Located in Australia's Northern Territory, Uluru is an iconic sandstone formation and UNESCO World Heritage site. This red rock monolith, believed to be over 500 million years old, has been considered sacred by Australia's indigenous peoples for thousands of years and is one of the country's most well-known natural landmarks. This spiritual destination will astound you at sunrise and sunset, when the warm sunlight turns Uluru to deep hues of red and orange.
Cameroon is often called “Africa in miniature” for good reason. Within its borders, travelers can explore coastal beaches, dense rainforests, vast savannas, active volcanoes, and snow-capped peaks, all without crossing a border. The country’s most iconic landmark, Mount Cameroon, is the highest mountain in West Africa and an active volcano that draws hikers from around the world.
ABERDEEN -- Scotland's third-largest city (pop. 187,000) is characterized by buildings of beautiful white granite. Set beside the North Sea, Aberdeen is both a university town and the capital of the Scottish oil boom. It is also one of Scotland's largest seaside resorts (though its appeal is confined to those who like their water well-chilled).
Cut length wise by the Turkish/Greek border, the island of Cyprus leads two lives. The Turkish side is traditional and Islamic, while the Greek side is a very modern vacation destination.
Cusco once served as the heart of the Inca Empire, and that legacy still shapes every corner of the city even as it serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu. Outside the historic center, the ruins of Sacsayhuamán overlook the city from a nearby hilltop. This ceremonial complex is best known for its massive zigzag stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons. During the Inti Raymi festival in June, thousands gather here to reenact ancient Andean rituals.
The 300 square mile Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is reached by taking the Georgeville turnoff at mile 65 of the Western Highway. After going through miles of tropical jungle you will be in a forest of tall pines growing amongst wildflowers and grasses. The area has whitewater rivers, waterfalls and cave systems.
Other Popular Destinations in Belize
San Ignacio
San Ignacio sits in western Belize’s Cayo District on the banks of the Macal and Mopan Rivers, where the town and its sister settlement of Santa Elena are linked by Belize’s lone suspension bridge. Its location also makes San Ignacio a gateway to both inland Belize and the nearby Guatemalan border, making it easy for curious travelers to explore beyond town limits.
Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker lies off the coast of Belize, a small island that was once a quiet fishing village and today still feels wonderfully uncrowded compared to many Caribbean destinations. Its name likely comes from an English twist on “Hicaco,” the old Spanish name meaning coco plum, a nod to the island’s early days and bilingual roots.