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Amsterdam was once the center of international economic activities many centuries ago. It has a total of 175 nationalities living in its towns and municipalities. Its people are known to be some of the tallest in the world. Furthermore, it has various attractions that cast a cultural, artistic and historical look over Amsterdam. As such, here are top 10 attractions you should visit while in Amsterdam.

1. Red Light District:

Men do need to pay to enter a strip club in Amsterdam, when they have a whole street dedicated to stupendous women. Dating back to the 14th century, Red Light District is known to be one of the most vibrant tourist attractions in the older part of Amsterdam. It has sex shops, strip clubs and window girls looking to have a good time. Prostitution is legal in the Netherlands and the girls who offer their services do pay taxes. Furthermore, one should note that window prostitution is distinct in the Netherlands and cannot be viewed in many places. If you are a couple, it is quite normal to walk through the street together. This district is mainly a tourist attraction and you will not be the only male/female couple walking.

2. Anne Frank House:

There is not one person out there, who has not read the Diary of Anne Frank, or at least saw a movie or documentary about it. The actual diary cannot begin to tell readers what it was like to live behind the bookcase in the annex. The museum is actually the place where Anne Frank, her family and family friends hid to avoid racial persecution during WWII. The hiding place or hidden annex as it is called is no bigger than a North American apartment. As you enter the hidden annex, you cannot help but notice the small wooden staircase. The rooms where 8 individuals were living for most of WWII were small and crowded. You could barely fit a bed in them. As such, the Anne Frank house is something that will make you appreciate more of what you have and let’s you walk in the shoes of those unjustifiably shunned from society for being Jewish.

3. Canal Cruise:

Amsterdam is known as “Venice of the North”. It is made up of more than 100 canals, 90 islands and 1500 bridges, which were declared UNESCO monuments in 2010. Many attractions could either be seen by foot or by boat. If you would like to see the many hidden treasures of Amsterdam, canal cruising is for you. While on tour, you can view the boathouses of various celebrities such as Pat Sajak and primordial architectures that withstood WWII and flooding. If you ever take the cruise at night, you would be awestruck and flabbergasted by the color and lights that spark the city.

4. Sea Palace:

If you are ever looking to have an amiable and scenic sit down dinner in Amsterdam, the Sea Palace is for you. The Sea palace is a floating Chinese restaurant located in central Amsterdam. This restaurant is unheralded with astounding scenery one cannot miss when going to Amsterdam. The food is finger licking. From dim sums to Beijing Duck to specialty Szechuan and Cantonese dishes, this restaurant has it all.

5. Van Gogh Museum:

Vincent Van Gogh is known mainly as a crazy 19th century Dutch painter who painted a portrait of himself after cutting off his ear. If you are an impressionist and post-impressionist art lover, this museum is for you. This museum carries over 200 permanent art and letter van Gogh collections. While visiting the museum, tourists can also view the various art collections of other painters and compare. There are audio and guided tours that can assist visitors as they walk through the museum, which is open to the public 364/365 days a year.

Berlin is one of the liveliest historical cities in Europe. During the Cold War, the city was divided amongst 4 countries: France, Great Britain, United States and the Soviet Union. In 1948 a blockade fell upon the city which prevented Western nations, access to the city which lay in the Soviet Union section of Germany. 4700 supplies were airlifted to individuals living inside the Western controlled region of Berlin. In 1961, the Berlin wall was built overnight to prevent emigration from East Berlin.

If you ever a plan vacation in Germany, you should consider going to the following top 10 attractions in Berlin. You will be intellectually surprised by the architecture, landmarks and museums in the city which carry historical, political, social, cultural and economic significance.

1. Holocaust Memorial: Monument for the Murdered Jews in Europe

6 million people were wrongfully murdered and exterminated in the Nazis quest to rid the world of the Jewish people, Romas, homosexuals and communists. The Holocaust and the Final Solution continually is a sombre reminder of Germany’s evil past. In recent years, especially after unification, the country has tried to gain the respect of the international community. It has honoured those murdered during the Holocaust by aiming to bring Nazi criminals to justice and by building Memorials, such as the one in Berlin.

The memorial in Berlin stands on a “Death Strip” where the Berlin Wall once stood in Mitte, the historic city centre. It could be visited day or night as it is outdoors. The information centre which is located on-site contains biographical and personal recollections of the Holocaust. Taking 17 years to build, this is truly one of the most remarkable memorials and historical landmarks you cannot miss to see when in Berlin.

2. Jüdisches Museum

Built and opened on September 9, 2001, the museum is dedicated to Jewish history. Its aim was to acknowledge Jewish void in Germany. It contains collection of material which cover Jewish history from 2000 years ago and which document the development of Jewish life in Germany and Berlin. The museum is not the first built in Berlin. The first Jewish museum was built in 1933, before the Nazis confiscated its material. If you love studying the cultural history of Berlin and Jewish people, you do not want to miss this.

3. Checkpoint Charlie:

This well-known border crossing is a symbol of division as it split Berlin into two parts during the Cold War. Between 1961 and 1989 only foreigners such as reporters were allowed to enter East Berlin through Checkpoint Charlie on one day visas. There is a museum on site which individuals could go to and learn about the political, cultural and historic strife Berlin and Germany encountered during the Cold War. Visitors could get a firsthand glimpse into a divided life throughout the Cold War.

4. Legoland Discovery Centre:

Berlin is a perfect vacation for you and your kids. It houses the Legoland Discovery Centre, the first indoor Legoland in the World. Here you and your kid(s) will enjoy the social aspects of Berlin as you view how Legos are made. To compliment this, there are 4D movies as well as a ThemeRide called Miniland Berlin. If you are travelling with kids in Berlin this is the place to stop.

5. Brandenburg Gate:

Brandenburg Gate was commissioned by Frederick Wilhelm II to symbolize peace in 1791. A Quadriga facing east was added in 1794 to depict Victoria, the Roman Goddess who represented victory. For over 2 centuries this gate and landmark served as the entrance and gateway into Berlin. However, during the Cold War it symbolized division as it stood part of the Berlin Wall which divided the city into two parts. Now since the Cold War has ended it represents reunification and not just peace. If anyone loves politics and history, they would want to visit this landmark.

Austria is a vibrant country with a vivid history. It was home to some of the most famous artists, musicians and historians for multiple centuries. Politics has brought this country through tumultuous times, especially in the 20th century. The kleindeutsch vs. grossdeutsch debate embarked on a century struggle between Germans in Germany and Germans in various parts of Europe such as Austria. Here are the top 10 places one must go to see when in Austria.

1. Linz: Hartheim Euthanasia Centre

Built in 16th century, this castle belonged to the Princes of Starhemberg. For centuries it provided a home for the physically and mentally disabled. With Anschluss and the incorporation of Austria into the Third Reich, came dire consequences. The Nazis were fundamental believers in survival of the fittest and eugenics. Between 1939 and 1940, they turned the castle into a euthanasia centre where they implemented Aktion T4 and built gas chambers and crematoriums. Before using Zyklon B to exterminate Jews and other prisoners of war, they experimented the mentally and physically ill using Zyklon B in asylums such as the Hartheim Euthanasia Centre. This centre went on to exterminate various Jewish people, opposing Catholics and clergy as well as prisoners of war throughout most of WWII. Approximately 18,000 individuals lost their lives at Hartheim. It now has a built-in memorial which remembers victims who died during the Holocaust.

2. Upper Austria: Mauthausen Memorial

The memorial stands on the former grounds of a concentration camp where approximately 37,000 were murdered and exterminated. This visit provides a sombre reminder of a baffled past in Austrian history. Your heart will drop as you look up the Death Stairs. Most of the concentration camp is non-existent as the grounds are used to build neighbourhoods.

3. Salzburg: Mirabel Palace and Gardens

This baroque style palace is built surrounding gardens. It is made famous by the movie Sound of Music. If you a fan of Sound of Music, this place is for you. You can walk in the shoes of Maria and other children as they sang “Do Re Mi” and used the steps as musical scales. The botanical gardens are astounding. You can sit, relax and enjoy a beautiful day surrounded by blossoming flowers, if you are there in the summer.

4. Salzburg: Mozart’s Birth House

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is famous for being a child prodigy. He spent most of his writing and composing music and operas. By the time he was 35 he had composed 600 works in total. When others are being schooled and take life easy, Mozart was writing symphonies and performing for royalty at age 5. When you go to Salzburg, you need to go to the Birth House. It is well kept and is preserved in memory of this great composer. Some of the furniture and instruments are still from Mozart’s time.

5. Vienna: Schönbrunn Imperial Palace

This summer palace once belonged to Habsburg Monarchs, who were imperial and colonial rulers until 1918. Individuals visited the imperial palace can view the French gardens, see the Sun Fountain and take a tour of the former residence of the monarchs. You can also relive history where John F. Kennedy and Nikita Khrushchev met to discuss the Cold War in 1961. If you are tired and want a snack, you can take part in a cooking class which teaches you how to make a strudel. You then can sample the strudel yourself.

Travel destinations and tourism has indeed evolved in a great fashion. There are wide choices of destinations worth seeing in the current global platform. Italy holds a special place for tourist attractions. Its natural resources and ruins of past year are equally worth seeing. Stepping into Italy is like stepping into 3000 years old heritage city. Italy holds special interest for every people whether it is young heart or an old wanderer.

Here are the top most visited places in and around Italy.

1. Rome

As it is seldom quoted that the capital city was not found in a single day, one has to spend a lifetime seeing around Rome. There are indeed wide variations in places and interesting sites that one can never be at a receiving end so soon. Whether it’s the Roman culture and heritage or a simple wish made in the Trevor fountain, Rome holds special attractions for every visitor. Rome definitely holds unique promises for everyone alike. History plays a special trait in this city with Roman cultures, forums and the thoughts of Caesar hounding the tourist.

2. Florence

Obviously the birthplace recognized with renaissance and the host to David, this city can never be overlooked at any point of time. So if anyone is interested in foods and quality wine don’t ever ignore Tuscany, the wine place or the famous Gelato.

3. Venice

Recognized in a wide spectrum as a lover’s paradise, this city brings in warmth for both couples and all types of families at large. One can stroll around David’s Square or walk along the alleys and get mystified.Ofcourse there is the famous gondola which can take you through a historical journey amidst canals in Venice. Though Venice has been listed several times as a costly city but the beauties it holds makes it worth for every penny you spent.

4. Cinque Terra

It’s a cliffy paradise with its breath taking destinations and long trails of connectivity. One can easily indulge in quality foods or shop at ease in small café outlets. You can also plan out a relaxing tour of the town with a fresh shot of Lemoncello.Its a picturesque destination with great added attraction for every tourist alike. You can also very well explore the wild olives in and around the city or relax watching the serene beauty of the cliffs.

5. Sicily

Sicily is blended with historical flavors and holds a vibrant culture. Being in domination for long years at the hands of foreign countries, it has a special type of cultural blend. This city is also famously known for its mafia habitation, thereafter don’t dare ask anyone of Tony Soprano.

Brazil is a South American country with a large reserve for natural resources. Brazil is the 3rd fastest growing economy after China and India and has come up a lot in terms of growth. Brazil is a beautiful country which is home to many species of animals and birds. On the other hand Brazil is a beautiful country with amazing landscapes. Brazil is a popular tourist destination and is indeed a place worth visiting. Brazil’s natural beauty and the rich heritage make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Here is a list of the top ten tourist destinations in Brazil and places you must not miss.

1. Fernando de Noronha (Pernambuco)

The archipelago of Fernando de Noronha is Brazil’s closest spot to Paradise. 300 km away from the north east coast of the country, Noronha concentrates places of unrivalled beauty. On top of that, Noronha is a rare place where preserving the environment is the foremost concern for its inhabitants. The archipelago is formed is formed by the main island, inhabited, and a series of smaller islands. Part of the archipelago forms the Maritime National Park of Fernando de Noronha. UNESCO declared Noronha a World Natural Heritage Site in 2001.

2. Paraty (Rio de Janeiro)

Paraty is a very special place of Brazil. Situated between the Atlantic rainforest and the sea, Paraty is one Brazil’s worst kept secrets. Places and things you would love about the Paraty is the historic village and the state of conservation of the historical heritage; the absence of cars in the historic village; the gorgeous beaches; being able to walk on the streets at night; the relaxed atmosphere; the boat trips; the ginger ice cream from Ice Paraty ice-cream parlour; the high tide that floods the streets; dining by candlelight with live music

3. Lencois Maranhenses (Maranhao)

The Lencois Maranhenses are one of the most wonderful places in Brazil. The beauty of the region, and the fact that mass tourism hasn’t reached it yet, explain why the Lencois cause such a profound impact on its visitors. The Lencois (in Portuguese, sheets), are a large desert in the state of Maranhao. These are the world’s most amazing desert and are indeed different. Between June and September the dunes share the space with lagoons formed by the accumulation of water fallen during the rainy season.

4. Ilha Grande (Rio de Janeiro)

Ilha Grande is a popular tourist destination on the southern coast of the state of Rio de Janeiro. Ilha Grande is the ideal destination for those seeking a close contact with nature. Ilha Grande is a mountainous tropical island where no cars are allowed; an island covered by a dense tropical rainforest (mata atlantica) for most of its extension; hiking paths crossing the island from north to south and east to west; idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters. Ilha Grande is definitely not for those keen on sophistication, shopping and a thriving night life.

5. Boipeba (Bahia)

Ilha de Boipeba (Boipeba island), or simply Boipeba, is one of those beach destinations that still maintains an air of isolation and remoteness. A quiet village where no cars can be found and an island full of fabulous beaches await you at Boipeba, a few hundred meters south of the island of Tinhare, where the popular Morro de Sao Paulo is found.

African continent is every travelers dream holiday destination where they can explore the splendor of the majesty of nature to the point of infinity. When one desires to “drink life to the lees” then he should unravel the mysteries in a land of varied flora and fauna coupled with the pristine indigenous culture of its inhabitants. Africa is a natural choice as one of the favorite destination from the perspective of tourism.

Tourism in Africa is one of its main revenue as well as employment generating source which if tapped properly will yield more in multiplier terms whereby many of the inherent economic imbalances owing to mal-distribution of scarce resources can be addressed to a considerable point.

Despite the inherent bottlenecks in infrastructure African continent does showcase ten holiday destinations where the inbound tourists can scout and romance be it in the lion safaris or an exotic cruise in the river Nile …. and the list is unending depending on the inquisitiveness of the holidaying people to explore the unknown world where perhaps the modern day civilization yet to set its foothold and blossom.

1. Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)

The Masai Mara is located in south western part of Kenya bordering Tanzania. The rive Mara which flows in between the forest acts as a natural habitat for hippos and crocodiles. The forest is probably the lone and mute spectator which watches the annual migration that hordes of wildebeests and zebras undertook in this Masai Mara National Reserve from Serengeti which is fraught with dangers. Masai Mara National Reserve is proud to have domiciled a wide variety of wild life e.g. lions, leopards, giraffe, elephants, hippos etc. The best possible time to visit is between July and October. Another interesting point is to be noted that the adjoining areas of this forest are populated by the Masai tribes known for their distinct tribal culture, life style and traditions.

2. Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe/Zambia)

Victoria Falls situated in between Zambia and Zimbabwe in the southern part of African continent. Zambia’s Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls National Park are the two national parks that surround Victoria Falls. Every holidaying tourist are so enticed by the sheer beauty and charm of this fall that every year people just throng in numbers to have a glimpse of it. The best time to visit Victoria Falls is during the month of March to May. Plethora of different categories of adventure sports like bunjee jumping, white water rafting, abseiling, etc is there for those people who love adventurism to pep up their holyday package.

3. Pyramid (Egypt)

Egyptian Pyramids are one of the rarest historical monuments and widely acknowledged as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, actually symbolize the splendor of Egyptian civilization.

There are three important pyramids in Giza a place located near Cairo (the capital of Egypt), namely the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Kafhre and the Pyramid of Menkaura. Pyramid is a tomb built in memory of the departed soul of the Pharaohs (Egyptian kings are known as Pharaohs). Every pyramid will have a gigantic structure of Sphinx which is sculpted from a single block of stone.

4. Djenne (Mali)

Djenne is one of the oldest cities of the sub-Saharan region of Africa. It is located on an island in river Niger close to central Mali. With the efflux of time Djenne evolved into a center of Islamic learning and is still dominated the beautiful Grand Mosque at the market square bears testimony to that fact. The main attraction of Djenne is the Grand Mosque which is the biggest mud-brick structure to be constructed by the habitants of any region.

5. Cape Town (South Africa)

Cape Town is one of the fascinating places of the world that lure a good number of tourists each year. The main tourist attractions or holiday destinations are:-

a. Table Mountain which has a spectacular collection of flora and fauna quite unparallel in this region.

b. Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was put in prison for about two decades.

c. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Among European nations, Spain is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It is not too expensive, it has many beautiful places you can visit and there are lovely resorts and hotels all around. The country is easily accessible from road, air and by the sea and the food is fabulous and the weather is good almost throughout the year.

1. Cordoba:

Many travellers believe that Cordoba is the most beautiful destination in Southern Spain. The city is testimony to the many different cultures which have thrived over here.  It has been declared a World Heritage Site to preserve its unique ethnicity and the artistic wealth of its buildings and mosques. Small streets, whitewashed courtyards, beautiful alleys and homes are all part of the basic charm of this city.

2. Madrid:

The capital of Spain is dotted with Grand Avenues, enchanting palaces, museums and town squares which are bustling with activity. Plaza Mayor seems to be the place where everyone congregates and where the bars and restaurants never seem to close. There is a laid back feel to this lovely town and everywhere you can sense peace and joy.

3. Barcelona:

Barcelona has something for everyone. There are great museums and art galleries. The Gaudi buildings will fascinate and enchant you with their quirkiness and colour. Las Rambles never sleeps – there is always some show or performance happening here. The musical fountain at Placa dÉspanya is one of the best in the world.

4. Valencia:

Valencia is renowned for the world’s biggest food fight which takes place here in August, but it is also known for the Fallas festival which is held here in March. This quaint old city’s most popular attraction is The Silk Exchange which houses many impressive Gothic Style buildings which were a part of the commercial centre. The Cathedral is also worth a visit.

5. Seville:

Due to it’s splendid architecture and the magnificent cathedral Seville is one of Spain’s grand cities. Christopher Columbus’s tomb and the Giralda Bell tower are also other well known landmarks of this city. Located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, it was earlier the trading hub during Roman times

Canada tends to get overshadowed by its mighty next door neighbour, but it has a unique charm of it’s own and there are many places worth a visit in this very large and gorgeous country. It has some of the world’s most beautiful scenic vistas and many splendid beaches. The cities all have a charm of their own and you can spend many days travelling in this vast country.

1. Prince Edward’s Island:

A relaxed day doing nothing or a day at the beach or day walking around admiring the unusual red coloured cliffs, Prince Edward Island has all this and much more. The Prince Edward Island National Park stretches over 40 miles and has many scenic areas to wander through and enjoy

2. Vancouver:

Vancouver is the city which has something for everyone. You can enjoy the graceful beauty of this city, you can go whale-watching along the coast or you can go skiing up at Whistlers. If you are more of a city person then enjoy the excellent night-life and some of the superb eating places in Canada’s most vibrant city.

3. Niagara Falls:

No matter which side you look at them from, Niagara Falls is a sight to behold. From the Canadian side you get an excellent view from the Queen Victoria Park, and from the observation deck of the Skylon Towers. It is easily one of the most spectacular sights in the world. If you are visiting make sure you book your hotels accommodations online so you can take advantage of Niagara Falls best hotels.

4. Quebec City:

With a theatre and a museum in every corner, visiting Quebec City is like visiting France in North America. A very unique city, it is one of the last walled cities in the world. Old Quebec City has some beautiful Renaissance architecture and the mingling of various cultures is very evident in the food and language and ambience of this lovely city.

5. Banff:

A small little town, Banff is one of Canada’s most popular tourist destinations. It is so popular that often it seems very crowded. You are assured of wildlife sightings in the mountains nearby and of excellent scenic sightings also. Spend some time enjoying the natural beauty this small town has been endowed with.

Every traveller dreams of visiting the United States and spending some time in this vast and varied country. There is so much to see here and so many different types of experiences to be had here that it is difficult to choose just ten out of them. Here are ten of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States:

1. Niagara Falls:

None of the photographs of Niagara Falls really do justice to the grandeur of these falls. They cannot capture the thunderous sounds, nor can they give you a glimpse of the grandeur and magnificence of this place. Situated on the border between the US and Canada, over 12 million tourists visit these falls every year. If you have the time, do travel on the “Maid of the Mist” boat, to get a totally different view of the Falls.

2. Disneyland or Disneyworld:

Walt Disney’s gift to the nation, both these parks are among the most entertaining places to go to in the world. You do not need to be a child to enjoy the ambience, the joy and youthful exuberance of these amusement parks. The scary roller-coasters, the fairy tales brought to life, the array of Disney cartoon characters, and an overall atmosphere of an unbelievable fairyland are just a few of the reasons why this is a must-have of every tour itinerary.

3. New York – The Big Apple:

This amazing city is like no other in the world. The skyscrapers are a unique part of it’s identity but so is Greenwich Village on one side and Broadway on another side. Times Square is throbbing with life all through the day and night and you can just sit on one of the wrought-iron benches and watch the world go by. Visit Ground Zero to get a taste of history, albeit a recent one!!

4. Yellowstone National Park:

Located primarily in the state of Wyoming, this park is renowned for its many attractions ranging from fishing, hiking, camping, and boating. But above all the popular attractions remain the geysers and lakes and waterfalls. Old Faithful, their most popular geyser erupts at regular frequencies to spectacular heights.

5. Hollywood:

If you are a movie buff – then this is your Mecca. Situated in Los Angeles, it boasts of such attractions as the Universal Studio and the Sunset Strip and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Even though most studios have moved away from here, yet Hollywood retains its glamour and sense of movie history.

It is a belief among travelers that you need a lifetime to experience and enjoy India. She offers so many varied experiences and so many amazing places to see, that you never seem to have enough time to imbibe and relish all that you see around you. If you are planning to visit this beautiful country, here are ten of its best attractions.

1. Taj Mahal:

For most people, Taj Mahal seems to signify India. It is its most visible landmark, and it is the first destination on any tour of India. Just a glimpse of this monument to eternal love is enough to make you realize why it is among the wonders of the world. There have been many articles and books about it, but you have to wander around this marble and sandstone creation to get a true sense of how extraordinary it really is.

2. Hampi:

A World Heritage Site, Hampi in the state of Karnataka, was once the capital of the Vijaynagar Empire. Today the magnificent ruins stand as mute testimony to the grandeur which was once present there. Rich, vibrant history seems to still be a part of this area, and you can wander around for hours visiting the various ruins and natural delights around you.

3. Jaipur:

India is full of history and Jaipur is just teeming with it. Rajasthan has always had a colorful past and Jaipur has many places which are visible proof. The King’s palace and museum, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Amer Palace are but a few of the attractions of this place. You can even shop for some traditional jewelery and textiles to take back with you

4. Udaipur:

Another city of Rajasthan, Udaipur is also known as the “Venice of the East.” The three lakes within the town, innumerable forts and palaces and a combination of the old and modern, have made this city a part of every tourist’s schedule. Bright colorful clothes, an exuberant culture and simple yet proud race of people are the hallmarks of this region.

5. Ranthambore:

Once again, we are in the state of Rajasthan. Ranthambore is a famous tiger reserve and national park in Rajasthan. It boasts of excellent scenic vistas, great hotels and resorts and excellent opportunities to get a glimpse of the king of beasts.