The stars are reflected and this place is made for romance. That’s right - here you need to enjoy each other, however, the glow is explained by the bioluminescence of plankton - chemical processes in its body, during which the released energy is released in the form of light. Luminous single-celled organisms trigger their illumination from movement in the water column.
2. Colored rocks of Zhangye Danxia in Gansu, China
There are only such beautiful rocks. Rock formations represent a unique type of petrographic geomorphology. In fact, colored rocks are nothing more than red sandstones and conglomerates of the Cretaceous period. The study shows that approximately 100 million years ago there was a huge inland basin. The water carried silt here. As a result of global high temperatures, the basin dried out and under these arid conditions the sediment oxidized and took on a rust color.
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3. End of the World swing in Banos, Ecuador
Deep in the wilds of Ecuador lies a seismic monitoring station. Its goal is to monitor the activity of the Tungurahua volcano, which awoke on August 19, 1999. Since then, climbing it has been prohibited, and it itself is under close scrutiny. The station is a small tree house. Which can already be considered a landmark, since it is located on the edge of a rather deep cliff. But of much greater interest are the swings that hang from the branches of the tree.
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4. Great Blue Hole in Belize, USA
The Great Blue Hole in Belize is a large blue hole located in the center of Lighthouse Reef, an atoll within the Belize Barrier Reef. It is a round karst sinkhole with a diameter of 305 m and a depth of 120 m. This geological formation was originally a system of limestone caves formed during the last ice age.
An experienced traveler tries to choose an interesting and original place for each new trip, but everyone was once a beginner. When I first started traveling, like most ordinary tourists, I first visited those countries that I had heard and knew about most. So which countries are the most visited today? Where do crowds of tourists flock?
No. 10. Mexico - 29.1 million visitors per year
Mexico ranks 10th in the ranking of the most visited countries in the world. In the ranking of countries on the continent of America, Mexico ranks second in terms of attendance after the United States, even ahead of Canada! The number of visitors to Mexico per year is greater than the number of visitors to the entire Caribbean (22.8 million per year). The most visited region in Mexico is the Yucatan Peninsula. People come here for the stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, lush rainforests and bustling nightlife.
No. 9. Russia - 29.8 million visitors per year
In recent years, Russia has been among the top 10 most visited countries in the world, only slightly behind the UK. There are 26 sites in Russia that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Lake Baikal, volcanoes and geysers of Kamchatka, the Black Sea coast, the snowy mountains of Altai are just a few of the thousands of famous places to visit.
Russia is rich not only in natural sites, but also in cultural attractions. The main cultural centers - Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Novgorod, Kazan, etc. - are famous for their numerous churches, museums, historical buildings, theaters, palaces, fortifications and other objects with a rich, centuries-old history.
The popularity of Russia as a country to visit is growing every year. About a million people in the Russian Federation work in the tourism sector.
No. 8. UK - 32.6 million visitors per year
The tourism business annually brings $17.2 billion to the state treasury. The majority of UK tourists are Europeans; the second largest group of tourists comes to the UK from the USA and Canada. London is the most visited city in the United Kingdom and the Tower is the most visited place.
No. 7. Germany - 33.0 million visitors per year
Germany is considered one of the safest travel countries in the world. Tourism is developed in Germany both for its own citizens and for foreign ones. According to statistics, 30% of Germans prefer to vacation within the country.
In Germany, 2 million people work in the tourism sector, and the share of tourism in the country's GDP is 4.5%. The cultural tourist centers of Germany are Berlin, Munich and Hamburg, they are also the most visited cities in the country. Of the natural attractions in Germany, the most famous are: Saxon Switzerland National Park, Vorpomeranian Lagoons National Park, Jasmund National Park. These parks are visited by millions of tourists every year.
No. 6. Türkiye - 39.8 million visitors per year
Türkiye is in 6th place in terms of attendance. The country is known for its rich cultural heritage and ethnic diversity. Turkey has a large number of historical, cultural and archaeological monuments, and in addition to this there are charming seaside resorts on the coasts of the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas. Istanbul is the most visited city in Turkey.
In 2015, Turkey's tourism industry suffered losses due to a number of accidents associated with terrorist groups. Türkiye lost a third of its total tourist flow.
No. 5. Italy - 48.6 million visitors per year
Visiting Italy is the dream of many people. 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, countless cultural artifacts, Roman and Renaissance archaeological sites, Mediterranean coastline and much more! Italy rightfully ranks 5th in terms of attendance.
The most visited cities in Italy: Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan. 48.6 million tourists a year bring huge amounts of money to the country's treasury.
No. 4. China - 55.6 million visitors per year
The Great Wall of China, Sacred Mountains of China, Shaolin Monastery, Huangoshu Falls, Forbidden City, Three Gorges Power Station and many other attractions make China one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. According to the World Trade Organization, by 2020 China will become the world's number one destination country.
No. 3. Spain - 65.0 million visitors per year
Tourism is the main industry in Spain. The share of tourism is 11% of the country's GDP. People travel to Spain to visit Barcelona and Madrid, the Mediterranean resorts, and take part in Carnivals and Encierro (a Spanish national custom consisting of running away from bulls, cows or calves specially released from a pen).
15 national parks attract nature lovers. Spain is also famous for its ski resorts. 13 Spanish cities are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and attract tourists from all over the world.
No. 2. USA - 74.8 million visitors per year
The vast country of the United States can surprise both new and experienced travelers. In cities such as New York, Los Angeles and Las Vegas, the flow of tourists does not stop all year round. Among the natural attractions of the USA: the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, the wonderful landscapes of Alaska, the beaches of Hawaii and much more. In 29 US states, tourism is the main industry that brings in a lot of money to the treasury.
The largest flows of tourists to the USA come from Mexico, Canada, and the UK. According to statistics, by 2025 the United States will earn 2.5 trillion. US dollars on tourism.
No. 1. France - 83.7 million visitors per year
For the most part, people are attracted by the local flavor and special atmosphere, in addition, France is famous for its exquisite cuisine and wines.
Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, thanks to the Eiffel Tower. In addition to Paris, people go to Lyon, Strasbourg and other cities. France is famous for its magnificent ski resorts, alpine mountains, beaches, picturesque French villages, beautiful gardens and parks and much more.
Many European cities deserve your attention, dear readers. To make choosing your holiday destination easier, we offer you a list of the most beautiful cities on the continent.
Each of them has unique attractions that simply need to be seen with your own eyes.
1. Florence
Italian style
Florence is the capital of Tuscany, as well as the most populated city in the region.
The city is famous for being a European center of trade and finance in the Middle Ages, which is why it was often called the Athens of its time. The city has a lot of interesting things, especially the historical center.
The center has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1982. Of particular interest are architectural and artistic monuments such as statues, museums and galleries.
Also, Florence is one of the capitals of world fashion, which also attracts tourists. History and modernity are successfully combined here.
Not to be missed: Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore
Doumo Cathedral
The city's main church, also known as the Duomo Cathedral, was built over a century, from 1296 to 1436. It is also included in the UNESCO list.
2. Barcelona
City streets
It is the second largest city in Spain and the capital of Catalonia, as well as the largest metropolis in the Mediterranean.
The city was founded by the Romans and made it the capital of the Catalan region, and then it joined the Kingdom of Aragon, where it also became the most important city.
Ras Lambras
Barcelona is one of the most important cultural centers due to its enormous architectural heritage. Antonio Gaudi and Luis Domenech i Montaner built their houses here.
Barcelona gained enormous popularity and status as a leading city in areas such as economy, culture and sports after the 1992 Summer Olympics. It is also the main European port.
Not to be missed: Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família (Temple of the Holy Family)
Sagrada Familia
This world-famous temple was conceived by the architect Antonio Gaudi. It was included in the UNESCO list in 2010, although it is still not finished.
3. Rome
Trevi Fountain
It is impossible to go to Europe and not visit Rome. It is not only the capital of Italy, but also the fourth most populous city in the European Union.
The rich history of this place dates back two and a half thousand years ago! Founded in 753 BC, Rome is one of the oldest European cities.
At one time it was the capital of the Roman Kingdom, the Roman Republic and the Holy Roman Empire.
Roman forum
Moreover, since the 1st century AD the Pope has been sitting here, and since the 8th century it has been considered the Papal capital.
Bramante, Bernini, Raphael and Michelangelo had a hand in the architecture of the city. Places such as the Vatican Museum and the Colosseum have long been included in the World Heritage List.
Not to be missed: the Colosseum
Also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, the Colosseum is located in the heart of the city. This is the largest amphitheater in the world. It was built in 80 AD. entirely made of concrete and stones.
4. Paris
Triumphal Arch
The capital of France is also called the city of lights. Situated on the banks of the Seine, this city has long been recognized as a center of science and art.
It is now also a world center for business and culture, politics and education, entertainment and research.
The city is home to 4 UNESCO-listed sites and many other beautiful attractions.
Paris got its name from the Parisi tribe, whose members were among the first settlers. The city amazes with its architecture.
The abundance of old churches and cathedrals, including the famous Notre Dame, gives it a special spirit.
Not to be missed: Eiffel Tower
Eiffel Tower
Of course, this is the calling card of the city. Built in 1889 by the architect Gustave Eiffel, the tower is the most recognizable structure in the world.
5. Vienna
Streets of Vienna
Vienna is not only the capital, but also the economic, political and cultural center of Austria. The offices of major international organizations, such as the UN and OPEC, are also located here.
Until the beginning of the last century, Vienna had the largest German-speaking population in the world.
Christmas market
Located close to the borders of the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary, Vienna has become the center of all Central Europe. The city is also often called the City of Music and the City of Dreams.
The last epithet is used due to the fact that it was here that Sigmund Freud lived and worked. Baroque castles, gardens, monuments, parks - these are just a few of the things that Vienna is rich in.
Not to be missed: Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace
It is the former summer residence of monarchs and is also one of Austria's most important cultural monuments. The doors of the palace were opened to tourists only in the 60s of the last century.
6. Venice
Restaurant
Venice is one of the most magnificent cities in Italy. It is located in the northeast of the country and is a collection of more than 100 islands, which are separated by canals and connected by many bridges.
The city owes its name to the ancient Veneti tribe, which inhabited this region until the 10th century BC.
Taxi in Venice
This city has many names - the City of Water, Masks, Bridges, the Floating City and the City of Canals.
Venice is also considered one of the most romantic destinations in Europe, which is why it is often chosen for honeymoon travel. There are a great number of attractions here: St. Mark's Basilica, the Grand Canal and St. Mark's Square.
Don't miss: Piazza San Marco
Piazza San Marco
Here it is simply called the Square. This is the main gathering place for the inhabitants of Venice, its historical, political and religious center.
7. Budapest
Szechenyi Baths
Budapest is the capital of Hungary and its largest city, as well as a political, cultural, economic and industrial center. Budapest was founded by the Celts, then it became one of the capitals of the Roman Empire.
But the ancestors of today’s Hungarians arrived here much later, in the 9th century. The city suffered greatly from the Mongol invasion, but was rebuilt.
City in winter
There are many cultural monuments included in the UNESCO list: the Danube River, Buda Palace, Andrássy Street and Heroes' Square.
And in Budapest you can visit thermal baths, the second largest synagogue in Europe and the third largest Parliament in the world.
The headquarters of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology is also located here. The city's name is a combination of the names of two neighboring cities, Buda and Pest, which merged in 1873.
Not to be missed: Buda Palace
The palace attracts not only with its beauty, but also with an unsurpassed view that opens onto the entire historical center of the city from its observation deck.
8. Krakow
Horses of the city
It is the second largest and oldest city in Poland. The history of the city is very interesting: it was founded in the 7th century and was considered the center of Polish cultural and academic life. He even managed to visit the capital from 1038 to 1596.
The Bishop of Krakow, John Paul I, became one of the most famous Popes and the first non-Italian Pope in more than 4 centuries when elected in 1978. In the same year, the entire historical center of the city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Don't miss: Cloth Halls
Cloth rows
These rows are a symbol of the city and are part of the composition of the main shopping square of the city.
9. Prague
Prague Castle and Old Town Square
Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and Bohemia, as well as its cultural, political and economic center. The city was founded during the Roman Empire and two Roman emperors sat here.
Prague Castle Gardens
This city was an important part of Austria-Hungary. After World War II, Prague became the capital of Czechoslovakia.
Among the cultural historical monuments here are the famous Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, the Jewish Quarter, the Lennon Wall and Petrin Hill.
Prague is home to a dozen museums, theaters, galleries and cinemas. The historical center of the city was included in the UNESCO list in 1992.
Not to be missed: Prague Castle
Prague Castle
The kings of Bohemia, the Holy Roman Empire, as well as the presidents of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic lived here. The treasures of the Bohemian Crown are still kept in the secret chambers of the castle.
10. Salzburg
Night streets
Another Austrian city that deserves special attention is Salzburg. Translated, the name of the city means “salt fortress”.
The city center, famous for its Baroque architecture, was listed by UNESCO in 1997.
How beautiful our planet Earth is. There is so much in it that is not seen and not identified. God gave us one life to fully enjoy it, to see all the beauty of the nature of our home. But it’s not always possible to see everything and go everywhere.
And today, in order to catch up a little, we will make a little virtual adventure, an acquaintance with the most beautiful and colorful places on planet Earth, where each of us should visit in this life! Choose what you like best, and go on your summer vacation. In total, I have selected twenty-one beautiful places that I liked the most, and I hope you, my dear readers.
Each photo was taken by professional photographers to convey as much as possible the beauty that is worth seeing in person at least once!
Bagan, Myanmar 
Beautiful ancient architecture with clean, transparent air. And in the morning there is thick fog. A colorful place on our planet that each of us should visit.
Dry salt lake Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia 
And this is perhaps one of the most colorful places on our planet. The only corner in the world where heaven and earth truly flow into one. Especially visible in the last photo.
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam 
One of the most ancient bays of human civilization. The sea and the wind made the rocks here - a stunning work of art
Cairo, Egypt 
One of the wonders of the world. There are rumors that at that time, and this is about 5,000 years ago, humanity could not build such a miracle on its own, with simple tools. In rock paintings, scientists have deciphered (disputes are still going on) some data on this matter. It turned out that a distant alien civilization, which has now completely lost contact with us, helped the Egyptians build the pyramids. And to this day, the Cheops pyramids serve as a kind of shelter for spaceships. Amazing sight!
Azores 
The beautiful landscape of the Azores with its active geysers and huge green meadows of fresh grass.
Palawan Island, Philippines 
An unforgettable landscape of tropical islands in the Philippines. And who said that Heaven on Earth is not possible?!
Iguazu Falls, Brazil and Argentina 
Great and powerful waterfalls falling directly onto steep cliffs. Sun, rainbow and salty spray.
Twelve Apostles, Australia 
Stunning individual huge boulder rocks in the middle of the salty blue sea.
California National Park, United States of America 
Quiet, lively places with centuries-old forests and giant pine trees. The place where the soul sings!
Hanging Mountains in China 
The legendary and world-famous Hanging Mountains in China. It was from them that the famous director James Cameron copied the flying rocks in his epic Avatar.
Antelope Canyon, USA
Centuries-old canyons in the United States of America. Once upon a time, rivers flowed here, and it was the water and the wind that gave them an unsurpassed, memorable appearance.
Baikal, Russia 
The largest accumulation of fresh water in the entire globe. No one has yet been able to measure the depth of our Lake Baikal, and every year its depth is growing and growing, due to the divergence of tectonic plates. Truly graceful and at the same time the most beautiful phenomenon of nature.
Hamilton Basin, Texas, USA 
Famous natural pool in Texas.
Angkor Wat in Cambodia 
Perhaps one of the most ancient structures of mankind. Where the spirit of history and the mysterious whisper of leaves make you connect with nature, learning the meaning of human existence.
City of Positano, Italy 
A city on a mountainside. One awkward move and you can go head over heels. But to those who are careful, nature will reveal all its true beauty.
Angel Falls, Venezuela 
One of the largest waterfalls on planet Earth. A wonderful spectacle of natural power!
The heritage of the entire human race is the Great Wall of China. Construction began in 472 BC against the raids of nomads on Chinese tribes. The length of the wall is, not much, not less, 8851.8 kilometers. The only architectural monument that is visible even from space.
Eiffel Tower, France 
The Eiffel Tower has long been associated in the world with France, with its haute couture and unsurpassed quality perfumes. And also this is the cent of all couples in love. Overall, the most spectacular structure that everyone must see at least once in their life.
No less interesting places are located in Arizona. The entire landscape is decorated with an unusual wave pattern. The surface of this area very much resembles the surface of a planet not as distant as Mars.
That's all, dear readers, have a nice day and wonderful travels!
Based on the votes and ratings of readers of the prestigious magazine Condé Nast Traveler, a rating of the most attractive countries for tourism was compiled. Almost 130 thousand people took part in the survey, which is simply incredibly large. And the opinions of so many travelers can actually be trusted. So it's time to find out which countries you should travel to first.
Morocco
Morocco is a treasure trove full of spice markets, surreal landscapes, incredible mosques and world-class surfing spots. The local cuisine is unlike any other in the world, as it combines elements of Arab, African, Persian and French schools.
Canada
The country offers travelers a variety of experiences, from connecting with wildlife on Vancouver Island to staying overnight at the oldest Ritz-Carlton hotel in North America in Montreal. And sledding in Quebec is something everyone should try in the winter.
Japan
Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka are just the most interesting of the many places you should visit in Japan. This year, Kyoto, home to more than two thousand ancient temples, was voted the best city in the world.
Ireland
You can enjoy many different aspects of Ireland - from hotels set in former castles to bustling, world-famous Irish pubs. It is also recommended to rent a car and take the world's longest road trip along the Wild Atlantic Route.
Portugal
A small but respectable country neighboring Spain, it has its own distinct culture, cuisine and language. In summer, head towards the western village of Comporta to visit world-famous Ibiza. And, of course, no trip to Portugal would be complete without a glass of wine from the Douro subregion.
Mexico
Mexican cuisine has recently entered the ring with such giants as Spain and Italy. Over the past year, three restaurants located in Mexico City have been ranked among the top fifty in the world.
Netherlands
Travel to Amsterdam, Rotterdam and other impressive cities to visit incredible museums, taste incomparable coffee, and admire awe-inspiring scenery.
Sri Lanka
If you feel lost, this is the place that will help you find yourself again. Buy a ticket and board an old but sweet train that will take you into the unknown. Admire the scenery and buy pancakes and curry from the train vendors, but don't forget to get off for a closer look at the main attractions.
Vietnam
Celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain said his trip to Vietnam changed his life. He said that Vietnam was like a completely different planet that sucked him in and never let go. You can sip Vietnamese coffee and enjoy pho noodles all day long, or you can go down into the world's deepest cave.
South Africa
Cape Town was ranked sixth on this year's list of best cities. People are most drawn to Table Mountain and the local hotel resorts, but the rich vineyards and safaris are also worth a look.
India
The world's second most populous country has a huge variety of places to visit - from the sandy beaches of Goa to the ancient Buddhist caves of Ajanta. Northern Kashmir is often called the Switzerland of India - time slows down there and the winter resorts are simply magnificent.
Türkiye
Travel to Turkey to see magnificent mosques, magical castles, and natural wonders such as Pamukkale (cotton castle), made up of a series of travertines filled with mineral-rich water.
Thailand
Thailand will tempt you with incredible culture, exotic cuisine and utopian resorts, whether you decide to simply enjoy unfamiliar and outlandish cuisine, travel from island to island, or choose another way to relax. Recently, there has been a rise in the number of holistic health resorts where you can relax and get rid of illnesses.
New Zealand
This is the best place for adventure seekers. You can live in harsh conditions in a hut without electricity, soak in the healing waters of Maruya Springs, or hike through the volcanic lands of Tongariro National Park.
Australia
Melbourne was named the city with the highest standard of living this year, so taking a trip there is also a good idea. There you can find the Mornington Peninsula, with vineyards, beaches and its own food scene.
Greece
Athens is a city that also made it onto the list of top places you should see in 2015. In the midst of the financial crisis, museums, hotels and shops are thriving, fueling the capital's cultural renaissance. And the turquoise waters and salty wind of Mykonos will always attract travelers.
USA
Travelers to the United States are drawn to glittering cities, family-friendly theme parks and natural beauty.
Spain
Spain has been the epicenter of the world's cutting-edge cuisine for quite some time. It would be a good idea to plan your trip here, including visits to the most vibrant and famous restaurants. The best time to visit Spain is in April.
France
The country that gave its people cabarets, champagne and hundreds of varieties of cheese is also one of the most romantic places on Earth. In the spring, traveling around this country will be simply exciting.
Italy
Who can resist the call of pasta and beautiful people? For five years in a row, Italy has been named the best country for tourism. And here you can have a great rest - drink wine, make friends with sociable locals, or swim in the sun on the beach.
