Guatemala offers a diverse range of activities. From the must-see, world-famous archaeological wonders of the Maya, to its unspoiled jungle reserves, never-ending hiking opportunities, and a mix of colonial towns, modern cities, and tiny villages, Guatemala is a tourist’s paradise. And the best part is it’s satisfyingly inexpensive, too.

Here are a few things you must certainly do if you get a chance to visit Guatemala.

Enjoy colonial Antigua

Antigua doesn’t have splendid architectural wonders, but its colonial charm with cobblestoned streets provides a perfect laid-back atmosphere for its visitors. There are many busy street markets, cheap restaurants, bars, welcoming plazas, and fancy dessert places. And the views are breathtaking. For the shopaholics, there are charming souvenir shops to indulge in some retail therapy.

Owing to its colonial heritage, Antigua Streets in Guatemala are very pretty. That is one of the reasons why tourists visit Antigua instead of the capital. For the adventurous, there are Volcano hikes, which are arranged by most hotels.

Visit Lake Atitlan

It may look tranquil, but it’s a party town. To go to any lakeside villages, you can take boat trips. Each village has its own different native cultural heritage. To experience the non-colonial culture of the Maya, who still populate the region, a visit to these villages is a must. The more athletic visitors to Atitlán can explore the mountains. You can take all sorts of hikes, or lighter walks, and trek up the mountains to catch the sunrise.

Explore the ancient Mayan ruins

A visit to the lost Mayan city is an out-of-this-world experience. Discovering the lost civilizations of the ancient Maya is something you should not miss. Here you will find millennia-old abandoned pyramids adorned by intricate carvings. Tikal is one of the most widespread Mayan cities ever discovered in the world. You can spend all day here, discovering ancient monuments.

Admire the natural wonders of Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey, set deep in the jungle in what seems to be the middle of nowhere, is a huge natural limestone formation. You can go for hiking trails. You will find guided tours and easy transportation to take you through the park. If you really want to get away from civilization, you can even stay inside the park itself in one of the lodges. If you like swimming, you can take a tour to the Kan’Ba caves, a vast maze where you’ll swim along an underground river.

Immerse yourself in traditional culture

This is yet another highlight of visiting Guatemala. You’ll see people dressed up in traditional outfits selling souvenirs in many countries. But in the highland towns in the west of Guatemala, even teenagers are dressed in the traditional outfit known as a huipil.  It existed before the arrival of the Europeans and is common throughout parts of Mexico and Central America.

Lake Izabal

Lake Izabal is a massive lake where you can, in fact, swim. Here you will find a river cutting right through a perpendicular rock canyon, a Spanish castle, riverside eco-lodges, warm spring waterfalls… Isn’t that enough reason to visit?

Visit the mountaineer’s paradise of Xela

People can have all sorts of outdoorsy fun here. You can also visit the Municipal Theater and even see a play. Xela, also known as Quetzaltenango, is a perfect base for mountain trips or volcano hikes. The city is the second largest in Guatemala, and is modern and lively.

Enter the jungle

Guatemala is covered by unspoiled wilderness. Massive jungle reserves remain intact, although deforestation is a continual problem. For instance, Tikal is surrounded by jungle and filled with wildlife. Many other Mayan sites are likewise concealed away, enclosed in forest.

It’s worth to make the festivities memorable on New Year’s Eve because it comes only once a year. But which is the best place to ring in the New Year?

Many cities offer a wide variety of New Year’s Day activities so you can have fun even after the New Year’s Eve.

Here is a low-down on some of the best cities in the world to spend New Year’s Eve 2017.

NEW YORK CITY

Few other cities can rival New York City’s buzzing atmosphere. For the very reason millions of people gather in Times Square to see famous musicians and the ball drop, in which a crystal ball that is 12-foot-wide and weighing nearly 12,000 pounds descends atop on Times Square. If you want to avoid the crowd, book a reservation at one of the bars or restaurants, from where you can see the Times Square. To enjoy the best views of the midnight fireworks take a boat ride on New York Harbour.

RIO DE JANEIRO

The world’s wildest New Year’s Eve party happens on the Iconic Copacabana Beach. This unique Brazilian celebration known as Réveillon is a mix of traditional, superstitious and religious beliefs. Large stages will be erected on the ocean front where live music performances will be held. You can shake a leg with samba dancers and also enjoy the colourful fireworks.

SYDNEY

The largest fireworks display in the world is put up at Sydney.  The fireworks against Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House backdrop are indeed breathtaking. The waterfront show is attended by more than a million people, which also includes a water and air show featuring aerial acrobatics.

LONDON

Londoners ring in the New Year to the chiming of Big Ben at midnight. To see the stunning fireworks display and lightshow thousands of people gather on the banks of the Thames and its many bridges. The streets of central London will see a parade on New Year’s Day. There will be marching bands, a march of the Queen’s horses, colourful floats, and costumed dancers.

LAS VEGAS

The party capital is visited by more than 250,000 revellers on New Year’s Eve. With pyrotechnic displays, laser shows and live bands, the Las Vegas Strip transforms into a giant street party. The city also hosts an incredible number of parties in hotels, clubs, and casinos, concerts, and shows.

WALT DISNEY WORLD

For the family crowd the best place to ring in the New Year is the Disney’s Magic Kingdom — Walt Disney World. It’s packed with fun activities all day long and is open until 1 am. There are dance parties, Cirque du Soleil performances, live entertainers, and more culminating in midnight fireworks show. There will be laser shows, Jingle Jungle Parade, just before midnight.

BANGKOK

The Central World Square is where all the action happens on New Year’s Eve. Thousands of people gather here to witness live concerts, video screens projecting celebrations from around the world as well as stunning light shows. The riverside gets illuminated at midnight with a series of fireworks displays.

Nebraska’s inviting cities and interesting natural attractions are often overlooked. Lincoln, the state capitol, and Omaha are indeed worth a visit. There are vibrant cultural scenes and many old historic areas that would delight tourists. For those who love to explore, Nebraska’s landscape holds some enthralling attractions. If a travel agency is managing your trip to Nebraska, ask them to include these attractions in the tour package.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

Zoos may not be the most exciting thing to see while visiting a foreign country. But the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha is not your average zoo. It is home to the world’s largest indoor jungle, the largest indoor desert, and the largest aquarium and nocturnal exhibit! There is more. It also has an IMAX 3D theatre. The exhibits are mostly engaging and interactive. For instance, you can take a camel ride or touch stingrays! Can it get any more attractive!!

Old Market in Omaha

To shop and dine, the best place is the Old Market in Omaha. It has a quaint and historical feel with renovated old buildings and cobblestone streets from the early part of the 19th century. The restaurants, coffee shops and retail establishments are located in these attractive buildings. The Durham Museum and the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is just walking distance from the Old Market.

Strategic Air and Space Museum, Ashland

This museum in Ashland is a must-visit for those who love aircraft and aviation technology. It is situated mid way between Omaha and Lincoln. It is spread over 300,000 square feet and showcases all kinds of spacecraft, airplanes, and special exhibits that change on a regular basis. You can watch seasonal astronomy shows at the planetarium located here, and even go for motion rides.

Chimney Rock National Historic Site

The Chimney Rock formation dates back to around 24 million years ago. In the early to mid-19th century this vivid rock spire was a renowned landmark. The region looks more or less the same even now. For fans of history it will be interesting to learn about the geology of the formation and the history of the Overland Trail.

Haymarket District in Lincoln

The Haymarket area is a fun place to visit at any time of year. It has restored historical buildings, brick streets, great restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. The sightseeing attractions are the town clock and the restored water tower.

Scotts Bluff National Monument

This is a magnificent natural structure, which was used as a landmark by travellers making their way west on the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails. Over the years many improvements have been made to the area. There are three tunnels and to reach them you have to travel through a winding road. There are great viewpoints and beautiful countryside to see if you are game for a hike.

Carhenge

Carhenge is constructed with automobiles. On the grasslands you will find 39 cars arranged in different positions. It is indeed a fascinating view. There are a number of other unique works on site. And the entry is free.

Ask your travel agency to include all these attractions in the tour package. They will also be able to offer you visa services. What are you waiting for?

Wayanad is located in midst of tea plantations in god’s own country – Kerala. A trekker’s paradise with scenic views along the path. Grab your trekking shoes, bottles of water, energy bars and a cheerful attitude to enjoy this awesome place. Use guide services, while visiting historic places and these sites are best for the young- who love walking.

Chembrapeak: Get ready for a breath- taking short trek to this mountain leading to the heart shaped lake. It takes 3-4 hours to scale the 5km trek(up and down).The path to the peak is filled with scenic beauty, grab your trekking shoes and carry water bottles and energy bars to enjoy this journey atop the tea plantation. You could hire a jeep to get to the foot hills and there after the footpath leads to the peak, where you could view the entire Wayanad.

Edakkal caves: These caves are located on top of 30minutes trek to this steep Mountain,that hold the rock carvings. It’s advisable to take the guide services to fully understand the beauty of the artwork. Avoid carrying huge bags for the steep climb. The rock stuck between two mountains is an interesting view. The engravings are wow with the small crevices at the end of each rock carving, adding to the antique beauty of this place. Overall it’s a friendly trekking experience, try bamboo rice payasam on your way back.

Kuruvadweep: The KuruvadeepIsland is located at PaalVelecham, Kalpetta. The island is very clean and litter free maintained by a group of dedicated officials. The river Kabini runs around the main island and it is closer to one of the water inlet. Reach the island on a 30 second bamboo raft ride with ropes to pull the raft. Tree houses are available in the island for rent. Just savor being close to nature from January to June, it’sopen. Take a bath in the river and just relax.

Thirunelli Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to LordMaha Vishnu on the side of Brahmagiri hill in Kerala. The temple is located in North Wayanad in a valley surrounded by Kambamala, Karimala and the Varadigapeaks and forests. This temple encompasses classic Kerala architecture.A ritual dip in its crystal clear waters is believed to wash away one’s worldly sins. It was a pilgrim center and important town while the Tamil Chera kings ruled in 962–1019CE.

Soochippara falls: Trek and reach this huge waterfalls, take an extra pair of clothes and towels to enjoy a bath. Gets crowded during weekends. Stunning view enroute and slippery rocky surface make it a challenging expedition, completing with the bath in the needle pricking (Soochi– needle) waters.

Lakkidi view point: This point above the mountain makes you feel you are travelling with the mist and fog, scenic views and places to take the best pictures. A word of caution, monkeys on the way – may try to snatch your food stuff. But if you wish to feed the monkeys, they don’t mind. Be there to see the surreal view from the top of this point.

BanasuraSagar Dam: This is splendid place to visit at Vythiri. It’s the second largest earth dam; the view from here is pleasant. Lots of activities for kids are available in this area along with Boating services. Carry the sunscreen and enjoy the speed boat.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Night Safari, Jeep rides, Wildlife on the way and Coffee Trail Resort best describes this place. You could spot elephant, bison, deer and peacocks on the way;also you could wish to venture the sanctuary during day or noon. A night safari to Thirunelli and Tholpetti is an adventure for your friends.

Kabini River: The sunrise and sunsets are scenic. Enjoy the bullock cart rides, take bird photographs and sink into the beauty of the flora and fauna of this place with friends and family.

Pazhassi Raja Tomb: A nice place for family outing with a small heritage museum of freedom fighters. Pazhassi Raja, the Lion of Kerela shows his valour during freedom struggle. Tombs adorn this place to make it the historic site to be visited.

Wayanad is litter and plastic free zone, so be aware to carry cloth bags and throw litter in dustbins. Also venture the treks early in the morning to enjoy the mild warmth of the sun. Happy Adventures at Wayanad to be explored by one and all.

The Baltic States are three fascinating countries of north-eastern Europe, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The prime tourist season runs from April to September.  Travel agency holiday packages are also affordable at this time of the year.

Spring

May is often warmer and sunnier than June. Nature is at its full glory at this time of year, with fresh new leaves uncurling on the trees, riotous blossoms racing across the countryside, and storks coming home to roost. Hotel prices slash down to off-season rates and the country lodging also operates at off-season rates and cottages are easier to reserve at short notice. Lakes are often warm enough for a quick swim.

Summer

Summer is a time to consider getting out of the capital to explore the regions and its wide range of affordable ecotourism opportunities. Visiting the country during other seasons is another option. From October to March, Riga streets are reclaimed by locals, prices go down, and cultural events heat up. For outdoor enthusiasts, Latvia offers a host of inexpensive winter sports options.

In summer, the most popular destination for tourists and locals alike is Jurmala, a string of villages running along the sandy Baltic coastline nearest Riga. June is often cool and rainy; it is an excellent time to visit if you wish to experience the largest holiday of the year, the midsummer celebration. Most of the tour packages cover this in the itinerary. The weather in July and August is usually the warmest. But summer nights can be quite chilly.

Autumn

Autumn in Latvia is long and beautiful. The leaves fall slowly and remain colourful until the end of October. Latvia usually experiences an Indian summer in September and into October, with warm sunny days and crisp, cool nights. Autumn is also the time of the harvest, with a bustling organic market cropping up in Riga, and a wide variety of fresh, local foods in restaurants.

Winter

January and February are the snowiest months, and the best time for winter sports. Unlike in Riga, where snow generally doesn’t stay for long, Latvia’s ski resorts are always white and festive. Most ski areas also offer cosy cottage rentals at excellent rates. Sigulda, apart from being the closest ski resort town to Riga, and accessible by a short train ride, also offers an exciting ride on its bobsled track. Riga, as well as many other towns, provides open-air ice skating during the winter season, and cross-country skiing through quiet forests and over rolling country hills is a national passion. New Year festivities also draw travellers who are interested in the fantastic nightlife. At this time of year, Riga becomes a magical Christmas fairytale.

Wooden Christmas markets sell hot cups of mulled wine along with handcrafted souvenirs. The medieval buildings of Old Riga become covered with snow, and warm taverns fill up with cheerful people. Latvia is a nation full of theatre-goers and Riga theatre, opera, and ballet are at their very best at this time of year. Tickets are quite affordable.

Learning the facts before you experience something sounds like a good idea to keep yourself prepared for any situation. Swimming in the Dead Sea is definitely something amusing, but still getting prepared will help you enjoy this one of kind experience without being smitten by unpleasant surprises.

Get dressed in an old bath suit

The salt content in the water is so strong that it discolours whatever you wear. So wear an old bath suit that you do not want to wear anymore. Once you get drenched in the Dead Sea water, your clothes will discolour or it will be so hard for you to clean up the grime that sticks on to anything that comes in contact with the water. It would be better if you just wear an old swim suit that you can discard afterwards.

Avoid splashing water on your face

The salt content is so intense it will burn your eyes if the water gets into your eyes. So be careful not to immerse your face in the water. Unlike the mud, the sea water can make your facial skin rough, especially if your skin is sensitive. So the right thing is to avoid getting that water onto your face.

Avoid shaving at least three days

Avoid shaving at least days prior to swimming in the Dead Sea. If you have any cut, wound or open sores, avoid swimming. When the water comes in contact with the wound, it really burns. The reason is again the salt content in the Dead Sea. The water is nine times saltier than the ocean. If you have a small wound, wrap it with a tight water-proof bandage before getting into the Sea.

Wear water shoes

The salt that lines the sea bottom is strong enough to cut the skin on your foot. Wear appropriate shoes that are designed to prevent water from getting in.

Quit swimming

When get to the water, move slowly to the deeper side of the sea and try to relax and float. The water will lift you high and you will float like you would with a plastic noodle.

Get the mud

Walk down to the shallow side of the sea and pick up the mud right underneath your feet. Rub all over your body, including your face. Leave it on for a few minutes before you wash it. Your skin will feel the smoothest as it would with an expensive spa treatment.

Phuket City has several tourist attractions. The fascinating thing about the place is that despite the development it went through since the advent of tourism, it still has its local charm.

If you are planning your next holiday to Phuket, see to it that the tour package given to you by the travel agent includes some of these marvellous landmarks.

Phuket Old Town

Phuket Old Town, the historical centre of Phuket City, is an important commercial hub. It was established at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, and has splendid mansions and beautifully preserved houses built in Sino-colonial style that function as boutiques. Phuket Old Town has several restaurants, coffee-shops, and bars to keep tourists engaged, so it should certainly be included in your tour package.

Phuket Weekend Market

Phuket Weekend Market is a must visit if you want to experience the real Thai life. It is the biggest shopping and eating out destination in Phuket, so naturally it features in every travel agency holiday package. As the name suggests, the market is open only on Saturdays and Sundays on Wirat Hong Yok Road, and covers a 30,000 sqm area. It’s a shopaholics paradise. You can shop for cloths, pirated items, accessories, souvenirs and more here at discounted rates. You also get to taste authentic local delicacies like sushi, satay (chicken or pork brochettes), pastry, kebab, fried insects, and much more.

Phuket Walking Street

Phuket Walking Street, held every Sunday, is yet another popular market. The commercial street is 350m-long and is known as the big market. Phuket Walking Street will give you a glimpse into the southern Thailand life. You get to buy a diverse range of products from handcrafted accessories and souvenirs to clothing and fancy jewellery. As is the case with any Thai market, Phuket Walking Street is also a foodie’s delight. You can taste all kinds of street food like Thai sweets, beef and chicken skewers, barbecued squid, chicken and pork, and more.

Khao Rang

Khao Rang is the second highest peak in Phuket City. It is a beautiful place with breathtaking views of lush vegetation. If you want to relax in a peaceful environment, this is the place to be. You can also visit the Buddhist temple – Wat Khao Rang – the highlight of which is a golden Buddha statue. There are parks, picnic spots and restaurants for visitors to hang out.

Phuket Trickeye Museum

Phuket Trickeye Museum, which was opened in 2014, is a 3D museum set in a large two-storeyed building. It has on display 100-odd paintings, which are indeed amusing. It is the best place to click some great pictures. There are sample photos to show visitors how they should position themselves to take the most realistic-fantasy picture. From classic paintings with a twist to scenes of modern life and movie scenes, it stimulates your imagination. Most travel agency holiday package includes this museum in Phuket City.

Baan Teelanka – The Upside-down House

Baan Teelanka – The Upside Down House is a new attraction in Phuket City. It is a fully furnished three-storeyed house built exactly leaning on its roof. All furniture suspends from the floor as you walk on the ceiling. Visiting Baan Teelanka is, indeed, a brain-teasing yet amusing experience. The house’s garden has a maze. Enter it if you have lots of time to spare.

Thai Hua Museum

It was actually a Chinese language school, which underwent major renovation in 2008 and reopened as a museum the same year. To know the history of Phuket, this museum is a must visit. It is set in a well-preserved mansion built in Sino-colonial style, and features several exhibition rooms filled with information about Phuket.