Cayo Coco in Ciego de Ãvila Province – Cuba

Cayo Coco in Ciego de Avila Province – Cuba provides an idyllic getaway so unlike the usual tourist atmosphere in other parts of the country. This makes for the perfect holiday destination for those who want to enjoy a relaxing and quiet vacation with friends and family.

 

Location

Cayo Coco in Ciego de Avila Province – Cuba is part of the Jardines del Rey group of islands. It lies off the northern coast of the province of Ciego de Avila.

Getting There

To get to Cayo Coco in Ciego de Avila Province – Cuba, you can fly in via the Jardines del Rey airport which is right in Cayo Coco. From the airport, there are buses that can take you directly to your accommodations as well as to various resorts around the island.

The ride takes approximately fifteen minutes as the island is rather small and anywhere from the airport is approximately fifteen minutes away.

What to See and Do

There’s not much to see and do around Cayo Coco in Ciego de Avila Province – Cuba; however, this does not mean that it isn’t an excellent holiday destination. There are beaches surrounding the area and most of these are not filled with tourist crowds which means that you can enjoy the sun, sand and surf without being disturbed.

There is a spa located in the island if you want a relaxing massage and a night club for a bit of night life entertainment. Apart from these, you can also enjoy walks around the island where you can mix and mingle with the locals.

This being said, do not expect a party scene while you’re in the island. Basically, it’s the peace and quiet against a backdrop of beautiful beaches that visitors look forward to when visiting Cayo Coco.

Brief History

Cayo Coco in Ciego de Avila Province – Cuba is administered by the Municipality of Mor?n, one of the 10 municipalities that within the Ciego de Avila Province.

The island derived its name from the local Coco birds which can be found in the island.

The island once served as a hideout for privateers or buccaneers during the early colonial times. The island is isolated from mainland Cuba and is only connected to the mainland by a causeway which was constructed in the year 1988.

The construction of the causeway paved the way for the establishment of a few resorts in the island to welcome tourists.

Cost

There are several nice hotels and resorts around the island of Cayo Coco in Ciego de Avila Province – Cuba. On the average, accommodation costs start at $110 and can go all the way up to $135 for mid-range rooms per night.

More expensive hotels have room rates that start at around $170 and can go up to $304 per room, per night.

Other Information

If you wish to see more of Cuba, you can go to nearby Mor?n where the biggest natural lake in the country is located: the Laguna de Leche otherwise known as Lake of Milk.

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Petionville in Port-au-Prince – Haiti

Petionville in Port-au-Prince is one of the most important and classiest places in Haiti. For many tourists and expats, it is simply the place to be.

 

Location and How to Get to This Specific Site

The place is a suburb and commune at Port-au-Prince. It is located east to the hills. You can get there by Port au Prince Airport (PAP). From there, you can take a taxi. There is also a bus from Santo Domingo going to the suburb. You can also reach the place via buses or passenger pickup trucks.

What to See There

The Petionville in Port-au-Prince is filled with several nightclubs, French restaurants, fitness gyms and beauty salons. There are also business establishments that cater to tourist needs. It is not unusual to see get-togethers in the evening. The renowned El Rancho hotel is also in the area. The commune is known for its palatial homes.

History

The place was named in honor of Alexandre Sabes Petion (1770–1818). He was a former president of Haiti. The island was known as Taino, but it was christened Hispaniola by Christopher Columbus. Columbus arrived on the island in 1492 AD. But the original inhabitants had been on the island since 2600 BC.

The Spaniards would rule the island until 1606. In 1650, French pirates settled on the coast. The island would eventually become a French colony.

Cost

Flight ticket costs differ. The typical taxi fare is $20, but you can bargain for a lower price. A one way bus ticket will set you back $40 USD. There is an extra $26 USD for a two way ticket plus 100 Dominican Pesos. Hitching a ride on passenger trucks is cheaper, but the ride will not be as comfortable.

Other Info

The climate is tropical and some areas are semiarid. Very strong storms take place from June to November. The central plain is flat while the rest of the area is mountainous. The highest peak is Chaine de la Selle (2777 meters).

Parts of the city and suburb were destroyed by the 12 January 2010 earthquake. Following the calamity, several establishments were converted into relief and medical facilities. Petion-Ville Club was converted to a tent city. The golf clubhouse was changed into a hospital. The “Muncheez” pizza restaurant was turned into a soup kitchen.

Although Petionville in Port-au-Prince was heavily damaged by the earthquake, several buildings are now being repaired. Also, many of the tourist sites are still intact.

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Isla Barro Colorado – Panama

The Isla Barro Colorado is a popular tourist destination in Panama. However, not all its visitors realize that it is a research center too.

Location and How to Get to This Specific Site

The island is located in the center of Gatun Lake. It is in the waterway of the Panama Canal. It can be reached by ferry. There are tour operators that can arrange the trip.

What to See There

The island is filled with different animals and plants. The humid tropical forest encompasses 1,500 hectares (3,000 acres) of rainforest. Five peninsulas around Panama are included in the reserve.

Some of the animals you will see there are the tapir, leaf cutter ants and several types of monkeys. The whiteface capuchin and the spider monkeys are prevalent. If you are lucky, you may also spot the elusive toucan.

 

A journey to the island will bring you up close with many spiders. There are also crocodiles, poison dart frogs and boa constrictors. You are allowed to take photos of the environment.

History

Isla Barro Colorado was formed when large portions of Panama became flooded. This occurred during the construction of the Panama Canal in the 1900s. As engineers developed Lake Gatun, a 476 ft peak was isolated.

For a long time, the island was home only to flora and fauna. However, it is now home to scientists working for the Tropical Research Institute (STRI). Its tropical forest is now one of the most studied preserves in the world. Today, the site is connected with other international research groups dedicated to studying the island.

Cost

The basic cost is $30. If you purchased a travel tour package, the fares will probably be higher. This is due to the included amenities. Tours are usually handled or in coordination with the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.

Other Info

Scientists like to do research here because the land has never been affected or influenced by human activity. This makes it possible for researchers to test their theories. Animal camouflage and mimicry are just two of the aspects being studied.

The gas exchange between the atmosphere and forest canopy is also evaluated. If you are interested in researching the site, you just have to apply. One of the things you can learn is the genetic diversity of the species.

The Isla Barro Colorado makes it possible to study the elements that threaten coral reefs. None of this would be possible if the site had not been isolated.

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The Old Quebec City – Canada

 

Old Quebec in Canada is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important historical landmark. The name refers only to the city area inside the walls. However, the outer part also has several historical structures.

Location and How to Get to This Specific Site

The site is in the neighborhood of Quebec City. You can reach the place by using a car or bus. There are excellent routes from Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto. You can also rent a car so you can go around the neighborhood. If coming in from overseas, all the major airlines have direct flights to the city.

What to See There

The Citadel and the Fortification are two of the most prominent features in the city. There is also the Notre-Dame-de-Quebec Basilica Cathedral. Not far off is St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Jesuits Chapel and the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. Old Quebec in Canada has several museums.

There are also interpretation centers available. You can tour the city on foot or try the horse drawn carriage. Many of the religious edifices are at the Upper Town. The administrative center is also there. The Chateau Frontenac and the Dauphine Redoubt are also worth checking out.

History

The old city’s origins go back to the 17th century. The area was selected by Samuel de Champlain for the Chateau St. Louis. Its position was perfect for military operations. That is why there are numerous military fortresses there remaining.

Most of the Upper City inhabitants were clergymen and military personnel. The Lower City was populated by craftsmen and merchants. During the 19th century, there were calls to destroy the military fortifications as they had outlived their usefulness. Then Governor Dufferin decided to keep the walled city intact.

Cost

The bus ride costs $2.50. The taxi fare will be $32.50 flat. You can also take the train, but the cost will vary depending on where you are coming from.

Other Info

There are also shopping and dining areas around the old city. Many of them are at rue Saint-Louis and rue Saint-Jean. Many of the dishes served are local but there is also international food. The old city is not that far off from modern Quebec’s other tourist spots too.

If you are going to Old Quebec in Canada via a tour operator, remember that the itineraries will vary from one provider to another. Some stick only to the old city, but others will take you to other tourist spots nearby

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The Santa Lucia Riverwalk in Monterrey – Mexico

Monterrey comes in third as the largest city in the country. It is the capital city of the State of Nuevo Leon.

The city is popular for the saddle – shaped mountain that serves as the city’s backdrop, landmarks and cultural attractions.

There are also a wide variety of activities that you can do here including going down the famous Santa Lucia Riverwalk.

 

Location

The Santa Lucia Riverwalk in Monterrey – Mexico extends from Plaza de 400 Años and goes all the way through the Macroplaza and finally culminates at Foundry Park.

Getting There

Flying in to Monterrey is via the General Mariano Escobedo International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi to get to the city center.

To get to the Santa Lucia Riverwalk in Monterrey – Mexico you can also take a taxi or the subway. While there are buses in the city, foreign travelers may find these a bit too crowded and uncomfortable.

There are likewise tourist trolleys that run on specific circuits around the city specifically between the areas of Macroplaza and Barrio Antiguo.

What to See and Do

The Santa Lucia Riverwalk in Monterrey – Mexico provides riverboat rides that take you from Macroplaza up to Foundry Park 2 and then Foundry Park.

Along the way, you can see various museums, sculptures, restaurants and coffee shops.

You can also walk along the banks of the riverway to give you more time to check out the attractions that line the walkway.

Dining by the riverway is recommended especially at night when you get romantic views of the riverway while sampling some of the best local fares.

Brief History

Building of the Santa Lucia Riverwalk in Monterrey – Mexico started in the year 1996 but due to budget constraints and other economic factors, continuation of the project was halted for about 9 years.

Finally in the year 2005, work on the riverwalk began once again and in 2007, the project was completed.

It was no less than the country’s president, Felipe Calderon; the state’s governor, Natividad Gonzalez Paras and the city mayor, Adalberto Madero who inaugurated the riverwalk.

Inauguration took place during the 197th year of the Mexican War Independence.

The riverwalk is about five and one – half miles in length and 1.20 meters in depth.

Cost

Riverboat rides down the Santa Lucia Riverwalk in Monterrey – Mexico cost about S 40 per adult and $ 20 per child.

Other Information

You can go on a riverboat ride between 10 in the morning and 10 in the evening. Riverboats are available daily during these times.

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Niagara Falls in New York – United States

Niagara Falls in New York is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Its majestic beauty has made it one of the true marvels of the natural world.

 

Location

The Falls can be found on the Niagara Frontier section of New York State. There are flights heading to both Toronto, Canada and Buffalo, New York. This is the quickest way to reach the Falls (45 to 60 minutes).

You can also go there via the Amtrak service. The trip will take 9 hours. Taking the bus from New York City to the Falls is a 10 hour journey.

What to See

The main attraction here is the Falls of course. Viewing the sight is free and easy. The closest you can get to the Falls is by taking an elevator that will bring you up close to the site.

Visitors to the site can also avail of the Maid of the Mist boat tour. The boat ride takes place at the Falls bottom. The Discovery Center is an exhibit detailing the history of the Niagara Falls in New York.

History

The Falls are made up of three parts: the American Falls (the one at New York), the Canadian / Horseshoe Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls. The Horseshoe and American Falls are separated by Goat Island.

The Falls are 176 feet high, but the actual falls is 70 feet due to the rocks. The volume of water flowing has been estimated at 150,000 U.S. gallons every second.

Cost

The costs will depend on the type of package you want. There are 1 day, 2 day and longer packages. The costs will start at 94 USD. Some of the tours from Toronto have starting costs of only 55 USD. The Aquarium of Niagara costs 10 USD. The helicopter tour will cost 90 USD for a 15 minute ride. A 90 walking tour costs 15 USD.

Other Info

Aside from the Falls, there are other attractions in the area. You can go on helicopter tours and the Whirlpool Tour. The whirlpool tour is a jet ride in the waters. You can also visit the Niagara State Park, the Adventure Theater and do the Scenic Trolley.

The best time to visit the Niagara Falls in New York is during the months of June, July and August. The flow of water is at their greatest here. Every year, over 12 million people visit the site.

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Semuc Champey in Alta Verapaz – Guatemala

Semuc Champey is one of the most striking natural monuments in Guatemala. The country is not lacking in natural attractions, but this one is not to be missed.

 

Location

The monument is located close to Lanquin, a Q’eqchi’ Maya town. This is at the Alta Verapaz department in Guatemala.

What to See

The monument is made up of a limestone bridge 300 meters long. Below the bridge you will see a 40 ft waterfall flowing in the Cahabòn River. Over the bridge you will come across numerous stepped, turquoise pools. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Semuc Champey. The reason for its popularity of course, is that you can swim in it.

Apart from the spring water pools, the place is situated in a valley covered in forest. This adds to the beauty of the surroundings. In turn, the waters of the river flow into the caves. You can go into the caves if you want.

History

During the Pre-Columbian era, the province of Alta Verapaz was included in the Maya civilization. In the 1520s, the Spanish conquistadors gained control of the southern and central highlands of Guatemala. However, they met stiff opposition elsewhere and had to retreat.

The Spanish friars then asked the natives if they could introduce Christianity to the people. They agreed. Thus, the lands would fall under the control of Spain. During the 19th century, the place became known as a coffee producer. Since that time, the place has become a well known tourist destination.

Cost

Budget hotels in Guatemala cost about 4 to 5 USD. Many eateries sell two course meals for 3 to 4 USD. Majority of bus fares cost about 1 USD. Those traveling on a budget can make do with spending 15 USD a day. For more comfort, you can spend about 35 to 60 USD daily. There are of course, high end hotels available.

Other Info

If you are visiting the place for the first time, get a qualified guide. The journey can be difficult for first time visitors. The trip will usually start at Lanquin. Guides are especially necessary if you are going to enter the caves.

When you enter the caves at the Semuc Champey, you must have a candle or headlamps. You will find yourself in the waters. Eventually you will emerge into the waterfall. You have two options when coming out; you can use the ladder or climb out via a rope.

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Tourist Spots in Barbados

Helicopter Tour of Barbados

This 20-minute helicopter tour around Barbados will give you the exciting feel for this wonderful island. You will be able to see the difference of geography that the island has from one coast to the other. You will behold the beautiful scenery around Barbados as you view it from above.

Andromeda Botanical Gardens

This peaceful and tranquil tourist spot in Barbados is found in Bathsheba on the eastern coast of the island. You will feel like walking in paradise as you roam along the paths full of palms, orchids, and bougainvillea. Lily ponds and gentle streams also dotted around the area. This is really a great place to ease off and be at peace with nature.

Bathsheba and Scotland District

A tourist spot in Barbados that is famous with surfers from anywhere in the world. You can watch the boldness of the surfers as they take the challenge of the so-called ‘soup bowl’ while enjoying your meal from one of the superb restaurants in the area. Don’t forget to bring your camera since the place is full of breathtaking scenery and steep roads.

Barbados Museum

An interesting tourist spot in Barbados where you got to be acquainted with the island, its rich heritage, and
cultural diversity. The seven principal galleries of the museum cover the interesting history of the island and its people.

Flower Forest

The Flower Forest is among the most beautiful tourist spots in Barbados and is found on the boundary of the Scotland District. Countless number of exotic plants and trees can be found in the forest making the place a perfect destination for picnics.

The Concorde Visitor Centre

For those visitors who are interested in the history of aviation, then this tourist spot in Barbados is perfect for them. The centre is located at Grantley Adams International Airport and it houses a Concorde aircraft. You will be allowed to get on board the Concorde and experience an unforgettable ride in it.

Kensington Oval

A historic tourist spot in Barbados that was built in 1882 and has been in use for every Cricket game in the island. It is interesting to pay a visit to Kensington Oval even if there are no games going on for that day. Cricket souvenirs and memorabilia of the West Indies are available at the gift shop located within the grounds of the oval.

Garrison Savannah

 

The tourist spot in Barbados that is the home of the famous Barbados Turf Club. The place was constructed by the British Army during the 17th century and horse racing is still held here. This is a great destination for a day out for the whole family.

Polo

For Polo enthusiasts, Barbados has lots of polo fields that you can go to enjoy the sports at its best. Included in the list are Water Hall, Clifton, Lion Castle, and Holders. Since 1884, the sports of Polo is continuously played in the island.

Orchid World

A tourist spot in Barbados that is located in the heart of the island where thousands of orchids are on display for your eyes to feast upon. Walking around the orchid houses and gardens is really invigorating to both body and mind.

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Casa Popenoe in Antigua – Guatemala

The Casa Popenoe in Guatemala is one of the most renowned architectural landmarks in Guatemala. This beautifully restored house is a fine example of 17th century living in the country.

 

Location

The house is located at Av. Sur at 5 Calle Oriente in Antigua. The house is constructed up to the sidewalk.

What to See

Large walls surround the place. but once you get to the inside, you will see that flowered patios are all around. The corridors are also beautifully shaded.

The edifice has been restored to recreate the atmosphere of 17th century homes. Inside the home, you will see authentic furnishing and paintings of Pedro de Alvarado, a fierce conqueror. There are paintings of Bishop Francisco Marroquin too. All the furnishings and art are from the colonial era.

The servants’ quarters have also been refurbished, as is the kitchen. Visitors to the Casa Popenoe in Guatemala can also climb up the narrow staircase. This will take you to the roof.

From the roof terrace you will see lovely vistas of the city. The far off volcanoes are also visible. Interspersed throughout the house are antiques. Visitors to the house should also not forget to visit the courtyard garden.

History

The house was originally constructed by Don Luis de las Infantas Mendoza in 1636. Mendoza was a powerful judiciary official.
However, the house was ruined following a series of earthquakes in 1773. It was completely abandoned until 1929. That was the year Dr. Wilson Popenoe and his wife Dorothy bought the property.

An agricultural scientist, Dr. Popenoe began restoring the place. Excavations and renovations were undertaken to rebuild the property. Aside from the renovation, antiques were also added to the property.

After he died in 1975, work was continued by his two daughters. While the house is private property, it has been opened to the public on specific times.

Cost

The entrance fee is 1.50 USD.

The budget hotels in Guatemala cost around US$4 to US$5. For midrange accommodations, you will have to spend around 50 to 60 USD.

Other Info

One of the more beautiful attractions in the complex is the “jacuzzi” at the backyard. When on the roof, do not forget to check out the dovecote. Other interesting areas are the laundry areas and the baths.

You can visit the Casa Popenoe in Guatemala from Mondays to Saturdays from to 2 pm to 4 pm. It is closed to the public on Sundays.

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Tourist Spots in United States

Times Square, New York City, New York

Times Square is considered to be the most lively and busiest square in New York City. It is a tourist spot in the United States that is famous for its several cinemas, Broadway theatres, and super signs that lit up at night making some impressive scenery.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco, California

This tourist spot in the United States is receiving almost 15 million visitors every year. This is the area where the San Francisco Bay is located where the Golden Gate, the Fisherman’s Wharf, the ignoble Alcatraz Island, and other major historic fortifications of the military are found.

National Mall and Memorial Parks, Washington, D.C.

This tourist spot in the United States consists of the most iconic public landmark of the nation that are housed on a land area of more than 1,000 acres. These landmarks include the famous Jefferson, Lincoln, and Washington Memorials. The National Parks are really beautiful to visit especially during the fall months with all the shades of fall are all around you.

The Las Vegas Strip, Nevada

The tourist spot in the United States that is famous for its shopping, gambling, and large entertainment centers. The Las Vegas Strip is the most exhilarating and glitziest place in the country. The casinos and hotels in the area are sought after. More than 31 million visitors come to this place each year to see its amazing shows, architecture, and billboards.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

A very famous tourist spot in the United States that belongs to the natural attraction category. A place that the great Colorado River created and became a very steep-sided gorge. The very large Grand Canyon National Park is among the first national parks established in the country. A glass Skywalk shaped into a horseshoe was built and opened in 2007 allows visitors to have an astounding view of the scenery below.

Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista, Florida

The most popular tourist spot in the United States under the themed-park category. The place has continued to maintain its magical appeal and enchanted charm to people of various walks of life. This is a wonderful place where families could come and enjoy together a day of fun and excitement in a clean and safe environment.

Niagara Falls, New York

This magnificent tourist spot in the United States is considered as a tourist Mecca of the country since the middle of the 19th century. It is a grand waterfalls that sits in between the borders of the United States and Canada.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston, Massachusetts

A tourist spot in the United States that is comprised of four historic sites in a single location. The Quincy Market, The Faneuil Hall, the South Market, and the North Market are all set around a unique cobblestone walk where the presence of musicians, magicians, and jugglers entertains the passing visitors.

Disneyland Park, Anaheim, California

A tourist spot in the United States that features eight themed-lands and showcases the classic characters of Disney, live entertainment, favorite attractions, and parades. It is an original themed-park of the famous Walt Disney. More than 500 million have visited the place including royalties, presidents, and heads of state.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina

The natural beauty of this tourist spot in the United States is truly unmatched. You can enjoy the distinct four season at this place. It has protected trails of more than 800 miles in length. It is a natural wonder for hikers, drivers, and birders.

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