Kruger National Park, located in northeastern South Africa, is one of the world’s premier wildlife reserves and a cornerstone of African conservation. Established in 1898, it spans nearly 20,000 square kilometers, making it larger than many countries.
Hollywood, California is the quintessential destination for fans of cinema and entertainment, offering a dynamic blend of iconic landmarks and vibrant culture. This district of Los Angeles is home to the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, where over 2,600 brass stars commemorate the biggest names in film, television, and music. Stroll along Hollywood Boulevard and snap a photo with the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre, renowned for its handprints and footprints of cinema's greatest stars.
Situated on the north coast of the Snæfellsnes peninsula between a mountain range and the sea is the small town of Grundarfjordur, Iceland. Though certainly now the most well-known town on the peninsula, its nearby mountain Kirkjufell ("church mountain" in Icelandic) is perhaps Iceland's most famous.
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country, Kandy is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. As the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka, Kandy holds a unique charm that blends its colonial past with a rich, vibrant heritage. The city’s crown jewel is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses a relic believed to be the tooth of the Buddha.
Tsavo West National Park, located in Kenya, offers a quintessential safari experience amidst dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. This vast park is part of the larger Tsavo ecosystem and is renowned for its diverse habitats, including semi-arid plains, volcanic hills, and lush riverine forests. The park’s centerpiece, the Mzima Springs, provides a vital water source for wildlife and features crystal-clear pools that allow visitors to view aquatic life such as hippos and fish through underw
Thingvellir, a captivating site in Iceland, seamlessly combines natural beauty and historical significance. Located in the Thingvellir National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a geological wonder where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The dramatic landscape features rift valleys and stunning volcanic formations, making it a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park is also home to Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake, which offers serene views and opportunities for fishing and kayaking.
Historically, Thingvellir holds great importance as the site of Iceland's first parliament, the Althing, established in 930 AD. This ancient assembly was a significant center for Icelandic democracy and lawmaking, where chieftains gathered annually to settle disputes and create laws. Visitors can explore the ruins of the original site and learn about Iceland’s early governance at the Thingvellir Visitor Centre.
A visit to Thingvellir offers a unique blend of natural splendor and historical intrigue. The park is part of the Golden Circle route, which includes other iconic Icelandic sites such as Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall. In addition to its historical and geological attractions, Thingvellir is a prime location for viewing the Northern Lights during winter months. The park’s low light pollution and expansive views make it an ideal spot for this breathtaking natural phenomenon.
Fun fact: Thingvellir is one of the few places in the world where you can literally walk between two tectonic plates. The Silfra fissure within the park offers a unique snorkeling experience where you can swim between these two plates, immersing yourself in crystal-clear glacial water.