English: Pensacola Beach, 1957. Beach shows extremely white sand color. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

west. Pensacola boasts white sand beaches as its main appeal, composed of quartz just down from the Appalachian Mountains. In 1559, the Spanish tried to colonize Pensacola, but hurricanes would force them out. At some point, people started to stay in the area, an area that would grow up as a military city due to its harbor and geographical positioning. Visitors can expect to find Pensacola not hiding in the eye of the storm, but rather draped in its rich heritage and fresh coastal cuisines.

Get to know the Gulf Islands National Seashore—Pensacola’s pride and joy is easily the area’s remarkable white sand beaches. The Gulf Islands National Seashore makes up a big part of that appeal, stretching 150 miles on Pensacola’s sands. The area can truly be enjoyed for it is largely undeveloped.

Count the genres represented at the Pensacola Museum of Art—Housed in the city’s old jail, the Pensacola Museum of Art contains almost 20 exhibits a year. The majority of the work hails from 20^th to 21^st century artists. You can count the genres represented here including pop art, folk art, realism and cubism

Take in the view and history from Fort Barrancas—Fort Barrancas has the best seat in the house. The fort rests on a drama-inducing bluff, gazing out on Pensacola Bay. A part of the national park system, Fort Barrancas has changed hands throughout history. Beginning in 1698, it has been Spanish, French, British, Confederates and ultimately the possession of US Forces.

Spot a UFO at Shoreline Park—Those in the mood for some otherworldly encounters will want to head to Shoreline Park. Located in Gulf Breeze, the park is a nice spot to star gaze. However, that isn’t why most are here. Supposedly many have see UFOs here, right along the coast.

Pay tribute at Veterans Memorial Park—Located across 5.5 acres of bay front property, Veterans Memorial Park sets up with moving monuments to American War Veterans. Along with a new World War II memorial, visitors will want to check out Wall South, a replica of the Vietnam Memorial in D.C.

Stroll Through Bay Bluffs Park—Bay Bluffs Park covers 32 acres, complete with wooden boardwalks for strolling. The park’s paths snake along the side of steep bluffs. Nature lovers can appreciate the live oaks, holly, pines and Florida rosemary in the park.

Take Flight to the National Naval Aviation Museum—If there were one museum not to miss in Pensacola, it would be the National Naval Aviation Museum. The museum dedicated to the world’s aviation is one of the largest on the globe.

Attend a festival—If you are in Pensacola, chances are there is a festival taking place on your visit. The city hosts a number of festivals throughout the year including the Pensacola Seafood Festival and the Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival.

Koala Image taken at Rockhampton Botanical Gardens in Rockhampton, Central Queensland. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

the cattle industry and for its gold and copper mines. Calling itself the country’s beef capital, Rockhampton hosts over 2 million cows in a 250-kilometer radius. With that said, things are smelly around here, but that doesn’t cancel out the remarkable early 20^th century architecture or the glassy Fitzroy river flowing through town. The central Queensland’s administrative and commercial hub is still the launching point for the adjacent Capricorn Coast. Just pack your nose plugs.

Get a whiff of the Botanic Gardens—If you are trying to get away from the smell of cows in Rockhampton, you can head to the Botanic Gardens. The gardens are an oasis of Japanese gardens, lagoons and immaculate lawns. Pack a picnic and enjoy the small zoo with koalas on site along with the walk-through aviary.

Tussle with Crocodiles at the Koorana Crocodile Farm—The Koorana Crocodile Farm in Rockhampton actually sits outside of the city. Just a half hour east of Rockhampton, you can enjoy watching estuarine crocodiles shoot out of the water in hopes of catching their food.

Learn about the heritage of the area at the Dreamtime Cultural Center—The Dreamtime cultural center provides insight into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and history. Just 7 kilometers north of the city, 90-minute tours are offered. You can also meander a trail here highlighting different medicinal and edible plants.

Park yourself in a park—Rockhampton, despite being a cow town, does boast a number of parks and gardens. Victoria Park sits on the southern end of town. The Kershaw Gardens can be found on the northern stretches of Rockhampton.

Explore the Rockhampton City Art Gallery—Art lovers can appreciate the eclectic glimpse of Australian artwork at the Rockhampton City Art Gallery. The gallery boasts a fine permanent collection with works from Sir Russell Drysdale, Albert Namatijira and Sir Sidney Nolan. The gallery also contains contemporary indigenous painters.

Drive to the Berserker Range—If you hire a car while in Rockhampton, you can head just north of town to the Berserker Range. The highlights here are the fantastic limestone caves within the ranges. Some of the carves are open for tours like the Cammoo Caves and Olsen’s Capricorn Caverns.

Virginia is for lovers, or so they say.

Colonial Parkway tunnel in Colonial Williamsburg (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The state leaves little not to love. With a passion for history, art, big cities, nature and main street towns, Virginia packs it all in. You won’t have trouble finding great natural significance here. Long beaches kiss the ocean as the rugged appeals of the Appalachians provide an embrace. In Virginia, the line between America’s North and South is perhaps most apparent throughout the ancient battlefields the state holds. To appreciate it all you won’t want to neglect these five lovely attractions in Virginia.

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Constructed in 1888 as a mere five block, wooden planked promenade, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a sea of activity today, and much longer. Today, the Boardwalk stretches three miles and composes of concrete. What hasn’t changed is the boardwalk’s location. It still sits along the Virginia Beach oceanfront where festivals, strolls and bike rides constantly take place.

Arlington National Cemetery

Receiving over four million visitors annually, Arlington National Cemetery stands with great pride in Virginia. The Cemetery pays tribute to those who have lost their lives servicing the United States of America. A visit here is both powerful and memorable, providing insight into the American way of service.

The Historic Triangle

Considered America’s Historic Triangle, Jamestown, Williamsburg and Yorktown provide key pieces of American history. Located in southeastern Virginia, you can visit them all, beginning with Jamestown. Jamestown was the first permanent English settlement in the United States. The triangle continues to make a point at Colonial Williamsburg where across 301 acres, you can view the largest living history museum. Williamsburg holds 88 original buildings along with 90 acres of gardens and greens. The triangle ends in Yorktown, situated on the banks of the York River. Established in 1691, Yorktown served an important place for American independence during the 1781 Siege of Yorktown.

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail

One of the most famous hiking trails in the world, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail finds some 550 miles in Virginia. Those in the market for a casual walk or a day hike can appreciate a stretch of those 550 miles. The trail itself extends from Maine to Georgia for over 2,175 miles.

The Festivals

A number of festivals and events take place throughout the year in Virginia, many of which are free. You might want to schedule your visit around some of the most famous such as the summertime Virginia Highlands Festival or the annual President’s Day George Washington Birthday Parade in Alexandria.

English: stained glass window, crucifixion, church Saint-Etienne du Mont, Paris. Français : Vitrail de l'église Saint-Etienne du Mont à Paris, salle des catéchismes, représentant le "Miracle des Billettes" http://www.insecula.com/oeuvre/O0019656.html (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Located in eastern central France, you don’t always hear the praises of this saint. Saint Etienne however sits in a prime location for visitors, just 60 kilometers southwest of Lyon. Named after Saint Stephen, Saint Etienne sets up in the Rhone-Alpes region of France, part of the south of the Loire department. There are many moments to embrace while in Saint Etienne, from the vision of the town’s architecture to its many museum exhibits. Encased by the Loire Gorges and the Pilat Regional Park. Saint Etienne can feel overshadowed by such natural gems. Those willing to scratch more than the surface will find the gems are in Saint Etienne just the same.

The Architecture

Part of admiring Saint Etienne comes on the outside, through its architecture. You can discover the appeal of the city by frequenting a number of its standout buildings. The Maison des Feugerolles is of particular notice for its 17^th century construction. The Notre Dame church also adds interest in town, hailing from the 18^th century. Saint Etienne prides itself on these structures, but also the architecture seen only from the outside of many private mansions.

The Museums

Saint Etienne is crawling with a number of museums, sure to satisfy all sorts in the group. The Museum of Modern Art specializes in showing modern contemporary art. The Museum of Art and Industry looks at the history of making a number of items, from weapons to bicycles. The Coal Mining Museum takes visitors through an actual mine, the site of one of the largest extraction centers. Finally, Saint Etienne presents the Museum of Historical Saint Etienne, telling of the town’s unusual history as the first manufacturing center in France.

The Festivals

Saint Etienne puts on quite the show throughout the year. If you are in town for one of its festivals, you will know it. One of the most popular events is the Rue des Arts á Saint Etienne, an event devoted entirely to the visual arts. Saint Etienne also participates in the Tour de France. You can catch professional cyclists in town for the event. Other festivals you won’t want to miss include the Music Festival and the International Festival of Street Theater.

The History

Saint Etienne’s history plays out about town, but the Memorial of Resistance and Deportation presents a sobering look at a fraction of the city’s history. The memorial tells visitors all about the Nazi concentration camps. It also details the Resistance in the Loire.

The Day Trips

In the proximity of Saint Etienne, you can take advantage of a number of day trips by car. Perhaps the most popular is the Forez Jarez archaeological center. The site boasts exhibitions, models and tours. It showcases the history and mystery of the Roman aqueduct of Gier.

When you think of a place with more beaches than the Atlantic seaboard, you

1916 Apperson "Jack Rabbit" Touring Car photographed by DougW of RemarkableCars.com at The Henry Ford museum in Dearborn, MI. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

probably don’t think of Michigan. However, the state does hold more beaches, complimented with forest across half its area. From the rough and raw elements of Detroit to Lake Michigan’s golden beaches, this state is in a good position. Two parts split by water, the larger Lower Peninsula and the smaller Upper Peninsula, you can divide your attentions in Michigan.

Unplug from the world at the Isle Royale National Park—Free of vehicles and roads, you can truly unplug from the chaos of life at the Isle Royale National Park. Across 210 square miles, the island floats on Lake Superior. It is a good place to go for peace and quiet that is if you don’t mind the packs of moose and wolves.

Admire the view at Fort Mackinac—On top of limestone cliffs, Fort Mackinac finds a home. Constructed by the British in 1780, the fort is one of the best-preserved military forts in the country. However, most don’t come here for the history. They come for the view of the Straits of Mackinac.

Experience the Diversity of Michigan’s museums—The state of Michigan holds a number of famous museums. Perhaps the most famous is the Henry Ford Museum. The museum details the Henry Ford automobile and its impact on America. Henry Ford began the Ford Motor Company back in 1903 when he opened up a wagon shop in Detroit. Today, Ford is still a big name. It is the second largest car and truck maker on the planet.

Another one of Michigan’s standout museums is the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. The museum holds items from ships that met their maker in the Great Lakes. Over 300 vessels have sunk in the area, lending the space a variety of nicknames including Shipwreck Coast and the Graveyard of the Great Lakes.

Splish-Splash at the Tahquamenon Falls States Park—The Tahquamenon Falls State Park presents the falls for visitors, spreading out 200 feet across with a 50 foot drop. Those measurements make the Tahquamenon Falls some of the largest falls east of the Mississippi River.

Hang out with polar bears at the Detroit Zoo—The Detroit Zoo has many exhibits but they can’t compete with the polar bear exhibit, the largest in the world. The Arctic Ring of Life holds the popular Polar Bear Tube. Here the polar bears might be found above you as they swim overhead.

On the streets of Las Palmas, it feels more like mainland Spain than an island city very far from the mainland. Las Palmas contains an eclectic mix of other cultures on the island of Gran Canaria.

English: Panoramic view over the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Gran Canaria). Canary Islands, Spain. Español: Vista panorámica sobre la ciuadad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Gran Canaria). Islas Canarias, España. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

From the sweeping arc of Playa de las Canteras to the hooting taxis, the energy is felt. Perhaps the best place to begin is in Vegueta, the oldest quarter in the city and a Unesco World Heritage sites as well. However, no matter where you begin, Las Palmas is sure to impress.

Catedral de Santa Ana

What started in the early 15th century took years to complete, some 350 years. Catedral de Santa Ana is a piece of perfection in the city, something that would take time to be so brilliant. The neoclassical façade hints like the rest of the cathedral at bits and pieces from mainland Spain and Genoa. Those looking for stunning and wide-ranging views of Las Palmas can climb to the top of the cathedral’s tower. You won’t be disappointed.

Casa/Museo de Pérez Galdós

In 1843, the most famous writer to come out of the Canary Islands was born in Las Palmas. Benito Pérez Galdo´s lived in the heart of the old town. He spent 19 years of his life in the home. Today, fans of the writer can explore the reconstruction of the author’s study along with a number of artifacts from Galdo.

Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo

Travelers who hire a car while in Las Palmas can cruise just 9 kilometers outside the city to the Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo. The vast botanical garden is also Spain’s largest, measuring around 27 hectares of land. Nature lovers can appreciate the broad range of Macronesian flora from all seven of the Canary Islands.

Calle Mayor de Triana

Pedestrians can appreciate Calle Mayor de Triana while in Las Palmas. The pedestrianized street presents the main shopping street in Las Palmas. Visitors can stroll on the calming street, while window-shopping their way through the district. Calle Mayor de Triana is also known for its real architectural gems, striking examples of modernism.

Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno

Closing out the day in Las Palmas, museum and art fans should head to the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno. The city’s main museum of modern art hosts fantastic temporary exhibits as well. The gallery’s permanent collection hones in on 20th century art. You can see both Canarian and international artists here.

Sometimes a rock is just a rock. In rare cases, a rock is much more. Ayers Rock is not just

Dawn view of Uluru (Ayers Rock) with Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) in background, enhanced image (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

a rock. It is one of the world’s greatest natural attractions on the globe. Contained in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Ayers Rocks holds deep cultural significance to the Anangu aboriginal people. Right in the heart of Australia, the striking rock monolith rises dramatically from a desert plain.

What’s in a name?

Ayers Rock is also referred to as Uluru, its aboriginal name. No matter the title, the names are slightly misleading. Ayers Rock dominates the horizon, stretching 3.6 kilometers long and reaching a height of 348 meters. That is just half of the story. Ayers Rock is believed to dig even deeper with two-thirds located beneath the sand.

When to Go?

Most come to Ayers Rock at sunset when the rock dramatically changes color.

The Uluru Sunset Viewing area is a good place to see the shifting colors of the rock. Just before the sun sets, Ayers Rock turns a brilliant red.

Where to Hike

Visitors should respect the fact that Ayers Rock is a sacred site. The Anangu Aboriginal people dissuade those from climbing or hiking. The park itself is a sacred site of deep spiritual significance. Still, many tourists still hike. If you are going to, be well prepared for the temperatures can be sweltering.

What To See Besides Ayers Rock

The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is not solely Ayers Rock. The area also holds the Olgas, or Kata Tjuta. The site is made up of a group of domed rocks clustered together. Known as the Olgas, the area forms small valleys and gorges. Just 30 kilometers from Uluru, the tallest rock of the Olgas measures 546 meters, Mt. Olga. That makes Mt. Olga 200 meters higher than Ayers. It doesn’t receive the same amount of attention, but it easy could. Hikers can enjoy the 7.4-kilometer loop trail called the Valley of the Winds. The desert terrain and surreal boulders are enough to captivate attentions.

Where to Stay

There is really only one place to stay right in the area. The only accommodation in Yulara is the Ayers Rock Resort. The resort sits just 4 kilometers from the park’s boundary.

When it’s open

The park is open before sunrise. It generally closes at sunset each day. However closing time and opening hours depend on the time of year. From November to March the park is open 5AM to 9PM. From April to October, the park is open from 6:30AM to 7:30PM.

Lush, green and relaxed, Funchal is also a port city. But unlike most port towns, Funchal is surprising in its architecture that pleases. With colonial style buildings and cobbled streets, Funchal appreciates in value, carrying out to its deep natural harbor that first attracted settlers in the 15th century.

To see where Funchal all began, you have to head straight for Quinta das Cruzes. Located on Calcada do Pico, the home was where the island’s discoverer Joao Goncalveszarco once lived. Right next door, the explorer was buried in the 16th century Santa Clara church.

The Sé in Funchal has seen it all in this town. The Cathedral dates back to 1486 when construction began. Simple and whitewashed, the Sé is not overly flourished, but it is still notable in Funchal. Visitors won’t want to miss the mudejar ceiling composed of Madeira cedar wood and the Baroque carvings about the church.

Thrill seekers won’t be bored while in Funchal, especially with its famous toboggan ride. The toboggan ride stretches from Monte to Funchal, providing riders with an exhilarating experience. While only a 20 minutes ride, the famous toboggan trip was invented out of practicality. In 1850, locals built the ride as a means of transport.

After such a ride, you might want to calm down and sip on a nice glass of wine. In Funchal, the Old Blandy Wine Lodge sits in a former Franciscan friary. Dating back to the 17th century, the friary is now used as a wine lodge where guided visits of the cellars are offered. Of course, there is a wine tasting session on the tour.

English: Funchal cableway, Madeira, Portugal; Português: Teleférico do Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

To relax even more while in Funchal, the Botanical Garden provide a nice respite. On the edge of town, the garden opened officially in 1960. Plants from all around the world are on display, including desert cacti, rainforest orchids and South African proteas.

If you hire a car, you can explore a number of day trips while basing yourself out of Funchal. Just to the west of town is Camara de Lobas. The pretty fishing village is all fine and well, but it is its views off some of the world’s highest sea cliffs that bring in day-trippers. Cabeo Girão stands at 589 meters, looking out to sea.

Stop #1: Sighisoara—If you love the Dracula story, you must go where it all began, in Sighisoara. The ancient

English: Castle of Vlad Tepes Dracula in Poienari (Transylvania in Romania). Polski: Ruiny zamku Vlada Tepesa Draculi w Poienari (Transylwania, Rumunia). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Transylvanian town is known as the birthplace of Vid Tepes, also known as Vlad the Impaler. Vlad the Impaler lived from 1431 to 1476 as the ruler of Wallachia, a region of Romania. His cruelty was notorious, so much so that he developed bloodthirsty tendencies. Much of the folklore surrounding vampirism in Romania centers on this figure. The Unesco World Heritage Site is also known for its Medieval Arts Festival.

Stop #2:Targoviste—Vlad Tepes ruled this town in the 15th century. Targoviste is the capital of Wallachia. While famous for being where the bloodthirsty ruler ruled, Targoviste is also a sight with its medieval architecture.

Stop #3: Arefu and the Poienari Castle—Despite what some tourism brouchures might try to sell, Arefu is the location of Vlad’s real castle. Poienari Castle invites visitors to climb over 1,000 steps to the top of a hill. The towers and Vlad’s private quarters are all that remain.

Stop#4: Bran Castle—While Poienari Castle is the site of Vlad’s real castle, Bran Castle is often confused for the ruler’s other home. In the town of Bran, the Bran Castle lords over, most famously known as Dracula’s Castle. Despite such a title, it was never actually inhabited by Dracula himself, Vlad Tepes. Rather, the Bran Castle belonged to Queen Marie of Romania. However those on a true Dracula hunt might cling to the fact that it is possible Vlad Tepes attacked the castle at some point in time.

Stop #5: Snagov—Dracula enthusiasts can end their time spent in Romania at Snagov. The village sits unsuspectingly near Bucharest. The most notable feature is the lake, where an island can be found. On that island is a 16th century monastery, home to the supposed tomb of Vlad the Impaler. Legend tells the real Dracula was murdered in a nearby forest, laid to rest here in a tomb. Regardless, it is a spooky place detailing one of history’s spookiest personalities.

In the Canaries archipelago, you will find the Gran Canaria, the third largest in the island chain. Making up for almost half of the population, Gran Canaria is a mini continent. The variation of landscapes from the mountainous interior to the desert in the south makes this island truly unique. While no stranger to mass beachfr

Bus Station at San Telmo Park, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

ont tourism, Gran Canaria is still a place for adventure. From horse trekking to water sports, this island could be its own planet.

Part of the appeal of coming to Gran Canaria is for its diversity of terrain. That is perhaps best seen in

Parque Nacional de Garajonay. Across 4,000 hectares of land, the park comes to a knot at the island’s middle. Parque Nacional de Garajonay also makes a haven for some of the world’s most ancient forest. In the park, you will find 400 species of floral, including the famous laurel. You can also take a peek at the island’s tallest peak, Alto de Garajonay. It stands tall and proud at 1,487 meters.

And even in the midst of a natural paradise, Gran Canaria still has its cities and towns. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria boasts a big city feel with its shopping districts bursting at the seams, buzzing bars and thriving port. The historic center hosts a Spanish flavor evident largely throughout its architecture. Visitors shouldn’t miss the Basílica de la Virgen del Pino, transfixed in the town square. Its neoclassical 18th century design is home to Gran Canaria’s patron saint.

To take a step back in time on Gran Canaria, you will want to head to Castillo de la Fortaleza. The miniature stone turreted castle was only constructed 50 years ago, but it invites visitors to crawl back in time with what it contains. The castle holds Guanche artifacts from the nearby caves on the island. It was once the home of local archaeologist, writer and art collector Vicente Sanchez Araña.

Even in Gran Canaria, you can feel as through you have reached Africa. The island holds the Dunas de Maspalomas. Designated a national park only in 1994, the area hosts pristine dunes. Camel trips are even offered across these sand dunes, lending that taste of the Sahara on Gran Canaria.

Of course, being an island, the main activity of choice here is hanging on the beach. One of Gran Canaria’s main beaches is the Playa de las Canteras. Just a few hundred meters from Las Palmas, the beaches stretches out across three kilometers of yellow sand. The beach also contains an attractive seaside promenade. However, being an island, you won’t have a hard time finding isolated stretches of sand on Gran Canaria.