Turkey (Turkish: Türkiye)

Turkey known officially as the Republic of Turkey  is a Eurasian country located in Western Asia (mostly in the Anatolian peninsula) and in East Thrace in Southeastern Europe. Turkey is bordered by eight countries: Bulgaria to the northwest; Greece to the west; Georgia to the northeast; Armenia, Azerbaijan (the exclave of Nakhchivan) and Iran to the east; and Iraq and Syria to the southeast. The Mediterranean Sea and Cyprus are to the south; the Aegean Sea is to the west; and the Black Sea is to the north. The Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus and the Dardanelles (which together form the Turkish Straits) demarcate the boundary between East Thrace and Anatolia; they also separate Europe and Asia. Turkey is one of the six independent Turkic states. The vast majority of the population are Muslims. The country's official language is Turkish, whereas Kurdish and Zazaki languages are spoken by Kurds and Zazas, who constitute 18% of the population.

St. Sophia Museum

Haghia Sophia Museum, the great masterpiece of Byzantine art. It was built by Justinian in 6th century AD and is the 3rd church to occupy this site. At the time it was built, it was the largest church in existence. The church was sacked by the Latin’s during the 4th crusade in 1204 and many of its treasures taken to the west. Since 1936, by Ataturk's order it has been a museum. The interior is decorated with wonderful Byzantine mosaics from 6th to 13th century AD.

 Pamukkale

Pamukkale is one of the natural wonders of the world. It is a unique geological formation formed over 14.000 years. The spring water at Pamukkale has therapeutic qualities and since antiquity has been said to cure rheumatism, kidney and heart diseases. Hierapolis means sacred-city and its history goes back 6th C BC. At its peak the population reached about 100,000. The ruins at Hierapolis cover an extensive area. 

 Aspendus

Aspendus is located in the ancient region of Pamphylia. According to some experts the earliest settlers of the city were the Hittites. The name Aspendus is of Anatolian origin. The Greek colonies arrived here around 13th C BC and took over an existing settlement. Alexander the Great claimed the city from the Persians and during the Roman period it was an important port city. 

Gallipoli - Canakkale

The slim peninsula on the northern side of the Dardanelles has been designated a National Park. In 1915, Allied warships tried to force their way through the straits with the intention of opening a supply line to Russia via the Black Sea. Allied landings on the Gallipoli Peninsula were finally beaten off by the Turks following bitter warfare. Casualties were high on both sides and today several war memorials stand in the attractive landscape of pine forests, green hills and pretty beaches.

 Blue Mosque - Sultan Ahmet Camii

Blue Mosque, Sultan Ahmet Camii is one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. Its name is derived from the blue tiles decorating its interior. Completed in 1616 by Mehmet Aga, Imperial Architect and one of the students of the great architect Sinan. Its grace and beautiful proportions were intended to reflect the splendour of Islam. It was the supreme Imperial Mosque of the Ottoman Empire. The famous blue and green.

Saudi Arabia (Arabic: السعودية‎ as-Su‘ūdīyah)

Saudi Arabia commonly known as Saudi Arabia is the largest state in Western Asia by land area, constituting the bulk of the Arabian Peninsula, and the second-largest in the Arab world, after Algeria. It is bordered by Jordan, and Iraq on the north and northeast, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates on the east, Oman on the southeast, and Yemen on the south. The Red Sea lies to its west, and the Persian Gulf lies to the northeast. Saudi Arabia has an area of approximately 2,250,000 km² (870,000 sq mi), and it has an estimated population of 27, of which 8.8 are registered foreign expatriates and an estimated 1.5 are illegal immigrants. Saudi nationals comprise an estimated 16 people

Al Masjid al Nabawi

One of the most important symbols of the Islamic Religion of Saudi Arabia, Al-Masjid al-Nabawi located in Madina is considered to be the world's second holiest mosque. Al-Masjid al-Nabawi at Saudi Arabia in Asia was built by the Prophet himself, and raised up to its present stature, by later Islamic rulers.

 Dumat al Jundal

A seat of the rich Culture of Saudi Arabia, this mysterious city is mentioned by the name "Adamatu" in the Assyrian records. The present name of the city means "Dumah of the Stone", after the name of Dumah, one of the twelve sons of Ishmael.

 Jabal al-Lawz

Jabal al-Lawz features among the most popular Saudi Arabia Tourist Attractions and the region is famous for its unique flora and fauna. A bird watchers paradise and a botanists Eden, the Jabal al-Lawz in Saudi Arabia is a treat for all. Put on your trekking gear and roll up your sleeves as you prepare for the enchanting expedition of your life.

Jamarat Bridge

The Jamarat Bridge at Saudi Arabia is a must see place not only for the Muslims but also for those belonging to other religion as it holds a very significant place in among the places of tourist interest in Saudi Arabia. Your Saudi Arabia Travel Guide cannot do without the name of Jamarat Bridge.

Rock Carving Site

Shuwaymus is yet another Rock Carving Site in Saudi Arabia that has been recently discovered. The rock arts at this place tell us a lot about the domestication of animals in the early times. This place had been home to the Neolithic people and this Saudi Arabia Rock Carving Site tells you that the country had not always been a desert and has undergone plenty of climatic alterations.

Jordan( /ˈdʒɔr.dən/ Arabic: اَلأُرْدُنّ, Al-'Urdunn)

Jordan officially the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan  Al-Mamlaka al-Urdunniyya al-Hashemiyya) is a kingdom on the East Bank of the River Jordan. The country borders Saudi Arabia to the east and south-east, Iraq to the north-east, Syria to the north and the West Bank and Israel to the west, sharing control of the Dead Sea with the latter. Jordan's only port is at its south-western tip, at the Gulf of Aqaba, which is shared with Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. Over half of Jordan is covered by the Arabian Desert. However, the western part of Jordan is arable land and forests. Jordan is part of the Fertile Crescent. The capital city is Amman.

 Acapulco is the original Mexican resort town which came into prominence by the 1950s as a getaway for Hollywood stars and millionaires. Still, Acapulco remains a popular tourist destination especially among Mexicans and as a spring break destination among US college students. No visit to Acapulco is complete without watching the cliff divers perform their impressive jumps into ocean. They have been doing it since the 1930s, although today the divers are professionals. To search all the best travel sites at once and find the cheapest price visit our Acapulco Hotel page.

 In the 2nd century BC a new civilization arose in the valley of Mexico. This civilization built the flourishing metropolis of Teotihuacán and it’s huge pyramids. The Pyramid of the Sun was built around 100 AD and is the largest pyramid in Teotihuacán and all of Mexico. The construction of the smaller Pyramid of the Moon started a century later and was finished in 450 AD. Seven centuries after the demise of the Teotihuacán empire the pyramids were honored and utilized by the Aztecs and became a place of pilgrimage. Mesoamerica’s greatest city is just 31 miles (50km) northeast of Mexico City and can be reached by bus or taxi.

 Chichen Itza is the largest of the Maya cities in the Yucatan Peninsula and one of Mexico’s most visited tourist destinations. The most famous landmark of Chichen Itza is the temple-pyramid of El Castillo. The design of the temple has special astronomical significance. Each face of the pyramid has a stairway with 91 steps, which together with the shared step at the top, add up to 365, the number of days in a year. Other highlights of Chichen Itza include the Great Ballcourt and El Caracol, a circular temple which served as an astronomical observatory.

 Tulum is situated on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It once served as the major port of the Mayan city of Coba. Tulum was built around 1200 AD when the Mayan civilization was already in decline and therefore lacks the elegance of some other famous sites. The tropical beach backdrop however makes this a stunning top attraction which should not be missed. Accommodation can range from simple cabanas to the 4 star hacienda-style resort of Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa.

The Copper Canyon is in fact a network of canyons which together are several times larger than the Grand Canyon. The most popular way to explore the Copper Canyon is on the “Chihuahua al Pacifico” Railway. The track passes over 37 bridges and through 86 tunnels, rising as high as 2,400 meter (7,900 feet) above sea level featuring spectacular views of the canyons below.

New Zealand (Māori: Aotearoa)

New Zealand is an island country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. The country geographically comprises two main landmasses ‒ that of the North and South Islands ‒ as well as numerous smaller islands. New Zealand is situated some 1,500 kilometres (900 mi) east of Australia across the Tasman Sea and roughly 1,000 kilometres (600 mi) south of the Pacific island nations of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga. Because of its remoteness, it was one of the last lands to be settled by humans.

Auckland Tourist Attractions

Auckland and the surrounding Islands offers many exciting and memorable tourist attractions for you to choose from. We recommend visiting the Auckland Sky Tower where you can enjoy spectacular views of the city from hundreds of metres up. Other popular city attractions include the Auckland Museum, Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World, Auckland Zoo and the Sky Tower Sky Jump. Other attractions we highly recommend include visiting the many Islands east of Auckland - particularly Rangitoto and Waiheke Island. The rugged, untouched Great Barrier Island is also well worth a visit. If a walk through native rainforest and along a scenic coastline interests you, then the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park is well worth visiting. Another great way to see and experience more of this diverse region is by joining a guided tour.

  Christchurch Tourist Attractions

If you are visiting the centre of the city, we recommend walking through the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Also well worth a visit is the fascinating Canterbury Museum, located adjacent to the gardens. If the day is warm, we also recommend taking a relaxing punting ride on the Avon river. The Antarctic Centre (near the Airport) offers a unique insight into the wonders of this fascinating frozen continent.
We also recommend visiting Lyttelton Harbour which offers beautiful views across the water to the rugged coastline & hills of Banks Peninsula. Half day trips on offer include a visit to picturesque Diamond Harbour on the Diamond Harbour Ferry plus tours of Quail Island. In the warmer months of the year, Sumner beach is also well worth a visit.

  Rotorua Attractions

Rotorua offers many exciting and memorable tourist attractions for you to choose from. With a multi-cultural population of approximately 70,000 people, Rotorua city (on the southern shore of Lake Rotorua) is renowned as the heartland of Maori culture.
The area is well known for it's extensive geo-thermal activity - with threads of steam poking up in all sorts of places (including busy streets & paths). A visit to one of the many geothermal attractions is an absolute must. The area is also well regarded for its great rainbow and brown trout fishing - thanks to the 16 lakes of all shapes and sizes that dot the landscape. The lakes, formed from the craters of extinct volcanoes are also popular with people enjoying water-based activities.

  Wanaka Attractions

Wanaka offers many exciting and memorable tourist attractions for you to choose from. One of the best ways to take in the beauty of Lake Wanaka and the Mountain Aspiring National Park is on the many walkways that are located beside the lake. An excellent short walk (1 hour return) is up Mt Iron. The terrain is easy to negotiate and the views are unforgettable. The Lake Outlet Walk which begins at the Lake Wanaka outlet and finishes at Albert Town, offers easy walking and great views of the Clutha River. It also provides wonderful fishing for keen anglers. Another more challenging walk (offering superb views), is up Mt Roy on the western side of the Lake. Other Wanaka attractions include mountain climbing, river kayaking, water skiing, snow skiing, skydiving, scenic flights, paragliding, world-class vineyards and much more.

  Golden Bay & Abel Tasman Tourist Attractions

This region offers many memorable visitor attractions to choose from. We highly recommend visiting the Abel Tasman National Park. The park is best explored on foot or by sea kayak. Kayaking one way and walking the other is a great way to enjoy the beauty of this picturesque piece of coastline. We also recommend visiting Farewell Spit at the northern end of Golden bay. Whilst a good deal more remote, experiencing this stunning bird sanctuary up close will make the long drive well worth it.

Monaco (/ˈmɒnəkoʊ/)

Monaco is well known that most visitors do not realize that the entire principality is approximately 2/3 the size of New York City's Central Park. Packed into a narrow expanse of coastal plain that has  enlarged slightly by landfill and a new sea wall, the city rapidly climbs upwards from the shore to the surrounding hills.

This delightful town is nested along a curve of a very scenic shoreline and the town is imbued with an interesting history, as it has been ruled by the Grimaldi family for over 700 years.

The Grimaldi monarchy has provided the country with an attractive, storybook-like cachet including the romance and storybook marriage between Prince Rainier III and the American film star Grace Kelly.  Although both are now dead, their children have managed to keep many eyes focused on Monaco. 

  

Monaco Harbor

At the foot of the cliff, lies the busy, almost square-shaped, harbor which was constructed between 1901 and 1926. Large numbers of yachts, including from time to time the Prince's private vessel, are to be seen here. On the western side of the harbor, near the Boulevard Albert I, is the modern Stade Nautique Rainier III, a stadium for water sports. 

 Monte-Carlo Rally

The Monte-Carlo Rally is the most famous road rally in the world. Competitors can choose the location from several European cities to commence their rally, then they meet at a common point to complete the remainder of the journey, primarily through France to Monte Carlo. It's a winter event so the vagaries of the Alpine winter weather add to the challenge. 

 Salle Garnier, Opéra de Monte-Carlo

Charles Garnier is best known for the opera house that bears his name in Paris but he also designed the magnificent and extravagantly, decorated Salle Garnier in Monte Carlo which opened in 1879. As it seats only 524, it is often difficult to get tickets. The season is also a short one, running from mid-January to the end of March. Tickets go on sale in early January and can be ordered by writing to: Service Location, Opera de Monte-Carlo, B.P. 139, Monte-Carlo 98007, Monaco.

Address: Service Location, Opera de Monte-Carlo, Box 139, Monte-Carlo, Monaco 98007, Monaco
http://www.opera.mc

Tips: The box office is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am-12:30 p.m. and from 2-5pm There is a strict dress code for attending a performance -- jacket and tie for men and appropriate evening wear for women.

Museum of the Chapel of the Visitation

Housed in a baroque style chapel dating from the 7th century, is home to part of the remarkable collection of sacred works of art belonging to Mrs. Piasecka Johnson.

Show Details

Hours:

10am-4pm; Closed: Mon

 

 

 Moneghetti

Seemingly endless steps and roads with hairpin bends climb up the eastern slope of the Tête de Chien to the Moyenne Corniche. These roads give access to the district of Moneghetti in the west of the principality, a part of the town which is built on terraces with fine villas and gardens.

India (/ˈɪndiə/)

India officially the Republic of India is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by geographical area, the second-most populous country with over 1.2 billion people, and the most populous democracy in the world. Bounded by the Indian Ocean on the south, the Arabian Sea on the south-west, and the Bay of Bengal on the south-east, it shares land borders with Pakistan to the west; China, Nepal, and Bhutan to the north-east; and Burma and Bangladesh to the east. In the Indian Ocean, India is in the vicinity of Sri Lanka and the Maldives; in addition, India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands share a maritime border with Thailand and Indonesia.

Agra’s Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world, the mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, and one of three World Heritage Sites in Agra.

Completed in 1653, the T?j Mahal was built by the Mughal king Sh?h Jah?n as the final resting place for his beloved wife, Mumt?z Mahal. Finished in marble, it is perhaps India’s most fascinating and beautiful monument. This perfectly symmetrical monument took 22 years (1630-1652) of hard labour and 20,000 workers, masons and jewelers to build and is set amidst landscaped gardens.

Jaipur / Udaipur

Jaipur is also popularly known as the Pink City, is the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Jaipur is a very famous tourist and education destination in India.Lots of people flock to Jaipur to view the various forts and monuments in Jaipur which reflect its glorious past. Tourism is a significant part of Jaipur’s economy. Some of the world’s best hotels are located here.

Goa

Goa is Famous for its pristine beaches, infact 90% of all the tourism in Goa happens only for its beautiful beaches in Coastal Areas. Goa has two main tourist seasons: winter and summer. In the winter time, tourists from abroad (mainly Europe) come to Goa to enjoy the splendid climate. In the summertime (which, in Goa, is the rainy season), tourists from across India come to spend the holidays.In 2008 there were more than three million tourists reported to have visited Goa, more than half million of whom were from Foreign visitors. Infact, many foreigners have made Goa as there home for its laid-back and relaxed lifestyle !

 Kashmir

Kashmir was once called Heaven on Earth, and once of the most beautiful places in the world. However, in last couple of decades, terrorism has faded its charm – A place home to Himalayan Ranges.The State of Jammu & Kashmir has main three geographical regions known as “The Lesser Himalayas” or the “Jhelum Valley” (Kashmir), “The Inner Himalayas” or “The Indus Valley” (Ladakh & Frontier areas) also called “Trans-Himalayas”, and “The Outer-Himalayas” or “The Southern mountain range” (Jammu). The area of Jammu & Kashmir is 2, 22,236 square kilometers.

 Kanyakumari

Though there are several places of tourist-interest in the town and district, Kanyakumari is especially popular in India for its spectacular and unique sunrise and sunset. The confluence of three ocean bodies – the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea – makes the sunrise and sunset even more special. On balmy, full-moon evenings, one can also see the moon-rise and sunset at the same time – on either side of the horizon.

Finland (/ˈfɪnlənd/)

Finland officially the Republic of Finland is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.

Around 5.4 million people reside in Finland, with the majority concentrated in the southern region. It is the eighth largest country in Europe in terms of area and the most sparsely populated country in the European Union. Finland is a parliamentary republic with a central government based in Helsinki and local governments in 336 municipalities and a federacy with Åland. About one million residents live in the Greater Helsinki area, which consists of Helsinki, Espoo, Kauniainen and Vantaa, and a third of the country's GDP is produced there. Other larger cities include Tampere, Turku, Oulu, Jyväskylä, Lahti and Kuopio.

Old Rauma

Old Rauma recently made UNESCO’s World Heritage List on its 550th anniversary. It boasts one of the oldest harbours in Finland as well as an impressive array of ancient vernacular architecture. Fine craftsmen such as lace makers, goldsmiths and furniture makers actively use many of these preserved buildings. Old Rauma also contains one of the narrowest streets in Finland. The 15th century Franciscan Holy Cross Church and the Rauma Museum, located in the town hall, are also well worth a look. 

 The Island Fortress of Suomenlinna

The 18th century Fortress of Suomenlinna is a must-see on any trip to Finland. It is located on an island at the entrance to Helsinki harbour and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Treasure since 1991. The unique fortress is a fine example of European military architecture. Besides being a being a historical site and tourist attraction, Suomenlinna is also a well-loved recreation area for Helsinki citizens. With 900 permanent inhabitants, Suomenlinna remains a lively island with an impressive array of museums, galleries, restaurants and cafes to keep you occupied!

 St. Olaf's Castle, Olavinlinna

Balanced on the edge of a tiny green island in a lake, this beautiful 500-year-old castle resembles something from a fairytale. Founded in 1475, it is comprised of the main castle as well as three towers and a bailey with a surrounding wall reinforced by towers. It is among Finland's most well-known tourist attractions. There is a very interesting orthodox museum in the castle grounds displaying Russian Orthodox artifacts from Finland and Russia.

The King's Road

The King's Road is the historical route between the old northern capitals of Oslo, Stockholm, Turku, Helsinki, and St. Petersburg. Dating back to the 13th century, the ancient road winds along the Finnish southern coastline past castles, manor houses and frame cottages. Originally, the King's Road served as an important connection between the powerful kingdoms of Sweden and Russia. Today, it is a remarkable testament to history. Taverns and inns that offered refuge to the weary traveler are still intact. Old stone churches and iron mills also remain.

 Lapland

Land of the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights, the Finnish province of Lapland is one of the world’s most wild and unspoiled regions, sparsely populated with truly friendly and welcoming people. Blessed with wide open fells and hills, uninhabited forests, magnificent lakes as clear as crystal, quietly babbling brooks and foaming rapids, this region offers the tourist the holiday of a lifetime. Lapland is also the home of Santa Claus. Pay a visit to Santapark – Santa’s theme park – and meet with Santa himself!

Egypt (/ˈiːdʒɪpt/ )

Egypt is located in North Africa and is among the top most tourist destinations of the world. No other country comes even closer to Egypt when it comes to the number of magnificent monuments, activities and historical attractions. More than ninety percent of all Egyptian attractions are lined up along the river Nile. Many places can therefore visited by taking a cruise in the Nile river (besides road and air travel). Since it is a popular tourist destination Egypt offers extensive facilities for tourists.

 PYRAMIDS: There are more than 80 pyramids in Egypt which were built mostly between 2600 BC and 1500 BC and all are situated close to the Nile river. After the ruler died (or other prominent royal figures like queens), their bodies were wrapped and preserved as a mummy, and placed in the Pyramid. The most popular pyramids are the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx: An estimated 20,000 to 30,000 workers built the Pyramids at Giza over 80 years. Giza also has the largest pyramid also known as "Great Pyramid" which rises an amazing 481 feet.

 CAIRO: It is the capital of Egypt. Popular attractions of Cairo include:

a) Khan al-Khalili market: Khan al-Khalili is one of the largest markets in the world which attracts both local's and international tourists. This is a great place to but exotic perfume bottles, Arabic clothing and other souvenirs.

b) Egyptian Museum of Antiquities: It have over hundred thousand artifacts in 107 halls. The most popular attraction is the Tutankhamun Gallery.

c) Other attractions are Pyramids of Giza (mentioned above) and Old Cairo.

 ABU SIMBEL: It was carved out of sandstone cliffs high above the River Nile. The most famous attraction are the four colossal 20m-high statues of Ramses II guarding the entrance. When the waters of Lake Nasser to rise, UNESCO relocated them to a high ground between 1964 and 1968.

 SHARM EL SHEIKH: Best places to see are - Sinai Mountain, Na'ama Bay,Tiran Island, Terrazzina Beach and White Lagoon.

Other attractions of Egypt include the White Desert, Hurghada and Felucca on the Nile.

SAFETY INFORMATION: There were some terrorist bombings reported in Egypt in last few years. Check travel.state.gov for additional information. Overall the crime rate in Egypt is low. Visitors should consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling. Egypt has high road fatalities rate so you should prefer not to drive yourself unless you feel comfortable.

VALLEY OF THE KINGS: The Valley of the Kings is located on the West Bank of the River Nile in Thebes. There are 62 tombs in the valley. It has two components - the East Valley and the West Valley. It is the East Valley which most tourists visit and in which most of the tombs of the New Kingdom Pharaohs can be found.

Ecuador (/ˈɛkwədɔr/)

 Ecuador officially the Republic of Ecuador is a representative democratic republic in South America, bordered by Colombia on the north, Peru on the east and south, and by the Pacific Ocean to the west. It is one of only two countries in South America, along with Chile, that do not have a border with Brazil. The country also includes the Galápagos Islands in the Pacific, about 1,000 kilometers (620 mi) west of the mainland.

Quito

The Plaza de la Independencia in the middle of the Andes is a real jewel of a place. The famous battle between the Spanish and the Indians were fought here. Surrounded by four incredible buildings comprising of the Government Palace, the Municipal Palace, the Cathedral and the Archbishop's Palace, is a must-visit place in Ecuador. 

 El Sagrario, located next to the Cathedral, was originally constructed for the cult of the Holy Sacrament. This highly ornamented, Baroque style structure is a famous tourist place of Ecuador.

With over 8,670 acres San Francisco Church and Plaza is the oldest Church in Quito, built between 1536-1580. Renowned for its architectural styles from Baroque on the interior to a Moorish ornamented ceiling, tourists must not miss this place while on a trip to Ecuador. 

Otavalo

Two hours north of Quito on the Panamerican highway the Otavalo area is a small town of about 50,000 inhabitants and home to the famous Otavalo Indians. One of the popular places to visit in Ecuador, the many lakes in the province provides lovely boat cruises in the midst of its unspoiled natural settings.

Banos

One of the popular places to visit in Ecuador, tourists flock here for the famous hot springs, the scenery and the accessibility to the jungle via Puyo and Misahuallí. Tungurahua known as ‘The Black Giant', the largest volcano in Ecuador also pulls spectators and adventurers in large number. Brave hearts can take a climb on this mountain, which is though a volcanic hill but is still quite an easy climb.

 Galapagos Islands

Known as the living museum of evolutionary changes, this Archipelago with its free and fearless animals is very different from any others found elsewhere in the world. It makes visitors wonder about their very existence on our planet like that of the giant ‘Galapagos' tortoises that gave the islands its name. Besides variety of birds and marine mammals such as sea lions, dolphins and whales are also found. The islands are also proud holders of distinctive plants like mangroves and endemic cacti. One must not forget to take a cruise through this enchanting Galapagos Islands.