By Sheeba

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Netherlands has a lot to offer, apart from Amsterdam’s windmills, the beautiful tulips and “coffee shops”. There is much more to the country, it takes you back to brick filled and cobblestone lane cities. Most of the cities here are connected by canals and one can enjoy the experience of travelling through canals fully only here. There are a couple of stunning beaches too at Netherlands. It is a small country and easy to explore.

Amsterdam

Popular for its houseboats, architecture and canals, art museums, beautiful parks, outdoor cafes and a lot of love, Amsterdam is like reading a bestselling book. The place is beautiful on a sunny afternoon cruising through canals.

Oost

This lies in the East side of the city and is well known for its zoo and delicious Muslim eateries. This is an off- beat location for tourists, The Oosterpark is a fun spot for a peaceful experience.  This place has very few tourists wandering around hence it makes the place more exciting.

Windmills

Take a quick ride from the Amsterdam Circle in the train to De Gooyer, a famous windmill which is the closest to the city, it also is a brewery which makes it a better spot to chill. There are eight windmills in total on the outskirts which is surely one of the most scenic attractions in the country.

Haarlem

One can take the bike or train to this town which is popular for its Dutch touch, a central church and outdoor market here has various products. The place is less populated and there is a lot of historic beauty too.

Noord

The growing city of Amsterdam, it is a new area and a lot of people have moved here. Markets and restaurants here are very cute and Amsterdam’s EYE, a film museum is impressive too.

Walk Tour and Food Tour

The most famous indoor food halls are Viet View, Le Big Fish and Friska which are great for a variety of delicious food. Taking a walk around the city is fun too as one will come across many historic spots, winding canals and a vibrant culture.

Visiting the Netherlands in mid-April and mid-May is great for tulip fields and a pleasant weather. Even during Christmas this place is lit and gives one a festive vibe. Always carry a few warm clothes too here.

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The most unique yet ravishing location to be at is Kyrgyzstan, a mountain region in Central Asia. It is a safe place for tourists and has the most attractive village landscape views.  There are many lakes that make the place even better and charming along with its diverse population. A few of the best sites to visit in Kyrgyzstan are Issyk Ku Lake, Bishkek, Ala Archa National Park, Burana, Song Kul and Tash Rabat.

Issyk Kul Lake

It is the world’s second largest lake with multiple rivers flowing into it; the view of the lake is always pleasant with mountains on its sides. The lake can never freeze as it is very rich in minerals. While visiting Issyk Kul, one can also visit other places close by like Barskon, Balykchy and a few others. One can always see the beautiful Ala-Too Mountains that are visible from all regions.

Bishkek

Bishkek is the capital of Kyrgyzstan and is popular for traditional Asian dishes and much more. The place has old and modern developed sites to visit. It is surrounded with green alleys in the city that is perfect for long strolls. Shopping is favoured here, at bazaars that supply local produce. Bishkek is scenic with statues all over the city as well.

Ala Archa National Park

This national park has a spectacular back drop with more than fifty peaks. Tourists usually prefer hiking and picnics at this magnificent Alpine National Park. This national park is half an hour away from the city of Bishkek.

Burana

Also known as the Silk Road City called Balasaghun. It was a tower built as a minaret in the 11^th century, which is 40 meters in height. Now it is 20 meters after an earthquake in the 15^th century. There is also a small museum and ancient stone carvings known as Balbals. Burana is popular for its ancient architecture and the the wonderful mountain view behind it.

Tash Rabat

This place is historical, it is basically a monastery turned into caravanserai. Tourists can visit this place and stay at yurts nearby and also go horse riding. The ancient place looks stunning.

Overall Kyrgyzstan is beautiful and is perfect for a pleasant summer with a touch of history and nature.

Built in the midst of the Balkans, Caucasus, Middle East, and eastern Mediterranean- Turkey is an exceptionally fascinating and charming country. Delicately nurtured with cultures and traditions of East and the West, an antique world meeting futuristic time. This small country has much to offer; from incredible edibles, vast history, tummy-turning adventures, architectural temples, and much more. It is the 6^th most visited destination in the entire world, which isn’t surprising at all.

Turkish residents are said to be profoundly kind and hospitable by many travelers. They are a treat to spend time with, mainly the elderly of the place; who have many stories and much knowledge to share. They are gentle in the way they converse and provide any possible assistance to those who seek it. Alongside this, many families are also likely to invite a stranded or friendly visitor of their land into their homes for a meal, or a few glasses of delicious Turkish tea with some sweets. This is simply a part of the Turkish culture, to be giving and helpful. Different regions of the country has slightly different mannerisms and cultures- most of these include, the way they speak, the way greet people, their religious beliefs, cuisines are also vary depending on which part of Turkey one is in.

When it comes to sightseeing and traveling around Turkey, you could never miss the stunning visuals and atmosphere of the towns and cities of this place. Famously known for its Archeological sites, Turkey has many empires and civilizations, that take you back in time. It is impressive how well preserved most of the monuments and structures from the past are, and have been kept intact enough that it almost seems untouched. The most eye-catching has to be the Istanbul palace and the mosques, alongside the ruins of Ephesus and the underground cities of Cappadocia. This country has so much scope for archaeology and history enthusiasts, even those who would not be particularly interested in it. Museums have preserved and are constantly adding many historical findings from places all over the globe. The world’s largest mosaic museum and Istanbul’s Ottoman palace museums are a must on your to-do-list for Turkey.

Spring and Summer are the ideal seasons to visit. During spring the days are long, the temperatures are just right for some on-foot tourist sightseeing; although the place may be a little crowded as this is peak season. Summer brings in plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, which would call for a trip to the beautiful beaches and resorts. Locals and tourists alike are seen taking advantage of the warm weather, basking under the sun on the pretty beaches before the cold, frosty winter sets in.

Safe to say that Turkey is definitely a full package deal, from sun-kissed beaches, pine-covered mountains, adventure sports, historical aesthetics and plenty of surprises to take up a whole month off your schedule.

Japan, a small island country situated in the east coast of Asia, consisting of a string of many great islands that stretch for miles together into the Pacific Ocean. A quint and beautiful country, that is known for its culture and media. This little country has a large fanbase dedicated solely to its media entertainment stream known as ‘Anime’ and ‘Manga’. Many people from all around the world, irrespective of age, are fanatics of Japanese culture and the high-quality animation projects (shows, movies) that are created here. That’s where majority of Japan’s hype stems from; these enthusiasts travel to Japan to see their favorite shows, characters, films, etc. come to life.

Japan’s land is rich with more than four-fifth of the land’s surface consisting of mountains. You can find active and dormant volcanoes. One of the most notable mountains of Japan is Mount Fuji, it is a   cone-shaped volcano considered sacred by many Japanese, standing at a height of 12,388 feet (3,776 meters).

One of the most admirable things about Japan and its people is the adoration and value they hold for their traditions, that have been passed down from generations. You can see their culture and heritage speak volumes in every small nook and cranny of their streets. Even amongst the bright lights and neon signs that give Japan its futuristic and modern look, you can still find that they have incorporated their ancestors teachings into the new world. Its cathartic to watch and observe this country for all that it has to offer.

Anyone visiting this place would be immediately impressed by the immaculate city streets and premium customer services. Japanese people believe that service to their land and its visitors is their top priority, thus they keep their city clean and treat all customers- local and foreign- with the finest hospitality. Japan is considered to be amongst the world’s most literate countries. Which is reflected in their hardworking demeanor. Parents often show emphasis towards teaching children mannerisms of respect and gratitude to others at an early age, especially elders. And likewise, their friendliness and brilliant hospitality becomes a part of their culture which is what makes one fall in love with this country.

Japan in general has a very wet and monsoonal type of climate, making most days dark and gloomy. But, according to me, Spring is the ideal season to visit. In spring, the cherry blossom trees bloom, painting the park a vibrant, aesthetic and mesmerizing pink and should definitely be an item on your bucket list. However, travel and stay prices skyrocket during these months, but proper planning can help you get around that.

In conclusion, Japan is a prepossessing country whose people know how to capture hearts and its sights are almost surreal leaving one wanting more. Make no mistake to miss out on discovering this culturally rich, aesthetically pleasing and cathartic place that is Japan.

Around 1500 years ago an exodus came ashore on the islands that most of the world knows for its high-spirited and volcanic land- Hawaii. According to legend, Hawaii was once known as ‘Hawai’I Loa’- perhaps after the founder of these beautiful lands surrounded by water. Residents of this state and many from afar call this place ‘The Aloha State’; for the simple reason that the word “Aloha” can be hello, as well as goodbye. The Aloha State is the world’s largest chain of islands and is also the only state in the U.S that is completely made up of islands. These islands are actually volcanic islands. The lands here is made up of large rocky slabs that moved over when a particularly hot spot on top of the molten layer beneath the surface. The heat melted these rocks and turned it into magma, which broke down and formed the land it is today.

Hawaii is most eminent for its beautiful beaches. They have all kinds of beaches here, with a variety of colors. Some beaches are covered in pearly white sand, meanwhile it isn’t impossible to find beaches whose sand may be green, red, pink and even black. But the waters of these impressive coasts are packed with an adventure for all those who dare to dive deep and explore it. You can take a tour of these sparkling waters by snorkeling, paddle boating, kayaking, body boarding, and surfing. True to its fictitious depiction, Hawaii has a never-ending line of watersport activities, alongside some splendid spots you can learn about and freely roam as you please. If water isn’t your gig, then the dry lands of this state have enough to offer, in the form of its dense tropical rain forests and stunning waterfalls. They are teeming with greenery, nature, wildlife and so much more.

In terms of cuisine, one might be pleasantly surprised by the fantastic Asian food found here- sushi and ramen are popular among locals. You can also tell that the place is brimming with culture and rich history, certainly hitting the nail on the head with the deep-rooted traditions and information that would make any history buff tremble with excitement at the thought. However, while being proud of their ancestry, Hawaiians have adapted their traditions with the current times and celebrate their ethnicity and nation through festivals, music, art and food. Surely, by now the world is familiar with their time-honored hula dance, they also have hip hop, the Honolulu symphony and Community Theater to show off and introduce to its visitors. They are the only state in the U.S to speak only two languages- English and Hawaiian. The locals are warm and extremely welcoming to those who choose to pay their land a visit, opening their arms and minds-ready to teach new people about the things that make them so proud of the motherland. Certainly a few days here and one might understand why they love Hawaii so much!

Alaska, a place that usually gets equated with frigid weathers and gigantic moose to many
who have only seen it through a television or read about it. The name comes from the Aleut
word “Alyeska”, which means ‘The Great Land’.

And true to its connotation, Alaska is widely known for its magnificent landscapes, alluring
nature and much more. a land home to almost one hundred volcanoes, albeit they have been
fairly dormant since the 1900- but they appear mighty none-the-less. Besides, Alaska has
much to offer in the form of eye-popping sceneries, pure and uncontaminated nature, tall
peaks, glaciers, shimmering water bodies and the famous national parks. One will run out of
words to describe the absolutely breath-taking surroundings and settings of each location
within this little state.

The best thing about Alaska is that you could visit it any time of the
year and still be pleasantly surprised by all that it has to offers to you. It’s an “outdoor
paradise” for all those nature-lovers looking for new and exciting thrills from the earth.
Road trips would be an ideal way to get around this state. Getting a nice view, some crisp air
and picture-perfect drive through some beautiful spots like, the Seward Highway or Deanli
Park Road. Trains are also advised to be a great way to travel through this place, they offer a
decently memorable and fun adventure ride through fascinating landscapes, like the Denali
Star or Coastal Classic route, Skagway or the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad.

Alaska is also well known for its history that includes the Native Indians, Russians and gold
miners. The people of this state honor and represent their ancestors through the many
museums, cultural festivals and heritage centers that can be found in many locations. Visiting
these unique museums should definitely be on one’s list when visiting Alaska as there is
much to learn through the interesting paintings, displays and artifacts.
Some reasons to definitely visit this Great Land would be:

1. The Northern Lights- a magical atmospheric phenomenon which occurs occasionally,
   lighting up the night sky with bright and iridescent colors. A real treat for the eye!
   Except during the summertime (around June and July) and rarely during the months
   of August and late May, the northern lights are a rare sighting as they experience a
   phenomenon called “the endless sun” around these times.
2. Icy Glaciers: The state of Alaska is littered with around 100,000 glaciers. The most
   common ones are the roadside glaciers that can be easily spotted. The most notable
   ones are the Bryon Glacier, Matanuska Glacier, Mendenhall Glacier and Exit Glacier.
3. Towering Mountains: This is a personal call to all mountain and hiking enthusiasts
   who cannot miss getting a taste of this great land’s range of mountains, that stand at
   an impressive and almost intimidating height. The best thing about this state’s
   mountain plains is that there are rocky structures for all kinds of hiking and physical
   levels of different people. You can pick from the Alaska Range housing the biggest
   mountains, the north Brooks Range or Chugach State Park. There are many more in
   between and best discovered by adventuring through them yourself.

Germany is one of Europe’s largest countries, teeming with eye-widening landscapes, tall mountains, sandy plains and wide forested hills. Berlin lies in the heart of the country, known to have risen from the ashes of the World War 2 and is now the capital of a developed and greater Germany. The culture and literature of Germany is celebrated widely across the nation, Germans proud of their history and all that they have to contribute to art and music. The Rhine River, which flows from Switzerland is celebrated in visual art, literature, folklore, and song. Berlin is the main hub for their iridescent international art and music- famously known for its beautiful forests in the west, marvelous cathedrals, aesthetic ‘Sound of Music’ in the South, and it’s endearing historic cities and beaches in the north.

Getting around Germany is easy and exciting in different ways. Whether you choose to take a bus, train, or cab, or just backpack around this lovely country- it will be an adventure you would positively never forget. Their travel accommodations are almost ridiculously inexpensive and tour guides are known for their friendly faces, showing you the best and most glorious parts of Germany- hidden and widely known spots!

Five most recommended places to visit in Germany are:

• Lake Constance: Germany’s largest freshwater lake that is also the third largest in Central Europe. It lies along the country’s southwestern border, close to Switzerland and Austria. The climate there is always pleasant and welcoming.
• Dresden: If grand architecture and baroque aesthetics are your vibe, then this is a place for you. A city bisected by the Elbe River, completely rebuilt after the war and functions as the biggest nightlife attractions for the youth.
• Neuschwanstein Castle: If you’re familiar with the castle used by Disney then pay a visit to its main inspiration! The Neuschwanstein Castle is a handsome neo-romantic palace perched on a bumpy hill. Alongside it’s fascinating appearance, the palace holds a deep history.
• Olympia Park: A massive complex originally constructed for the 1972 Olympic Games, this place situated in Munich is now topped with the largest roof in the world and consists of a great restaurant. Taking a tour of this complex would be an adventure by itself.
• Hamburg: A port city, located in northern Germany and ranked as the second-busiest port in all of Europe. It is well-known for its canals and green parks. Alster lake resides at its center, bubbling with boats and bustling with cafes.

Another plus point about this flawless country, aside from its already pretty culture, rituals, festivities and its innovations in science and psychology, Germany is said to have perfect weather all year round. Summer is notably the best time to visit, with hot temperatures and clear blue skies. It has people flocking out of their homes to bask in the sunshine and relax in the beer gardens of their proud land.

Cape Town, a city dominated by the magnificent Table Mountains and standing proud as South Africa’s second most popular city. Famously known as ‘Mother City’, Cape Town has some of South Africa’s most unique and fascinating culture and heritage to show. The city radiates strong relaxing yet energetic vibes that make it ideal for those who love a perfect amount of adventure and leisure in their holiday. There are many things to do in this place, from going to a plethora of tourist sites, visiting the weekend market, hiking, attending concerts for all kinds of music and arts, and penguin watching!

Most travelers have advised those visiting this place for the first time to take a tour of the city on foot first. Walking around is supposedly the best way to discover and familiarize yourself with the city. You can get an up-close encounter with some of the sites and also teach yourself directions while also merging in with the locals. The weather serves as a major plus point as the humidity in Cape Town is pretty low, despite the hot summers! Winters are chilly and windy, and springtime is a perfect balance between both. Which is why the best times to visit are in the months of October and November, which is springtime in Africa. Meanwhile December to February are when the days get longer and warmer. The months of June to August are usually covered with harsh rainfalls and chilly temperatures.

An impressive fact about south Africa is that they claim to speak eleven official languages! English is most common and familiar in Cape Town which makes communication and navigation easier, however they do also speak Afrikaans and Xhosa on the streets. Their accents are upbeat and lively, adding to the natural charm and kindness exuded by the locals There’s so much rich culture and ethnicity to experience here! The variety will leave you hungry for more, there’s so much to see that you won’t have the time to be bored. The plant life, cuisine, geography and activities are all one would be able to think about even after you leave. Cape Town holds a certain level of beauty that is impossible to find anywhere else- the sunsets and scenery are breathtaking that you’d wish they’d stay forever. Even local residents of this city never tire of the land they live on.

You can’t speak about Cape Town without mentioning the famous Table Mountain. Standing tall and proud and 3,500 feet above sea level. There are two ways to explore this beauty of a site- one is by taking a cable car up and the other is hiking it. The cable car ride is admittedly a little expensive, so many people opt for the hike up instead. There are short trails that will take around two hours before you reach the top, but it’s worth it. In fact, it’s actually much better to make the hike than wait in line for the cable car! Whatever you choose though, you’ll forget about it once you get a good aerial view of the Mother City

It doesn’t matter where you live or how many places you’ve visited- if you have a access to a television or the internet you already know plenty about the constituent state of the United States of America known an Florida. Being the most popular of the southeastern states, Florida has a reputation that it has carried for years.

When you hear the name ‘Florida’, it is almost impossible to not think about the most recognized Disney World and the Universal Studios. However, there is more to this place than just theme parks! The city of Orlando is bustling with a variety of hang out spots, cultures, ethnics and amazing sceneries; one could find anything to do for any interest or budget. The city is home to many who put their best foot forward and hold their head up high with pride as citizens of such an exciting state.

Many visitors of this state boast of it’s rich cultural and arts knowledge that many who are foreign to this place would probably overlook. Like, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum- an American art museum, home to works by Louis Comfort Tiffany and many century artists. It’s main display and focus is that of the stunning Tiffany Chapel interior- made of stained glass and inspired by the Byzantine Empire.

Much like its arts, Florida offers its natural beauty in display through a Scenic Boat Tour. Where one could enjoy some waterfront breezes on a tour through the Winter Park Lakes, a great way to sightsee and learn the rich history of a part of Florida. Museums and entertainment venues make a large part of this delightful state, lining every inch of the city with an event that has visitors grabbing tickets for rock concerts, Broadway-style shows, dinner theater and so much more!

Let’s not forget the numerous beaches that cover a large part of this state. These sandy paradises are one of the top tourist attractions! People come in from everywhere just to sit and spend a day in The Sunshine State’s immaculate beaches and enjoy the soft sand and warm water. Not to forget the miles and miles of coastline that make the perfect location for watching the beautiful sunsets that one can find there! There’s a beach everywhere you go in Florida, if you’re a fan of warm, sandy days then this is the place for you.

Locals say that the best time to be out and about in Florida is during the months of March and May. The ideal vacation period if you want that perfect beach and adventuring weather to accompany you through all the excitement you’re going to encounter there! The only downside is that, this is also peak season, so many people flock to the amusement parks and beaches to get a taste of the perfect Florida weather with the perfect Florida effect during these months- regardless of foreign or local!

A tropical country located at the northern tip of South America, Venezuela is the perfect place to satisfy your inner warm climate and beach enthusiast. With its landscape running for miles, it is home to many tall peaks, jungles, rivers and coastal plains, offering a large collection of natural habitats and places of wonder to explore. Venezuela has been known to people from far and wide for its incredible scenery that makes a hiking trip and backpacking across its land a definite item to add to your bucket list.

Venezuela, being a tropical country, has a vast range of temperatures that surprises those who visit it, but nothing too shocking, as the country only has two extreme seasons that bring in heat and cold. Sometimes even a perfect mix for those who prefer both.

The wildlife is said to be exquisite. Enthusiasts rave about the large number of species that reside here- from several species of the big cat family to the predators of the riverside. Amongst these lives the famous Tapir, which is a large, four-legged mammal with a prominent snout. It’s rare to find a place with such natural beauty, tourists talk endless praises of the Andean peaks. Caribbean coastline, idyllic islands, the grasslands, the steamy Orinoco Delta and the world’s tallest waterfall- Angel Falls.

This country is said to be created for all those who cannot resist a trip to the beach, as there is about 1,700 miles of coastline along the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean that call attention to all Heliophiles all over the world to come take a walk along the sandy beaches and the sparkling waters. The most popular beaches that attract the most visitors are at Henri Pittier National Park in Aragua, but a short boat trip is all it takes to access more secluded beaches. The beaches are ideal to fulfill everybody’s fictional fantasy of ‘long walks and relaxation’.

Aside from its natural beauty, Venezuela has plenty of culture and traditions that add to its charms. ‘Carnival’ is another tourist attraction here, where loud drums and vibrant crowds celebrate a forty-day national holiday. The celebrations are a tradition that dates back to the 1800s and it is welcomed with open arms by its people. The Spanish-speaking folk go all out with rituals and preparations for the Carnival, where everyone has their own personal way of celebrating. Every region across the country unveils their own little traditions during this contemporary holiday. The state’s city is always the most alive with people of all ages dressing up in bright color costumes that complement the street’s iridescent décor and cheer in glee as they march through the streets- singing and dancing to the beats of the Calyso music drums.

For small country, Venezuela is packed to the brim with exciting treasures and adventures that makes the place almost irresistible to those who fall weak to the idea of gaining a good adrenaline rush in their body and a mind full of valuable memories.