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Temple Hunting; Taipei, Taiwan

Temples Taipei, Taiwan

Has the constant flow of traffic got your head spinning?  Have the sheer amount of vendors, buskers, and tourists overwhelmed your senses?  When you feel the need to pace yourself rest assured that in Taipei, you’re never far from refuge.

The rich history of Taiwan’s largest city brings with it some gifts for the weary traveler.  Countless temples can be found in public squares throughout the city.  A simple bit of research will help you determine which temples you might like to visit. Continue

Caves of Religious Coexistence; Ellora, India

Ellora, India

Travelers visit religious sites expecting to find one specific representation.  Certain sites may have historical importance for two religions.  However, it’s unlikely that artifacts from three separate religions.

For such an occurrence to be possible, there would have to be incredible tolerance.  Such coexistence is rare.  Yet here it is at India’s Ellora Caves.

The Ellora Caves

Located only 19 miles (30km) out of Aurangabad, the Ellora site consists of a series of 34 caves representing Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.  Having been built from the 7th to the 11th century, the caves were created to include temples and monasteries.

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Enter Elephanta Caves; Mumbai, India

Mumbai, India

Typically you have to travel far away from a metropolis to view ancient artifacts lying in their original state.  As the city develops, it’s likely that any historical ruins were either destroyed or uprooted and put into a museum.

From Mumbai however, it’s only a short trip over to Elephanta Island, the setting for the historic Elephanta Caves.

From the Gateway to Mumbai, simply hop on the ferry and you’ll reach the island in about an hour.  From the ferry terminal, you need only walk under a mile (-1km) to reach the entrance of the caves.

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Discover National Identity; Nizwa, Oman

Nizwa, Oman

A visit to an ancient capital city is sure to include some historic sites.  It’s sure to provide some insight into the traditional way of life.  It’s sure to offer the cultural experience rarely found in a bustling metropolis.

A visit to the city of Nizwa offers all the above.  The region caters to visitors seeking to perceive the real identity of Oman.  So leave Muscat and head towards Oman’s interior where lofty expectations are bound to be fulfilled.

History of Nizwa

As one of the country’s oldest cities, Nizwa once served as the capital region of Oman.  It was a logical choice as the city connected the port town of Muscat with the mountainous interior regions of Oman, easing trade concerns.

Nizwa also served as an integral region for the development of the country as an Islamic state.  The congregation of Islamic scholars, development of Islamic schools, and creation of mosques earned the city the moniker of ‘center of Islam’.

The city has since been built up and modernized but traditional trading and Islamic rituals are prevalent to this day.  This is reflected in the main attractions visitors encounter during their visits.

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Cave Hop Ajanta; Aurangabad, India

Aurangabad, India

Enter a cave and there’s no telling what you will find.

Hidden treasures, sacred relics, and gateways to past civilizations are always a possibility. Once these caves are discovered it’s only a matter of time before people decide whether to plunder or preserve the artifacts.

In India’s Ajanta caves, the history of a civilization is maintained through preservation of sculptures, carvings, and murals.  The caves don’t require any spelunking equipment and are available for public viewing.

Travel towards Aurangabad to begin your journey…

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Witness Persian Architecture; Isfahan, Iran

Persian Architecture; Isfahan, Iran

Travel to Iran and you’re bound to be surprised.

The country has a rich history that has been well-preserved.  Whether you’re looking to see palaces, mosques, or bridges, you’ll get some great bang for your buck.

And in no place is this truer than in the city of IsfahanContinue

Visit the Holy Center; Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Holy Center; Mecca, Saudi Arabia

It’s the most important religious site that you’ll never be allowed to visit, unless you’re Muslim.

With over 13 million people making the trip every year, Mecca is far and away Saudi Arabia’s most important site.  The birthplace of the Prophet Mohammed is also the spot where Islam was founded and developed.

Located to the east of Jeddah, the city is considered Islam’s holy center.  Whether or not you visit during the Hajj pilgrimage season, there will be many sites to see and many things to experience.Continue

Life on the Lake; Inle Lake, Myanmar

Inle Lake, Myanmar

The region of Inle Lake is a site that plays out like a novel.  Human interest, intrigue, and mystery are all likely to be a part of your journey.  At the end you may find yourself asking more questions than when you began.  Hop right into the plot and let the story begin.

Inle Lake

At Myanmar’s center, in the Shan Hills, is the nation’s second largest lake.  Serving fishermen, farmers, and Buddhist monks, the lake is an important centerpiece to cultural survival.  Though the area has only recently opened up to tourism, it is quickly becoming a favorite of Southeastern Asian travelers.Continue

Navigate a Diverse History; Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan’s second largest city is also one of its most ancient.  As such, it has seen many groups in power.

At some times it has been a city crucial to the functioning of Central Asian society.  At other times its streets have been empty, its buildings falling into disrepair.Continue

Venture Into the Past; Kumasi, Ghana

Kumasi, Ghana

When you’re traveling, there’s no days off.  Every moment is an experience.  Every destination is a story.  But sometimes putting yourself in uncomfortable positions can become overwhelming.  Sometimes you need a quiet day of exploration.

On such occasions, head to a place where you might be able to investigate culture and history.  Museums offer a subtle setting from which to learn about a nation.Continue

From Quarter to Quarter; Jerusalem, Israel

Jerusalem, Israel

The birthplace of Christianity and Judaism.  One of the three sacred sites of Islam.  An important historical point for the western world.  All three of those preceding places can be found in the Israeli city of Jerusalem.

The present day religious center acts as a pilgrimage for spiritual people with all sorts of beliefs.  With a day spent walking around Jerusalem, visitors can get a great idea of just how special this place is.  Grab your map, put on your walking shoes, and don’t forget your camera.Continue

Sight-see the West Bank; Israel

West Bank; Israel

Passing through a series of checkpoints, you may find yourself getting a little nervous. Spotting armed soldiers out the windows of the bus, you feel guilty, despite having nothing to hide. What could have convinced you to put yourself through such stresses?

And then you reach historic sites. Beyond historic, these regions have shaped the modern world as we know it. And beyond old, these sites are ancient.Continue

The Vatican City; Holy See

The Vatican City; Holy See

What exactly is that fascinating place?

Is it the kingdom of heaven on earth or the greatest show ever concocted?

It’s impossible to tell and the tiny enclave in the middle of Rome is good at guarding its secrets.

Who knows what’s in the archives?

One thing is for certain, the show in Vatican City is truly one of the world’s great spectacles. Continue

A-Ma Temple; Macau, China

Macau, China

The meaning of a place’s name is rarely represented by a single sight.  For that sight to be a man-made structure is rarer still.

However, A-Ma Temple can take credit for the designation of China’s special administrative region of Macau.  The temple, more than a sum of it’s story, has become one of the region’s most popular attractions.

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Hill of Crosses; Siauliai, Lithuania

Siauliai, Lithuania

You can see it from a considerable distance, but the closer you get the more awe-inspiring the sight becomes. Tens of thousands of crosses of every shape and size dominate the entire hill. There is nothing like it in the world, a collection of crosses that could make the Vatican envious.

It’s not just an altar to Jesus, it’s a monument to the endurance of the people of Lithuania and their freedom as well.Continue

Sea of Temples; Bagan, Myanmar

Sea of Temples; Bagan, Myanmar

The historic region of Bagan is well-known for its massive collection of temples.

Don’t plan on seeing them all.  You won’t have time.

You’re spending three days in the area?

You still won’t have time…Continue

Towards Tiger’s Nest; Paro Valley, Bhutan

Tiger’s Nest; Paro Valley, Bhutan

A representative image of Bhutan could very well be a monastery.  It wouldn’t be just a typical monastery though.  It would likely be at least a few hundred years old.  And it would likely be perched on the side of a mountain.

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan’s Paro valley is the exact image you might have in mind.  Nestled some 3,000 feet (915m) above the ground below, the site provides both a challenging trek as well as a worthwhile goal. Continue

A Break in the Desert; Siwa Oasis, Egypt

Siwa Oasis, Egypt

A dry mouth, tired legs, and sunburned skin won’t stop you from plowing your way through the desert.  Without an end in sight, you continue to push on, beyond every mistrustful mirage.  But what is that up ahead?  A city in the sand?

Though you may not arrive at Siwa Oasis with film-like desert trudging, the ancient city’s appearance on the horizon will be a welcome sight to the weary traveler.

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From Past to Present; Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang, Laos

Set amongst a dramatic Lao landscape, Luang Prabang is an essential trip for visitors exploring the landlocked Asian nation.  The region serves to showcase the integration of Laos’ past and present, blending ancient traditions with modern culture.

Luang Prabang Travel

Bordering the Mekong River, Luang Prabang served as the capital city of the Lan Xang Kingdom until the 16th century when the seat of power was moved to Vientiane, Laos’ current capital.

The largely Buddhist city is well represented as such with a slew of temples and monasteries.  In addition to its religious history, Luang Prabang’s monarchical roots have blessed the city with a modern palace and an impressive collection of treasures.Continue

3 Timeless (And Fun) Things to Do in Aleppo Syria

Aleppo, Syria

Walk through the streets of any ancient town and you will absorb its history.

Each wall tells a story.  Each building defines an identity.

The streets of Aleppo Syria are no exception.  Syria’s second largest city has existed in some form or another since well before the Romans took it over in 64 BC.

While many of the older artifacts have since been destroyed, there is a wide selection of sights for those willing to explore.

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