it has been featured in close to ten movies.

8. Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in the world. It is located in Berkshire, England, and this castle is a royal residence of the British royal family.

Best time to visit. Unlike other castles in this list, Windsor castle has limited public access, but you can still visit. If you want to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, arrive at the place at 11.30 or earlier. There is no Changing of the Guard on the Lord’s day (the Guards deserve a day off to tour the castle too!)

Interesting fact. Windsor Castle is the longest-occupied palace in the world.

9. Oberhofen Castle

This castle is located on the shores of Lake Thun in Switzerland, was built around the 13^th Century, and is the home of a living museum.

Best time to visit. The castle is only open between May and October, from Tuesday to Sunday from 11am-5pm. In July and August, the castle closes at 6pm.

Interesting fact. The castle features a tower that is actually in the lake!

10. Schwerin Castle

Schwerin Castle is located in the city of Schwerin, Germany and has been the home of the dukes and grand dukes of Mecklenburg. With so many German castles making this list we’d not be surprised if you began to wonder which country has the most castles in the world. (Surprisingly the answer is actually Wales, not Germany!)

Best time to visit. The castle is open from March to November between Tuesday and Sunday. There are usually no large crowds in Schwerin Castle so you can visit any time of the day or year and enjoy it without the fuss!

Interesting fact. Schwerin Castle can be seen in the movie Kingsman: The Golden Circle.

11. Castello Scaligero

The only Italian castle to make this list of the best castles around the world, it’s nonetheless fully deserving of its place. Located in the Lombardy region of Northwest Italy, Castello Scaligero is one of the best preserved of Italy’s thousands of castles.

Owned by the noble Scaligeri family, the Lords of Verona, this castle was built in the 13^th Century. Strikingly beautiful as it is perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking Lake Garda, this castle has had a rich and full history having been in the hands of the Italians, French and Austrians at various points.

There is a lot to learn about the history of this castle and region by visiting here. And, what’s even better, making your way to the top of the tower will reward you with an exquisite view of Lake Garda.

Best time to visit. Since it can still be a bit wet and cold here even as late as April, we’d recommend visiting Castello Scaligero from May to September.

Interesting fact. In 1924 tombstones were discovered with Latin markings to the pagan goddess Iside, indicating that the ancient Etruscans were perhaps the first inhabitants of the area surrounding Lake Garda.

12. Swallow’s Nest Castle

This castle is located in Gaspra, Ukraine. Built between 1911 and 1912, Swallow’s Nest castle hangs on top of Aurora Cliff, 40-meters high.

Best time to visit. Swallow’s is open between 9am-7pm from May to October and 9am-4pm from November to April. The castle is closed on Mondays.

Interesting fact. The Swallow’s Nest castle was first built by a wounded general who visited Crimea while seeking treatment after being given the land by the empire.

13. Balmoral Castle

Another Scottish castle making the list. Balmoral Castle is situated in Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, Scotland.

Best time to visit. The castle is not usually crowded so if you are planning for a visit, it opens at 10am and closes at 5pm.

Interesting fact. Did you know that Balmoral Castle is royal property and that Queen Victoria personally laid the castle’s foundation stone back in September 1853? Now you know.

14. Chateau de Pierrefonds

This medieval structure is situated in the County of Valois, France and it was built in 1328AD.

Best time to visit. The castle is open daily from 9.30am-6pm between May and August, and 10am-1pm between September to April. It is closed on Mondays.

Interesting fact. The entrance to Chateau de Pierrefonds is located in the weakest part of the wall.

15. Chateau de Chambord

This castle is located in Chambord, Loir-et-Cher, France. It was built in 1519 and is one of the world’s most popular chateaux.

Best time to visit. Planning for a tour of Chateau de Chambord? It is open from 10am-5pm from October to March. The castle opens every day except for Christmas and January 1^st.

Interesting fact. There are over 400 rooms in the Chateau de Chambord, and 84 staircases.

16. Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau Castle is a half hour walk away from Neuschwanstein Castle (the 1^st castle mentioned on this list). Built by King Maximilian II of Bavaria in the 19^th Century, this is where King Ludwig II of Bavaria stayed as a child.

Best time to visit. The castle is open from 10am-4pm during Winter and 9am-6pm during Summer, but is closed on December 24^th and January 1^st. Visit during the Summer for the best odds for a fantastic day, but seeing it in the snow around December-March would also be a great choice!

Interesting fact. The castle was first mentioned in 1397 under the name of “Schwanstein”, meaning that at some point in the 19^th Century it switched its name with Neuschwanstein Castle.

What do you think is the best castle in the world? Did it make the cut in our list? Did we miss it out? Leave a comment below.

Suggested next reading: 6 Of The Best Castles To Visit In England That Have Incredible History

The post 16 Best Castles In The World You Can Visit appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Don’t worry, we feel the same way about you guys!

Even for those of us who have continental Europe on our doorsteps, there’s so much to discover that we all end up feeling the same way. Europe is littered with spots that have all the charm of the major destinations but without the major crowds and inflated prices.

So, which countries are best to visit in Europe? If you want to get a bit off-the-beaten-path and get a little more bang for your buck then here are the 6 most underrated European countries to visit!

The Most Underrated European Countries To Visit Are:

Let’s now discuss each of these underrated countries in Europe to visit!

1. Slovenia

Nestled between Italy, Austria and Croatia, little Slovenia has all the charm of its bigger brothers but at a fraction of the cost. Ljubljana, the capital, boasts an imposing castle, a charming Old Town, and a scenic river, all of which make it an ideal city to explore on foot.

The coastal town of Piran is another tourist draw, thanks to its stunning architecture and laid-back feel. It’s everything you’d want from Venice or Dubrovnik, but without the overcrowding and expense. The reef just off-shore is also an excellent place to spot seahorses if you’re lucky.

Away from the towns, Slovenia is a mountain country with stunning alpine landscapes in abundance. The fossils, karsts and canyons of Skocjan and Postojna caves should definitely be on your list if you’re heading here, as should a trip to Vintgar Gorge.

For many, though, the country’s most photogenic spot is undoubtedly Lake Bled. A castle on a hilltop; a church on an island; the whole thing surrounded by forests and mountains; it’s the archetypal European fairy-tale landscape.

2. Bosnia & Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina has endured some difficult times in the recent past, but its fascinating history and beautiful scenery mean that its well-and-truly one of the most interesting places to visit in Europe.

The bullet marks still riddling the buildings in Sarajevo’s “Sniper Alley”—once the most dangerous street in the world—are haunting reminders of the conflict that left this city besieged for almost four years. The site of Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s assassination, the event that triggered World War I, can also be found here. It’s well worth hiring a local guide, therefore, to understand the capital’s turbulent past.

But Bosnia and Herzegovina is a defiant country. Bruised but not beaten, it has repaired much of the damage that was done during the war and looks forward to a bright future. There is perhaps no better example of this than the bridge at Mostar. Destroyed by Croatian armed forces in 1993, the bridge has been rebuilt and is once again the centerpiece of this charming town. In the summer the city’s young people jump joyfully from the bridge into the river below.

3. Albania

It’s probably fair to say that Albania might not have always received the best press in the past. Ask most people what they imagine when they think of the country and they’ll picture a drab, grey sort of place.

However, take a walk through the city streets of Tirana and you’ll see that nothing could be further from the truth. The vibrant paintwork that now adorns the capital’s offices and apartments is not merely cosmetic, it is symbolic. These colorful streets show the world that Albania is opening up and is eager to show off its many charms.

Among these are Albania’s many beautiful beaches, the best of which can be found near the town of Dhermi. Albania has striking landscapes, too. The “blue hole”, a natural spring in Albania’s Delvine District, is one picture-perfect example, as are the hot springs at Benja. The ancient town of Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows”, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a perfect introduction to Albania’s old-world charm.

Of course, there are plenty of reminders Albania’s crippling Communist regime scattered around the country, too. The pyramid dedicated to Head of State, Enver Hoxha, in Tirana, may have fallen into disrepair but thankfully the building itself still stands. It’s now possible to walk up the sides of the building for views out over Tirana.

4. Montenegro

Montenegro is an underrated European country brimming with incredible scenery and charming old towns, and all hemmed in between the mountains and the sea.

Perhaps the country’s defining geological feature is the Tara Canyon, a river gorge so deep it is surpassed only by the Grand Canyon. The best way to appreciate the canyon is undoubtedly by organizing a rafting tour over the river rapids, but if all that sounds a bit too energetic, make for Djurdjevica Bridge, a vantage point with breath-taking views along the canyon.

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor, with its Romanesque churches and winding avenues, is perhaps the most picturesque Old Town in Montenegro. The coastal settlement of Budva runs it a close second, however, and both should be right at the top of your itinerary.

If a trip to the beach is on the agenda then head to Sveti Stefan, a medieval town turned luxury resort on a tiny island in the Adriatic.

5. Romania

Everyone knows Europe has a bunch of awesome castles, but perhaps not that many know some of the best can be found in Romania.

Peles Castle, the former Royal Residence, is so picturesque it’s bordering on kitsch. Corvin Castle is a grand mammoth of a thing. The most famous, Bran Castle, is where Vlad the Impaler was once imprisoned and served as the inspiration for Count Dracula’s dwelling-place in the Bram Stoker novel.

Actually, it turns out neither of these legends might really be true, but they do lend a luster of mystique to a castle already impressive enough in its own right. All of the places to see in Europe if you’re a castle nerd, Romania must top that list!

In fact, Romania is pretty much a dream for lovers of architecture, too. The Constanta Casino is surely one of the world’s most opulent abandoned buildings; the gigantic Presidential Palace in Bucharest will have you straining your neck to take it all in; the tottering Densus Church is one of the oldest and most quaint in all Europe.

When you throw in a sci-fi theme park in the depths of a salt mine and the incredibly low cost of living, it’s hard to imagine why Romania remains so much under the radar.

6. Kaliningrad (Russia)

Kaliningrad is not a country in its own right but rather a tiny Russian exclave on the Baltic Sea. However, for most of its history it was part of Poland and Germany, and used to be known as Königsberg before being annexed to Russia, after World War II.

Its fascinating mix of Western and Eastern Europe architectural styles and cultural practices make it one of those must see places in Europe before you die.

Königsberg Cathedral is at the heart of public life here and had to be completely rebuilt in the 1990s after being badly damaged during World War II. Immanuel Kant, the city’s most famous inhabitant is buried in a small tomb here, so if Groundwork on the Metaphysic of Morals is your favorite bed-time read then you need to:

1. Visit.
2. Find better ways to relax!

The Curonian Spit, with its famous “dancing trees”, might help you do just that.

So that’s our list of the most underrated European countries, but it’s not definitive—we haven’t mentioned Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Macedonia or Armenia. In fact, there’s a host of countries that could easily have made our list, so if you have any recommendations then do let us know in the comments.

Suggested next reading: 15 Astonishing Mountain Towns In Europe Worth Visiting

The post 6 Most Underrated European Countries To Visit appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Lumbering down the deserted highway a hundred kilometers from Pyongyang outnumbered three to one by your minders is perhaps not the best place to start kicking up a fuss, but prudence has never been one of our more notable virtues, and just because we happen to be in the world’s most totalitarian state an’ all, doesn’t seem like any reason to start changing that.

Besides, we’re feeling particularly trollish this morning—that’s our nickname, “The Troll,” it works on so many levels—due to having unfortunately drunken a bit too much soju over the last 24 hours.

North Koreans In Their Own Words!

See, to get to Pyongyang last night, we’d taken the overnight train from Beijing for two reasons:

Firstly, that way you get to see parts of the north of the DPRK that foreigners can’t see any other way—no doubt the parts you can see from the track are better than the parts you can’t, but hey even that much is surreal—there was one particular place where we saw the peasants staggering along with outsized bundles on their shoulders, followed placidly by an oxcart with a high stack of outsized bundles, followed by a higher stacked oxcart that had its tongue hooked up to some possibly-extracted-from-a-washing-machine-type “engine” thingy straight out of the pages of the more fanciful steampunk adventure novels, followed by a swoopily aerodynamic cargo truck looking as ultramodern as anything on the Chinese superhighways.

There are lots of places around the world where you can see modernity juxtaposed with Stone Age technology—but nowhere other than North Korea that you see quite this mixing by degrees of a 2,500-year span of technology in the space of a couple hundred feet. And their cutting-edge technology has this steampunk edge to it as well; when we were there, the papers were full of the exciting news of a breakthrough in electro-refining using pure graphite anodes.

Well, that’s very impressive and all…but it’s a breakthrough of late-1800s technology that’s quaintly archaic in any part of the world where you have access to rare earth metals not found within North Korea’s borders. It’s exactly the kind of thing that you find in the more thoroughly thought out steampunk worlds, (as opposed to the ones that are an excuse for goths to wear brown) which is where we came up with our soundbite to describe North Korea: a steampunk dystopia, and far more surreal than any of the fictional attempts you’ll ever read.

Secondly, by all accounts, the sleeper train from North Korea is the best chance you’re going to get to be in close quarters all day with North Koreans that are not official government minders—and we figured that would be a great story, “North Koreans In Their Own Words”!

But we’d somehow failed to account for the fact that we are not, in fact, capable of conversing with appreciably more fluency than “want eat” and “need bathroom” in either Korean or Chinese, which of course were the only languages collectively spoken by my three compartment mates.

Drinks On Me, Boys

So the all-day trip from the border to Pyongyang featured mainly that at every stop, as I would stroll out to the platform, find the RMB-only seller at this stop who was extracting foreign currency from the Chinese nationals who are the usual passengers on this train, buy a bottle of soju, and our compartment would proceed to finish that bottle before the next stop.

Buying rounds of liquor for the locals is pretty much a pro travel tip for instant acceptance anywhere you go, and for some reason it seems to be associated particularly with Canadians—happy to hold the end up! —But particularly so when you’re buying with your foreign currency for your new friends who couldn’t buy that liquor in their own currency at any price.

So by the time the four of us staggered off the train in Pyongyang, the cause of Korean peninsular peace had been thoroughly achieved as far as we were concerned, we were assuring each other in a haze of soju fumes of our new lifelong friendship with complete disregard for our mutual unintelligibility.

I guess not realizing that we were drinking a bottle of soju every stop from Dandong to Pyongyang does that…everything we say here that might cast shade on the state of North Korean technology should not be taken to apply to their craft of soju brewing, which is, in fact, superb.

Traveling “Independently” In North Korea

So here we were in the car the next morning, and we’re off-a-days-soju-bender cranky, so we’re not being very accommodating with “Miss O,” who along with “Miss Kim” are the two guides that every tourist party in the DPRK must have accompany them, even if your party is, in fact, just you. Plus our driver; a genially hulking fellow. This, in North Korea, is what passes for independent traveling. And we were being very independent:

“I don’t want to go to the DMZ. I have my itinerary here from Tongil Tours, and the DMZ is not on it.”

“Everybody has to go to the DMZ!” she responded.

“Well, good thing I’ve already been there from the South Korean side then. Some blue huts on the border, a concrete building on each side, pretty much as totally overrated as places to visit get, especially twice! I can prove it too, want to see pictures on the phone here?” I retorted.

Our Crazy Goal

See, we have this ambitious bucket list to visit every inscribed and tentative World Heritage Site, and Kaesong has twelve separate places listed in its Historic Monuments and Sites in Kaesong inscription, and my plan was to see all of them today, because what’s the chances of ever making it back to Kaesong? Pretty slim, that’s what. So we didn’t figure that the DMZ was a particularly valuable use of our limited time.

So Miss O and I were arguing this, and Miss Kim and the driver were watching us bicker with big smiles on their faces, apparently uncooperative guests are a distinct novelty, when BANG! out goes a tire.

Conveniently, a rest stop was just a couple hundred feet ahead to bump our way to. Only to find that the tire was trashed past patching, and the spare … well, in North Korea the concept of “spare” anything is a decidedly foreign one. There being no such thing as a North Korea Automobile Association either, this would require a significant effort to remedy; stranded halfway between Pyongyang and Kaesong is a pretty darn stranded place indeed.

Not So Stranded

But while they’re frantically phoning around to see what options there are, here comes another vehicle, pulling into our rest stop no less! —A bus full of a Chinese tour group. So my minders flock with theirs, and in short order, it’s established that the girls and I can join their group and our driver will find us whenever he’s mobile again.

OK, that beats hanging out most of the day in the featureless middle of nowhere, yes. And, as if I couldn’t guess, where by chance were we and our new friends going?

“The DMZ.”

“Of course we are. Miss O, you’re smirking. Ni hao, new Chinese friends!”

Mind you, it only heightened the surreality of this whole visit to be escorted into the same blue negotiation huts built exactly half on each side of the border by North Korean troops denouncing invasion by the South, after having been there before but escorted by South Korean troops that time denouncing invasion by the North; all of North Korea strikes you constantly as a Bizarro mirror world inversion of South Korea, but the DMZ in particular produces … well, it’s not déjà vu if you actually have been there before is it? Don’t think language actually has a word to describe that particular experience…

DPRK: A Restricted Secret

Anyways, we met back up with the driver at lunch, and over the course of the afternoon managed to get to most of the places on the inscription, definitely all that most people would consider worth visiting, and a few more besides…particularly the Kaesong Chomsongdae, which even as perhaps the most hardcore World Heritage Site geek on the planet, we do not recommend you bother trying to find.

(More details and pictures over at the Every World Heritage Site blog if you like.)

Managing to drive the better part of an hour because all four of us totally missed that we had driven directly through the old city walls we were looking for is a particularly good one.

Driving issues were a recurring theme on this tour, mind you. See, in case you haven’t picked up on this already, the general run of visits to the DPRK are extremely restricted; you see the very short list of government-approved attractions and monuments to the Party and so forth, and that’s it.

Planning this trip, we had a significant amount of trouble finding an organizer that would put together a custom “visit all the properties we can fit in of North Korea’s two inscribed WHS” tour—pro tip: Tongil Tours is your custom tour arranger of choice—and despite the driver and my minders having just short of two decades collective experience in the North Korean foreigner-minding industry, none of them had ever been to most of the sites we visited…or even heard of them, as was the case for the more justifiably obscure “National Treasure” like the Chomsongdae. And there are no signposts or maps because that would make it far too easy to get around; if you don’t know where you’re going, you’re almost certainly not supposed to be going there.

Even when you are supposed to be going there, that’s not always a sure thing. For instance, on our second trip out of Pyongyang, it was to visit a day’s worth of properties on the Complex of Koguryo Tombs site inscription. Which are somewhat less than monumental from the outside, as you can see in the pictures in our blog write-up of the site, and as far as we can tell, nobody ever visits for all practical purposes; each property has a groundskeeper that looks shocked to actually see a visitor, and a few grassy mounds with locked doors, and … that’s about it.

100 Euros For A Mural

The murals inside are reportedly spectacular, but dashed hard to find pictures of on the net—here’s a few—and at one of them, we were offered to have that door unlocked and see the wondrous insides for the low, low price of only a hundred euros. Usually we’re pretty good at bargaining, but in this particular instance we didn’t manage to get the price down at all—but we did manage to get Miss Kim and Miss O included, as they’d never been to these tombs either, let alone inside, and they were veritably ecstatic to get to see the murals. Rather telling, that.

Usually when we go to obscure World Heritage Sites, from the Sacred City of Caral-Supe to the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, the standard way it goes is that we’re the only foreigner in sight and the place has a bus or two full of elementary school age students who are just about completely uninterested in these dumb piles of rocks their teachers are going on about as being their marvelous World Heritage and all.

But what about with a troll? Now he’s fascinating to follow around. Korea has got to be the only place in the world where even the professional tour guides, never mind average citizens, have barely heard of their World Heritage never mind visited.

North Korea Is DIFFICULT!

And the reasons why they don’t visit were brought into sharp relief on our way back to Pyongyang after the tomb-hopping day:

“GET BACK IN THE CAR!”

See, we’d found our way back to the main highway to Pyongyang, and we’d stopped at a checkpoint, who’d told us to pull over, and they’d left me in the car, and now it was some 20 minutes later and I’d figured some leg-stretching was in order. “Just getting some fresh air, not going anyplace…”

“NO! GET IN CAR!”

Right then. If Miss O is shouting and apparently about to cry, probably not a good time to be difficult. So I got in the car.

Eventually they came back, and with a little bit of coaxing, the issue came out; although they had a permit for me to see the Koguryo Tombs, the car did not have a permit to drive on this highway. And this was a disaster of monumental proportion. Not for me, but for the driver. Who, never having had a group like me before, had no idea whatsoever that the guides might not have had everything arranged for him. And they had no idea that they had extra arrangements to make.

Think that’s what was going on, anyways. Point is…getting around this country is difficult.

Back To Tourist Safety In Pyongyang

The rest of the visit was pretty much the standard tourist fare in Pyongyang, you can read that over here as we did manage to see three of the properties on the Historical Relics in Pyongyang Tentative World Heritage Site listing, so we’ll tick that one off our bucket list too; but nothing particularly more amusing than we wrote there.

Until the day of our leaving, when we figured that with all the adventures they’d had minding a troll who was actively trying not to be minded, they deserved a nice tip. But tipping is an issue here—between that it’s illegal for you to possess North Korean currency, and it’s illegal for them to possess foreign currency, that doesn’t leave many financial options.

However, knowing this, and wanting to make friends as always, we’d bought some twenty-odd dollars worth of touristy Bangkok souvenirs, figuring those would be exotic novelties in the DPRK. Which indeed they were…problem was, since everyone we met was completely uninterested in taking anything from foreigners, we still had all of it on the last morning. So alright ladies: here I have a good five pounds of Bangkok’s most gaudy souvenir tat, how would you like to divide it up?

The driver, well that was much easier; he’d been quite enthusiastic about matching me shot for shot with our dinner soju each night, so a bottle of the most ornate looking bottle on display in the hotel shop took care of that—along with a healthy tasting of it to make sure it was quality stuff, as indeed it was, just the thing indeed to produce the right mood for our visit to the Mansudae Grand Monument, seventy-plus feet of bronze Communist deities: Kim Il Sung & Kim Jong Il, the Great and Dear Leaders.

And deities are barely an exaggeration; you must bow, cannot face your back to the statues, and must bring a bouquet of offering. Well, technically you don’t have to buy the bouquet, but Miss Kim got such a hurt look when we mumbled something about worshipping their dead leaders, we decided ok…fine…let’s go buy the biggest bouquet we can then.

And off to the airport for our exit, on Air Koryo—the world’s only one-star airline, according to Skytrax, but personally we feel that’s totally undeserved. Just for starters, they’re always on time—not that hard when your flight network has no connections—and they never overbook. As for the 1960s vintage Soviet airliners, well, far as we’re concerned it’s a renaissance of the Golden Age Of Aviation, with that same strange out-of-time vibe the rest of the country has.

Our Verdict

So that was our visit to North Korea. Before we got there, we thought that Bhutan was the most unusual country on the face of the planet, but we have quite thoroughly changed that opinion now.

Although it costs considerably more to arrange a custom tour, we absolutely recommend you do that—as we’ve mentioned before, Tongil Tours are the people who hooked us up, and we thoroughly recommend you call them too—and ask for Miss O and Miss Kim as your guides, they were far more entertaining than we’d ever expected!

So, what’s next for me? More World Heritage Sites I guess! On that note, here are my top 6 World Heritage Sites you should visit in North America—if you’re interested.

The post I Went To North Korea: Here’s What Happened appeared first on Modern Trekker.