Uxmal, located about 80 kilometers south of Mérida in the Puuc region of Yucatán, is one of the most architecturally refined ancient Maya cities. Unlike other major Maya sites built with steep pyramids and narrow passageways, Uxmal is known for its smooth limestone structures, wide plazas, and intricate stone mosaics. One unique experience available to visitors is the nightly light and sound show, which uses colored projections to highlight carvings and narrate local legends and Maya cosmology.
Durmitor National Park is found in the Dinaric Alps, located in northwestern Montenegro. Along the Tara River Canyon, one of the deepest in Europe, Durmitor features nearly 50 limestone peaks interspersed with clear glacial lakes and deep pine forests.
Located on the coast of Sinaloa, Mexico, Mazatlán is a trendy resort town with spectacular beaches and thrilling nightlife. Centro Histórico (Old Town) and Plazuela Machado are replete with colorful, newly-restored neoclassical buildings.
This National Park is located 35km south of Fort Portal and is home to monkeys, chimpanzees, baboons, bushbuck, elephants, birds and many varieties of butterflies. A four wheel drive is recommended.
Photo Credit: Photo by Zoltan Rakottyai on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Andy Arbeit on Unsplash
Valea Cetății
Photo Credit: Photo by Adrian Ciocalau on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Michelangelo Azzariti on Unsplash
Nestled in the heart of Romania, Brașov is a charming city that effortlessly blends medieval history with stunning natural beauty. Encircled by the Carpathian Mountains, Brașov's well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene make it a must-visit destination. The centerpiece of the city is the stunning Black Church, a Gothic marvel that dates back to the 14th century. This iconic landmark, known for its massive blackened walls, is the largest Gothic church in Eastern Europe and houses an impressive collection of 4,000 volumes of the Protestant Reformation.
The city's Old Town, with its cobbled streets and colorful buildings, exudes a fairytale charm. Stroll through Piața Sfatului, the main square, where you can admire the historical Council House and the vibrant street life. Brașov’s medieval fortifications, including the impressive city walls and the Tampa Fortress, offer panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. For a taste of local history and culture, the Brașov History Museum, housed in the former Council House, provides a fascinating insight into the city's past.
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Brașov’s surrounding landscapes. The nearby Piatra Craiului National Park offers exceptional hiking trails, while the scenic Poiana Brașov resort is perfect for skiing and mountain activities year-round. The nearby Dracula’s Castle, or Bran Castle, is a short drive away and is a popular attraction steeped in legend and myth.
Fun Fact: Brașov is home to one of the narrowest streets in Europe, Strada Sforii. Measuring just 1.2 meters wide, it’s a delightful curiosity and a perfect spot for a memorable photo.
Other Popular Destinations in Romania
Bucharest
Tree-lined avenues, grand architecture, and the imperative to live well defines Bucharest, a bustling city that is rebounding and expanding. In the 1900s, this vibrant Romanian capital was nicknamed "Little Paris" and that jubilant, raise-a-glass spirit carries over to this day.
Sighisoara
Sighisoara rises above the Târnava Mare River as one of the few medieval citadels in Europe that is still lived in and admired today. Its historic center has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1999, recognized for its long history as a fortified Saxon settlement and its role in trade and defense on the edges of central Europe. Wander through cobbled alleys framed by pastel-colored houses, and the layers of time feel close at hand, from the city walls and guild towers to busy cafés.