Tissamaharama, often called “Tissa” by seasoned travelers, sits in southern Sri Lanka as a town steeped in history and living culture. Once the capital of the ancient Ruhuna Kingdom in the 3rd century BCE, this settlement still radiates stories from the distant past in its temples, reservoirs, and even the streets where market life unfolds each day.
The Dades Gorges, carved by the Dades River in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, offer a winding stretch of road, towering rock walls, and centuries-old kasbahs perched on the cliffs. Located between the towns of Boumalne Dades and M’semrir, the gorge is especially known for its switchback road, often nicknamed “the snaking road of Tissadrine.” It’s a favorite among photographers and motorcyclists, with hairpin curves that reveal a new layer of landscape with every turn.
Hamilton, Alabama, nestled in the picturesque region of northwest Alabama, offers a unique blend of Southern charm and natural beauty. As the county seat of Marion County, Hamilton is renowned for its vibrant community and rich history. A visit to the Marion County Museum, located in the historic courthouse, provides a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past, showcasing exhibits ranging from Civil War artifacts to local memorabilia.
Icy Strait, Alaska, is a hidden gem for adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan experience. Nestled between the rugged coastlines of the Inside Passage and the stunning wilderness of the Tongass National Forest, Icy Strait offers unparalleled natural beauty and wildlife encounters. This remote destination is ideal for those looking to explore the great outdoors, with opportunities for whale watching, fishing, and hiking through pristine landscapes.
Macon, Georgia, known as the “Heart of Georgia,” offers a blend of historic charm and Southern hospitality. Begin your exploration at the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, where ancient Native American earthworks provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. The park’s expansive grounds and museum showcase artifacts from the Mississippian period, offering a fascinating look at the early inhabitants of the area.
Canyonlands National Park, located in southeastern Utah, offers an awe-inspiring landscape of deep canyons, rugged mesas, and striking rock formations. This vast park is divided into four districts: Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the Rivers. Each district showcases its own unique geological features and breathtaking vistas. The Island in the Sky district provides panoramic views from its high mesa, including breathtaking vistas of the Colorado and Green Rivers.
Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts will find much to explore in the Needles district, renowned for its colorful spires and challenging hiking trails. The Chesler Park trail, for example, leads hikers through a surreal landscape of rock formations and expansive views. The Maze district, characterized by its remote and intricate terrain, offers some of the most challenging off-road and hiking opportunities in the park.
For those interested in river adventures, the confluence of the Colorado and Green Rivers is a prime spot for river rafting and kayaking. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep and golden eagles. Additionally, visitors can explore ancient rock art and ruins left by the Ancestral Puebloans, adding a rich cultural dimension to their visit.
Fun Fact: Canyonlands National Park is home to the famous "Upheaval Dome", a mysterious geological formation whose origin remains debated among scientists. It’s believed to be either an ancient meteorite impact crater or a salt dome intrusion .
Other Popular Destinations in Utah
Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon, tucked into the high plateaus of southern Utah, offers one of the most unusual landscapes in the American Southwest. It’s not actually a canyon but a series of natural amphitheaters carved into the edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. What makes Bryce unique is its dense collection of hoodoos which are tall, thin spires of rock formed over millions of years by frost-wedging and erosion.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is known for its massive sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and unique desert ecosystems. Established in 1919, it was Utah’s first national park and continues to attract visitors with its dramatic elevation shifts and striking rock formations. The park’s most iconic feature, Zion Canyon, stretches for 15 miles and reaches depths of up to 2,640 feet, carved over time by the Virgin River.