Iowa, often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, offers a delightful array of attractions for visitors seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Des Moines, the state capital, is a vibrant hub with something for everyone. The Pappajohn Sculpture Park showcases large-scale works by renowned artists, set against the backdrop of downtown’s skyline. Nearby, the Science Center of Iowa engages visitors with interactive exhibits and an impressive IMAX theater.
On the north-western coast of Sal Island in Cape Verde sits Palmeira, an authentic fishing settlement where day-to-day life still revolves around the sea. The village’s seaside restaurants serve grilled tuna, octopus, and flying fish fresh from the day’s catch. Just a short trip from the centre lies Buracona, a natural lava rock pool famous for the “Blue Eye,” a glowing underwater cave that shines when the sunlight hits at just the right angle.
Machu Picchu is a story carved into stone, perched nearly 2,500 meters above sea level in the cloud forests of southern Peru. Built in the 15th century and later abandoned, this Inca citadel was unknown to the outside world until 1911, when explorer Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention. Today, it remains remarkably well-preserved, with more than 150 stone structures, terraced fields, ceremonial fountains, and temples aligned with astronomical events.
Photo Credit: Photo by Valentina Golubovic on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Mila Mulder on Unsplash
From Rockhampton you can discover the richness and diversity of this region. To the east the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean lap the Capricorn Coast which is grandly decorated with stretches of sandy beaches, the Great Barrier Reef and semi-tropical islands.
Heritage trails and reminders of years gone by abound at Mt Morgan, an old gold mining town 40 minutes drive south, which carries many reminders of its days of wealth.
West of Rockhampton you discover a section of Australia's outback territory. Here you will find the region's gemfields - towns resplendent with names such as Emerald, Anakie and Rubyvale. The national parks of Carnarvon Gorge and Blackdown Tableland are within striking distance of Rockhampton and provide a lush and tropical escape from a landscape which is home to some of the best sunsets you'll see anywhere in Australia. Rockhampton, just seven hours drive or an hour's flight from the capital Brisbane, is situated on the Tropic of Capricorn.
Many visitors stop at the Capricorn Information Centre to inspect "The Spire" built to commemorate this longitude. Attractions in the region range from the informative to the adventurous, from the mainland to the deep sea.
You see, we really do have it all. If your idea of a holiday is white beaches, warm sunshine and cold drinks - we can do. If it's inland travel, 4WD territory and bush tucker - we can do. If climbing a mountain, bathing in a waterfall and sleeping under the stars is more your idea of a good time - we can do.
In fact, there's little we can't do! So ... welcome to Central Queensland's Capricorn Region, where the outback meets the reef.