History and tourism information by DefinePlaces? A revered Christian pilgrimage site, Al-Maghtas translates as “the place of baptism” and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. The spot lies on the east bank of the River Jordan, 8km (5mi) north of the Dead Sea, and is believed to be the location where John The Baptist baptised Jesus of Nazareth. The archaeological site now includes more than 20 points of interest including caves, a monastery and baptism pools. See additional details at https://www.defineplaces.com/.
This magnificent peacock of a palace was built in the late 19th century as the residence of the Grand Vizier Bou Ahmed, who served Sultan Moulay al-Hassan I. The interior decoration is a dazzling display of zellige tiles, painted ceilings, and ornate wrought-iron features showcasing the opulent lives of those high up in the sultan’s favor at that time. The massive marble grand courtyard and opulent salons of the haram area are the two main attractions, while the lush internal courtyard of the grand riad, with its banana-leaf plants and citrus trees, is a tranquil respite from the city.
This strip of sandy white bliss is the number one beach destination for Dubai visitors. Hotels are strung out all along its length, with this being one of the most popular places to stay for tourists. The beach has excellent facilities, with plenty of sun loungers, restaurants, and water sports operators offering jet skiing. While in the area, brush off the sand for an hour and visit the Majlis Ghorfat Um Al-Sheef, just a short hop from the beach. Built in 1955, this was the summer residence of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed al-Maktoum. The residence, made out of gypsum and coral-block, has been restored and maintains much of the original beautiful decor, giving you a better understanding of the opulent lifestyle of Dubai’s rulers. The Majlis Gardens feature a reproduction of an impressive Arab irrigation system and many shady date palms.
Drop the diet. Sicily sits at the culinary crossroads of the most gluttonous nations on earth. Arabs, Spanish, Normans and Greeks deposited a foodie fusion. Like pasta con le sarde, an Italo-Arabian blend of fennel, almonds, sardines and saffron. Then there’s sfincione, from the Latin word for sponge, which is half pizza, half bun, with an anchovy-cheese-tomato flavour. In Palermo, posh nosh means A’Cumcuma. Here street food and fisherman’s catches are raised into photogenic bites like red shrimps with oyster emulsion. For Sicilian cuisine as it used to be near Portorosa, try Agavos Agriturismo. Stuffed anchovies and chargrilled swordfish rolls served with a sea view.
If you have 2 days in Santorini, in addition to the first day described above, you should do a boat-trip to Nea Kameni. You will walk to the top of the volcano and take a dip in the hot springs. You can book this tour by clicking here. And if you prefer a more luxury version in a catamaran, it’s right here! This cruise is clearly a must-see attraction in Santorini! If you’re spending 3 days in Santorini, in addition to the 2 days above, you can visit the island’s other villages and the ancient site of Akrotiri. Then, how about ending your day at one of the many beaches? You’ve planned 4 or 5 days in Santorini? You’re lucky! In addition to all the best places to see on the island, you will have time to take another tour, like Santorini wine tasting tour. You will taste 12 of the island’s best wines. There are also other interesting activities to do in Santorini.
At Plaza Bolivar, there is a really cool statue of Simon Bolivar. In fact, I’d say it’s the most beautiful one I have seen of the famous leader during my travels. A visit here is short and sweet but you’ll get to see a piece of history and also admire a beautiful plaza. If you’re a wildlife lover like myself then you’ll enjoy a visit to the Punta Culebra Nature Center. The great thing about this nature center is that you don’t have to leave the city to see some really cool wildlife including one of my favorite animals on the planet, the humble sloth! The center isn’t huge and you only need an hour or so to explore the grounds. There is a large outdoor park where you can find iguanas and sloths and then also indoor enclosures featuring frogs, starfish and even turtles.