Top 7 Places for Hot Springs

To ease the aches and pains and several diseases looking yourself in Hot Springs can be beneficial as they contain several minerals forming healing waters.

Jigokudani Onsen (hot springs) is for Japanese Macaques

 While there are thousands of hot springs around the world.Choosing a good place to go may be a bit confusing. So, I have picked the 'Top 7 Places for Hot Springs' as :

1.Blue Lagoon - Grindavik, Iceland

The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is one of the most visited attractions in Iceland.The hot spring is located in a lava field in Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula, southwestern Iceland. It is is situated approximately 39 km from the capital city of Reykjavík. The water temperature in the bathing and swimming area of the lagoon averages 37–39 °C (99–102 °F). The Blue Lagoon also operates a research and development facility to help find cures for other skin ailments using the mineral-rich water.

The hot spring is a man-made lagoon which is fed by the water output of the nearby geothermal power plant Svartsengi and is renewed every two days. Superheated water is vented from the ground near a lava flow and used to run turbines that generate electricity.

2.Pamukkale - Denizli, Turkey

Pamukkale, meaning "cotton castle" in Turkish, is a natural hot springs site in Denizli Province in Turkey. The city contains hot springs and travertines, terraces of carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. It is located in Turkey's Inner Aegean region, in the River Menderes valley, which has a temperate climate for most of the year. 

In this area, there are 17 hot water springs in which the temperature ranges from 35 °C (95 °F) to 100 °C (212 °F). The water that emerges from the spring is transported 320 metres to the head of the travertine terraces and deposits calcium carbonate on a section 60 to 70 metres long covering an expanse of 24 metres to 30 metres. People have been bathing in this pools for thousands of years.The ancient Greco-Roman and Byzantine city of Hierapolis was built on top of this site.

3.Thermae Bath Spa - Bath, England

Thermae Bath Spa is a combination of the historic spa and a contemporary building in the city of Bath, England. The main spa building, the New Royal Bath, was designed by Grimshaw Architects and is constructed in Bath stone, enclosed by a glass envelope. It has two natural thermal baths, an open-air rooftop pool and an indoor pool, a large steam room with four circular glass pods and 20 spa treatment rooms, including the 18th century Hot Bath. The separate Cross Bath is a grade 1 listed Georgian building containing one open-air thermal bath.
Thermae Bath Spa was opened to the public on 7 August 2006, ending a 28-year period during which the waters remained unavailable for bathing. The complex houses both traditional and modern spa facilities.

4.Terme di Saturnia - Italy

The Terme di Saturnia are a group of hot springs located in the municipality of Manciano, a few kilometers from the village of Saturnia. The springs that feed the baths, cover a vast territory that stretches from Mount Amiata and the hills of Fiora and Albegna rivers to the Maremma grossetana at Roselle and Talamone.The sulphurous spring water is at a temperature of 37.5 °C. The main thermal waterfalls are the Mill Falls, located at an old mill as well as the Waterfalls of Gorello.

One legend, according to the Etruscans and Romans, was that the Terme di Saturnia were formed by lightning bolts, thrown by Jupiter. During a violent quarrel between the two mythological deities, the bolts thrown towards Saturn had missed, causing the formations.

5.Yangbajain (Yangpachen) Hot Springs - Tibet,     China

The Yangbajain Hot Springs Field is at an altitude of 4,290 to 4,500 metres which makes it the highest altitude set of hot springs in China, and possibly the world. The Holy Medical Spring Resort provides two indoor swimming pools and one outdoor swimming pool, all filled with hot springs water where tourists can relax in spectacular mountain surroundings. Bathing is allowed at an altitude of 4200 m. making it the highest swimming pool in the world.

A 7,300 square meters hot water lake lies to the east of the geothermal ground, from which steam rises high in the air on a clear day. The lake is 15.5 meters ,with water temperatures of 49 to 57 °C. The local people have made pools for bathing in the west of the lake.

6.Takaragawa Onsen - Japan

This very popular Onsen (hot springs)is one of the best Onsens in Japan. There are several hot springs just to the south of the main buildings, right alongside the river on either side. It is very picturesque. The associated ryokan (traditional Japanese hotel) is Osenkaku. Most baths are mixed baths, but there is also a separated ladies' bath. The hot spring is famous for its beautiful open air baths, but there is also an indoor bath. The temperature of main spring is about 39 °C.

This hot springs is not only great, but also not too far from Tokyo (making it one of the most visited mixed bath by foreigner tourists. Because of its reputation - it is the biggest rotenburo in Japan - it can get pretty packed. 

7.Radium Hot Springs, Canada

 

Radium Hot Springs is located 16 km north of the tourist town of Invermere, and 105 km south of Golden, British Columbia. It is located at the junction of Highway 95 and Highway 93, in the Columbia River valley, between the river and Kootenay National Park.
The hot springs were named after the radioactive element when an analysis of the water showed that it contained small traces ofradon which is a decay product of radium.The hot springs complex itself contains two large pools, one with hot water for soaking (usually around the temperature of 39 °C , the other a two-thirds Olympic swimming pool that is usually around 29 °C (. There is also a hot-tub-sized pool that has been dubbed the "Plunge Pool", because the water can be hot – right from the source at 44 °C – or cold, right from a creek running beneath the pools.

Other famous hot spring sites:

• Waikite Valley Thermal Pools, New Zealand 
• Therme Vals, Switzerland 
• Héviz, Hungary 
• Peninsula Hot Springs, Australia 
• Strawberry Springs - Colorado, USA 
  
  

Top 7 Mountain Treks

Mountain trekking is one of the most exciting and adventurous thing, adventure seekers do or want to do. This can include mountain climbing, camping, rock climbing or exploring. inspiring. some of them crisscrossing are breathtaking scenery, awe-inspiring culture, or protected wildlife habitat. But you mustn't neglect that some of them are only for professionals, others are easier to climb, but each of them is awesome . Here is the selection of my "Top 7 Mountain treks': 

     1.Inca Trial - Peru
The Inca Trail is by far the most famous trek in South America. In just 43 km, it manages to combine beautiful mountain scenery, lush cloud-forest, subtropical jungle and, of course, a stunning mix of Inca paving stones, ruins and tunnels. T. And there’s nothing like the satisfaction of approaching Machu Picchu, the mysterious "Lost City of the Incas" on one’s own two feet, which is why the incredibly scenic, 5-day Inca Trail should be on every one’s bucket list.

Other trekking sites in the Andes of Peru : The Huayhuash Circuit, Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek


   2.Everest Base Camp - Nepal
The 62 km, 11 to 14 days Everest Base Camp Trek is Nepal’s most famous trek.Everest Base Camp 5380 m offers breathtaking panorama of world’s highest and popular mountain range. The trail takes you through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on earth, while you also have a chance to experience the friendliness of the region’s (Khumbu) inhabitants, the Sherpas. Highlight is of course to stand face-to-face with the world’s highest mountain, the 8848 m. 'Mountain Everest.'

Other trekking sites in the Himalayas of Nepal : Annapurna Base Camp, Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Makalu

     3.Mont Blanc - Italy, Switzerland  & France
This is rightfully a classic of Europe’s circuits. It is among the most popular mountaineering routes in the entire world. Its popularity has been growing since the end of the 18th century. The splendid views of Mont Blanc are due to the fact that this famous trek goes through various deep glacial valleys and traverses three countries: Italy, Switzerland, and France. The difficulty rating for this trek is moderate to strenuous.

Other trekking sites in Europe: Montserrat,  Bernese Oberland. Tuscan Archipelago, Amalfi
    4.The GR20 - France
This mountain trek is actually named The Grand Randonnée 20 but the Corsicans also call it Fra li Monti. It is undoubtedly among the toughest yet finest long-distance mountain treks in Europe. This superb pathway was established in 1972 and it goes across the island of Corsica in the Mediterranean Sea from the northern side towards the southern. The landscape variety is amazing, starting with steep and rocky paths in the northern part and ending with abundant green meadows down in the south. The difficulty rating for this trek is challenging.

Other trekking sites in France: Cirque du Gavarnie, Lapazarra, Canigo, GR 11 Etapa 18 Goriz 


   5.Mount Kilimanjaro - Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro, with 5,892 m Africa’s highest peak, awaits you in Tanzania for the trip of a lifetime. The trek up the world’s tallest freestanding mountain takes you through five different ecosystems, from mossy jungles to arctic tundra. But while you do not have to be an expert climber to conquer the mountain (just regularly fit), do not take the exhausting climb – which takes as least 5 days – lightly.

Other trekking sites in Africa: Mount Kenya, Atlas Mountains, Simien Mountains

   6.Fitzroy and Paine - Argentina & Chile
This Argentinian and Chilean mountain trek is a really adventurous one that goes among the overwhelming summits on the Continental Ice-Cap. This mighty sculpting force which lies right on the eastern side of the world’s third largest mass of ice has given birth to a scenery of jagged mountains, sparkling lakes and sensational glaciers “working” together with the brutal movements of plate tectonics. This is definitely a stunning trek that leads the walker through the wilderness of Patagonia. The difficulty rating for this trek is strenuous.

Other trekking sites in  South America: Patagonia, Northern Andes, Arenal Volcano National Park, Illampu Circuit

    7.The Wind River Mountains- U.S.A.
The mountains climb over 4,000 meters into the skies southwest of Dubois in Wyoming. Native American tribes hunted here, and their rock drawings and paintings are visible from the trails. In late September, moose chase each other through snow willows, and the hillsides are ablaze with orange and yellow cottonwood. There are more than 249 kilometers of trails.

Other trekking sites in North America: Baxter Creek Trial, Oneota Gorge, Roan Mountain Highlands, Squamish , Banff National Park

Top 7 Abandoned Mega Structures

 I don't know if any traveler or tourist want to visit  these abandoned places. And I don't even know  if it  is allowed to visit such places (may be they are allowed). But I have gathered  some info about 'The Top 7 Abandoned Mega Structures'.  Here they are :

1.New South China Mall - China

New China mall 'ghost mall' is in Dongguan. It is the largest shopping mall in the world based on gross leasable area. It ranked second in total area to The Dubai Mall (which has extensive non-shopping space including a zoo, a hotel complex and a theme park). South China Mall opened in 2005 and for several years it had been mostly vacant as very few merchants have ever signed up, leading it to be dubbed a dead mall.

In 2015 one CNN story reported that the mall had attracted some tenants after extensive renovations and remodeling of the facility, though large portions remain vacant.

2.Centro Financiero Confinanzas - Venezuela

Centro Financiero Confinanzas is also known as Torre de David. It is is an unfinished skyscraper in Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. It is the third highest skyscraper in the country,. The construction of the tower began in 1990 but was halted in 1994 due to the Venezuelan banking crisis. As of 2016, the building remains incomplete.This is nicknamed after David Brillembourg, the tower's main investor who died in 1993.

 During the banking crisis of 1994, the government took control of the building and it has not been worked on since. The building lacks elevators, installed electricity, running water, balcony railing, windows and even walls in many places. The complex has six buildings: El Atrio (Lobby and conference room),Torre A that is 190 m tall and stands at 45-stories still includes a heliport , Torre B, Edificio K,Edificio Z, and 12 floors of parking.

3.Sci-fi Structures or Monuments - Yugoslavia

They are situated at remote hilltops in Bosnia, Croatia, Serbia, Kosovo, Slovenia, and Montenegro stand giant monuments to the former Yugoslavia, a state that no longer exists.The memorials were commissioned in the 1960's and 1970's by former Yugoslavian president Josip Broz Tito to commemorate WWII battles and atrocities.The futuristic brutalized concrete structures were designed by different sculptors and represented the strength and confidence of Tito's socialist republic..Many of them appear as if they've been copied from any number of science fiction novels and films, such is their unique design. They proved wildly popular in their heyday, with thousands of tourists flocking to see these otherworldly buildings right through the 1980's.

Despite any lack of maintenance, they appeared in good condition, untainted by vandalism or destroyed by war. They had remained largely unscathed, jutting out of the earth and tower above the chaos that had previously surrounded them.

4. The Rugyong Hotel - North Korea

The Ryugyong Hotel is an unfinished 105-storied pyramid-shaped skyscraper in Pyongyang, North Korea. The building is also known as the 105 Building, a reference to its number of floors. The building has been planned as a mixed-use development, which would include a hotel.

Construction began in 1987 but was halted in 1992 as North Korea entered a period of economic crisis after the fall of the Soviet Union. After 1992 the building stood topped out, but without any windows or interior fittings. In 2008 construction resumed, and the exterior was completed in 2011. It was planned to open the hotel in 2012, the centenary of Kim Il-sung's birth, but this did not happen. A partial opening was announced for 2013, but this was also cancelled.

5. Hashima Island - Japan

Hashima Island commonly called Gunkanjima is an abandoned island lying about 15 kilometers from Nagasaki, in southern Japan. It is one of 505 uninhabited islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. The island's most notable features are the abandoned historical concrete buildings, undisturbed except by nature, and the surrounding sea wall. While the island is a symbol of rapid industrialization of Japan, it is also a reminder of its dark history as a site of forced labor prior to and during the Second World War.The island was known for its undersea coal mines, established in 1887, which operated during the industrialization of Japan. The island reached a peak population of 5,259 in 1959. In 1974, with coal supplies nearing depletion, the mine was closed and all of the residents departed soon after, leaving the island effectively abandoned for the following three decades.
Interest in the island re-emerged in the 2000's on account of its undisturbed historic ruins, and it gradually became a tourist attraction of a sort. Certain collapsed exterior walls have since been restored, and travel to Hashima was re-opened to tourists on April 22, 2009.

6. City Hall (IRT Lexington Avenue Line) - U.S.A

City Hall was the original southern terminal station of the first line of the New York City Subway, built by the Interborough Rapid Transit Company (IRT), named the "Manhattan Main Line" It is now part of the IRT Lexington Avenue Line. The station opened on October 27 and is located underneath the public area in front of City Hall. It was designed to be the showpiece of the new subway. The platform and mezzanine feature Guastavino tile, skylights, colored glass tile-work and brass chandeliers.

The station was built on a curve and could only accommodate five-car trains, which proved to be inefficient as subway ridership grew. Due to the infrastructural shortfalls, as well as its proximity to the nearby Brooklyn Bridge station, passenger service was discontinued on December 31, 1945, although the station is still used as a turning loop for 6 <6> trains.

7.Maunsell Sea forts - United Kingdom

The Maunsell Forts are armed towers built in the Thames and Mersey estuaries during the Second World War to help defend the United Kingdom. They were operated as army and navy forts, and named after their designer, Guy Maunsell. The forts were decommissioned in the late 1950's and later used for other activities including pirate radio broadcasting. One of the forts is managed by the unrecognized Principality of Sealand; boats visit the remaining forts occasionally, and a consortium called Project Redsands is planning to conserve the fort situated at Red Sands. In the summers of 2007 and 2008 Red Sands Radio, a station commemorating the pirate radio stations of the 1960's, operated from the Red Sands fort on 28-day Restricted Service Licences. The fort was subsequently declared unsafe, and Red Sands Radio has moved its operations ashore to Whitstable.

The New Seven Wonders of the World

The New Seven Wonders Of the World was  announced in 07.07.2007. It was declared at Lisbon, Portugal by The 'New7Wonders Foundation' aim  aim of documenting and conserving works of monuments worldwide. About a million people voted to represent. Through which the following are nominated for the 7 wonders. I have written few points about the place for guidance.

1.The Great Wall Of China : China

Perhaps the most recognizable symbol of China and its long and vivid history, the Great Wall of China actually consists of numerous walls and fortifications, many running parallel to each other. Originally conceived by Emperor Qin Shi Huang (c. 259-210 B.C.) in the third century B.C. as a means of preventing incursions from barbarian nomads into the Chinese Empire, the wall is one of the most extensive construction projects ever completed. The best-known and best-preserved section of the Great Wall was built in the 14th through 17th centuries A.D., during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). Though the Great Wall never effectively prevented invaders from entering China, it came to function more as a psychological barrier between Chinese civilization and the world, and remains a powerful symbol of the country’s enduring strength. 

Best Sections or Places of Great Wall for Visitors:

• Badaling - the most popular section among Chinese tourists
• Simatai - the pinnacle of Great Wall architecture
• Jinshanking - most popular hiking route of Great Wall
• Mutianyu - magnifiecinent and fully restored part 
• Shanhai Pass - the place where it meets the sea
• Juyongguan - one of the greatest forts

And...If you plan to see the Great Wall from the space, you cannot because its fake that you can see it from the space.

2. Christ The Redeemer - Brazil

Christ the Redeemer is an Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro,Brazil, created by French sculptor Paul Landowski and built by the Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, in collaboration with the French engineer Albert Caquot. The face was created by the Romanian artist Gheorghe Leonida. The statue is 30 meters (98 ft) tall, and its arms stretch 28 metres (92 ft) wide.

The statue is located at the peak of the 700-metre (2,300 ft) Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park overlooking the city of Rio de Janeiro. Its a symbol of Christianity across the world, the and has also become a cultural icon of both Rio de Janeiro and Brazil. It is made of reinforced concrete and soapstone, constructed between 1922 and 1931.

Major Attractions  around Christ de Redeemer and in Rio de Janeiro :

• Tijuca National Park
• Jardim Botanico or the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden
• Sugarloaf Mountain
• Ipanema and Copacabana Beaches
• The neighborhoods of  Santa Teresa, Lapa and Tijuca

Lastly, Christ de Redeemer himself - for all the believers and truth seekers.

3. Colosseum -  Italy

Colosseum is located in Rome. It was built around A.D. 70-72 by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavian dynasty as a gift to the Roman people. In A.D. 80, Vespasian’s son Titus opened the Colosseum–officially known as the Flavian Amphitheater–with 100 days of games, including gladiatorial combats and wild animal fights. After four centuries of active use, the magnificent arena fell into neglect, and up until the 18th century it was used as a source of building materials. Though two-thirds of the original Colosseum has been destroyed over time.

Places to visit around Colosseum and in Rome:

• View the Pantheon
• Visit Saint Callistus Catacomb- one of the five catacombs in Rome
• Take a walk from Trevi Fountain to the Spanish Steps
• Roam around the Piazzas (town square) like Piazza Navona and Fountains
• Wander around Palatine Hill and the Forum
• Visit the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel

All hail, Caesar and don't forget to taste the pizzas in an Italian restaurant.

4.Machu Pichhu - Peru

This extraordinary settlement lies halfway up the Andes Plateau, deep in the Amazon jungle and above the Urubamba River. Machu Picchu is believed to have been a royal estate or sacred religious site for Inca leaders, whose civilization was virtually wiped out by Spanish invaders in the 16th century. For hundreds of years, until the American archaeologist Hiram Bingham stumbled upon it in 1911, The abandoned place’s existence was a secret known only to peasants living in the region until 1991 when American archaeologist Hiram Bingham rediscovered it. The site stretches over an impressive 5-mile distance, featuring more than 3,000 stone steps that link its many different levels.

Things to do in and around Machu Pichu:

• Explore the scenery & attractions of Peru
• Discover the world-famous Inca archaeological site at Machu Picchu
• Visit theTemples & ruins in the Sacred Valley of the Incas
• Ee and buy some vibrant local handicrafts in market at the town of Pisac
• Get amazed by Colonial architecture & rich heritage in the city of Cusco
• Visit the agricultural places and the see the Llamas
• Must visit the Temples of the Sun, the Moon and the Three Windows

Don't forget to stop at the Pisac traditional market and Pisac ruins; the Ollantaytambo village and Inca ruins; the Moray ruins and the Salineras salt mines.

5.Petra - Jordon
Petra is situated on the edge of the Arabian Desert, It was the glittering capital of the Nabataean empire of King Aretas IV (9 B.C. to 40 A.D.). Masters of water technology, the Nabataeans provided their city with great tunnel constructions and water chambers. A theater, modelled on Greek-Roman prototypes, had space for an audience of 4,000. Today, the Palace Tombs of Petra, with the 42-meter-high Hellenistic temple facade on the El-Deir Monastery, are impressive examples of Middle Eastern culture.

Top spots  in Petra to visit:

• Petra itself and the road to Siiq
• The Treasury - Al Khazneh
• Hanifaru Bay
• The Temple of Dushares - Qasr al Bint
• The Royal Tombs and the theater
• The Monastery - The Deir and more.

Once you’re at the site (2km from visitors’ center), you enter through Siiq – you can do this on foot, or  ride on horseback.

6.Pyramid at Chichén Itzá - Mexico
Pyramid at Chichén Itzá is located in Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico.

The layout of Chichen Itza site core developed during its earlier phase of occupation, between 750 and 900 AD. It is the most famous Mayan temple city. It used to serve as the political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. Its various structures – the pyramid of Kukulkan, the Temple of Chac Mool, the Hall of the Thousand Pillars, and the Playing Field of the Prisoners – can still be seen today and are demonstrative of an extraordinary commitment to architectural space and composition. The pyramid itself was the last, and arguably the greatest, of all Mayan temples.

Things to do in Chichén Itzá :

• Visit the Pyramid of Kukulcán, the Temple of the Warriors, the Ball Court, the Observatory, and the Nunnery
• Explore the temples in Chichén Itzá
• Discover the historical significance of the temples
• Use the swimming pool and facilities of the Mayaland Resort, located inside Chichen Itza’s sacred grounds
• Enjoy visiting the Xtoloc Cenote and the Tropical Botanical Gardens
• Take a deeper glance into the ancient Mayan culture

Chichen Itza is the ideal site not only for those who enjoy archaeology, but also for those who like history and the charm of ancient civilizations.


7.Taj Mahal - India

Taj Mahal is located in the city of Agra,India. was build in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the remains of his cherished wife, the Taj Mahal stands on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, India. The famed mausoleum complex, built over more than 20 years, is one of the most outstanding examples of Mughal architecture, which combined Indian, Persian and Islamic influences. At its center is the Taj Mahal itself, built of shimmering white marble that seems to change color depending on the sunlight or moonlight hitting its surface. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983, it remains one of the world’s most celebrated structures and a stunning symbol of India’s rich history.

Places to visit near Taj Mahal in Agra:

• The Inevitable  Taj MAhal itself
• Agra Fort
• Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah
• Kachh Pura village and Korai village
• The old and classical city
• Wildlife SOS
• Fatehpur Sikri

AND Do you know that it is said, Shah Jahan had his minions cut off the hands of the Taj Mahal's architect and his workers after the structure was completed, ensuring they would never build another of its kind.

The New 7 Natural Wonders of the World

The New 7 Wonders of Nature which was announced at the New 7 Wonders headquarters in Zurich on 11.11.2011. The earlier post about 'The 7 Natural Wonders of the World' was published by CNN in 1997.

So, here are the 'New 7 Natural Wonders Of the World' as elected through voting from all over the world. And I have attached some few things about what to do if  visit there.

1. Amazon - South America

The Amazon Rain-forest is also known as Amazonia, the Amazon jungle or the Amazon Basin. It covers seven million square kilometers,It is located within nine nations, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname and Venezuela. The Amazon represents over half of our earths remaining rain-forests and comprises the largest and most species-rich tract of tropical rain-forest in the world. The Amazon River is the largest river in the world by volume. Its total flow is greater than the top ten rivers worldwide combined. It accounts for approximately one-fifth of the total world river flow and has the biggest drainage basin on the planet. Not a single bridge crosses the Amazon.

Things you can do around Amazon :

• Water rafting in the white the rivers
• Go zip-lining and glide through  canopy in the forest
• Be a volunteer in a wildlife sanctuary
• Go trekking in and through the vast jungle
• Staying in eco-friendly lodges 
• Visiting and even staying the indigenous Amazonian tribes
• Cruise in boats on the Amazon river e.t.c

And you might also want to have a cup of tea named Ayahusca,  and get hallucinated.
 

2. Jeju Island - South Korea

Halla Mountain, Jeju Island

Jeju (Cheju),also known as the 'Island of the Gods' is a volcanic island. It is the largest island and smallest province in Korea having a surface area of 1,846 sq km and situated 130 km from the southern coast of Korea. A central feature of Jeju is Hallasan, the tallest mountain in South Korea and a dormant volcano, which rises 1,950 m above sea level. There are 360 satellite volcanoes are around the main volcano.

Things to do around Jeju Island :

• Walk the Olle Trails 
• Climb the Seonsan Ilchul-bong  volcano early in the morning
• Go on a hike in the Halla Mountain
• Have mouth watering spicy seafood like Haemul tang stew
• Watch some spiritual art in the street of Lee Jung-Seop in time travel in folk village Seogwipo
• Take a ferry to U-do a beautiful but smaller island near Juju
• Meet Lord Buddha in a cave in Sagae etc.

And lastly, for the lovebirds; its a great honeymoon destination for newly wed couples.

3. Iguazu Falls: Argentina/Brazil

Iguazu Falls in the Iguazu River, are one of the world’s largest waterfalls. They extend over 2,700 m (nearly 2 miles) in a semi-circular shape. All together 275 falls  collectively make up Iguassu Falls.  Iguazu Falls are on the border between Brazil and Argentina They are surrounded by two National Parks which are subtropical rainforests. The National Parks host hundreds of rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.
Things to do around Igauzu Falls:

• Have a moonlight Tour 
• Visit Bela Vista sanctuary and the world's largest hydro-electric in power
• Do adventurous activities in the Iguazu Canyon like canopy walking, rappel, climbing and rafting
• Watch Birds in bird park, Parque das Aves
• Take a helicopter flight over the Igauzu Falls for a good areal view
• Get involved in Macuco safari and enjoy boat ride, rafting and river trips and many more.

The falls are easily reached from either side of the Argentine–Brazilian border, as well as from nearby Paraguay. Both Argentina’s Puerto Iguazú and Foz do Iguaçu, on the Brazilian side, have a wide choice of accommodations.

4.Ha Long Bay: Vietnam
Ha Long Bay is located in Quang Ninh province, in Vietnam. The bay is 1,553 sq. kilometers and has a 120 kilometer long coast line. The bay consists  1969 islets. Many islands in there are hollow with big enormous caves. The bay is known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. Some islands support floating villages of fishermen.One specific feature of the Ha Long Bay is that there are many lakes inside the limestone islands.

Things to do around Ha Long Bay :

• Explore Sung Sot and Dau Go caves and the are also some caves for dinner
• Kayak around the Islands of the bay
• Visiting and lodging in floating villages
• Climb the top of the islands like Ti Top Island for better  lovely scenario
• Take a helicopter from Hanoi to Ha Long for bird's eye view 
• Have cruise trips and spend a night in one of them and more

Explore to see the floras and faunas on the islands and in the sea. Why not take a swim or even scuba diving my be more exciting things to do in such a beautiful place.5.Table Mountain - South Africa

Table Mountain is a South African icon and the only natural site on the planet to have a constellation of stars named after it – Mensa, meaning “the table.” The flat-topped mountain has withstood six million years of erosion and hosts the richest, yet smallest floral kingdom on earth with over 1,470 floral species. Table Mountain boasts numerous rare and endangered species. It is the most recognized site in Cape Town, the gateway to Africa, owing to its unique flat-topped peaks which reach 1,086 m above sea level.Table Mountain overlooks the South African city, Cape Town.

Things you can do around Table Mountain:

• Go on a tour in the Table Mountain
• Explore the Boulders Beach while in Cape Town
• Have a day out at Cape Point
• Walk through the Kristenbosch Botanical Garden
• Scenic drive up to Signal Hill in a cable-car  ti view the beautiful mountain, the Cape Town city and the ocean
• Hike up the Lions Head one of the iconic place on the mountain

And for more adventure you can go for caving, rock climbing and mountain biking along the majestic mountain.

6. Komodo Islands - Indonesia

Indonesia’s Komodo National Park includes the three larger islands Komodo, Rinca and Padar, as well as numerous smaller ones, for a total area of 1,817 square kilometers (603 square kilometers of it land). The islands of the national park are of volcanic origin. The national park was founded in 1980 to protect the Komodo dragon. Later, it was also dedicated to protecting other species, including marine animals. 

Komodo is part of the Lesser Sunda Chain of islands and forms part of the Komodo National Park. It lies between the substantially larger neighboring islands Sumbawa to the west and Flores to the east. The island's surface area covers 390 square kilometers.

Things to do around Komodo Islands:

• Go on a trekking around the island and Komodo National Park
• Diving in and around the the  island like scuba diving in Labuan Bajo on Flores Island
• Explore Komodo by  boating
• Visit the Pink Beach and The Rinca Island

And please! the main purpose to go there is seeing the rare Komodo Dragons and getting thrilled. Don't harm the Komodo because they are and be aware, they are also dangerous.

7. Puerto Princesa  Underground River - Philipines

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located about 50 km north of the city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. It features a limestone karst mountain landscape with an 8.2 km. navigable underground river. A distinguishing feature of the river is that it winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea. The lower portion of the river is subject to tidal influences. The underground river is reputed to be the world’s longest. At the mouth of the cave, a clear lagoon is framed by ancient trees growing right to the water’s edge. Monkeys, large monitor lizards, and squirrels find their niche on the beach near the cave.

In 2010, a group of environmentalists and geologists discovered that the underground river has a second floor, which means that there are small waterfalls inside the cave.

Things to do around the Princesa Underground River :

• Exploring the Underground River
• Diving at Tubbataha Reefs Coron Bay in the north of Palawan
• Island hopping at Honda Bay
• Discover the El Nido Marine Reserve
• Explore the flora and fauna

Enjoy the delicious local sea food there

Aside from the beach, Puerto Princesa also has lush forests and mountains where tourists can continue to explore nature. Ugong Rock Adventures offers activities like ziplining, spelunking, and trekking.

                                                                            Source:world.new7wonders.com and wikipedia

Natural Wonders of the World (CNN)

Earth itself is a massive wonder and it contains countless natural wonders inside it.  If you want to go there someday be dazzled with those natural wonders of the world then here I give you 'The 7 Natural Wonders of the World.' which was published by CNN in  1997.

1.The Northern Lights

The bright dancing lights of the aurora are actually collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun that enter the earth's atmosphere. The lights are seen above the magnetic poles of the northern and southern hemispheres. They are known as 'Aurora borealis' in the north and 'Aurora australis' in the south.

Aurora Borealis in Finland

Aurora displays appear in many colours although pale green and
pink are the most common. Shades of red, yellow, green, blue, and violet have been reported. The lights appear in many forms from patches or scattered clouds of light to streamers, arcs, rippling curtains or shooting rays that light up the sky with an eerie glow.

Every traveler’s bucket list should include viewing the northern lights so here are some places from where you can watch these lights.

• Alaska(USA) and Northern Canada
• Lapland - Finland
• Severodvinsk, Salekhard, Murmansk - Russia
• Greenland and Faroe Island - Denmark
• Jukkasjarvi, Abisko National Park, Laponia and Lulea - Sweden
• Lofoten Islands, Alta, Svalbard, Finnmark - Norway
• Golden Circle, Reykjanes Peninsula, Akuyeri - Iceland

You should consider about best time to see Northern Lights before you plan to go there.

2.The Great Barrier Reef - Australia

Great Barrier Reef is considered to be the world's largest reef system. It is made up of over 2,900 individual reefs, 900 islands and covers an area of 133,000 square miles (344,400 sq km). It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is the world's biggest structure made out of living species. 

Living Coral

The Great Barrier Reef is located in the Coral Sea. It is off the northeast coast of Australia's state of Queensland. The reef itself stretches over 1,600 miles (2,600 km). The reef also includes Murray Island. Geographically, the Great Barrier Reef stretches from Torres Strait in the north to the area between Lady Elliot and Fraser Islands in the south.

The Great Barrier Reef is also unique in that it is the only living organism that can be seen from space.

Be careful! Its a fragile habitat so better you know what you are allowed to do and not.

3. Mt. Everest - Nepal

Mount Everest is the world's highest point above sea level with the altitude of 8,848 meters. It is located in Nepal sharing border with Tibet, China. It's know as 'Sagarmatha' in Nepali.

South view of Mt.Everest - Nepal

It lies in the Himalaya range, the 1500 mile (2414 kilometer) long mountain system that was formed when the Indo-Australian plate crashed into the Eurasian plate. The Himalaya rose in response to the subduction of the Indo-Australian plate under the Eurasian plate.

As the world's highest mountain, climbing to the top of Mount Everest has been a goal of many mountain climbers for many decades.

My suggestion: First roam around the cultural heritages of Kathmandu valley and then head to Solukhumbu by domestic air. Where you'll certainly see highest mountain in of your eyes. And if you ever scaled the highest mountain and return with the garbage from the base camp to help cleaning the place.

4. The Grand Canyon - U.S.A.

The Grand Canyon is located in the state of Arizona, it is one of the deepest gorges on Earth with an average depth of 1.6 km and an average width of 16 km. The canyon was carved over the past 6 million years by the action of the Colorado River as it drops over 670 m. along the 446 km length of the gorge.

Grand Canyon in Fog - Arizona

The canyon isn't just a single gorge, however, but also includes numerous side canyons created by erosion. The walls of the canyon are countless shades of brown, yellow, red and gray. As the sun moves across the sky the light changes making the vista transform dramatically over the course of the day. The rock levels represent a cross-section of the geological history of the earth with the stone near the river being some of the oldest on the planet with an age of nearly two billion years.

It currently receives about five million visitors per year. While many tourists limit themselves to looking at the canyon from the rim, others chose to hike trails down into the gorge. A trip to the bottom and back generally takes two days. 

For those not inclined to hike, mules are available to ride to the bottom. Located near the Colorado River in the deepest part of the gorge is the Phantom Ranch which provides visitors with lodging.The other way to explore The Grand Canyon is  by rafting.

5.Harbor of Rio de Janeiro - Brazil

The Harbor of Rio de Janeiro is located in Brazil and was created by erosion from the Atlantic Ocean and is also known as Guanabara Bay. The Harbour is surrounded by gorgeous granite monolith mountains that include the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain at 395 m, Corcovado Peak at 704 m, and the hills of Tijuca at 1021 m. Visitors will also experience numerous islands including Governor’s island, Fundao and Snakes Island.
The best ways to see the Harbor of Rio de Janeiro are to get above it. Some visitors will seek to discover and view the harbor and surrounding area by taking to the skies. This can be done either through helicopter or for the more adventurous through the use of a hang glider.

Christ the Redeemer and
the Harbor of Rio de Janeiro - Brazil

The most common means of seeing this wonder are to travel to the tops of the surrounding granite peaks that overlook the harbor. Sugar Loaf Mountain and Corcovado both offer panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding landscape. Sugar Loaf Mountain is actually in the harbor and provides views back over the city and into mountains. Additionally, visitors will have great views of the beautiful beaches that line the harbor.

Corcovado peak is much higher and looks east over the harbor and back towards Sugar Loaf Mountain. Corcovado peak also offers visitors with an opportunity to see the famous monument – Christ the Redeemer.

6.Victoria Falls - Zambia and Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is the largest waterfall in the world. Travelers can access the falls through either Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The falls are also close to the border of Botswana. The Zambezi River, which originates in northern Zambia, serves as the fall’s water source.

Victoria Falls - Zambia and Zimbabawe

The name Victoria Falls was given to the falls by the Scottish explorer Dr. David Livingstone. He named the falls after the reining queen at the time. The locals called the falls Mosi-oa-Tunya meaning “smoke that thunders.” Many people still refer to this nickname, which accurately defines the falls.

Daily flights are offered from Johannesburg, South Africa to the towns of Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe which provides easy access to the falls. Easy access is also provided with flights from Windhoek, Namibia. Less inviting options include flights to Lusaka, Zambia or Harare, Zimbabwe with bus rides to Livingstone or Victoria Falls.

7.Paricutin - Mexico

Paricutin is a cinder cone volcano in Michoacán, Mexico.  Paricutin was named one of the seven natural wonders as an active volcano.  The volcano has been dormant since the last eruption in 1952.  It was established as a natural wonder because mankind witnessed its birth.  The volcano was also fast growing reaching three-fourths of its size within the first year.

Paricutin Volcano -  Mexico

The best way to experiencing Paricutin is by taking hikes through the sandy banks and lava fields that surround the volcano.  To make the most of your Paricutin adventure, plan on staying overnight at least one if not two days.  The 12 mile roundtrip journey can be taken as an adventurous hike or can be made easier by riding horses.  It makes for a long day either way.  On this journey you will traverse past lava fields, buried village homes and a church reaching the top of Paricutin.

Paricutin volcano is in a tropical environment with longer summers and milder winters.  The average winter temperatures range from 59 to 68 F with the summer temperatures ranging from 77 to 86 degrees.  The rainy season tends to run from May through September.  The Paricutin volcano can be explored at any time of the year.
 
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