I thought 1,000 Places was a great book. The idea of aggregating 1000 places to see before one dies is quite a life giving experience. The 1000 places listed in this book are quite remarkable if you like to travel. I’m not sure everyone will make it to all of these amazing locations, but even just going to 100 would be quite fun. Read more reviews here or buy this book at the best price from Amazon here.
The Travel Book - A Journey Through Every Country in the World is a big book that I was very impressed by. This book covers 230 countries, with in depth two page sections by a wide range of authors. With the stunning photography, wonderful descriptions, low price, and the large number of pages this book has, it is a great deal. I was in awe of the many amazing places I need to visit.
There are quite a number of reasons you may want to travel. There are also some great reasons not to travel.
5 Reasons to Travel
5 Reasons Not to Travel
The glamorous world of cinema beckons you to visit! This small but still power packed theme park lets sets all the Disney characters to life, to please and entertain you.
Begin your trip in this theme park with a Voyage Of The Little Mermaid, a charming show, presented in a pretty theater. Beauty and the Beast Live on stage, will entice you to join them as they present a musical extravaganza in with a surprise ending. Fantasmic uses water animation, lasers and fireworks to engage your sense in this amazing presentation.
Thrill seekers could take a Star Tour or go on the Great Movie Ride with the cast characters from the Wizard of Oz, Indiana Jones, Alien and Casablanca. An exact replica of the Chinese Theater serves as the entrance to the latter ride, with the hand prints of Alan Alda, Lauren Bacall, Robin Williams, Charlton Heston, Sylvester Stallone, Jim Henson and even Kermit the Frog.The main attraction here however is a giant wizard hat, which changes colors as you go around it.
Head to the Animation Gallery to shop for cartoon cels or other original Disney collectibles. Once the shopping is done, get aboard the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, with a stretch limo and a great sound system with music from Aerosmith as your conveyance. And in the end if you start feeling all glamorous and lucky, try your hand at the Who Wants to Be a Millionaire – Play It! to win prizes including Disney cruises.
Typhoon Lagoon features some of the wettest and wildest attractions at Walt Disney World. This water park owes its popularity to its twisting tides, roaring rapids, wonderful waterways and relaxing rivers. Typhoon Lagoon also has an exclusive area for snorkeling among live sharks and other tropical fish. You could navigate you way down the 9 roaring waterslides or just surf the exhilarating world’s largest artificially created waves.
Lose yourself to carefree abandon and plummet down five stories in seconds down an enclosed flume, where you can’t see where you’re headed until you meet the surprise ending in Humunga Kowabunga. If getting an adrenalin rush is quite your thing, then you will enjoy MayDay Falls – the longest waterslide in the park. Grab the sides of your boat as you traverse through caves and waterfalls, down the mountain in the shadow of the famous shrimp boat Miss Tilly.
And if you get tired of hurtling down the water slide then just take a floating tube and travel 2,000 feet of gently flowing creek all across the park. Cool mists and gentle waterfalls await you on this relaxing ride. And once you’re rejuvenated enough, get ready to dive into the azure blue waters of the world’s largest wave pools. Body surf and dive into the clear blue waters or just chill out on the white sand beach.
Don’t think that this is all that Typhoon Lagoon has to offer for you, there is a whole lot more fun just waiting for you at Ketchakiddee Creek, snorkeling with the sharks at shark reef or experiencing tropical waterfalls at Keelhaul Falls.
South America comprises thirteen states, each offering a unique travel experience. The climate varies drastically from the tropical rain forests of the Amazon to the dry Atacama Desert.
It is a cradle of civilization where the early Mayan and Incan settlements originated and thrived in glory. Of the various tourist destinations in these states, lets look at the top 15 places that are a ‘must see’
Boat rides in the Amazon River; hikes, treks and canopy walk in the Amazon jungle are all great ways to soak in this great tropical rain forest area.
The ‘Old Peak’ located in Peru offers a glimpse of the early Incan civilization. In and around this area one could see the architectural remains of a well laid out Incan settlement, inclusive of roads, temples, sanctuaries and parks. It is a World Heritage Site.
The Iguazu falls in Argentina is both taller and wider than the Niagra falls, shaped like a horseshoe with many cascading streams. It is a World Natural Heritage Site. The falls are a part of the Iguazu National Park, which offers activities like hiking, helicopter and boat rides to the falls.
Located in the Andes mountain ranges in Southern Peru, the Colca Canyon is one of the lesser-known canyons. It is the deepest Canyon in the world, deeper than the Grand Canyon and home to the Andean Condor, an endangered majest bird of prey.
The Equator passes through Ecuador and hence the name. The capital Quito has an Equatorial Monument which worth a visit. The Chimborzo national park houses Mount Chimborazo, the most distant point from the center of the earth.
Rio in Brazil is well known for its carnival celebrations and beaches. The Copacabana beach, National Museum of Fine Arts, National Historical Museum and the Statue of Christ- The Redeemer are a few places to visit while in Rio.
Mount Cotopaxi in the vicinity of Quito is claimed to be the highest active volcano in the world. It is almost a symmetrical cone with the top of the mountain being snow clad.
Another World Heritage Site and a Biosphere reserve, the Galapagos Islands are home to variety of flora and fauna. Visited by a number of scientific expeditions, it is here that Charles Darwin conducted studies in Geology and Biology, which were crucial to his theory of ‘Natural Selection’.
It is the world’s highest cascading waterfalls, located in the state of Venezuela. Plane sorties and boat trips are available for closer look at the waterfall.
It is a single waterfall on the Potaro River in Guyana. Located as part of Kaieteur National Park, it is in the midst of a tropical rain forest, and can be explored by land or by air.
The Towers of Paine, in the Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile is a Biosphere Reserve. The park offers wonderful views of the ice-covered landscape. Tourists are allowed to hike and camp in the National Park.
The driest desert in the world, the landscape mostly lies in Chile but parts of it lie in other states of Argentina, Peru and Bolivia. San Pedro, an Oasis village is located in the desert, from where the neighbouring salt lakes, extinct volcanoes, geysers and the Chiu-Chiu lagoon can be accessed.
The Jade Museum in San Jose, Costa Rica displays a huge collection of jade artefacts from the pre-columbian period. The Museum also has a wide collection of ceramic and terra-cota wares.
The grasslands of Argentina, with sprawling cattle ranches, are also well known for their agricultural produce. The Lihue Calel National Park gives a wonderful experience of the grasslands and the rugged terrain beyond the Pampass.
Acapulco is a popular resort on the pacific coast of Mexico. Its many beaches are worth exploring. At La Quebrada, watch the cliff divers dive into the sea from the surrounding cliff that is about 45 metres in height.
South America offers a varied experience to the traveler. With climatic extremes, currency and language differences it is most suited for the more adventurous spirit.
The world of magic comes alive in Walt Disney World. With four fun theme parks and 2 water parks, there is something for every member of your group or family.
Theme Parks
Magic Kingdom
Follow your Disney dreams to a destination where storybook fantasy comes alive. Seek adventure and create memories to cherish for a long time. Play with your favorite story book characters and enjoy fun in a place where imagination reigns. Spend time with Buzz Light-year, or save the toy galaxy from the Evil Emperor Zurg! And if you’re tired of doing that just zoom into another galaxy aboard a thrilling high-speed roller coaster in Space Mountain.
Epcot
Get all of your friends and family together to see this small blue planet of ours in all its glory. Celebrate the rich diversity and experience the fascinating cultures and wonders from around the world as you are taken through a dazzling array of shows, interactive experiences and some awe inspiring attractions. Go on a brilliant new adventure with Nemo and his friends or take the Test Track discover if you are a perfect driver. Gather around the World Showcase Lagoon for a nighttime spectacular, filled with fireworks, a stunning soundtrack, and images to last forever in your mind.
Disney MGM Studios
Meet the world of cinema in all its fantastic glory. From the great Hollywood classics to modern day animation wonders, from rock ’n’ roll to fantasy to Broadway style spectaculars – be on the center stage of this adventure. See a spectacular Hollywood hotel made for the movie stars and suddenly plunge from a 13 floor elevator. Take a journey into the colorful imagination of Mickey Mouse, in a nighttime musical extravaganza filled with Disney characters.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park
The fine art of storytelling comes naturally to Disney, along with creating a world of fantasy, fun and lots of adventure. At the Animal Kingdom Park Hakuna Matata along with Simba and his pals of go on a fascinating ride through the Savannah with Kilimanjaro Safari. And if you get tired of that, just take a seat and enjoy Finding Nemo – The Musical!
Water Parks
Blizzard Beach
Once upon a time a great big winter storm chased through Florida and ended up creating a special resort for all those who love snow and water! Equipped with every single ride which you can dream of, Disney’s Blizzard Beach is the most slushy, slippery and exhilarating beach water park anywhere in the world! The Downhill Double Dipper and the Slush Gusher take you down the slippers slopes of Mount Gushmore as you scream into the fun filled day. You could also relax along the sooth waters of creek flowing all along the park or take the world’s longest raft ride down a curvy, slippery path.
Typhoon Lagoon
The remnants of a great typhoon which once rocked the seas, ended up creating a sprawling water resort completely equipped with every ride to make sure you have the time of your life. Twisting tides, roaring rapids, gorgeous waterways and relaxing rivers welcome you to Typhoon Lagoon. Slide down Mount Mayday at Humunga Kowabunga in super speed slides or go over board with a fun-filled inner tube ride in Mayday Falls, lots of water and great fun are just waiting for you.
The world of Walt Disney is enchanting and spell bounding for most, while everyone visits adventure land, there are several other entertaining places to see nearby. Below are the top 10 fun places near the Walt Disney World:
1) Capone’s Dinner & Show – Conjuring the dark Prohibition era of the 1920s and ’30s, Al Capone’s Infamous Underworld Cabaret will require you to come up with its secret password before you gain entry into this this brilliantly themed dinner show. While delicious food tingles your taste buds, watch performances like you’ve never seen and get waiters to serve you, while they are still a part of the performance!
2) Orlando Science Center – Come home to the largest science center in the Southeast, and explore everything from the fairly recent Florida swamps to the exotic arid plains of Mars or the human body. Watch large-format films at Cine Dome or delight at the beautiful galaxy with laser-light extravaganzas. Children can have fun in KidsTown, and discover a miniature version of the big world around them.
3) The Mall at Millenia – If glamour, high fashion and designer labels excite you, then The Mall at Millenia is the answer to your prayers. Offering the finest collection of luxury brands in Orlando, this mall creates a surreal experience for you to surround yourself in luxury.
4) Universal Orlando – Brace yourself for a heady ride full of action, thrills and excitement! The only Universal Studio in the world to have two amazing theme parks, non-stop nightlife and three world-class hotels, at a single location. Walk though lush tropical greenery or serene waterfalls or simply have some fun with Spiderman at the Superhero Island or run with the dinosaurs in the Jurassic Park!
5) Turkey Lake Park – A hip-scotch-jump from Universal Studio’s, lies a 300-acre oasis along the shores of Turkey Lake. Also known as the Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake, this beautifully landscaped and manicured park offers picnicking, hiking, biking, kiddie play areas and sandy “beaches” and a number of other fun activities.
6) Skull Kingdom – Are you one of those who wish that Halloween lasted all the year round? Well then a visit this two-story haunted castle for a quick shot of terror will do the trick for you. You’ll also find dark, creaky passageways, high-tech special effects, dank fog and mind-bending strobe lighting – highly recommended for everyone above the age of eight.
7) Pirate’s Dinner Adventure – For a fun filled family trip, hop on over to this dinner theater and be enthralled with the world of pirates sailing on mighty seas. As a host of talented actors, dances and acrobats entertain you aboard a scary pirate ship; enjoy limitless pot roast, chicken, cake and other mouth-watering goodies.
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Orlando Museum - Stretching around the world with a network of 27 oddity museums, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not has got something fascinating for everyone. Housed in a disproportioned old Bavarian style building, The Orlando museum looks some part of it has disappeared into one of Florida’s infamous sinkholes. Seek oddities such as a statue of a 1,069-pound man, or a replica of a 1907 Rolls Royce built from more than a million matchsticks. And did we say that parking was free?!
9) Titanic, Ship of Dreams Exhibit – Held at the International Drive’s Mercado shopping center, the Titanic exhibit features over 200 amazing Titanic artifacts from a host of private collections around the world. See the costume worn by Leonardo Di Caprio in the museum as you’re guided through by interactive storytellers in period costume.
10) Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf – Hoist your sails and set forth on a journey for this spectacular pitch and putt course. With plenty of pirate references to amuse you, have fun at this golf course where playing golf is like walking the plank. And as you leave don’t forget to grab a handful of the free Pirate’s Cove stickers, plastic doubloon rings, and pirate flags.
10 Best Children’s Activities at Walt Disney World
Every one quite well know about Disney World’s amazing theme parks, but many are not familiar with the countless number of fascinating activities which are there for children at Walt Disney World. Some of these offers are complimentary while some are offered at a reasonable fee. Listed below are some of the 10 best:
The Magic Kingdom along with the resorts was started in the year 1967 by The Walt Disney Company following the death of Walt Disney. Although the initial idea was to make the park similar to the existing Disneyland in California but Magic Kingdom was built on a larger area. The Magic Kingdom is inspired by Disneyland’s design.
Walt Disney was not fortunate to live long enough to see the park. He died on December 15th, 1966. His brother Roy O. Disney took over the responsibility of creating the park. The completion of the park became his passion and he continued with his brother’s legacy. The name of Disney World was changed to Walt Disney World in order to honor his brother. Roy O. Disney died two months after the opening of the park on December 20th, 1971.
Walt Disney once saw a Frontierland cowboy walking through Tomorrowland at Disneyland and he wanted to get rid of this factor that had been ruining the illusion. So in order to improve this, The Magic Kingdom was built over a series of tunnels, called Utilidors. Due to the water table being close to the surface in Florida, it was impossible to build underground. This was why the Utilidors are the first floor of the park and the rest of the park is regarded as the second or third floor.
After the construction of the utilidors, the space has been filled with dirt and sand dredged up from the bottom of Bay Lake when it was drained. The sand from the bottom of the lake has been used to line the lake and build the beaches. The hard clay also fills the area and has been a problem with plants planted around the park. Actually the park is only 14 feet above the sea level but thanks to the Utilidors, which facilitates the cast members to walk from one side to the other side of the park within 10 minutes without being noticed by the Guests.
Although The Magic Kingdom was based on the Disneyland in California but not much has been duplicated. Majority of the things at the Magic Kingdom are superiorly designed from Disneyland. For example the castle is in Magic Kingdom being 189 feet is over 100 feet taller than the one in Walt Disney World. In order to promote the major differences between Disneyland and the new park, Country Bear Jamboree, Liberty Square, Hall of Presidents, Space Mountain, 20,000 Leagues under the Sea and Mickey Mouse Revue were opened first at the Magic Kingdom.