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Holidays are fun and wild for students on summer vacations. They attempt to do rash things that put themselves as well as others in danger. From drag racing to excessive drinking, I`ve seen it all in my 12 years working in a school environment. The goal of this article is to educate adolescents and teenagers on the necessity to stay safe and not to do things that could endanger their lives and the lives of others. As such, it will highlight 10 things that I`ve seen happen in hopes that it will prevent any further occurrences.

1. Assassin bugs:

Many teenagers travel to Mexico and Central and South America for their vacations. Many are not aware that there is such a thing as Assassins bug which transmits Chagas disease. This disease causes long term chronic problems that could cause serious cardiac and digestive issue. A notable example of someone who suffered from this was Charles Darwin. Speak to your doctor before traveling to those areas.

2. Staying Indoors:

Many students come back to school with the note that they sat in the home most of their summer either sleeping or playing video games. They usually do not regret that decision until winter comes and they realize that the hot weather was taken advantage of.

3. In Jail:

This would be the worst case scenario. I know a person I mentored who was apprehended by police for smoking pot. He told them to f*** off and spent a couple of nights in jail. No one would set the bail for him since he had a restraining order on his mother.

4. Racing:

A week before school began a couple of students decided to go for a midnight joyride. The driver of the car was not properly trained and stole the car from his parents who were sleeping in the house. While driving through the streets of Toronto at high speed, the driver crashed the car into a tree. 1 student was killed upon impact. My heart sank the day I got a call that one of my students died.

5. Wave Pools:

The summer is a perfect time to go to the pool and relax. However this fun is not for all students and in fact I`ve seen tragedy strike right before my eyes. A 13 year old teenager was bathing in a wave pool just north of Toronto. Suffered from heart problems, she sustained a heart attack inside the pool and drowned. The whole school community were in shock over the untimely death of a special person who brought one of the most significance gifts to life. Check with your doctor before deciding to do any rash activities this summer.

Surveying 50 people, here is a list of 10 common things people have forgotten to take with them on vacation. Raise your hand if you recognize one or two. Don’t be shy; we’ve all forgotten one of these things.

1. Toiletries:

Toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, soap are common things people forget to bring on vacations. They should rest assured knowing most if not all 3+ star hotels provide these amenities.

2. Passports:

This is very important to bring to the airport. You’d be surprised how many people arrive at the airport only to find out they forgot their passports at home. It is now a major requirement when going international.

3. Money/Credit Cards:

I have gone on trips where many individuals forgot to bring money or credit cards. When you go to Europe and go into small cafes, credit cards will be useless. It is important that people not forget cash when going on vacation as well.

4. Camera charger/batteries:

Spare batteries and a charger could be easily forgotten by those going on a trip. Many do not realize how many photos they take on a trip, which sucks out battery life. I know when I went on a 12 day trip; I took my camera but did not think I would need to use a charger. 9 days into the trip, my battery died and I had no charger with me.

5. Cameras:

I am a fool for these. I always think that I packed this essential item but when I get on the plane or hit the highway I realize it is not in my suitcase and it’s not in my pockets. This item left behind could cost you $10 per disposable camera.

If you are planning an international family vacation, then one of the things to take into account is the security situation in various holiday destinations. Thanks to technology, we are now able to keep tabs on the going on in various cities either through the internet or cable news. The last thing you want in your mind while on holiday is worrying about the safety of your family. In addition, when planning to start a family the environment in which your children grows up in is of importance. Despite what the authorities may say about crime rates in a certain city, doing your own research will not hurt. Moreover, it only functions to give you a peace of mind that nothing out of the ordinary will occur while on a vacation with your family or bride.

Discussed herein are some of the safest destinations in the world.

1. The Dutch ABC Islands:

Whereas, there is no doubt about the beauty of Caribbean Islands, it has not been without issues. The area has experienced some of the worst political turbulence and crimes that are not worthy to write home about. However, despite the negativity brewed by some of the Islands, there are those that have managed to exist in peace due to political and economical stability thus attracting thousands of tourists annually. Unlike other Islands, the ABC Islands has relatively minimal crime rates. Moreover, so far the area has not experienced political unrest. The best part of it all is that the Islands are not on the path of hurricanes. The Dutch ABC Islands scores the most points for offering heavenly picturesque sceneries and security.

2. New Zealand:

New Zealand is best known for its prowess in rugby. The All Blacks team is known all over the world for bringing beauty in the game. Other than that, New Zealand is well known as one of the safest locations in the globe. Other than the earthquake that hit one of its cities, it is generally a calm location. The distance from the rest of the world and a relatively low population makes it one of the best countries to bring a family.

3. Ulster, Ireland:

The Irish have a reputation for being heavy drinkers, involvement in mafia and fighting. However, not many know that Ireland is a country to recognize when it comes to rugby. They are rival England and have beaten them a couple of times. In addition, their reputation ought not to be considered when viewing Ulster as a holiday destination. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently voted the Emerald Isle as one the most peaceful locations in Europe. Crime levels are extremely low and as such, judging a book by its cover will make you miss on one of the most beautiful and peaceful locations to visit. You can always find last minute holiday deals on sites such as Expedia for you and your family travel needs.

4. Cyprus:

Cyprus has also not been without its shares of political and economical issues. Nonetheless, over the years this reputation has been forgotten as the country has gone through various reforms. The three main things that keep Cyprus going are culture, religion and booming economy. It is believed the Orthodox Church has its origin in Cyprus and as such holds a special place in the hearts of many religious ardent. Cyprus is a Eurasian Island that is situated on the East of the Mediterranean and is blessed with some of the most beautiful beachfront that allures hundreds of tourists annually.

5. Switzerland:

Swiss is known for its neutral stand on global matters. But, it is also one of the wealthiest countries in the globe with the highest per capita than most superpowers. Switzerland is categorized into three linguistic and national regions. Switzerland is famous for its sweet chocolates, the Alps as well as high cost of living. In fact, it is the most expensive places to live in the world. For individuals who are dreaming of a high life then Switzerland is the place to be in. The security provided by the country is what makes it one of the best holiday destinations especially winter holiday sports.

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.

Unlike several years ago, the cost of traveling has reduced significantly and with proper planning you can see some of the most spectacular sites of the world. Discussed herein are some of the greatest locations that you can visit either alone, with a friend or family members.

1. The Pyramids and the Sphinx, Egypt

Once regarded as one of the wonders of the world, the Egyptian Pyramids and Sphinx tops the list. The three places that you can visit are the great pyramid of Khufu, The Pyramid of Kafhre and The smaller Pyramids of Menkaura. What many people do not more about is that each of the pyramids is a tomb for kings of Egypt. You only have to visit the place for you to realize the spectacular sight they are.

2. Santorini

Situated in Greece, Santorini is the second greatest place to visit on earth today. The island was created as result of volcanic eruption. What makes the island a spectacular place to visit? From the beautiful beaches to the tiny white villages, you will not miss a single thing to enjoy while at the place. Standing out are remnants of old Roman such as markets and theaters. There are shortages of activities that you can get involved, e.g. hiking amongst others.

3. Stonehenge

Stonehenge is located in the world comes third in the list boasting of stone monuments. In the vast location are several other structures from the Stone Age period. Its existence can be dated back to the 8000 BC. The site has some magical aspects to it as it gives you some sense of tranquility no matter what you are going through.

4. Italy

Regarded as the contemporary country of the Roman emperor, Italy has some of the most amazing sites you can visit. If you love terrain then there is the Alps for you as well as the flatlands of the PO river. Some of the most alluring features in Italy include the leaning tower. Other locations that you can visit while in Italy are Venice that is popular with love birds, Verona province and Pemonte well known for good wine.

5. Loch Ness

Located in Scotland, Loch Ness is one the biggest of the three lochs situated in the Great Glen. It has a hilly and wet catchments and has six major rivers that flows inside the loch

The lists of top 10 beaches are endless, so let’s concentrate on interesting destinations from another angle. Of course, it all depends on your personal preferences, but for cultural holidays you can’t beat these.

1. Athens, Greece

This is an amazing city with its mixture of ancient and modern. A wander around the Acropolis and seeing the Parthenon from so many places in the city has to be top of the list. The museums in this capital city are unique and if you have never been to Greece, then you really should make it the one place to visit on your bucket list.

2. Crete, Greece

The Minoan civilization is one that had the most amazing statues, architecture and running water. In the Palace at Knossos you can see the labyrinth where the Minotaur was supposed to have lived and devoured the maidens and young men sent to Crete every year. The whole island is steeped in myth and history and is just the place for people who want to combine culture with relaxing on pristine beaches.

3. Indus Valley, Pakistan

This area is unknown and unexplored by the West in comparison to Egypt for example. However the Indus Valley civilization was truly ahead of others not only in Asia but also in the world.

4. Prague

While this is not an ancient site in the same way as those mentioned above, it is well worth visiting, especially in springtime when the trees in the streets are in full blossom. There is the architecture to wonder at and the Torture Museum for those with a sense of the macabre.

5. Isfahan, Iran

This was once an important city in the Persian Empire and the artisans of the city still produce items which are exquisitely made and designed. The ornate gate at the entrance of the city is worth seeing and tourists will readily appreciate the beauty of this once splendid city.